Knoxville River Cruise Aboard the Volunteer Princess: A Balance of Relaxation and Scenic Beauty
Imagine gliding gently along the Tennessee River, taking in the sights of downtown Knoxville, the iconic Sunsphere, and luxurious riverside homes, all from the deck of a luxury yacht. For around $32.25 per person, you get about two hours of leisurely cruising aboard the Volunteer Princess, a vessel designed to combine modern comfort with classic elegance. Whether you’re after a relaxing afternoon, a special celebration, or just a different way to see the city, this cruise offers a memorable water-based perspective on Knoxville.
What we really like about this experience is the ease of access—the dock is straightforward to find and parking is convenient, with email directions making it simple to locate the vessel. Plus, the climate-controlled decks ensure comfort in any weather, which means you can enjoy the cruise regardless of the season. Two features stand out: the friendly crew that gets you started smoothly and the stunning river views that provide plenty of photo opportunities. A minor consideration is the lack of alcoholic beverages included, so if you’re hoping for wine or beer, you’ll need to bring your own or purchase on board.
This cruise is especially suitable for those who appreciate scenic views, good food, and friendly service. It’s perfect for special occasions, family outings, or just a casual way to see Knoxville from a different angle. If you’re traveling with a group looking for a laid-back experience that mixes sightseeing with comfort, this cruise could be just what you need.
Key Points
- Easy access and parking make this cruise hassle-free.
- Two climate-controlled decks allow year-round enjoyment.
- Stunning views of Knoxville’s skyline, Sunsphere, and riverfront mansions.
- Friendly staff contribute to a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere.
- Approximate two-hour duration offers a leisurely experience without overstaying.
- Food and service are highly praised, with many reviews noting tasty meals and attentive staff.
An In-Depth Look at the Knoxville River Cruise
Enjoy being on the water? Here are other boat experiences we've looked into in Knoxville
What’s Included and What’s Not
This cruise includes restroom facilities onboard, adding a level of comfort for all guests. However, alcoholic beverages are not included, so if you want to toast the sunset or enjoy a drink with your meal, you’ll need to bring your own or purchase beverages separately. The mobile ticket system makes booking and checking in straightforward, minimizing hassle and maximizing time on the water.
How the Itinerary Unfolds
Starting at 956 Volunteer Landing Lane, the cruise begins with a gentle departure downstream, setting the scene for a peaceful two hours. Your journey passes the Sunsphere, the unmistakable symbol of Knoxville’s 1982 World’s Fair, which is a favorite for photos and a quick cultural touchstone.
From there, the boat meanders past the home of Big Orange Country, giving you a glimpse of Knoxville’s passionate college sports culture and the vibrant town skyline. Many reviews highlight how scenic and varied the views are, from grand riverfront estates to historic bridges.
While the cruise doesn’t include specific narration or guided commentary, the views themselves tell stories of Knoxville’s past and present. Travelers frequently mention snapping dozens of photos of luxury homes, the stadium, and the bridges, which add a lively element to the experience.
The Experience on Board
Guests consistently praise the friendly crew who greet you warmly and ensure your comfort. Many reviews mention how easy it was to find the dock, with clear directions and nearby parking. The enclosed decks are a real plus, allowing you to enjoy the scenery without interruption, regardless of the weather or wind conditions.
The food and drinks are also a highlight. Many reviewers note that the tasty, fresh food and attentive service turn this cruise into more than just a sightseeing trip—it’s a relaxing meal on the water. One guest felt the meal was surprisingly good for a two-hour cruise, including a salad, main course, and dessert.
Authentic Feedback from Travelers
- “It was very easy to get to the dock and parking with the information that was emailed to us. The ship departed promptly, and the scenery was very nice.” – Robert G.
- “Our waitress was a doll, and the food was very tasty and fresh. I took my grandmother out to say thank you, and the experience was perfect.” – Denashia M.
- “The crew was friendly, and it was a nice leisurely cruise. You can step onto the front of the boat for a closer view.” – Michael W.
- “Seeing the million-dollar homes and the stadium made for great photo opportunities. Everyone on the boat was friendly.” – Vanessa H.
While you're exploring Knoxville, here are other experiences we've looked into
Considerations for Travelers
While the cruise gets high marks for scenery and comfort, some reviews mention that the cruise doesn’t include narrated commentary, which might be a downside if you prefer learning about the sights as you go. Also, a few guests noted that docking can be tricky, requiring multiple attempts, and that food options might not cater to all dietary restrictions unless specified in advance.
The Value of this Experience
At around $32.25, this cruise offers excellent value considering the quality of the setting, the comfort, and the scenic beauty—especially when compared to more elaborate boat tours that can cost significantly more. The two-hour window strikes a good balance: enough time to relax and enjoy the views without feeling rushed.
Who Will Love This Cruise?
This experience is ideal for families, couples, and groups celebrating special occasions. If you enjoy waterfront views, good food, and relaxed atmosphere, you’ll find it suits your taste perfectly. It’s also a good choice for visitors wanting a quick, scenic break in Knoxville without the need for extensive planning or time commitments.
Those looking for a guided narrative or alcohol included might want to consider other options, but for a peaceful, scenic, and comfortable cruise, this hits the spot.
FAQ
Is parking near the departure point?
Yes, parking is available nearby, and directions are emailed to make finding the dock easy.
How long is the cruise?
The cruise lasts approximately two hours, providing a relaxed window to enjoy the scenery.
Are food and drinks included?
Food is included and praised for being tasty and fresh, but alcoholic beverages are not included, so plan accordingly.
Is the vessel accessible in all weather?
Yes, the climate-controlled decks allow you to stay comfortable whether it’s sunny, rainy, or windy.
Can I bring my own beverages?
While not explicitly stated, since alcoholic beverages are not included, bringing your own may be allowed, but check with the crew for policies.
What’s the best time of year to take this cruise?
Thanks to the enclosed decks, you can enjoy this cruise year-round, though most guests prefer spring and fall for milder weather and beautiful foliage.
To sum it up, the Knoxville River Cruise aboard the Volunteer Princess offers an enjoyable, relaxed way to see the city’s riverfront from the water. It combines beautiful scenery, friendly service, and good food at a reasonable price. Perfect for those wanting a laid-back yet scenic experience, it’s especially suited to visitors and locals alike who appreciate a comfortable, leisurely cruise without the fuss of a guided narration or high costs. Whether celebrating a special day or simply seeking a different perspective on Knoxville, this cruise is a delightful choice that delivers on charm and value.