Nashville’s Cumberland River scene offers practical boat options for every traveler. The showstopper is the General Jackson Showboat, serving up country music with your dinner while cruising past downtown’s twinkling lights. We’re especially fond of the pontoon party boats (available for 10-12 people) – they’re perfect for families or small groups who want flexibility and intimacy on the water. The double-decker slide boats are a hit with adventure seekers, giving you both sightseeing and splashing fun. Downtown pedal boat rentals provide an active, budget-friendly way to experience the riverfront at your own pace. Let’s explore our favorite Nashville boat tours worth your time and money.
Key Points
- Pontoon Party Boats offer a variety of party boat experiences, including a 25ft pontoon boat with tubing and lounging, and a 30ft double-decker slide boat.
- Double Decker Party Boats provide an action-packed experience with triple slides, jumping, and premium amenities like a sound system and coolers.
- Nashville Pedal Boats offer a unique and intimate way to explore the city’s waterways, with scenic views of the Cumberland River and Nashville skyline.
- General Jackson Showboat Cruises combine dining, sightseeing, and live entertainment for a memorable experience on a large paddlewheel riverboat.
- Pontoon Party Cruise provides a 2-hour cruise on the Cumberland River with a festive atmosphere, allowing guests to bring their own food and drinks.
25FT Pontoon Party Boat With Captain up to 12 (3 Hrs)
The FT Pontoon Party Boat offers a 3-hour cruise on Percy Priest Lake near Nashville, TN.
Suitable for up to 12 guests, the party boat comes with a captain and a premium sound system.
Passengers can enjoy a range of activities, including tubing, lounging on a 10ft float pad, and partying at Party Cove.
The boat rental costs $795.97 per group, and free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance.
Customers must arrive at least 15 minutes early and complete a waiver form prior to boarding.
The trips operate rain or shine, and a rain check is provided in case of weather cancellation.
Read our full review: 25FT Pontoon Party Boat With Captain up to 12 (3 Hrs) Review
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30FT Double Decker Slide Party Boat With Captain up to 16
A 30ft Double Decker Slide Party Boat with Captain can accommodate up to 16 guests for a 3-hour cruise on Percy Priest Lake near Nashville, TN.
Priced from $865.69 per group, the experience includes tubing, sliding/jumping off the pontoon top deck, and lounging on a 10ft lily pad float.
Customers can enjoy a private group experience with a live tour guide, party at Party Cove, and use the provided amenities like coolers, pool noodles, and a beer pong table.
The fully captained pontoon boat comes with life jackets, and customers can bring their own alcohol.
Pickup locations are at Cooks Day Use Area or Vivrett Creek Boat Ramp, with a shuttle service available.
Read our full review: 30FT Double Decker Slide Party Boat With Captain up to 16 Review
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30FT Doubledecker Triple Slide Party Boat With Capt up to 22
Boasting a 30ft double-decker design with triple slides, this party boat can accommodate up to 22 passengers for a thrilling 3-hour cruise on Percy Priest Lake near Nashville.
Fully captained with a 200hp Suzuki engine, the boat offers a variety of activities, including sliding off the three slides, jumping from the top deck, and relaxing on a 15ft lily pad.
Guests can also enjoy amenities like coolers, float pads, and a premium sound system.
Priced at $1,039.99 per group, with a free cancellation policy, this boat tour is a popular choice for those seeking an action-packed day on the water.
Read our full review: 30FT Doubledecker Triple Slide Party Boat With Capt up to 22 Review
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Nashville: Downtown Pedal Boat Rental for 2 to 4 People
Pedal boats provide a unique way to explore downtown Nashville‘s scenic waterways. For 2 to 4 people, this 1.5-hour rental allows you to cruise along the Cumberland River at your own pace.
With the small group size, it offers an intimate experience to take in the city’s skyline and notable landmarks like the Shelby Street Pedestrian Bridge. The pedal boats are easy to operate and a fun activity for all ages.
At $89 per boat, it’s an affordable way to get out on the water and enjoy the fresh air. Whether you’re seeking a relaxing afternoon or an active adventure, the downtown pedal boat rental is a great option to explore Nashville from a unique perspective.
Read our full review: Nashville: Downtown Pedal Boat Rental for 2 to 4 People Review
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Nashville: General Jackson Showboat Dinner Cruise
For those seeking a more grand and immersive Nashville experience, the General Jackson Showboat Dinner Cruise offers an unforgettable evening on the Cumberland River.
This 4-hour cruise aboard one of America’s largest paddlewheel riverboats features a delicious dinner and live entertainment showcasing Tennessee’s rich musical heritage. Guests can enjoy the city’s skyline lit up at night while savoring a Victorian-style dinner theater performance.
At $138 per person, this cruise is likely to sell out, so interested parties should book early. With a solid 4.4/5 rating from 173 reviews, the General Jackson Showboat Dinner Cruise provides great value for money, though some minor issues with photo arrangements and time management have been noted.
Read our full review: Nashville: General Jackson Showboat Dinner Cruise Review
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Nashville: Pontoon Party Cruise With a Captain
Another popular option for experiencing Nashville’s waterways is the Pontoon Party Cruise With a Captain.
This 2-hour cruise allows visitors to enjoy the city’s skyline from the Cumberland River. Rated 4.8 out of 5 with 34 reviews, the cruise costs $125 per person. Guests can bring their own food and drinks to enjoy while cruising along the river.
The pontoon boat accommodates up to 10 people, making it a great option for small groups or families. The captain provides commentary throughout the trip, sharing insights about Nashville’s history and landmarks.
Whether you’re looking for a relaxing afternoon or a fun-filled party, the Pontoon Party Cruise offers a unique way to experience the city from the water.
Read our full review: Nashville: Pontoon Party Cruise With a Captain Review
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Nashville: General Jackson Showboat Lunch Cruise
The General Jackson Showboat Lunch Cruise offers a unique dining experience on the Cumberland River.
You’ll board a massive four-deck paddle-wheeler with a grand Victorian-style interior and enjoy a delicious buffet lunch as you cruise along the scenic waterway.
The 2-hour journey includes live entertainment, such as musical performances and comedy shows, that showcase the best of Nashville’s vibrant music scene.
With panoramic views of the city skyline, this cruise is a great way to experience Nashville’s riverfront.
Whether you’re a local or a visitor, the General Jackson Showboat Lunch Cruise is a must-do activity that combines dining, sightseeing, and entertainment for an unforgettable afternoon on the water.
Read our full review: Nashville: General Jackson Showboat Lunch Cruise Review
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Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Cruises?
Generally, passengers are allowed to bring their own food and non-alcoholic drinks on cruises. However, it’s best to check the specific policies of the cruise line or boat tour company beforehand to ensure compliance with any restrictions.
What Is the Cancellation Policy for the Boat Tours?
The cancellation policy typically allows for a full refund if you cancel 24-48 hours prior to the tour. However, there may be a small fee for cancellations within 24 hours. It’s best to check the specific policy for each boat tour.
Do the Boats Have Restrooms and Other Amenities Available?
The boats typically have onboard restrooms and other standard amenities like comfortable seating. Many also offer food and beverage service to enhance the overall cruising experience.
Are There Any Age Restrictions or Requirements for the Cruises?
Most cruises and boat tours don’t have age restrictions, but some may have minimum age requirements for safety reasons. It’s best to check with the tour operator before booking to ensure the cruise is suitable for all ages.
Can I Customize the Itinerary or Activities for the Boat Tours?
Typically, boat tour operators allow guests to customize their itinerary and activities to some extent. This can include choosing additional stops, adjusting the duration, or requesting special experiences. However, the level of customization may vary between different tour companies.
The Sum Up
Nashville’s cruise and boat tour options cater to various group sizes and preferences. From pontoon parties and double-decker slides to showboat dining experiences, there’s something for all. Whether you’re looking for a lively celebration or a serene cruise, Nashville’s waterways offer an enjoyable way to explore the city from a unique vantage point.