Discover an elegant evening on the Tennessee River aboard the Southern Belle Riverboat. Enjoy a gourmet dinner, a curated wine flight, live entertainment, and stunning sunset views in Chattanooga’s historic riverfront setting.
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
2–3 hours
Fitness Level
No special fitness level required; suitable for most adults comfortable sitting for a couple of hours.
Wildlife
History
Chattanooga’s role as a Civil War river transport hub adds deep historical layers to the riverboat experience.
Conservation
The Southern Belle supports local river conservation efforts by promoting sustainable tourism on the Tennessee River.
The Southern Belle Riverboat
Discover an elegant evening on the Tennessee River aboard the Southern Belle Riverboat. Enjoy a gourmet dinner, a curated wine flight, live entertainment, and stunning sunset views in Chattanooga’s historic riverfront setting.
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 for the breeze
Evenings on the river can get cool, so bring a light jacket to stay comfortable throughout the cruise.
Arrive early for boarding
Plan to arrive at least 15 minutes before departure to ensure smooth boarding and seating.
Try the local wines
The cruise features regional Tennessee wines—ask your server for tasting notes to enhance your pairing experience.
Book in advance
This popular cruise often sells out, especially on weekends and holidays—reserve your spot early.
Light jacket or sweater
spring
Comfortable shoes
Wear stable shoes for boarding and standing on the riverboat deck.
Camera or smartphone
Capture beautiful sunset vistas and river views.
Sunscreen
Apply sunscreen during daylight hours before boarding to protect against sun exposure.
summer