Nashville’s riverboat scene offers practical ways to experience the city from the Cumberland River. The historic General Jackson Showboat stands out as the most worthwhile experience, combining classic Southern dining with Broadway-caliber entertainment. For a more intimate outing, the downtown pedal pontoon boats provide good value and a chance to be your own captain while taking in city views.
We especially favor the sunset cruises for their combination of timing, scenery, and relative calm on the water. The evening showboat dinner cruises earn our recommendation for their authentic Nashville entertainment and reliable service.
Check out these top-rated boat tours in Nashville, listed from most essential to optional.
Key Points
- The Private Half-Day Sunset Sailing offers a unique and serene experience with a 100% traveler recommendation.
- The Pontoon Party Cruise With Captain provides a 2-hour cruise along the Cumberland River with stunning views of the Nashville skyline.
- The Downtown Pedal Pontoon Boat Cruise from River Queen Voyages accommodates 16 travelers with Bluetooth speakers, ice, coolers, and BYOB.
- The General Jackson Showboat Lunch Cruise combines sightseeing, dining, and entertainment on a massive 4-level paddle-wheel steamboat.
- The Nashville Bachelorette Booze Cruise offers a 5-star rated tour along the Cumberland River with premium transportation and an optional stocked bar.
Private Half-Day Sunset Sailing in Nashville
A private half-day sunset sailing tour in Nashville offers a unique and serene experience for visitors. With 11 reviews and 100% of travelers recommending it, this private excursion departs from Shipwreck Cove and returns to the same location.
The tour includes bottled water, and while not wheelchair accessible, service animals are allowed. A moderate level of physical fitness is required.
Travelers have praised the experience, host, and sunset views, with comments like “Awesome experience and a great host!” and “Beautiful evening; great pictures and video.”
Operated by Jon Laidler, this private tour ensures only your group participates, making it an ideal activity for families or small groups.
Read our full review: Private Half-Day Sunset Sailing in Nashville Review
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Nashville: Pontoon Party Cruise With a Captain
Offering a unique twist on Nashville’s boating scene, the Nashville: Pontoon Party Cruise With a Captain provides a lively and entertaining experience for groups.
Lasting 2 hours, the tour cruises along the Cumberland River, offering stunning views of the city skyline. Guests can enjoy music, games, and drinks while relaxing on a spacious pontoon boat captained by a local.
At $54.82 per person, the tour is a popular option for those seeking a fun and social way to experience Nashville’s waterways.
With a 4.6 rating from 17 reviews, this cruise is a great choice for groups looking to make the most of their time in Music City.
Read our full review: Nashville: Pontoon Party Cruise With a Captain Review
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Downtown Nashville Pedal Pontoon Boat Cruise With Captain
For those seeking a unique way to explore the waterways of downtown Nashville, the Downtown Nashville Pedal Pontoon Boat Cruise with Captain offers a one-of-a-kind experience.
Operated by River Queen Voyages, this tour accommodates up to 16 travelers and features a master captain and deckhand. Guests can enjoy the Bluetooth speakers, ice, and coolers, as well as BYOB beverages.
The tour departs from 2 Victory Ave, with parking available near Nissan Stadium. Though not wheelchair accessible, the cruise is suitable for most travelers.
While reviews are generally positive, some note the experience is overpriced and the boat condition could be improved.
Read our full review: Downtown Nashville Pedal Pontoon Boat Cruise With Captain Review
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Nashville: General Jackson Showboat Lunch Cruise
One of the most popular cruise experiences in Nashville is the General Jackson Showboat Lunch Cruise. This 2-hour cruise along the Cumberland River features a Southern-style buffet lunch and a lively show.
Guests can enjoy live music, dancing, and theatrical performances as they take in the sights of downtown Nashville from the water. The General Jackson is a massive 4-level paddle-wheel steamboat that can accommodate up to 1,000 passengers.
The cruise is a great way to combine sightseeing, dining, and entertainment all in one unique experience. With its picturesque setting and entertaining program, it’s no wonder the General Jackson Showboat Lunch Cruise is a top choice for visitors to Nashville.
Read our full review: Nashville: General Jackson Showboat Lunch Cruise Review
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Nashville Bachelorette Booze Cruise
Although a night of boozy revelry may be just what the bachelorette party ordered, the Nashville Bachelorette Booze Cruise provides a safe and luxurious way to celebrate.
Cruising along the Cumberland River, this 5-star rated tour offers premium transportation and an optional stocked bar with adult beverages.
With a minimum of 6 travelers required, the private experience ensures your group has the boat all to themselves.
While not wheelchair accessible, the tour welcomes service animals and most travelers.
Booking is confirmed within 48 hours, though it’s non-refundable.
At $142.57 per person, the Nashville Bachelorette Booze Cruise is an unforgettable way to toast the bride-to-be.
Read our full review: Nashville Bachelorette Booze Cruise Review
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Nashville: Downtown Pedal Boat Rental for 2 to 4 People
Pedal boats provide a unique and engaging way for couples, families, or small groups to explore the scenic waterways of downtown Nashville.
Visitors can rent a pedal boat for 2 to 4 people and leisurely navigate the Cumberland River at their own pace. The 30-minute rental option allows ample time to appreciate the city’s skyline and iconic landmarks from a refreshing perspective.
With a rating of 4.9 from 179 reviews, this downtown pedal boat experience offers a fun and affordable activity that can be enjoyed by all ages. Priced at $99 per boat, it’s an excellent way to add a memorable aquatic adventure to your Nashville itinerary.
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
The General Jackson Showboat offers a captivating 4-hour dinner cruise along the Cumberland River, providing visitors a chance to savor a sumptuous meal while enjoying live entertainment showcasing the musical talents of Tennessee.
Priced from $138 per person, the cruise is likely to sell out, so it’s best to book early. Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance, and a reserve now, pay later option is offered.
The cruise features panoramic views of the Nashville skyline, wheelchair accessibility, and round-trip transportation from local hotels.
With an overall rating of 4.4/5 based on 173 reviews, the General Jackson Showboat dinner cruise is a must-do experience for visitors to Nashville.
Read our full review: Nashville: General Jackson Showboat Dinner Cruise Review
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Recap
Nashville offers a variety of cruise and boat tour options, from private sailing to dinner cruises on the General Jackson Showboat. Whether you’re looking for a romantic sunset sail or a lively bachelorette party, there’s a boat tour to suit your needs. Explore the city’s waterways and enjoy the scenic views Nashville has to offer.