Betty Lou Cruises- website  FAQ Gift Certificates 
5360 Westport Rd. Madison, WI. 53704 (608)246-3138 Private Charters Public Cruises 
All cruises include a captain and crew, restrooms, and buffet food service aboard one of our motoryachts.
We're cruising day and night, April through October. 

What is a "Private Charter Cruise"?

A "Private Charter Cruise" is a cruise where the entire yacht is reserved for your group of 20 or more people. These cruises run any time, day or night, on any date between mid-April and mid-October. There are several menu and beverage options to choose from. One contact person representing the group completes a contract with the help of our office crew to ensure your event is a great success. While we will do our best to react to a charter cruise that is booked on short notice, we recommend a minimum of two weeks notice to book your cruise and ideally longer, especially if you are considering a cruise on a high demand date and time. To explore the possibility of booking a Private Charter Cruise, please call the Betty Lou Office and one of our office crew members will be able to help you.

What is a "Public Cruise"?

A "Public Cruise" is a cruise where your group enjoys the yacht with other groups also on board. These cruises are typically booked by small groups ranging from one to eight people but occasionally larger groups book public cruises as well. Public Cruises run from mid-April until mid-October, Monday through Sunday, on set times and dates with set menus. Additionally there are several "Special Public Cruises" offered as well. Please see our Web site or our brochure for details. Booking of Public Cruises is done via the Internet. These cruises may be booked up to 24 hours before the cruise embarks. However, demand is usually quite high so it is best to reserve early as some of the cruises have sold out several weeks in advance. Larger groups have a longer time frame for canceling so please read our Public Cruise cancellation policy.

About Us

Madison's Premier Cruise Line!
Betty Lou Cruises offers Private Group Charters and Public Motoryacht Cruises

You'll find us moored at the Mariner's Inn on Lake Mendota and at the Machinery Row building on Lake Monona, waiting to show your group miles of beautiful shoreline. All cruises include a captain and crew, restrooms, and buffet food service aboard one of our motoryachts. Enjoy a unique perspective of Madison throughout spring, summer, and especially during our breathtaking fall colorama cruises. We're cruising day and night, April through October. Our food surpasses its reputation for excellence. You pick the meal and the time: brunch, lunch, appetizer, dinner or moonlight cruise. Bar service is always at hand (open, partial open, or cash bar). Relax knowing your trip is a sure hit. Rain or shine, your guests will enjoy a comfortable cruise either inside the enclosed cabin or outside on the upper deck, with its protective canopy and removable side curtains. We can accommodate between 20 and 86 guests (Max of 50 on one yacht, 86 using two yachts traveling together). Private charters can accommodate groups of 20 or more. This is truly the Madison experience and is perfect for all corporate and personal occasions. 

Enjoy the view from the Betty Lou! Call Madison's Premier Cruise Line at 608-246-3138 for reservations and information.

There has never been a better way to experience Madison than this. From the deck of the Betty Lou, listen to the sound of lapping waves and feel the breeze on your face. Whether you are standing on the open deck or relaxing in our spacious cabin, you have got the best seat in town. Our motoryachts are fully equipped, and our experienced crew is prepared to make your cruise a carefree event to remember.

Enjoy first-class views of Madison's skyline, including the State Capitol, Governor's Mansion, Monona Terrace, and University of Wisconsin campus. Behold miles of scenic natural shoreline, including Governor Nelson State Park, as well as dramatic lakefront estates.

Savor fine fare from the chefs of the Mariner's Inn. From a casual event to formal receptions, the food and beverages aboard Betty Lou Cruises will compliment any occasion. Look at the smiles, hear the laughter, and watch your guests have a great time. Whether its a milestone birthday, wedding reception, or other social gathering, your family and friends will feel right at home. For potential new clients or hard-working staff, Betty Lou Cruises provides first-class service that will impress everyone. An important occasion deserves a unique and rewarding experience.

This is an event your crew will remember. You'll have the time of your life! 

Who Is Betty Lou?

Betty Lou Cruises is named after the late Betty von Rutenberg, an avid promoter of the greater Madison area and its beautiful lakes. Back in 1961, Betty and her husband, Bill, got started in the hospitality business when they bought the Nibble Nook restaurant. The company they founded now includes three waterfront restaurants (The Mariner's Inn, Nau-Ti-Gal and Captain Bill's) as well as Westport Marine and Betty Lou Cruises. The von Rutenberg sons, Bill, Jack and Robert, now steer von Rutenberg Ventures on its present course, along with their outstanding crew. The charismatic, vivacious, and loving spirit of Betty lives on with Betty Lou Cruises and in all of von Rutenberg Ventures. As Betty always said, "We hope to put sunshine in your smile and spring in your heart."