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Nashville Boat Tours and Cruise

Boat tours and cruises in nashville.

Do you love to spend time on the water? Nashville area cruises are the perfect combination of relaxing comfort with adventurous sightseeing. Often beverages are a part of the attraction and viewing the vast green middle Tennessee landscapes will relax the soul. There is something about being on the water that helps slow down a day that is moving too fast. Take a deep breath, and take in the beauty and a view of Nashville that can only be seen from the rivers edge. Visit these sites for find the best Water Tours and Cruises in middle Tennessee. Enjoy Life, Nashville Life!

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Nashville.com official guide to nashville, tn, general jackson showboat.

General Jackson Showboat prices include boat cruise, hotel pickup (select hotels), dropoff, lunch or dinner, live entertainment, local taxes. Convenient online booking : 4.5 star reviews! (note: additional food & drinks are extra). Subject to change

While “rollin’ down the river,” you’ll enjoy stunning views, a delicious meal freshly prepared by our chefs and toe-tapping entertainment in our two-story Victorian Theater in the center of the boat.

One of the largest showboats ever built, the grand General Jackson Showboat is an elegant triumph of American ingenuity. With its elegant lacy filigree and stately design, the boat is reminiscent of the opulence of the American Victorian era.

Showboats have long been a colorful part of our nation’s history, and this most unique Nashville attraction epitomizes the grace and grandeur of the Old South.

The General Jackson Showboat is named after the first steamboat to operate on the Cumberland River in 1817 which was named after President Andrew Jackson, whose historic home—The Hermitage—is 15 minutes from the dock.

Built by the largest inland shipbuilder in the United States, Jeffboat, located in Indiana, the General Jackson was launched on the Cumberland River on April 20, 1985.

General Jackson Showboat Tickets Here!

Parking shared with Opry Mills Mall

*Please note that firearms and any type of weapons are not allowed aboard the General Jackson Showboat.

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Your cruise lets you experience Nashville as it can best be seen from the beautiful Cumberland River.

While “rollin’ down the river,” you’ll enjoy stunning views, a delicious meal freshly prepared by our chefs and toe-tapping entertainment in our two-story Victorian Theater.

One of the largest showboats ever built, the grand General Jackson is an elegant triumph of American ingenuity. With its elegant lacy filigree and stately design, the boat is reminiscent of the opulence of the American Victorian era.

Showboats have long been a colorful part of our nation’s history, and this most unique Nashville attraction epitomizes the grace and grandeur of the South.

The General Jackson Showboat is named after the first steamboat to operate on the Cumberland River in 1817.

Built by the largest inland shipbuilder in the United States, Jeffboat, located in Indiana, the General Jackson was launched on the Ohio River in Indiana to start the journey to its new home on Nashville’s Cumberland River on April 20, 1985.

Please note that firearms and any type of weapons are not allowed aboard the General Jackson Showboat. 

Accommodations

Stay the night for the ultimate Nashville experience. Book your trip today!

GaylordOpryland.com  •  TheInnatOpryland.com

When was the General Jackson launched?

Our launch date was April 20, 1985!

Who built the General Jackson?

The Jeffboat Inc from Jeffersonville, Indiana built it.

When was it christened?

On July 2, 1985, by Mrs. Thelma Gaylord

What is the capacity?

The capacity of the General Jackson is 1,000 passengers plus crew members.

What is the length of the boat?

274 feet; 300 feet including gang plank

How wide is the boat?

63 feet, 6 inches (width)

How tall is the General Jackson?

55 feet, fixed; 77 feet to the top of folding stacks

What is the draft?

The boat sits 7 feet in the water.

Which engines are used?

2 Caterpillar 3512’s; 1050 hp per engine; 880 kw generators

Which motors are used?

Two 600 HP General Electric motors turn the paddlewheel – 1,200 hp total

What is the speed of the General Jackson?

13 mph top speed; 4-8 mph average speed

How large is the Paddlewheel?

36 feet long, 24 feet in diameter; weighs 36 tons

How heavy is the General Jackson?

1,489 tons dead weight

Bow Thruster

200 hp propeller

What kind of search light does the General Jackson use?

Xenon bulb; 120 million candle power

How big is the Dock?

195’ X 35’ barge

What is the Mooring Cell?

Large cylinders on each end of the dock filled with sand and rock, topped with concrete and used to support and secure the barge/dock.

About the Cumberland River

River Navigable for 381 miles; the General Jackson dock is at mile 197.5; average depth is 15-25 feet; normal (pool) level is 385 feet elevation. A round trip to downtown Nashville and back is 14 miles. The head waters are in Harlin County, Kentucky, and the mouth is at Smithland, Kentucky, where it joins the Ohio River.

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Public River Boat Cruises in Nashville

River boat cruises in downtown nashville, cruise the river on a pontoon party cruise.

Our public cruises are famous in Nashville. It’s hard to beat the unique guided party experiences from our distinguished crew and views only available aboard the Pontoon Saloon. Our public river boat cruises are BYOB and available at various times and will typically host about 40 people per cruise. Each group will be greeted by our licensed USCG Captain & Deck Hand who will help ice down your drinks while you settle aboard the Pontoon Saloon in preparation for the scheduled cruise departure. The bar-style atmosphere is amplified by your Deck Hand bringing hit tunes, entertainment, and engaging games that bring a crowd together on the dance floor. Thanks to our amazing crew, unique boat design, and amazing views, no other party bus or booze cruise knows how to get the party started like the Pontoon Saloon. Aside from the time of day, our public cruises are all similar—each offering BYOB or purchase buckets of beer/seltzer.  

What’s Included

• USCG Licensed Captain & Deckhand
• Party Host, Server, DJ
• 2 hours on the water
• Mimosa Cruise includes juices
• Beer & Seltzer Buckets for pre-purchase
• The best views of Music City
• Ice, cups, coolers, Coke, & water
• Large sound system
• Bar area & Dance Floor
• High-top tables & Stools(we do not have seating for everyone, standing & seated room at tables)
• Koozies, Hats, T Shirts
• Beer & Seltzer Buckets
• Professional Photographer

Departure Locations

Riverfront Dock East — All public cruises will depart from the east bank dock except for event dates noted below or stated otherwise in your confirmation email. Lock One Marina — We reserve the right to change dock locations due to city events. Public Cruises will depart from Lock One Marina on the following dates: April 27th, May 2nd – May 4th, June 6th- June 9th, July 2nd – July 5th, Sept. 5th

BOOK A PUBLIC CRUISE

Plan Your Ideal Day on the Water

Mimosa Cruise

The USS Mimosa departs each morning before noon. This cruise is the best way to start your day in Nashville. Bring aboard your favorite bottle of Champagne, and we provide a variety of juices for mimosas. This cruise will cure your hangover as you sip on mimosas, enjoy the river breeze, and listen to our curated Pontoon Playlist. Two mimosas later, you’ll be dancing to Cardi B with all new friends and ready for Broadway! This is a bachelorette must-do!

Pontoon Party Cruise

Our afternoon Pontoon Party Cruise is the best activity you can do before hitting Broadway! There is no better place to be on a hot sunny day in Music City than aboard this party barge enjoying a cool breeze and making some great Nashville memories. Grab a friend and come experience it for yourself. Our Deck Hand gets the pontoon party started with a curated playlist, and our famous pontoon dance-off will surely get you moving! Enjoy the beautiful views along the Cumberland River and skyline views of Downtown Nashville.

Sunsets & Skylines Cruise

The evening cruise brings the best nighttime skyline views of Downtown Nashville. Our licensed captains will first cruise downriver for a picturesque sunset view only available aboard the Pontoon Saloon. As the sun sets, drinks flow, and the party starts to hit the dance floor, you’ll be cruising by Broadway soaking up all the city lights. This Nashville river boat cruise is a Honky Tonkin’ blast!

Reviews From Our Guests

It’s a great way to get off Broadway and still have some good ‘ole Nashville fun!!! Seriously so much fun! Beautiful views, awesome crew, clean bathroom and great music.

My bridesmaids surprised me with the boat cruise for my Nashbach! It was the best time ever! Highly recommend this event for any group looking to spend an evening partying on the river!

Went on the pontoon saloon for my bachelorette party. We had a blast!! There were multiple parties with us and we all danced together. At one point we were playing limbo with a broomstick. I do recommend getting there earlier to secure a good spot on the boat. Plus, having the bathroom on board made life so much easier.

We had a team meeting (12 people) in Nashville and took an evening cruise on the pontoon saloon. It was the perfect choice for a group activity as they had dinner and beer as we cruised the Cumberland River. Awesome views of the Nashville skyline!! Andrew was great!

Pontoon Saloon was a great experience! The owner and staff are super cool, the boat was clean and roomy! It was a beautiful day on the Cumberland River even in November! We had a big group, so did the private tour! Highly recommend!

Frequently Asked Questions

Cancellation policy.

PUBLIC CRUISE CANCELLATION POLICY

Full refund 14 days prior to cruise departure time. Cancellations within 14 days, no-shows, late for departure are 100% non-refundable, non-transferable. Please contact us as soon as possible and we will do our best to accommodate you on another cruise with a 20% change fee, we understand life happens. The 14+ day cancellation policy applies to any change in the guest count for a reservation. Public Cruises include Mimosa Cruise, Pontoon Party Cruise, & Sunset Party Cruise.

CHANGES TO EXISTING RESERVATIONS

If you need to cancel or make changes to an existing reservation, including adding or reducing the number of people in your party, please email us at  [email protected] . We will not make changes or cancel bookings over the phone.

BYOB ALCOHOL POLICY

We allow Beer, Hard Seltzers, Wine, and Champagne only onboard the Pontoon Saloon. We do not allow beer in glass bottles (cans only) but we do allow wine and champagne in glass bottles. Glass items will be stored behind the bar and we have cups and fresh ice. We do sell buckets of Beer & Hard Seltzer (Miller Lite, Coors Light & Whiteclaw) for pre-purchase. Please plan appropriately , we do not allow the removal of opened cases of beer/seltzer from the boat due to city ordinance. Only unopened cases are allowed to be taken from the boat after your cruise.

WEATHER POLICY

Cruises operate rain or shine since 3/4 of the boat has a covered roof. If Pontoon Saloon cancels due to severe weather we offer a refund of 50% or 100% toward a gift card for use at any future date. We will notify you 1.5 hours in advance if we need to delay or cancel your cruise. We are more flexible during our winter months (November-March) if we have random severe cold weather.

If you need to cancel or make changes to an existing reservation, including adding or reducing the number of people in your party, please email us at  [email protected]  or call us at  (615) 601-1464 .

IS THERE PARKING?

How early should i book my trip.

We recommend booking as soon as you decide on your cruise time. Especially if you have 8+ in your group, you will want to book at least 45 days out. Our Friday & Saturday cruises sell out fast.

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Partners & Sister Companies of Pontoon Saloon

General Jackson Showboat Nashville Lunch & Dinner Cruises

A General Jackson Showboat Lunch or Dinner Cruise provides an amazing adventure to those visiting Nashville, TN . This famous paddlewheel riverboat takes guests via the Cumberland River to view the Nashville skyline to enjoy a relaxing cruise, live stage show, and delicious dinner. Whether you are celebrating a date night, birthday, or just want to get in some sightseeing during your Music City vacation, it is a must-have addition to your itinerary.

The Cumberland River is a gorgeous and historic waterway winding throughout Nashville. On whichever trip you choose, you will be able to see some of the most glorious sights in Nashville from a unique perspective. The showboat is equipped with amazing ways to see everything, including balconies and outside decks which allow for beautiful panoramic views of the towering skyscrapers and sparkling lights of the city. During warmer months, you may capture sight of local wildlife as well such as fish and birds. Soak in the fresh air and the unforgettable Nashville skyline scenery on this cruise tour, and don't forget to bring your camera to snap a few pictures along the way!

About the General Jackson Showboat

The General Jackson is one of the largest Nashville boat and river cruises in the country and its dock is found on the Cumberland River. Having launched its cruises in 1985, it has provided quality entertainment, live music, and fun to visitors for more than three decades. It is named after the first steamboat to travel in Nashville in 1817. Thousands of people have enjoyed this famous attraction, which is famous for its stately design and special event cruises, drawing in thousands of travelers every year to view its entertainment options. The boat itself has a lot of stunning features, with a length of 274 feet and a towering height of 55 feet, massive decks, and stunning views.

The Nashville river boat can carry up to 1,037 passengers and 135 crew at a time during max capacity. It also features one of the largest paddlewheels that is 36 feet long and 24 feet in diameter. Just the paddlewheel weighs 36,000 pounds! This massive boat has a total weight of 1,489 tons. It travels at an average speed of approximately 5 - 8 miles per hour. The boat is comprised of four decks, which hold features such as the Heritage Hall, a gift shop, the Victorian Theater with a sit-down dining area and comfortable seating, balconies, and tons of outside viewing opportunities. If you are wanting to enjoy a completely unique experience, make sure to board this fantastic riverboat. Additionally, the beautiful General Jackson Showboat is wheelchair accessible and gives a neat way to explore the Nashville downtown area.

About Tennessee Legends Show on the General Jackson Nashville River Cruises

About Rollin’ on the River

With tons of viewing space, these themed Nashville cruises offer amazing shows, a good time, mouth-watering food, and an energy that is totally unparalleled by any other boat adventure in the South. Be sure to climb aboard and enjoy live entertainment and downtown sightseeing the next time you visit Music City by booking your General Jackson Showboat tickets today. Whether you want to take an hour cruise, lunch cruise, evening dinner cruise, or just want to get out and see Nashville Tennessee on the river, these cruises offer amazing opportunities for adventures. Be sure to book your hotel lodging to the Gaylord Opryland Resort, go shopping at the Opry Mills Mall, visit the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum or get tickets to see the Grand Ole Opry. Regardless of what you do, you're bound to have a blast on your trip to Nashville! Be sure to book a great Nashville hotel in the area. jackson general general jackson's music city queen riverboat nashville tngeneral jackson showboat seating chart gen jackson boat general jackson seating chart

• What type of parking do you have? The General Jackson shares a parking lot with Opry Mills and there is no charge for parking.
• Approximately how long are the cruises? The entire experience is approximately 2.5 hours long.
• How many decks or levels are there aboard the boat? The boat has four decks.
• What lake or river does the boat cruise on? The boat sails on the Cumberland River.
• How many passengers does the boat hold? The boat holds 1,037 passengers along with 135 crew members.
• What is the dress code? Casual dress for all cruises. Shirts and shoes are required to be worn at all times. No halter top or bathing suit tops are allowed.
• Does General Jackson Showboat Nashville Lunch & Dinner Cruises feature a bar? Yes, there is a full-service bar on deck for all your favorite alcoholic drinks.
• Are alcoholic beverages served at General Jackson Showboat Nashville Lunch & Dinner Cruises? Yes, there is a full-service bar.
• Is the boat air-conditioned? Yes, the interior of the boat is air conditioned.
• What is the policy in case of inclement weather? The boat makes an effort to always sail even during weather-related instances in which the boat may be delayed.
• Are strollers allowed on the boat? Yes, strollers are permitted on board.

• Romaine Iceberg Blend | Parmesan Flatbread Croutons | Crumbled Cheese Curds | Red and Yellow Grape Tomatoes | Heirloom Carrots | Buttermilk Ranch
• Southern Baked Potato Salad
• Dry Rub BBQ Chicken Breast
• Hickory Pit-Smoked Pork Shoulder
• TN Whiskey BBQ Sauce
• Baked Mac and Cheese
• Seasonal Spring / Summer Vegetables
• Root Beer Baked Beans | Slow-Simmered in Brown Sugar
• Parker House Rolls with Cherrywood Smoked Sea Salt
• Seasonal Fruit Cobbler | Cinnamon Streusel Topping with Caramel and Vanilla Cream Sauce

Table Side Salad Romaine and Shredded Kale | House-Baked Parmesan Flat-Bread | Shaved Parmesan, Romano and Asiago | Creamy Caesar Dressing

Plated Surf and Turf Entree

• Pan-Seared French-Cut Chicken Breast | Sun-Dried Cream | Chicken Demi-Glaze | Fresh Herbs
• Low-Country Crab Cake | Jumbo Lump | Roasted Pimentos | House Blend of Spices
• Cumberland Gratin Potato | Gruyere Cheese | Sea Salt and Herb Crust 
• Broccolini | Garlic Herb Sea Salt

Dessert Cheesecake | Fresh Berry Compote | Whipped Cream | Lemon Zest

Please mention at time of reservation. Vegetarian menus, while change each night, are often the same menu as the regular cruise minus the meat. They often include a pasta dish with additional vegetables. 

*subject to change. 

Salad Arcadian Baby Lettuces with Dried Assorted Fruits, Toasted Pecans, Chevre Goat Cheese & White Balsamic Vinaigrette

Main Course

• Braised Short Rib with Merlot Demi-Glace OR Roasted Chicken Breast with Creamy Chicken Demi
• Roasted Steakhouse Potatoes
• Citrus Honey Glazed Carrots
• Buttered Soft Rolls with Cherrywood Smoked Sea Salt
• Apple Cinnamon Crumb Cake
• Oat & Honey Streusel, Sea Salt Caramel Cream

Tea, Coffee, or Decaf Coffee

(Menu subject to change without notice)

• Arcadian Baby Lettuces with Dried Assorted Fruits, Toasted Pecans, Chevre Goat Cheese, White Balsamic Vinaigrette
• Roasted Chicken Breast with Herb Brined, House Spices, Creamy Demi

Tea, Coffee, and Decaf Coffee 

Menu Subject to Change without Notice.