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Celebrate the holidays aboard the Southern Belle Riverboat with a scenic two-hour dinner cruise in Chattanooga. Enjoy live music, festive food, and stunning city views that will make your season truly special. Read on to learn why this holiday cruise is a must-do during the winter months.
Celebrate the holidays aboard the Southern Belle Riverboat with a scenic two-hour dinner cruise in Chattanooga. Enjoy live music, festive food, and stunning city views that will make your season truly special. Read on to learn why this holiday cruise is a must-do during the winter months.
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Operated by The Southern Belle Riverboat · Chattanooga, Tennessee
In Chattanooga, Tennessee, the Southern Belle Riverboat offers a truly memorable way to celebrate the holiday season with their Christmas Carol Dinner Cruise. As the sun dips behind the Tennessee River, the boat sets sail on a two-hour voyage through the city’s vibrant skyline, illuminated by holiday lights reflecting off the water. Passengers settle into a festive atmosphere filled with lively live music and the anticipation of a delicious buffet-style dinner, all while enjoying panoramic views of downtown Chattanooga. This cruise adds a unique twist to the holiday tradition—savoring fine food and festive tunes while floating past iconic sights like the Walnut Street Bridge and Lookout Mountain. Perfect for gathering friends and family, the experience leaves you with warm memories and a renewed appreciation for Chattanooga’s riverfront. The Southern Belle Riverboat’s longstanding reputation for hospitality and scenic river journeys cements its status as a go-to for holiday outings, blending outdoor adventure with cultural charm. Its location along the Tennessee River offers a chance to see the city’s striking skyline and historic bridges from a different perspective—ideal for those looking to combine scenic beauty with seasonal celebration. Whether you’re a local or visiting for the holidays, this cruise provides a cozy yet lively setting to enjoy good company, great music, and spectacular views away from the chaos of holiday shopping. Their carefully curated atmosphere ensures a family-friendly environment that’s both fun and relaxing. For visitors seeking a quintessential Chattanooga experience that pairs outdoor adventure with festive cheer, this dinner cruise stands out as a delightful seasonal offering that captures the spirit of Tennessee's riverfront culture during the most wonderful time of the year.
easy.
2 hours.
Suitable for most fitness levels; comfortable seating and easy boarding.
Yes, the Southern Belle Riverboat is equipped to accommodate guests with mobility challenges.
Outside drinks are not permitted, but a full bar is available during the cruise.
Absolutely, the cruise is family-friendly and perfect for all ages.
Smart casual attire is recommended, with layered clothing for outdoor comfort.
Yes, there are several parking options within walking distance of the dock.
Holiday cruises often sell out quickly, so booking at least a few weeks in advance is advised.
The Tennessee River has long been vital to Chattanooga's development, serving as both a transportation route and a source of local industry.
The area emphasizes river conservation, with efforts to preserve water quality and protect local wildlife amid tourism activities.
The Southern Belle Riverboat operates on the Tennessee River in Chattanooga, Tennessee, offering a diverse schedule of narrated sightseeing tours, dining cruises, and seasonal events. The fleet includes the larger Southern Belle riverboat and the smaller Latitude 35 vessel, each providing open-air viewing, live narration, and curated onboard experiences. Scheduled departures span short sightseeing trips and extended scenic cruises. Signature offerings include the 1.5-hour Sights Cruise with 45 minutes of on-board narration, three-hour Fall Foliage cruises through the Grand Canyon of the Tennessee River, and specialized holiday sailings such as the December Christmas Carol Dinner Cruise and a two-hour Thanksgiving on the River. Dining options vary by cruise and may include buffet-style dinners, live music, and optional upgrades like cheese and charcuterie boards or BBQ sandwich plates. Latitude 35 serves as an intimate sightseeing option with live narration and hands-on moments, including demonstrations when the captain reels in catfish. Group packages feature combined experiences with the Mayor’s Mansion Inn, such as dinner followed by a sunset cruise; a group option is available for parties of 40 or more. The Senior Lunch Cruise offers a two-hour daytime departure with buffet lunch and Pilot House visits. All cruises focus on Chattanooga landmarks, river scenery, and accessible boarding at downtown riverfront locations. With clear durations, themed menus, and a mix of family-friendly and seasonal departures, The Southern Belle Riverboat provides factual, scheduled riverboat dining and sightseeing options for locals and visitors alike.
Book with The Southern Belle Riverboat