We are on a weeks vacation on lake Tablerock, Branson, MO. Several times a day we see the famous riverboat the Branson Belle. We are in an argument the paddle wheels serve no purpose and are just for looks. My party claims there is another source of power underneath the riverboat that propels the riverboat through the water. I'm firm that the paddle wheels actually propel the Branson Belle through the water with a rudder steer. Much research in their website has turned up nothing regarding the mechanical operation of the Branson Belle. Help me please. Mike

For those folks interest, please read the response from the Branson Belle's Captain: Mr. Green,



Thank you for your inquiry regarding the propulsion of the Showboat Branson Belle.



To answer your question, YES, the paddlewheels are her only form of propulsion…she is a true sternwheeler! There are no propellers or 'screws' to propel the vessel through the water.



The SBB is a diesel electric sternwheeler, which means that the paddlewheels are driven by large DC electric motors. The diesel engines are attached only to generators to provide the electric power.



The Captain controls the wheels independently so that he can stop or reverse one wheel while the other is going forward to assist in steering the vessel. The Showboat is also equipped with steering rudders (one located just forward of each wheel) that are controlled electrically and powered hydraulically.



The SBB is equipped with one 350HP, AC driven, 36” tunnel thruster at each end, but they are only used for close quarters maneuvering, in extreme wind conditions.



Please feel free to contact me directly via return email if you have any other questions about our magnificent vessel…I love to brag about her!



Sincerely,



Captain Thomas A. Wood

Master and Operations Manager

White River Landing / Showboat Branson Belle