Experience the stunning fall colors of Tennessee from the deck of The Southern Belle Riverboat. This three-hour cruise along the Tennessee River offers vibrant scenery, live entertainment, and a delicious buffet—a perfect autumn outing for outdoor lovers and history buffs alike.
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
3 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for all fitness levels; no physical exertion required
Wildlife
History
The Tennessee River has played a vital role in regional commerce and settlement since the 19th century, with steamboats like The Southern Belle carrying passengers and goods along its course for decades.
Conservation
The river and surrounding parks are ongoing conservation efforts, focusing on habitat preservation and pollution reduction to maintain the area's natural beauty.
The Southern Belle Riverboat
Experience the stunning fall colors of Tennessee from the deck of The Southern Belle Riverboat. This three-hour cruise along the Tennessee River offers vibrant scenery, live entertainment, and a delicious buffet—a perfect autumn outing for outdoor lovers and history buffs alike.
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 in layers
The open-air deck can be breezy, so layer up to stay comfortable while soaking in the views.
Arrive early
Getting to the dock ahead of departure ensures a good spot and time to settle in before the cruise begins.
Bring a camera
Capture the vivid fall colors and scenic river vistas from multiple vantage points throughout the cruise.
Check weather conditions
Fall weather can be unpredictable; verify the forecast to dress appropriately and enjoy the trip comfortably.
Layered clothing
Ensures comfort as temperatures fluctuate on the open deck.
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Sunscreen
Protect your skin from sun exposure during daytime cruises.
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Hat and sunglasses
Shield your eyes and face from sun and wind.
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Camera
Capture the vibrant fall foliage and scenic river views.
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