THE ADVENTURE COLLECTIVE® · Independent discovery and booking for outdoor travel
Experience a magical evening aboard Chattanooga’s Southern Belle Riverboat with gourmet dining, a curated wine selection, and stunning Tennessee River views at sunset. Perfect for those seeking a unique blend of nature, culture, and cuisine.
Experience a magical evening aboard Chattanooga’s Southern Belle Riverboat with gourmet dining, a curated wine selection, and stunning Tennessee River views at sunset. Perfect for those seeking a unique blend of nature, culture, and cuisine.
Book with The Southern Belle Riverboat
Verified experiences and guided adventures in the surrounding area.
Operated by The Southern Belle Riverboat · Chattanooga, Tennessee
Set against the striking backdrop of Chattanooga, Tennessee, the Wine Down The River experience aboard the Southern Belle Riverboat offers an immersive journey that combines scenic cruising, gourmet dining, and expert wine tasting. Running from March through December on the third Thursday of each month, this memorable evening on the Tennessee River invites travelers to unwind and savor the best of the region’s natural beauty and culinary delights.
Departing from 151 Riverfront Parkway Pier 2, the Southern Belle Riverboat glides smoothly along the river at sunset, bathing the landscape in rich golden light. As you float past the city’s iconic riverfront and lush greenery, the elegance of the 19th-century-style riverboat blends timeless charm with modern comforts. This isn’t just a cruise—it’s an intimate celebration of the Tennessee River’s serene flow and Chattanooga’s vibrant local culture.
Guests are greeted with a thoughtfully composed cheese and charcuterie board that pairs artisan cheeses with cured meats and seasonal accompaniments, designed to awaken your taste buds. The onboard sommelier then guides you through a curated selection of four wines—two reds and two whites—showcasing rich varietals that complement the evening’s menu perfectly.
The centerpiece of the meal is a succulent lemon basil chicken, accompanied by creamy smashed potatoes, grilled green vegetables, fresh mixed green salad, and warm dinner rolls. A rich slice of cheesecake offers the perfect finish to this carefully crafted culinary experience. Meanwhile, live entertainment on the boat’s third level enhances the ambiance, filling the air with melodic tunes that blend beautifully with the river’s gentle sounds.
Wine Down The River is more than just a dinner cruise; it’s a local treasure that highlights Chattanooga’s outdoor and cultural offerings in an accessible, unique way. The Tennessee River, historically a vital artery for exploration and trade, is now a venue for relaxation and community. This cruise captures the essence of the area’s natural allure and hospitality, making it a standout activity for visitors and locals alike.
Whether you’re seeking a romantic evening, a gathering with friends, or a refined introduction to Tennessee’s wine selections, this cruise provides a balanced mix of adventure and comfort. The timing around sunset affords spectacular photo opportunities, while the intimate setting ensures a personal, memorable experience.
For those planning a visit to Chattanooga, booking the Wine Down The River cruise is a must for combining scenic views, impeccable dining, and a celebration of local flavor along one of the South’s most beautiful waterways.
easy.
2–3 hours.
No special fitness level required; suitable for most adults comfortable sitting for extended periods.
The cruise includes a 2-hour scenic riverboat ride, a gourmet dinner featuring lemon basil chicken, a cheese and charcuterie board, and a curated selection of four wines with an onboard sommelier.
The cruise lasts approximately 2 hours, departing at 6:00 PM (March to November) or 7:00 PM in December on the third Thursday of each month.
This cruise is primarily designed for adults due to the wine tasting and dinner menu; please check with the operator for specific age policies.
Advance notice is recommended for dietary accommodations; contact the booking provider to discuss special requests.
Yes, parking is available near 151 Riverfront Parkway Pier 2 where the Southern Belle Riverboat departs.
Accessibility details are not specified; it's best to inquire directly with the Southern Belle Riverboat operator for individual assistance.
The Tennessee River has long been a key trade and transportation route, central to Chattanooga’s growth since the early 19th century.
The Southern Belle Riverboat participates in local efforts to protect the Tennessee River’s ecosystem by promoting sustainable tourism practices.
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