Knoxville: Scenic Lunch Cruise on the Tennessee River

Our review of Knoxville’s scenic lunch cruise offers a taste of the city’s waterfront from a fresh perspective — aboard a comfortable boat with good food and even better views. While we haven’t personally taken this cruise, the glowing reviews, detailed itinerary, and solid reputation from Volunteer Princess Cruises paint a tempting picture.

What we appreciate most about this experience is its perfect blend of relaxation and sightseeing — you can kick back in climate-controlled comfort while soaking in the panoramic views of Knoxville’s skyline, the river, and landmarks like Neyland Stadium. The menu, offering fresh, thoughtfully prepared dishes with options for dietary restrictions, elevates this from just a sightseeing trip to a genuine culinary experience.

One potential consideration is the duration — at only 90 minutes, it’s a short journey, which means if you’re looking for an in-depth river adventure, you might want to explore additional options. But for those wanting a laid-back, scenic meal with a side of Knoxville’s charm, this cruise hits the right notes. It’s especially well-suited for families, couples, or groups looking for a relaxed, memorable midday activity.

Key Points

• Comfortable Climate-Controlled Vessel: Cruise in air-conditioned or heated comfort, regardless of weather.
• Scenic Views & Landmarks: See downtown Knoxville, Sequoyah Hills, and Neyland Stadium from the water.
• Gourmet Lunch Included: Enjoy a fresh garden salad, roasted chicken, herbed rice, seasonal vegetables, and cheesecake.
• Dietary Flexibility: Vegan and vegetarian options available upon request.
• Accessible & Flexible: Wheelchair accessible, with options for flexible booking and cancellation.
• Ideal for All Ages: Suitable for families, couples, or anyone wanting a peaceful cruise.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Itinerary and What Makes It Special

The 90-minute cruise along the Tennessee River starts at Volunteer Landing Marina, a convenient spot close to downtown Knoxville. After parking (details below), you’ll board this well-appointed vessel, which is designed for comfort regardless of the weather. The climate-controlled environment means you won’t be caught off guard by heat, cold, or rain — a significant plus for comfort and enjoyment.

Once underway, the views start immediately. The boat glides gently past Knoxville’s rugged skyline, with Neyland Stadium clearly visible, making this an excellent way to see the city’s sports hub from a unique vantage point. The cruise also offers sights of Sequoyah Hills, a well-heeled neighborhood with lovely homes and parks, adding a touch of local flavor to your sightseeing.

The highlight, of course, is the meal. The culinary experience begins with a fresh garden salad — crisp, light, and perfect for a midday start. The main course features a roasted chicken breast, served with a creamy pan sauce and herbed rice pilaf, accompanied by seasonal vegetables. This meal isn’t just filler; reviews describe it as “absolutely delicious,” with tender chicken and flavorful gravy.

Vegetarian and vegan options are available, ensuring everyone’s dietary preferences are met. The meal ends on a sweet note with classic New York Style Cheesecake, satisfying those with a sweet tooth and rounding out the dining experience.

The Views and Landmarks

The cruise’s real charm lies in its scenic views. You’ll love the way the water reflects Knoxville’s skyline, especially as the city’s buildings light up against the horizon. From this vantage point, landmarks like Neyland Stadium take on a new significance — football fans might find it particularly fun to see the stadium load-in from the river, a perspective you can’t get from land.

The vistas of Sequoyah Hills are also quite picturesque, with tree-lined shores and historic homes lining the riverbank. Many reviewers find the combination of relaxing scenery and engaging sights makes this a memorable highlight of their Knoxville visit.

The Meal and Service

The menu offers more than just sustenance; it’s an integral part of the experience. The emphasis on fresh ingredients and thoughtful presentation shows in the reviews, with guests praising the “delicious” food and “great service.” The inclusion of vegetarian and vegan options demonstrates a commitment to guest satisfaction.

The bar drinks are also mentioned positively, adding a relaxed, social vibe to the cruise. Whether you prefer a cold beer, a glass of wine, or a soft drink, you’ll find options to complement your meal.

Practical Details: Timing, Price, and Accessibility

The cruise lasts about 1.5 hours, making it an ideal midday activity — long enough to relax and enjoy the views but short enough to fit into a busy schedule. Arriving 30 minutes early ensures smooth boarding, and the meeting point is straightforward to find, with parking available near Ruth’s Chris Steakhouse.

Pricing is reasonable considering the included meal and scenic experience. When you consider the value of seeing Knoxville from the water, combined with a well-prepared meal and friendly service, it’s a solid deal for a leisurely day out.

This experience is wheelchair accessible and suitable for all ages, making it an excellent choice for families or visitors with mobility needs. Flexible booking options, including free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, add peace of mind for travelers uncertain about their plans.

What Reviewers Say

Reviews consistently praise the stunning views and delicious food. One guest described it as “amazing” and recommended it wholeheartedly, while another called it simply “great.” The knowledgeable guides and friendly service are often highlighted as making the trip more enjoyable. Several note the relaxing atmosphere and how the views from the water add a unique dimension to Knoxville sightseeing.

This cruise is perfect for those seeking a laid-back, scenic meal that combines sightseeing and good food without requiring a lot of effort. It’s well-suited for families, couples, or groups wanting a peaceful break in the middle of their day. If you enjoy water views, local landmarks, and casual dining, you’ll find this cruise hits the spot.

It’s also ideal for visitors who prefer climate-controlled comfort — you won’t need to worry about the weather interfering with your plans. And with options for dietary restrictions, it’s inclusive for a variety of guests.

For a taste of Knoxville from an angle most visitors miss, this scenic lunch cruise offers a relaxed, visually engaging experience paired with tasty, thoughtfully prepared food. The stunning views, especially of Neyland Stadium and Sequoyah Hills, create an authentic sense of place, making it more than just a boat ride.

The comfortable environment and flexible arrangements make it a smart choice for travelers wanting a hassle-free, memorable midday activity. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply seeking a peaceful way to enjoy Knoxville’s natural beauty, this cruise delivers on comfort, scenery, and flavor.

Overall, if you value authentic local sights, good food, and easy relaxation, this cruise is well worth considering. It’s a straightforward, enjoyable way to see some of Knoxville’s best sights while savoring a delicious meal — a true highlight for any visit.

How long is the cruise?
The cruise lasts approximately 1.5 hours, providing plenty of time to relax, enjoy the views, and have a satisfying meal.

Is the vessel wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the cruise is wheelchair accessible, making it suitable for guests with mobility needs.

What should I do if I want to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your plans change.

Where do I meet for the cruise?
The meeting point is at Volunteer Landing Marina, near Ruth’s Chris Steakhouse. Parking is available nearby, and directions are straightforward.

What kind of food is served?
The meal includes a garden salad, roasted chicken breast, herbed rice pilaf, and seasonal vegetables. Vegan and vegetarian options are also available.

Are drinks included?
The cruise features bar drinks, which guests can purchase to complement their meal — these are not included in the ticket price.

What is the best time of year for this cruise?
While the exact seasons aren’t specified, the climate-controlled vessel means you can enjoy it year-round, though spring and fall likely offer especially pleasant weather.

Is this appropriate for children?
Absolutely. The cruise is suitable for all ages, making it a nice family outing or a relaxed activity for kids and adults alike.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby