One River, Three Rides: Why The Grand Tour Is Knoxville’s Compact Adventure
Three tours, one ticket — a fast, family-friendly jetboat loop that delivers peak scenery and a few well-timed thrills.
You hear the river long before you see it: a percussion of water on hull, the hollow echo as the jetboat slips into a channel, then the bright, immediate slap of spray as the driver opens the throttle. On The Grand Tour — a streamlined 1 hour 20-minute loop that stitches together three distinct rides into a single pulse of motion — the Tennessee River becomes a short, concentrated curriculum in speed, scenery, and small-group theater. The boat seats five; the hours feel bigger.
Trail Wisdom
Bring a Waterproof Case
Spray is part of the ride—protect phones and cameras with a dry bag or waterproof case.
Arrive Early
Plan to be at the dock 20–30 minutes before departure for check-in and safety briefing.
Dress in Layers
River breezes can cool you quickly even on warm days—pack a light wind shell.
Mind Small Children Near Docks
Keep kids supervised at the dock and on board; flotation devices are provided where required.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Forks of the River Wildlife Management Area — quiet banks for birdwatching
- •Ijams Nature Center — riverfront trails and good post-ride walks
Wildlife
Bald eagle, River otter
Conservation Note
Avoid feeding wildlife, keep a respectful distance from nesting birds, and pack out all trash—shoreline habitats are fragile and benefit from responsible recreation.
The Tennessee River and its tributaries shaped indigenous travel routes and later supported steamboat commerce; 20th-century TVA projects altered flow and created the navigable impoundments seen today.
Seasonal Guide
spring
Best for: Migratory bird watching, Cool mornings, Fewer crowds
Challenges: Unpredictable rain, Variable temperatures
Spring brings active wildlife and cool mornings; pack a waterproof layer and expect occasional showers.
summer
Best for: Warm water and air, Long daylight, Family outings
Challenges: Heat and sun exposure, Higher demand for tours
Summer is ideal for comfortable water temperatures and vibrant river activity—book early and use sun protection.
fall
Best for: Crisp air and fall foliage, Photographic light, Smaller crowds
Challenges: Cooler mornings, Earlier sunsets
Fall offers the best light for photos and pleasant temperatures; morning launches can be cool, so layer up.
winter
Best for: Quiet shoreline viewing, Lower prices, Short days
Challenges: Cold winds and possible cancellations, Limited wildlife activity
Winter tours run sporadically; dress warmly and expect brisk river breezes if available.
Photographer's Notes
What to Bring
Waterproof Phone Case / Dry BagEssential
Keeps electronics and valuables dry during spray and boarding.
Light Wind ShellEssential
Shields against chilling river breezes, especially in morning or fall trips.
Polarized SunglassesEssential
Reduces glare off the water and improves visibility for spotting wildlife.
Closed-Toe ShoesEssential
Provide grip for boarding and walking on wet docks.
Common Questions
How long is The Grand Tour?
The Grand Tour lasts approximately 1 hour and 20 minutes and combines three of the operator's most popular segments into one ride.
How many people can ride in one booking?
Each booking can accommodate up to five passengers; children under two ride free.
Is the tour safe for children?
Yes—tours are family-friendly, but children should be supervised near docks and may be required to wear provided flotation devices as dictated by crew.
What should I wear?
Dress in layers, bring a wind shell, and use closed-toe shoes; consider a waterproof case for electronics due to spray.
Can I bring my camera?
Yes — cameras are encouraged; use a waterproof bag or housing and a wrist strap during turns and maneuvers.
Do you need to book in advance?
Booking in advance is recommended, especially weekends and summer months; reserve your spot online via the operator's booking page.
What to Pack
Waterproof phone case (protects electronics), light wind shell (blocks chill), sunscreen & hat (sun protection), closed-toe shoes (safe boarding)
Did You Know
The Great Smoky Mountains National Park, less than an hour from Knoxville by car, is the most visited national park in the United States.
Quick Travel Tips
Arrive 20–30 minutes early; bring a printed or digital booking confirmation; expect intermittent cell service on parts of the river; check weather and dress in layers.
Local Flavor
After the ride, head to Market Square for craft beer and local barbecue, or try Calhoun’s on the River for a classic Tennessee riverside meal; Knoxville’s compact downtown makes it easy to transition from outdoor time to dinner.
Logistics Snapshot
Closest airport: McGhee Tyson Airport (TYS) — ~30–45 minute drive; Driving distance from downtown Knoxville: 20–40 minutes depending on launch site; Cell service: generally good near town, may be intermittent mid-river; Permits/Passes: none required for this commercial tour — bring booking confirmation.
Sustainability Note
This tour operates on a working river ecosystem—pack out waste, avoid disturbing shoreline vegetation, and follow crew guidance to minimize wildlife stress.