Knoxville isn’t just a city of historic buildings and vibrant neighborhoods — it’s also a fantastic place for boat tours and cruises. The Tennessee River winds through the city, offering a chance to see Knoxville from the water, with views that are both relaxing and visually striking. We especially love the Sunset Dinner Cruise for its romantic atmosphere and the Volunteer Princess for its flexible options and modern luxury. These trips provide a unique way to unwind, enjoy good food, and watch the city’s skyline slowly change as the sun dips below the hills. Whether you’re looking for a special evening or a daytime adventure, Knoxville’s waterways won’t disappoint.
If you’re curious about different ways to experience Knoxville from the river, the list below covers a variety of options. From sunset sightseeing to afternoon river cruises, each offers its own flavor of scenic splendor and local charm. Check out the details to find the one that fits your style and schedule.
1. Knoxville: Sunset Dinner Cruise on Tennessee River
At number one on our list, the Sunset Dinner Cruise on the Tennessee River combines beautiful scenery with a delicious meal. For $75 per person, you get about two hours on the water, sailing through Knoxville’s waterways while enjoying a three-course meal served at your private table. This cruise offers a perfect setting for a romantic evening, with the chance to see the sun setting behind the hills and the city skyline.
What makes this cruise stand out is its focus on atmosphere and comfort. The boat provides a relaxed, intimate setting, ideal for couples or anyone celebrating a special occasion. Reviews highlight the breathtaking sunset views and the quality of the food, making it a memorable evening. The cruise is well-rated at 4.6/5 based on 30 reviews, showing that most travelers find it worth the price and experience. Be prepared for a 2-hour journey that feels both leisurely and special.
Bottom Line: This cruise offers a blend of scenic beauty and fine dining, perfect if you want a romantic or memorable night on the water.
2. Knoxville River Cruise Aboard the Volunteer Princess
Next up, the Volunteer Princess provides an option that balances affordability and comfort, costings about $32.25 per person for roughly 2 hours. This luxury yacht features both climate-controlled decks and open-air spaces, making it suitable year-round regardless of weather. It offers both public cruises and private events, giving flexibility depending on your group size and preferences.
The itinerary includes cruising past landmarks such as the Sunsphere and the VOLS stadium, with reviews praising the ease of access, good food, and friendly staff. Several guests emphasize how enjoyable it was to relax on the enclosed decks while still enjoying river views. The crew is experienced, ensuring smooth sailing, while the scenery—especially passing by beautiful riverfront homes—adds to the experience. With high ratings (4.5/5 from 24 reviews), this cruise is a great choice for families, friends, or groups celebrating special occasions.
Bottom Line: For around $32, the Volunteer Princess offers a flexible, comfortable way to enjoy Knoxville’s riverfront with friendly service and scenic views.
3. Knoxville: Sunset Sightseeing Cruise on Tennessee River
At number three, the Sunset Sightseeing Cruise is a slightly more affordable option at $38 per person, with a duration of 2 hours. This climate-controlled yacht makes it easy to relax while you watch the sunset and spot wildlife like eagles and ospreys. It’s ideal if your main interest is experiencing the tranquility of the river and enjoying close-up views of luxurious waterfront homes.
What sets this cruise apart is the focus on natural beauty and wildlife viewing. Many reviews praise the peaceful atmosphere and mention the opportunity to see eagles soaring or birds in their habitat. Drinks and appetizers are available for purchase, making it a flexible choice for a laid-back evening. The high rating of 4.8/5 reflects that travelers find it a peaceful, enjoyable way to soak in Knoxville’s natural environment.
Bottom Line: This cruise is perfect if you want to combine wildlife watching and scenic views in a comfortable, climate-controlled setting.
4. Knoxville: Afternoon Sightseeing Cruise on Tennessee River
Finally, the Afternoon Sightseeing Cruise offers a shorter, 1.5-hour experience at $31 per person. It’s an excellent choice if you prefer a quick but scenic trip during daylight hours. Like the sunset cruise, it features wildlife spotting and views of luxury waterfront homes, all from the comfort of a climate-controlled yacht.
This cruise stands out for its breeze-filled deck and relaxed pace, making it suitable for travelers who want a casual experience without a long commitment. With a 4.6/5 rating from five reviews, it’s appreciated for its laid-back atmosphere and friendly crew. It’s a great option if you’re short on time but still want to see Knoxville from the water with ease.
Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers seeking a quick, scenic water tour that combines wildlife and luxury waterfront homes in a relaxed environment.
How to Choose
When deciding which Knoxville boat tour to book, consider your budget, time, and interests. If you’re after a romantic dinner, the Sunset Dinner Cruise offers a memorable experience. For a more flexible and cost-effective outing, the Volunteer Princess is a reliable choice with options for private or public cruises. Looking for a wildlife-focused trip? The Sunset and Afternoon Cruises provide opportunities to spot eagles and osprey while enjoying tranquil river views.
Also, think about the season. The Volunteer Princess’s climate-controlled decks make it suitable year-round, while outdoor cruises are best during pleasant weather. For those aiming to combine sightseeing with a taste of Knoxville’s local landmarks, the Volunteer Princess cruise includes passing the Sunsphere and VOLS stadium. To get the most out of your experience, book early, especially during peak seasons in spring and summer.
Final Thoughts
Knoxville offers a variety of water-based adventures, from romantic sunset dinners to wildlife sightings and sightseeing cruises. For those seeking a special evening on the water, the Sunset Dinner Cruise combines scenic beauty with fine dining. If you prefer something more flexible and comfortable, the Volunteer Princess provides a well-reviewed, year-round option for groups and families.
Travelers on a budget or with limited time will appreciate the Afternoon or Sunset Sightseeing Cruises, both offering relaxing, scenic experiences at affordable prices. Whatever your style, booking early and choosing a cruise aligned with your interests will ensure a smooth, enjoyable water adventure in Knoxville.
Now, it’s your turn to enjoy the water — so pick your cruise and get ready for some memorable moments on the Tennessee River.