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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Difficulty
easy
Duration
2 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; comfortable seating and easy boarding.
Wildlife
History
The Tennessee River has long been vital to Chattanooga's development, serving as both a transportation route and a source of local industry.
Conservation
The area emphasizes river conservation, with efforts to preserve water quality and protect local wildlife amid tourism activities.
The Southern Belle Riverboat
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.
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.
Location
Chattanooga, TN
Departures from downtown riverfront
Typical Duration
1.5–3 hours
Short to extended scenic cruises
Vessels
Southern Belle & Latitude 35
Large riverboat and smaller vessel
Seasonal Cruises
Holiday & Fall
Christmas, Thanksgiving, fall foliage
Secure seats for sightseeing, dinner, or holiday cruises on the Tennessee River — popular departures like fall foliage and holiday dinners often sell out.
Dress warmly for the evening cruise
Even in winter, it can get chilly on the water, so bring layers to stay comfortable.
Arrive early to secure good seats
Getting onboard early ensures you have the best view of the city skyline and festive scenery.
Bring a camera for scenic views
Capture the illuminated Chattanooga skyline and river scenes during your cruise.
Book in advance for holiday dates
Holiday cruises tend to fill quickly, so reserving your spot early guarantees participation.
Warm clothing and layers
To stay comfortable during the chilly cruise, especially in winter months.
winter
Camera or smartphone
Capture the stunning city lights and festive decorations along the river.
Binoculars
Enhance views of Chattanooga’s skyline and riverfront attractions.
Event tickets or reservation confirmation
Ensure your spot on this popular holiday cruise by booking in advance.