Quick answer
Sheila and Hunter held both their ceremony and reception aboard the Gateway Clipper in September, with top-deck vows, a buffet dinner, a photo booth and dancing under the skyline. Sheila called it a 'one stop shop' in her review.
Sheila and Hunter's September wedding aboard the Gateway Clipper was nothing short of magical. The crisp autumn air and the city skyline set the perfect backdrop for their vows, and guests enjoyed a romantic celebration with a sunset cruise along the three rivers. It was a day filled with joy, laughter and unforgettable memories.
Vows on the top deck
Sheila and Hunter chose to have their ceremony and reception all aboard, so once guests boarded, the whole celebration came to them.
Dinner, dancing and a few surprises
Photos by Mike Christ Photography.
In Sheila's words
Don't take our word for it. Here's what Sheila had to say:
I cannot recommend the team with the Gateway Clipper more highly. A "one stop shop," the professionalism of the staff took my breath away. Guests didn't have to coordinate transport between locations, nor did they have to find their own entertainment during photos. I chose to have the ceremony and reception all aboard the ship – so once boarded, everyone had options of activities against a backdrop of the city skyline. Those from out of town were in awe, and those living locally remarked on how much fun it was to see the city from so many new angles. My contacts … offered a tasting early in the year for all questions to be answered, and were in constant accessible communication up to the day. I was lucky enough to have the most beautiful summer weather, but could rest easy knowing there were rain contingencies. I marveled at how full the boat felt – a whole cruise full of my favorite people. I could move between tables, to the dance floor, the second floor where the cookie table and photo booth were (highly recommend), to the rooftop deck where you could catch your breath with a cocktail. The wait staff were masters of invisibility and efficiency. [Our coordinator] and [our DJ] orchestrated every moment. Since the date, my guests have done nothing but remark on how much fun they had. Our date coincided with a Pitt Game and a Steelers Game the following day. Yet, it felt as though the whole river was our own. Your photographer will love all the unique opportunities to capture the lighting from golden hour, to sunset, to the night stars. I will take every opportunity to rave about this experience!
Plan your own Clipper wedding
Take the stress out of wedding planning and get ready for the adventure of a lifetime. Our Premier Wedding Package is $160 per person for 4.5 hours, plus 24% service charge and tax, and includes a premium open bar, champagne toast, cocktail hour, dinner buffet, DJ, linens, up-lighting and a cruise director. Add a top-deck ceremony on the Empress or the Princess, or a photo booth like Sheila's.
See the boats and details on our Weddings page, read more reviews from our couples, and when you're ready, email info@gatewayclipper.com, call (412) 355-7965 or request more information.
Frequently asked questions
Can we have our ceremony and reception on the same boat?
Yes. Ceremonies are offered on the Empress and the Princess as a $2,000 add-on that adds 30 minutes, so your guests board once and stay aboard for the vows, cocktail hour, dinner and dancing.
Can our guests board somewhere other than Station Square?
Yes. Wedding boats can pick guests up and drop them off at docks around the city, such as Point State Park near downtown and North Shore hotels. Alternate docks are arranged with our events team.
