National Eagle Center Announces 2026 River Cruise Schedule
The National Eagle Center is planning for another fun summer of eagle viewing river cruises aboard Winona State University’s Cal Fremling floating classroom and Treasure Island’s Spirit of the Water. Starting Saturday, May 23 in Winona, the Center will kick off a series of 11 cruises, including two kid’s cruises in July.
This season will include a variety of cruise locations including Winona, Wabasha, and Welch, MN from Treasure Island Resort & Casino.
“2026 is our seventh season offering cruises,” said Ed Hahn, Director of Advancement and Marketing Communications at the Center. “There is no better place to be during the summer than out on the Mississippi River, and it turns out that is where the Bald Eagles are too! We’re excited to partner with both Winona State University and Treasure Island to offer cruises in a variety of locations along the river for attendee convenience.”
These two-hour cruises are summer floating classroom experiences for guests, featuring expert naturalists, real-time interpretation of observed Bald Eagles and wildlife, and engaging audience Q&A.
“We hosted our first ever kid’s cruises last summer and there was a very positive response,” said Hahn. “Due to the demand for children-specific programming, we are happy to bring back these cruises again this season.”
The Cal Fremling and Spirit of the Water have an on-board restroom, indoor and open-air seating, and are wheelchair accessible. Cruise registration is $60 for National Eagle Center members and $75 for non-members. Seating is limited and expected to fill quickly.
Registration is now open on the National Eagle Center website with the first cruise scheduled for Saturday, May 23 at 2 p.m.
“People should mark their calendars and act quickly if interested,” said Hahn. “There are plenty of opportunities to cruise with us this summer, but they do fill up.”
For more information about On the River eagle viewing cruises and registration, visit nationaleaglecenter.org/
About the National Eagle Center
The National Eagle Center is a nature center and museum located in Wabasha, MN. It is open daily and offers up-close eagle experiences, daily programs, wild eagle viewing, and the Preston Cook American Eagle Collection. For more information about the National Eagle Center, visit nationaleaglecenter.org or call 651.565.4989. The National Eagle Center is an equal opportunity provider.