About Us

Wisconsin River Cruises originated as Wilderness Cruises on the Willow Flowage in 1987.  The business was originally started by Glenn and Shirley Schneider, who purchased Bassett Point Resort on the Willow in the mid-80’s.

The Schneiders started with a 55 foot, single deck pontoon boat.  After a few years of rapid growth and continued interest within the community, they built a larger 76 foot excursion boat, the Wilderness Queen.

In 1991, my wife, Chris and I purchased the business from the Schneiders, who moved to warmer climates to run a classic paddle-wheeler on Lake Conroe in the Houston Texas area.  We have been operating the Wilderness Queen ever since.

In 2007, we chose to move the Wilderness Queen to the Wisconsin River near Rhinelander. It was quite the task, but has proven to be well worth it. In  partnership with Wayne Kulhanek, we utilized his property to build a reception area and dock for entertaining customers. As we enter our fifth year on the Wisconsin River, Wisconsin River Cruises has evolved from sight-seeing cruises to dinner theater cruises, handling weddings, company picnics, church socials and various other custom cruises!

We believe you’ll be pleasantly surprised at the lack of development on the cruise route, despite it being so close to Rhinelander.  Wildlife abounds along the route, with three eagles nests, nesting loons, otters, massive snapping turtles and lots of other critters.

The most enjoyable part of running the cruise business for us has been welcoming new customers aboard, and renewing acquaintances with our existing customers.   Some of whom have been with us since 1991.  It’s our belief that there is no better way to make a special event, truly special, than by making it a cruise!

We hope to see you soon!

Tom and Chris