Tennessee Activities

Chattanooga River Cruises

See downtown chattanooga from a riverboat.

  • User All Ages
  • Hour Glass 1.5 hours

Sightseeing Cruise

The southern belle riverboat.

See Chattanooga from the beautiful Tennessee River. The best sightseeing tour in all of Chattanooga. All the way to Lookout Mountain, under the bridges.

Sunset Cruise

The best sunset cruise in all of Chattanooga. Since 1985 the Southern Belle Riverboat has had a simple mission: to provide a unique and spectacular experience of the beautiful city of Chattanooga.

See the Sights of the Tennessee River

Chattanooga’s location in the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains along the Tennessee River makes it the perfect setting for a beautiful river cruise .

As one of the most biologically diverse areas in the country, the Tennessee River Gorge is a must-visit destination for out of town guests and locals who want to play tourist for a day. The best way to see the sights of the Tennessee River is on a Chattanooga riverboat cruise !

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Cruise on a Luxury Riverboat

Chattanooga riverboats date all the way back to the 1800s when they played a key role in transporting freight and passengers to riverside towns. Today, taking a sunset dinner cruise on a Chattanooga riverboat is like stepping back in time. You’re sure to enjoy the romance and spectacle of these impressive, multi-story riverboats. Sightseeing cruises offer a unique look at downtown Chattanooga, with many opportunities to spot wildlife along the riverbank. Be on the lookout for bird species (over 200 of them!), especially bald eagles.

Reminisce on simpler times as you relax aboard a dinner cruise and take in the amazing views along the river. Multi-course dinners are a wonderful way to celebrate a special occasion or just share a memorable moment with family and loved ones. Book a Chattanooga sunset cruise to watch the sun sink over the water as you admire the scenery. Whether you cruise by day or night, floating along the Tennessee River is an experience you’ll cherish for years to come.

Book your Chattanooga river cruise online today.

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The Southern Belle Riverboat

  • Most Popular

Admiral’s Dinner Cruise

Quick Details

  • Clock Duration: 2 hours
  • User Ages: 3+

Dinner cruises only available for Private Deck Charters and Private Whole Boat Charters.

For more information please call us at 423.266.4488.

Admiral’s Cruise in Chattanooga

  • Two-hour cruise with live music
  • Pilot house tours
  • Live entertainment
  • Our one-time-through buffet-style dinner featuring medium-rare prime rib, Cajun chicken, white rice, baby red potatoes, mixed vegetables, salad, dinner rolls, cheesecake, sweet tea, coffee, and water

Related Cruises

  • Users Groups of 75+
  • Clock 2 hours

Captain’s Dinner Cruise

Enjoy a Captain’s Dinner Cruise on The Southern Belle Riverboat. Cruise on the Tennessee River while you enjoy live entertainment and a buffet-style dinner.

Skipper’s Dinner Cruise

Take a two-hour cruise with pilot house tours, background music, and a one-time-through buffet-style dinner with roast beef, lemon basil chicken, and more!

THE 10 BEST Chattanooga Boat Rides & Cruises

Boat rides & cruises in chattanooga.

  • Fishing Charters & Tours
  • Boat Rentals
  • Kayaking & Canoeing
  • Stand-Up Paddleboarding
  • Speed Boats Tours
  • Waterskiing & Jetskiing
  • 5.0 of 5 bubbles
  • 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
  • Good for Kids
  • Good for Couples
  • Budget-friendly
  • Honeymoon spot
  • Good for Big Groups
  • Adventurous
  • Good for Adrenaline Seekers
  • Hidden Gems
  • Good for a Rainy Day
  • Things to do ranked using Tripadvisor data including reviews, ratings, photos, and popularity.

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What travelers are saying.

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  • Southern Belle Riverboat Cruise
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  • Scenic City Fishing Charters

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Chattanooga River Cruises and Boat Tours

Southern Belle Riverboat

If you’re planning to spend time in the Chattanooga area, you may be interested in experiencing one of the many river cruises in the area. Chattanooga is the perfect place to enjoy a river cruise or boat tour since the Scenic City is full of natural beauty and impressive architectural creations. Whether you’re interested in sightseeing cruises or fishing expeditions, we have created a list of the best Chattanooga boat tours and river cruises in the area.

The river cruising options below include family friendly experiences, dinner cruises, and full all-inclusive packages. So, no matter what your adventure level is, you’re sure to find a Chattanooga boat tour that’s right for you! If you’re looking for fun things to do in Chattanooga, check out our full list below of the best river cruises and boat tours in Chattanooga, Tennessee.

Best Boat Tours in Chattanooga

Visitors and families in the Chattanooga, Tennessee area often search for fun outdoor attractions to enjoy. From popular spots like Rock City and Ruby Falls to the Chattanooga Zoo, the Scenic City offers all kinds of amazing places to visit.

Southern Belle Riverboat in Chattanooga on Tennessee River

Those who are looking for more unique opportunities of things to do in Chattanooga can check the local river cruises and boat tours. These are our top picks for the best boat tours in Chattanooga:

Southern Belle Riverboat

If you have ever spent time in downtown Chattanooga, you’ve probably noticed that it’s hard to miss the gigantic Southern Belle Riverboat. Guests can climb aboard the riverboat for amazing views of the beautiful Tennessee River and of the downtown Chattanooga area. The Southern Belle Riverboat is available for private tours and events, including weddings, reunions, and birthday parties. Additionally, the Southern Belle Riverboat offers two different river cruises year-round for guests to enjoy:

  • Sightseeing Cruise – The Sightseeing Cruise onboard the Southern Belle Riverboat is a narrated cruise with views of some of the most popular sights in Chattanooga. Guests can enjoy views of popular places like Lookout Mountain and the Tennessee Aquarium.
  • Sunset Cruise – The Southern Belle Riverboat’s Sunset Cruise features live music and incredible views of the sunset as guests cruise along the Tennessee River in Chattanooga. This tour is roughly a 1.5-hour cruise.

If you’re visiting Chattanooga during the holidays , the Southern Belle Riverboat often features special holiday themed cruises and dinner cruises with great service. These include unique cruises for Valentine’s Day, Mother’s Day, Father’s Day, Halloween, Thanksgiving, and New Year’s. In addition, if you are planning to enjoy the Chattanooga riverboat with kids, we highly recommend checking out the Christmas and Easter cruises. Guests can enjoy breakfast with Santa, a dinner boat cruise with carolers, or a meal with the Easter Bunny.

River Gorge Excursions

Chattanooga’s River Gorge Explorer is a double-decker pontoon boat tour through the TN River Gorge. The two-hour tour boasts amazing views of the scenic Tennessee River Gorge. In addition to this standard boat tour, River Gorge Excursions also offers a brunch cruise along with private tours for guests.

riverboat with text overlay 6 Best River Cruises Chattanooga

Furthermore, those interested in helping clean up the river to preserve the natural beauty of Chattanooga should check out River Gorge Excursions for their volunteer opportunities. Finally, if you’re looking for boat rentals in Chattanooga Tennessee, River Gorge Excursions features several pontoon boats for guests to rent and enjoy on the Tennessee River.

American Queen Voyages

If you’re interested in the full cruising experience, American Queen Voyages offers river cruises between Memphis and Chattanooga. These river cruises make several stops along the way at popular places like:

  • Cape Girardeau in Missouri
  • Decatur in Northern Alabama
  • Nashville, TN

Guests onboard the American Queen Voyages can also visit Savannah, Tennessee to tour historical Civil War battlegrounds like Shiloh National Military Park. The American Queen Voyages are all-inclusive with meals, drinks, and transportation all included in your cruise fare.

Additionally, American Queen Voyages adds to their great guest experiences by featuring onboard live entertainment, including really talented musicians. While these river cruises are typically lengthy (a week or longer) in total duration, they are a great option for those visitors who are willing and able to invest the time and money into a truly special experience.

Chattanooga Ducks

The Chattanooga Ducks tour is an eye-opening experience into the history of the city of Chattanooga. It’s also one of the most fun boat tours in Chattanooga! We even added it to our list of the best things to do in Chattanooga with kids. Guests board the Chattanooga Ducks in the heart of Chattanooga and ride along the streets of downtown until the reach the Tennessee River.

Walnut Street Bridge over TN River

Once the boat takes the (super fun) plunge into the water, guests can enjoy even more beautiful views of the city. This narrated boat tour is really entertaining and informative. You’ll learn all about the history behind the Walnut Street Bridge, Maclellan Island, Coolidge Park , and some of the historic homes in the Scenic City. The Chattanooga Ducks’ captains have even been known to let the kids take turns driving the duck boat while in the river.

Scenic City Fishing Charters

For those who are really wanting to get in on the action, Scenic City Fishing offers boat charters for visitors in the Tennessee River Valley. You can book a fishing expedition with one of the many boat crew members who specialize in fishing for catfish, bass, and more.  Scenic City Fishing Charters is a great option for those visitors who are interested in spending time on the Tennessee River in Chattanooga while actively participating in the fun.

Tennessee River in Chattanooga

Where to Stay before Your River Cruise

If you’re visiting the Chattanooga area from out of town, you may be wondering which hotels are the most conveniently located to the river cruising opportunities in our list. Since many of these Chattanooga boat tours are located in and around downtown area attractions, visitors will have no problem finding suitable accommodations nearby. We have compiled a list of our top picks for the best hotels in Chattanooga. These are our top choices:

  • The Edwin Hotel Chattanooga (luxury hotel in great location)
  • Doubletree by Hilton Downtown Chattanooga

Not only are the hotels above located near the Tennessee River, but they’re also close to popular entertainment options and restaurants in the Chattanooga area.

Final Thoughts on Chattanooga Boat Tours

If you’re looking for a great guest experience of Chattanooga and its surrounding area, we highly recommend trying one of the river cruises or boat tours in our list above. With spectacular views of downtown Chattanooga, the boat tours offer the perfect way to enjoy the beauty of the river and the historic downtown area. On your next visit to Chattanooga Tennessee, check out one of the exciting boat tours from our list.

riverboat with text overlay 6 Best Boat Tours Chattanooga

Whether you’re looking for a dinner cruise experience or a narrated tour of the Chattanooga area, you can find all sorts of options from our top picks in this post. Maybe you’ll even choose to experience multiple boat tours in Chattanooga. If so, you won’t be disappointed you did!

You may also like our post on the Best Beaches near Chattanooga, TN . In that post, we discuss local lakes with sandy beaches plus the closest ocean beaches to Chattanooga! So, what do you think? What is your favorite boat tour in Chattanooga? Comment below to share it with us!

Shari is an experienced planner and organizer for Disney vacations, cruising, and U.S. travel. Her family vacation information, reviews, and tips provide insight for moms and dads everywhere. You can read more about her story, including her journey through breast cancer, in the about me page.

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Spago Chattanooga

Chattanooga Travel Cruises the Tennessee River

Downtown chattanooga aboard river boats, catamarans, & ducks.

Chattanooga travel isn’t complete without the Tennessee River. Visitors cruise the downtown waterfront in amphibious vehicles, jet-propelled catamarans, and riverboats.

Whether visitors encounter downtown Chattanooga while strolling across the Walnut Street Bridge or taking a guided cruise, the beautiful Tennessee River that winds its way through the heart of the Scenic City is bound to be a Chattanooga travel highlight. Adventurous guests tour the river on one of the Chattanooga Ducks, a WWII amphibious landing vehicle. Other visitors enjoy a hearty meal on the Southern Belle River Boat. Guests interested in the area’s history and abundant wildlife book tours on the Aquarium’s River Gorge Explorer or the Blue Moon.

Chattanooga Travel and Duck Tours

Families board a renovated WWII amphibious landing vehicle for a tour that begins on the streets of downtown Chattanooga. Suddenly, their Duck speeds down a ramp straight toward the Tennessee River, and with a splash, the bus becomes a boat. Guides detail the history and point out wildlife on the Tennessee riverfront as well as MacLellan Island.

Chattanooga Travel and Cruises on the Southern Belle Riverboat

Several times a day, visitors to downtown Chattanooga hear the happy sound of a calliope. The cheerful tunes cause families to pause while enjoying the Aquarium’s plaza, strolling across Walnut Street Bridge, playing in Coolidge Park’s fountain, or hiking along the riverfront and scan the channel for the familiar sight of Chattanooga’s riverboat, the Southern Belle.

The riverboat has become a favorite Chattanooga attraction. Families stream onto the vessel for either of two hour-and-a-half sight-seeing cruises each day. These tours narrate the fascinating history surrounding the river. The Southern Belle also serves a buffet lunch allowing families to catch a bite and see the sights.

The Southern Belle’s prime rib dinner cruises are a great opportunity for families to enjoy a fancier meal and live entertainment on the water. For couples wanting a romantic date on the river, the Southern Belle offers a fabulous meal served on the Pier 2 restaurant and then a moonlight cruise complete with music and dancing.

Tennessee Aquarium and the River Gorge Explorer

In 2008, the Tennessee Aquarium launched a tour allowing families to glimpse the abundant wildlife of the Tennessee River outside the Aquariums two four-story buildings. Guests board a catamaran propelled by water jets to be transported into Tennessee’s Grand Canyon, the 27,000-acre river gorge.

A naturalist from the aquarium is aboard to help guests identify the wide variety of plant and animal life in the gorge. Swimming groups of whitetail deer, wild turkey on William’s Island, circling hawks, nesting osprey, playful river otters, muskrats, and beavers are all commonly spotted from the deck of the River Gorge Explorer.

Guides aboard the River Gorge Explorer give equal attention to the area’s fascinating history. With engaging stories, they narrate the history of the Native American tribes who lived along the river, the early settlers who braved the gorge’s turbulent shoals, and the Civil War battles fought on the Tennessee River’s banks.

To save money, families can purchase combination tickets to visit the Tennessee Aquarium and take a ride on the River Gorge Explorer. Triple combination tickets are available for adding a movie on the ten-story high screen of Chattanooga’s Imax Theater.

Chattanooga Travel and Blue Moon Cruises

March through December the Blue Moon, a 71-foot riverboat, also takes visitors into the heart of the Tennessee River Gorge. Breathtaking natural beauty waits to be explored in this 26,000-acre canyon spanning 26 miles of the Tennessee River. Guides point out great blue herons, kingfishers, hawks, and eagles. Nearly 200 species of birds are native to this Gorge.

Local history and legends are also recounted for guests on the Blue Moon. Visitors travel to one of the 6 known sacred places of the Cherokees, the home to their Maker of Thunder. Guests follow the once perilous path of the first Tennessee settlers. Visitors trace the path of the Cherokee Indians who were forced from their homeland on boats through the gorge. Guests hear of the soldiers who fought along the gorge as the trip takes them near such battle sites as Lookout Mountain, Moccasin Bend, Brown’s Ferry, Kelly’s Ferry, William’s Island, the Haley Trace, and Signal Point. Guests also learn of Chattanooga’s industrial past as they pass by an abandoned coal mine.

From late December to late February, the Blue Moon offers tours of the Hiwassee Wildlife Refuge. Visitors glimpse some of the 10,000 sandhill cranes that touch down on Hiwassee Island as a stop on their winter migration. Over twenty bald eagles also choose the wildlife refuge as a winter home. One pair has added to their nest for ten years, allowing guests to marvel at the six-foot, one-ton eagle nest.

Visitors who enjoy the breath-taking sights of the Tennessee River will be excited to come ashore for some of the Scenic City’s most popular attractions. Destinations continuing the theme of Chattanooga’s amazing history and natural beauty include the Tennessee Aquarium , Rock City, and downtown Chattanooga.

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Tennessee Riverboat Company

We offer a variety of Lunch & Dinner Cruises along with sightseeing-only tickets.

riverboat cruises chattanooga tn

How to organize a Wedding Event on Cruise

Weddings onboard the “Star of Knoxville” riverboat are a most unique and distinctive choice for your wedding. We can provide complete arrangements for the most intimate of weddings to the most elaborate, accommodating anywhere from 2 to 110 for a ceremony and reception and up to 200 for a reception only. The vessel is equipped with 2 full bars, a dance floor, and band stage. The open air observation deck is ideal for an outdoor setting. Our main interior is fully air conditioned and heated, for a great dining and entertainment experience and is a perfect choice for the most important day of your life. From black tie events to very casual, the atmosphere is right for any occasion. The beautiful Tennessee River proves to be the most romantic, enchanting, and memorable atmosphere in East Tennessee. You and your guests will be mesmerized by scenery and fully entertained during any of our cruise.

Cruises for 2024 are now open for reservations

The historic tennessee river.

The Tennessee River is one of the most beautiful rivers you will ever cruise. While cruising, you will enjoy one of the most breathtaking views in Knoxville. Not only will you see some of the history of the river, you will most certainly be relaxed by the river’s beauty.

riverboat cruises chattanooga tn

Tennessee Riverboat Staff

 Blue Heaven River Tours Chattanooga

Check out all our 5 Star reviews on TripAdvisor and FaceBook and see why so many of our Guest tell us that this was their favorite thing to do in Chattanooga!

Click the Blue Book Your River Tour Button for all Prices and Tour Times!

Our Private Tour prices are based on per tour, not per person!

                            S wim, Fish, Float, Eat, Drink, Relax and Explore!

Our Private Tours were created as an affordable way to enjoy all the beauty of the Downtown Riverfront, Bluffview Art District, Adventurous rides through the Lock and to explore the gorgeous scenery of what many call the Little Grand Canyon. 

        Why Rent a Boat when you can Charter a Beautiful Cabin Yacht for Less 

No gas or insurance to buy, no crowds, no hassels!

All with the convenince of being located at the Beautiful Downtown Riverfront!  

Seating is limited to 6 passangers or less for a romantic tour for a couple or an adventurous and fun filled day for  family and friends! When you book your Private Tour you pay one price and it covers up to 6 Guest.

       We can be your one stop connection to your Ultimate Lake and River adventure! Check out all our 5 Star Reviews on TripAdvisor and FaceBook to see all the wonderful pictures that show how much fun your day on the water can   be!

Located on the Downtown at 201 Riverfront Pkwy offering tours of Downtown Chattanooga, Lake Chicamaugua, Nickajack Lake and the Tennessee River Gorge!

 Call Capt. Wyn  423-320-3008   

T ake a tour to Downtown and check out all the  Beautiful Architecture of the  Bluffview Art District and the Aquarium!

 The party is on with BlueheavenrivertoursChattanooga.com and I am your designated Captain!

  Wonderful tour of under the three bridges downtown! Learn about the History of Chattanooga!

We love Aniversaries, Birthday Parties, Bridal Showers, Company Outings

and all your  Special Events!

Why Rent a Boat when you can Charter a Beautiful Cabin Yacht for Less!

No Gas or insurance to buy, no crowds, no hassles! 

 (Cabin Yacht Private Tours are perfect for couples

that want that intimate day on  the water or can   seat

up to Six Guest to accomidate your family and Friends.)

            Ask us how to accomidate Larger parties and Groups!

                                                        

               

 Ask about adding a Paddle Board to any tour for just $50.00

   

Check out my Beautiful Cabin by clicking the Links at the bottom of the page! To Learn about Snorkel with the Manatee Tours visit our Florida Loacation by clicking the Link to Homosassa!

Tubing is subject to an extra charge and ranges from $25.00 per person per turn. This is due to wear and tear on the boat, gas and insurance requirements.    

 Tubing is also subject to a 200 lb maximum weight limit!

In the some cases we alow 2 children for $25.00 if they ride together and don't exceed a 200 lb weight limit. 

 Semi Private Tours may be available. Minimum Fee may apply for less then 4 guest

Everyone that visits our boat says that the pictures simply don't do it justice! 

Some of the most common comments are how nice it is to be able to enjoy a climate controlled Cabin Yacht. Other comments are that are location is simply beautiful! We are close to Chattanooga and the Downtown attrations as well as conviently located to all the wonderful restaurants and quiet coves of Lake Chickamauga as well!  When you arrive we will do everything we can to make your River and Lake Adventure the best you have ever had. We can take you from the Rolling Hills and beautiful scenery of the Lake all the way through the Lock to Downtown  & the Tennessee River Gorge!

 Our tour boat is not your average crowded  pontoon boat. It is a beautiful Cabin Yacht with Airconditioned indoor seating that is climate controlled for your comfort and is equipped with a restroom and comfortable seating for your convenience. It not only has wonderful indoor seating with so many glass windows so you can experience a panoramic view of the River and the Lake. It also has wonderful outdoor seating and a second story Flybridge and sundeck that enables you to see all the sights even better!  We look forward to having you aboard to what so many say can be an awesome experience.  We also offer Sunset tours, Fishing tours. Ask about adding a couple of Kayaks and let your family and friends take turns enjoying the full experience of being on the river. Our location and service will have you wanting to keep coming back!

Also check ot the Links below to see my Beautiful Log Cabins! Breathtaking Views!

  My Beautiful 1 Bedroom Log Cabin in the Clouds   https://www.vrbo.com/141929

Also check out the Link to find some of our favorite

Places to Eat / Places to Stay / Things to Do in Chattanooga  

VacationChattanooga.Com

Southern Belle Riverboat

Photo of Southern Belle Riverboat - Chattanooga, TN, US. Waiting

Review Highlights

Tabitha H.

“ The boat trip was very nice and the weather was great, but the musician, Gary, that played the guitar and sang made the trip amazing. ” in 2 reviews

Sara L.

“ Over Labor Day weekend, I took my Mom on a riverboat cruise on the Southern Belle. ” in 2 reviews

Lacey H.

“ Wine, dinner, and live music all while going down the river, definitely a great experience! ” in 10 reviews

Location & Hours

Suggest an edit

Map

151 Riverfront Pkwy

Chattanooga, TN 37402

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Ask the Community

Ask a question

Is there a designated smoking section? I want to enjoy the cruise without the smell of smoke.

No smoking on board. No issues with smoke at all.

Recommended Reviews

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Overall rating

144 reviews

Photo of A A.

Everything about our sunset cruise was perfect, fed the ducks on the drawbridge walking in, spent plenty of $ at the gift shop that can only be described as A game stuff for sale, found the staff to all be very nice and engaging, enjoyed going out on the cruise with a few rum slushies and pretzel bites, the guitar player at the front of the boat was excellent music for the cruise, the weather and view was perfect, and the folks on the cruise with us were all very nice and worthy of light conversation!!!! Work this trip in and enjoy something different!

Photo of Jeff T.

Food is disgusting and service is extremely poor. Definitely a spot to try in chattanooga, but would not return. Could be much better if more detail was focused on.

Photo of Sara L.

Over Labor Day weekend, I took my Mom on a riverboat cruise on the Southern Belle. It was such a delightful experience! Felt like we were in another time, sitting on the deck watching the birds fly over the river as we sipped cocktails and listened to live music. Everyone was friendly. And we got to see a beautiful sunset over the river too! A great, low price for such a high quality life experience.

Sunset from the boat deck

Sunset from the boat deck

our river view

our river view

Photo of Kathy F.

What a wonderful ride we had yesterday on the Southern Belle! We were lucky enough to get a nice table on the upper deck and therefore shaded from the sun. We went up the gorge and it was beautiful. We were blessed to see six bald eagles on the trip. The captain really makes the ride enjoyable. He has a great personality and shares a lot of history about the river and Tennessee. They need help when it comes to lining up to go on the boat. I think they should organize it so that all the elderly are boarding first. And help making sure the line stays organized. It was a hot mess yesterday. It reminded me of concerts in the 70's with open seating. A little scary. Again, the Captain makes the trip!!

View from the Southern Belle

View from the Southern Belle

Photo of Georgianne S.

Food was divided into who had paid and at what level. We paid $75 and did not get fancy charcuterie board and we got plain cheesecake while those paid more got special toppings. Band was ok. Nothing special. Didnt get to see sites of chatt at night Stayed in dining room. This is not worth the money.

Photo of Shannon B.

Went Saturday, 5/27/2023 at 5p.m. Beautiful weather and ride. Enjoyed the facts told and the humor during the ride. The young ladies at the check in where very polite and pleasant. When leaving, the dinner/cruise that was waiting to board after we left, over crowded the check in/gift shop area. I think management should utilize the scanners they don't use to help their staff get customers checked in more efficiently. The 2 young ladies were doing a great job and their best with juggling people checking in and those trying to buying tems.

riverboat cruises chattanooga tn

Bar and food are great Shelly is awesome loved this outing lol Shelly did an amazing job serving drinks for us. She went above and beyond anything we could have asked thanks for the great experience.

riverboat cruises chattanooga tn

Although the boat was nice, If you do plan on going on this boat, just pay the normal price. My friend and I wanted to get seats by a window and paid $211 for that and it also included a charcuterie/cheese plate with a bottle of wine. We were told there would be live music, a 'big' cheese and meat tray and a Good time. We were escorted to our seats that already had a very sad looking charcuterie and cheese plate. Only a couple of fruits, literally planters peanuts, basically string mozzarella cheese, one slice of Gouda, and two slices of cheddar and meat that had looked as if it had been sitting out for a while. The live music was two floors up so we had no entertainment and the bottle of wine was worth 9.00$ for the bottle according to google. Again, I am sure the people who paid 39$ a piece had a MUCH better experience than us, who paid 106$ a piece. Was very disappointed.

Photo of Emily F.

Awesome captain, funny and informative. The PA system was shoddy but the captain included the kids in tid bits and even let them honk the horn/blow the whistle. You get a cute mini moon pie upon boarding. The views were great and you don't feel crowded. We also had a drink which was decent. We didn't try any food.

riverboat cruises chattanooga tn

Surprise Birthday Party. We chartered the Latitude 35/Tadpole pontoon boat for a surprise party for a 2 hour cruise down the Tennessee River. The rental also includes the Tadpole, a barge attached to the riverbank, for social hour before or after the cruise. The process of booking to the cruise itself was great. The staff were all excellent and very accommodating of requests and meeting our needs. Thanks so much to our Captain, Bar Staff and sales (Joy) for a wonderful day on the river. A big thanks to Cupcake Kitchen for the wonderful birthday cakes you baked and delivered for us.

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Chattanooga to Nashville

  • Get inspired by the possibilities.
  • Build your ideal trip.
  • Admire historic handicrafts in Paducah, Kentucky.
  • Discover highlights of Chattanooga, known as an adventure destination.
  • Visit the Old State Bank Building, one of only four structures left unscathed by the Civil War.
  • Explore one of the largest and most progressive cities in northern Alabama.
  • Village Visits
  • River Cruises
  • North America
  • United States
  • Chattanooga
  • Cumberland River
  • Tennessee River
  • Clarksville

Full Itinerary

Day 1: chattanooga, tennessee, day 2: chattanooga, tennessee | embark.

  • 1 Breakfast, 1 Dinner

Day 3: River Cruising

  • 1 Breakfast, 1 Lunch, 1 Dinner

Day 4: Decatur, Alabama

Day 5: florence, al, day 6: savannah, tennessee, day 7: paducah, ky, day 8: dover, tn, day 9: clarksville, tennessee | disembark.

  • 1 Breakfast

American Duchess

Dates & prices, my preferred start date.

Initial deposit is $1000 per person, and most travelers will call our office and pay the deposit with a credit card.

Final payment is due 131 days prior to departure by MasterCard, Visa, Discover, Diners Club, and check

See our general terms and conditions:

  • Adventure Life Terms & Conditions

We are an agent for one or more providers on this trip with specific cancellation policies and terms:

  • American Queen Steamboat Company - Terms and Conditions 2022 - American Queen Voyages

For full cancellation policy details, please contact us for a quote.

  • 8 Breakfasts, 6 Lunches, 7 Dinners
  • 8 Nights Accommodations
  • Accommodations as listed
  • Ground transportation as listed
  • Activities as listed
  • Meals as listed
  • Access to a 24-7 Emergency line while traveling
  • Unlimited Wifi
  • Gratuities to Onboard Crew
  • Port Taxes & Fees
  • Open Bars & Lounges throughout the vessel including a juice bar every morning
  • In-Room Dining
  • Bicycles & Hiking Sticks equipment if needed
  • Live, Daily Onboard Entertainment & Enrichment
  • Locally Sourced & regionally Inspired Cuisine from land and sea
  • Gourmet Selections of freshly prepared choices for breakfast, lunch and dinner
  • Unlimited Beverages including an extensive wine list, choice spirits, local craft beers and specialty coffees
  • Unlimited Guided Tours designed with your comfort in mind aboard private, deluxe motorcoaches
  • 1-night Pre-cruise Hotel Stay with free ground transfers between hotel and vessel
  • Travel Insurance
  • Personal Expenses
  • Flight costs (please request a quote)
  • Fuel and transportation surcharges (when applicable)
  • Optional Premium Shore Excursions - highly recommend booking these in advance. If interested, ask us for a detailed list of premium excursions for your cruise as these vary depending on your departure date.
  • Transfers to and from the airport
  • Mandatory Gratuities

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IMAGES

  1. Chattanooga's Riverboat Cruises

    riverboat cruises chattanooga tn

  2. SOUTHERN BELLE RIVERBOAT CRUISE (Chattanooga)

    riverboat cruises chattanooga tn

  3. Fall colors in Tennessee

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  4. Things to do in Chattanooga

    riverboat cruises chattanooga tn

  5. Chattanooga Southern Belle Riverboat Sightseeing Cruise from

    riverboat cruises chattanooga tn

  6. Dinner Cruise

    riverboat cruises chattanooga tn

COMMENTS

  1. Southern Belle Riverboat

    Sightseeing & Sunset Cruises in Chattanooga, TN. Buy Tickets Book by Date. Featured Cruises $ 99.99. 13+ 2 hours; Valentine's Dinner Cruise ... The absolute best sightseeing of the lovely city of Chattanooga is from the Southern Belle Riverboat. Enjoy a sightseeing cruise on our open-air deck with live narration! Learn More $ 34.99. 3+ 1.5 ...

  2. Chattanooga River Cruises & Boat Tours

    Take a cruise down the Tennessee River in Chattanooga with The Southern Belle Riverboat! We offer dining cruises, holiday cruises, 21+ cruises, & more! Book now. ... Enjoy a scenic sightseeing cruise in Chattanooga on the Tennessee River! Get a tour of the pilot house and enjoy our one-time-through buffet lunch. Learn More From $ 59.99. Groups ...

  3. Chattanooga River Boat Dinner Cruises

    Captain's Dinner Cruise. Enjoy a Captain's Dinner Cruise on The Southern Belle Riverboat. Cruise on the Tennessee River while you enjoy live entertainment and a buffet-style dinner. Learn More. From$59.99. Groups of 75+. 3+. 2 hours.

  4. Tennessee Rivers Cruise from Chattanooga

    Day 1 Chattanooga, TN. Day 2 Cruising the Tennessee River. Day 3 Decatur, AL. Day 4 Florence, AL. Day 5 Savannah, TN. Day 6 Paducah, KY. Day 7 Cruising Lake Barkley and the Cumberland River. Day 8 Nashville, TN. Day 9 Nashville, TN.

  5. Chattanooga Boat Tours & Sightseeing

    Enjoy the sights and sounds of the Tennessee River and live music on the third deck. The tour includes pilot house tours with our captain. Learn More. From $35.95. 3+. 2 hours. Fireworks Over the Tennessee River! (Without Meal) The Southern Belle Riverboat takes you to the middle of the Tennessee River, where you can see the fireworks (weather ...

  6. Chattanooga's Riverboat Cruises

    The Southern Belle is designed to mimic the luxury riverboats that cruised Chattanooga's waterways in the 1800s. This triple decker riverboat holds up to 500 passengers, and cruising options abound. Short 1.5-hour sightseeing excursions are perfect for a downtown river view while longer journeys venture up the Tennessee River Gorge.

  7. Southern Belle Riverboat Cruise

    Welcome to the pride of the South and the best Chattanooga attraction! Join us for a great cruise along the scenic Tennessee River while enjoying one of our fabulous dinner, lunch or sightseeing cruises. We are perfect for private parties, reunions, receptions, company picnics, or meetings and our dockside "Pier 2" space offers both a Grand ...

  8. Sights Cruise

    Since 1985 the Southern Belle Riverboat has had a simple mission: to provide a unique and spectacular experience of the beautiful city of Chattanooga. The Southern Belle Riverboat takes you on a three-hour cruise to the famous Tennessee River Gorge. See nature's brilliant canvas of vivid fall colors. The absolute best sightseeing of the ...

  9. Chattanooga River Cruises

    Chattanooga riverboats date all the way back to the 1800s when they played a key role in transporting freight and passengers to riverside towns. Today, taking a sunset dinner cruise on a Chattanooga riverboat is like stepping back in time. You're sure to enjoy the romance and spectacle of these impressive, multi-story riverboats. Sightseeing cruises offer a unique look at downtown ...

  10. Tennessee River Sunset Cruise

    1.5 hour cruise. live music. Moon Pie included. See Chattanooga from the beautiful Tennessee River and enjoy the end of the day floating along and listening to music. The best sunset cruise in all of Chattanooga. Since 1985 the Southern Belle Riverboat has had a simple mission: to provide a unique and spectacular experience of the beautiful ...

  11. Chattanooga Riverboat Co. Southern Belle

    The Southern Belle Riverboat has two dining decks, perfect for meetings, luncheons, dinners, & themed parties. 1st Deck accommodates up to 180 people. 2nd Deck accommodates up to 160 people. 3rd Deck is perfect for sightseeing up to 80 people! Pier 2 (Stationary Boat) is the Southern Belle's docking facility. 1st Deck - Gift Shop & Reservations Desk 2nd Deck - Our Grand Chandelier deck is the ...

  12. Admiral's Dinner Cruise

    Duration:2 hours. User. Ages:3+. Dinner cruises only available for Private Deck Charters and Private Whole Boat Charters. For more information please call us at 423.266.4488. AdultAges 13+. $59.99. ChildAges 3-12. $39.99.

  13. 2024 Chattanooga Southern Belle Riverboat Sightseeing Cruise

    The Southern Belle Riverboat is one of the top attractions in Chattanooga, and is still the only way to have sightseeing cruises, lunch cruises, and dinner cruises while cruising down the TN River and enjoying picture-perfect views of Lookout Mountain and all the beautiful nature this great city has to offer! Ages 0-99, max of 25 per group.

  14. THE 10 BEST Chattanooga Boat Rides & Cruises

    Southern Belle Riverboat Cruise. 2,910. Historical & Heritage Tours • Boat Tours. By kellykW1539SP. It was perfect weather for a beautiful boat ride around Chattanooga we really appreciated our Captain (Matt) who was... 5. Chattanooga Boat Charters. 66. Boat Tours • Fishing Charters & Tours.

  15. Chattanooga River Cruises and Boat Tours

    River Gorge Excursions. Chattanooga's River Gorge Explorer is a double-decker pontoon boat tour through the TN River Gorge. The two-hour tour boasts amazing views of the scenic Tennessee River Gorge. In addition to this standard boat tour, River Gorge Excursions also offers a brunch cruise along with private tours for guests.

  16. Southern Belle Riverboat

    Southern Belle Riverboat, Chattanooga, Tennessee. 14,191 likes · 63 talking about this · 46,447 were here. We Cruise In & Around The Chattanooga Area Servicing Visitors, Area Residents, & Group...

  17. Chattanooga Travel Cruises the Tennessee River

    Chattanooga Travel and Blue Moon Cruises. March through December the Blue Moon, a 71-foot riverboat, also takes visitors into the heart of the Tennessee River Gorge. Breathtaking natural beauty waits to be explored in this 26,000-acre canyon spanning 26 miles of the Tennessee River. Guides point out great blue herons, kingfishers, hawks, and ...

  18. Tennessee Riverboat Company

    Tennessee Riverboat Staff. The riverboat is licensed by the United States Coast Guard and conforms to the rigid requirements for passenger safety. All of our captains and deckhands are trained in fire fighting, CPR and safety procedures. Our reservationist, sales staff, food and beverage staff and wait staff are fully trained in providing ...

  19. Blue Heaven River Tours

    Located on the Downtown at 201 Riverfront Pkwy offering tours of Downtown Chattanooga, Lake Chicamaugua, Nickajack Lake and the Tennessee River Gorge! Call Capt. Wyn 423-320-3008. Take a tour to Downtown and check out all the Beautiful Architecture of the Bluffview Art District and the Aquarium!

  20. Southern Belle Riverboat

    144 reviews and 132 photos of Southern Belle Riverboat "The Southern Belle is an old tradition in Chattanooga. I spent my prom on it and loved it. Its very fun and not too expensive. They offer food on it but I cant remember if I actually ate or not. The view is of the river. Its ok. Now that I have been on boats on the west coast...I realize that its not the best boat ride.

  21. Southern Belle Riverboat

    Southern Belle Riverboat. 201 Riverfront Parkway. Chattanooga, TN 37402. 423-266-4488. Take a great Chattanooga Cruise along the scenic Tennessee River while enjoying one of the Southern Belle's fabulous dinner cruises, daily lunch cruises, or daytime sightseeing cruise. This is a vacation experience you won't want to miss.

  22. 9-Day Best of the Tennessee River cruise from Chattanooga to Nashville

    Talk with an expert. Build your ideal United States trip. Call 1.406.541.2677. On this nine-day Tennessee river cruise, navigate rivers, bask in nostalgia, and immerse yourself in history. Visit the river's hidden havens and discover why so many have fallen in love with its gentle character. Embark on American Duchess and experience both beauty ...

  23. River Gorge Excursions

    Let us give you an eye-opening experience to the TN River like never before. River Gorge Excursions specializes in Chattanooga Private Boat Tours. Our main purpose is for individuals to get the chance to witness and explore the beautiful scenery that is the Chattanooga TN River Gorge. Come see why we are one of the best things to do in Chattanooga!