River Cruises to the Smoky Mountains

Savannah: Civil War History Meets Southern Hospitality

The Smoky Mountains are more than just a scenic backdrop—they’re the soul of the South. These ancient hills cradle rivers that have shaped generations of Appalachian communities. As you glide through serene waters, you’ll pass vibrant cities like Knoxville and Chattanooga, charming hamlets like Pigeon Forge, and historical landmarks tied to the Civil War and early American frontier life. It’s a tapestry of culture, music, cuisine, and panoramic wilderness unlike anywhere else in the country.

Whether you’re admiring the golden glow of fall foliage or enjoying a springtime dogwood bloom, river cruises in the Smoky Mountains offer an immersive and deeply enriching escape. With curated excursions, intimate onboard experiences, and plenty of Southern hospitality, every moment spent on these rivers tells a story—and invites you to become part of it.

Exploring the Rivers of the Smoky Mountains

Tennessee River

The Tennessee River is the lifeline of East Tennessee and a main artery for river cruises through the Smoky Mountain region. Winding through Knoxville and Chattanooga, this broad and gentle river offers lush scenery framed by mountain silhouettes. Cruises along the Tennessee River blend natural grandeur with vibrant cities that pulse with bluegrass, barbecue, and art. Onboard, guests can enjoy scenic vistas of wooded ridges, while onshore excursions include heritage museums, hiking trails, and local distilleries. The Tennessee River Gorge, often called “Tennessee’s Grand Canyon,” is a highlight for photographers and nature lovers alike.

Knoxville

Set along the Tennessee River, Knoxville serves as a perfect embarkation point. A city that marries Appalachian tradition with modern innovation, Knoxville boasts historic districts, botanical gardens, and a thriving food scene. Visitors can stroll through Market Square or explore the East Tennessee History Center. Cruises departing from here often offer evening jazz cruises and nature-themed itineraries.

Chattanooga

Further downstream lies Chattanooga, nestled in the Tennessee River Gorge. Known for its dramatic riverfront, the city features attractions like Lookout Mountain, the Tennessee Aquarium, and Civil War battlefields. River cruises here might include guided tours of the Bluff View Art District or paddlewheel journeys beneath Walnut Street Bridge. River Cruises in Chattanooga promise a balance of culture and nature in every sailing.

Savannah

Savannah serves as a historic port town along the Tennessee River that river cruise vessels frequently visit, offering passengers the opportunity to explore Civil War battlefields at Shiloh National Military Park, browse antique shops in the charming downtown area, and learn about the region's steamboat heritage.

Cumberland River

The Cumberland River runs west from the mountains through Nashville, adding a dose of honky-tonk flair to your cruise. The river snakes through lush woodlands and small towns steeped in folk traditions. Cruises on the Cumberland often spotlight Tennessee’s musical legacy, including country roots, gospel, and blues. Scenic overlooks, working farms, and artisan workshops offer authentic Southern experiences along the route.

Nashville

As the beating heart of Music City, Nashville cruises showcase a vibrant mix of live music, culinary exploration, and architectural grandeur. Guests can enjoy walking tours of Broadway Street, visits to the Grand Ole Opry, and excursions to antebellum mansions. This is a port that sings, dances, and tastes like Tennessee. River Cruises in Nashville are perfect for culture lovers and music aficionados alike.

Clarksville

Clarksville offers a quieter, historical contrast. With Civil War sites, restored 19th-century buildings, and access to the Land Between the Lakes National Recreation Area, Clarksville is an ideal stop for history buffs and nature lovers alike.

Dover

This small town near the Kentucky border is home to Fort Donelson, a pivotal Civil War site. Cruises stopping in Dover often include guided battlefield tours and wildlife viewing in nearby parks. The peaceful landscapes surrounding the Cumberland create a tranquil setting for relaxed cruising and reflection.

Little Pigeon River

Though smaller and more intimate, the Little Pigeon River near the heart of the Smokies brings travelers up close to the mountain charm of towns like Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg. Cruises on this river are perfect for those seeking Appalachian culture, crafts, and close encounters with nature. Wildlife sightings, riverside BBQs, and music-filled evenings are standard features of Little Pigeon River itineraries.

Pigeon Forge

A gateway to Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Pigeon Forge blends natural beauty with kitschy fun. River cruises from this hub might include live country shows, Dollywood visits, and artisan stops along the Appalachian Craft Trail. River Cruises in the Smoky Mountains often feature Pigeon Forge as a central highlight.

Mississippi River (Lower Reaches)

Although the Mississippi flows farther west, many extended Smoky Mountain river cruise itineraries connect with the Lower Mississippi via Memphis. This creates unique long-distance routes combining the charm of East Tennessee with the grandeur of the Deep South. From Civil War history in Vicksburg to jazz in Memphis, these itineraries offer a deep dive into American history, culture, and cuisine.

Memphis

Known for its musical roots and soul food, Memphis is a natural stop for those cruising from the mountains to the Delta. Guests may explore Beale Street, Graceland, and the National Civil Rights Museum. River Cruises in Memphis offer a soulful ending—or beginning—to an extended journey.

River Cruise Itineraries in the Smoky Mountains

Short Itineraries (3–5 Days)

Perfect for a long weekend escape, short cruises often focus on a single river and 2–3 towns. A Tennessee River cruise from Knoxville to Chattanooga might include riverside hiking, local distillery tastings, and cultural talks on Appalachian traditions. These itineraries are ideal for travelers who want a quick but meaningful taste of the region.

Medium Itineraries (6–9 Days)

Medium-length cruises expand the experience to multiple rivers or states. A Cumberland and Tennessee combo might take you from Nashville to Knoxville, with stops in Clarksville, Dover, and Chattanooga. Guests enjoy themed dinners, musical performances, and curated off-boat excursions. Wildlife tours and folk art demonstrations are standard inclusions.

Long Itineraries (10+ Days)

For those craving deeper immersion, extended voyages link the Smokies with the Mississippi, sailing from Chattanooga to Memphis. These journeys blend multiple river systems, creating a dynamic experience across cultural, historical, and ecological landscapes. Themed programs may include Civil War deep dives, culinary samplings, and storytelling evenings with local musicians and historians.

Special Interest Cruises

• Wine Cruises: Featuring onboard tastings, vineyard excursions in East Tennessee, and local pairings with Appalachian cuisine.
• Art & History Cruises: Visit historic battlefields, folk art centers, and quilt museums with lectures from experts.
• Christmas Market Cruises: Festive sailings during winter include decorated small towns, holiday dinners, and live performances of mountain carols.
• Culinary Tours: Guests enjoy farm-to-table Southern feasts, BBQ workshops, and bourbon tastings led by regional chefs.

The Onboard Experience

Ship Sizes and Ambiance

River cruise vessels in the Smoky Mountain region are typically small to mid-sized, offering a cozy and relaxed atmosphere. Many are styled with regional décor—think polished wood interiors and wide-open viewing decks. Their size allows for access to narrow rivers like the Little Pigeon and intimate dockings in small towns.

Cuisine and Wine

Dining onboard highlights local flavors with a gourmet twist. Think hickory-smoked brisket paired with Tennessee wines, or cornbread-crusted catfish with sorghum glaze. Menus change daily and often include produce sourced from farms near the river route. Regional wines, bourbons, and craft beers complement meals, and many ships include tasting sessions with local sommeliers.

Excursions and Enrichment

Each stop along the route invites exploration. Shore excursions range from hiking in Great Smoky Mountains National Park to visiting Civil War landmarks, historic estates, or musical heritage sites. Onboard enrichment programs include folk music performances, storytelling nights, and talks by regional historians or naturalists.

Something

• Couples: Enjoy romantic riverside vistas, private balcony suites, and live music evenings.
• Families: Appreciate interactive heritage experiences, wildlife spotting, and educational excursions.
• Solo Travelers: Find friendly, small-group settings with inclusive activities and opportunities to meet like-minded guests.
• Luxury Travelers: Choose all-suite vessels with personalized service, fine dining, and curated private excursions.

Begin Your Journey Through the Smokies

“A river cruise through the Smoky Mountains isn’t just a voyage—it’s a soulful passage through time, tradition, and natural wonder. Here, every bend in the river reveals a story, every small town shares its song, and every sunset behind the hills feels like coming home.”

Whether the mist-covered ridges draw you, the sound of a fiddle echoing through a mountain hollow, or the stories etched into riverside towns, Smoky Mountains river cruises deliver an unforgettable journey.