LOUISVILLE, Ky. -- The Belle of Louisville and the Cincinnati's Delta Queen will go head to head in the Great Steamboat Race Wednesday, and it could be the last competition between the two historic vessels.

Watch The Story

An exemption from a Safety & Sea Act has runs out later this year, meaning the Queen's overnight passenger cruises will run out as well.

A grassroots group has gathered here to protest what could be the end of the line for the Delta Queen.

It may be just a boat to some, but the Delta Queen is a designated historic landmark.

"It's a great tradition and we would hate to see it not be a part of the event from here on out," said Derby Festival representative Mark Shallcross.

"The exemption we had from the safety laws expires November 1 of this year, and Congress as of yet has not stated that we're cleared," said Delta Queen Chief Mate Roger Hilligoss.

"It's been in the Great Steamboat Race every year," Shallcross said. "I think except for two years when it couldn't make it up river because of the river conditions."

People who love the boat have said what's also at stake is the history of a great American steamboat that everyone should have the opportunity to ride.

"The first day you're on board, it's a little cramped," said Daniel Hood, a passenger from California. "Second day you're on, you start to get to know her… By the third day, you're in love."