Cruise The Cumberland With Nashville’s Best-Kept Secret: The General Jackson Showboat

See gorgeous views of Nashville on a river cruise aboard the magnificent General Jackson Showboat.

This truly unique Nashville attraction resembles a vintage steam-powered riverboat, complete with paddlewheel. Its cruises are a highlight for those visiting Music City with best-in-class live shows, fabulous dining and panoramic views from the Cumberland River.

Each cruise encompasses mouth-watering Southern cuisine, breathtaking scenery of Nashville and spectacular entertainment, all for one inclusive price. 

“With fun-filled performances, chef-prepared cuisine and gorgeous views from the Cumberland River, there’s no better place to round out a visit to Nashville,” said Patrick Walker, general manager of the General Jackson Showboat. “We are proud that the General Jackson Showboat is an iconic attraction for so many families not only here in Music City but across the country.”

Located at 2812 Opryland Drive in Nashville, Tenn., the General Jackson Showboat is named after President Andrew Jackson, whose historic home—The Hermitage—is 15 minutes from the dock. The showboat, which was built by Jeffersonville, Ind.-based Jeffboat, launched April 20, 1985, and was christened on July 2, 1985. At 77 feet tall and with a capacity of 1,200 passengers and 182 crew members, the General Jackson Showboat is the largest vessel of its kind in the world. The General Jackson Showboat offers midday, evening and Sunday brunch cruises and is available for special events and private functions year-round. 

The General Jackson Showboat’s Sunday brunch cruise—“Southern Homecoming”—invites guests to dine on a sumptuous Southern breakfast buffet as this dynamic and heartwarming stage show celebrates the songs and stories inspired by family, friends, faith, and the American Flag. This energetic production showcases some of country music’s positive and inspirational chart-topping songs by artists like Alan Jackson, Martina McBride and Tim McGraw. Guests wills hear amazing and authentic vocal harmonies on some of gospel music’s most beloved songs.

The midday cruise, “Taste of Tennessee,” is a sampler of the many styles of music that made Tennessee famous. A versatile and virtuoso showband are Tennessee tour guides and take guests on this exciting musical journey featuring authentic country picking and grand country harmonies, all supported by glamorous costumes, lights and multimedia. Come dine on the best music that Tennessee has to offer.

Music City Nights,” tells the story of Nashville’s famous musical night life. From the music venues on the Honkytonk Row to the Grand Ole Opry, the sounds of the rising stars and superstars of country music can be seen and heard. The show features a live band, six rising stars, dynamic music arrangements, dazzling choreography and stunning costumes all supported by state-of-the-art lighting and sound.

The General Jackson is a family friendly vessel and is enjoyable for all ages, group outings and even wedding proposals. The showboat has a creative catering and special events department that can make any idea come alive. From a simple reservation at the Chef’s Table or Captains’ Table to an entire boat rental for corporate outings and special events, this team is as creative as they come.  

Cruising aboard the General Jackson Showboat is a one-of-a-kind experience unlike any other. While aboard, visit Delilah’s shop to take home a souvenir that’s sparks memories of the special occasion. For cruise times, ticket information or booking special events, visit www.GeneralJackson.com or call 615-458-3900.