Fall is the perfect time to experience the Tennessee Aquarium River Gorge Explorer. This 70 passenger high-speed catamaran is the first of its kind in the Southeast. Aquarium visitors can extend their “mountains to the sea” adventure by cruising into the Tennessee River Gorge aboard this sleek vessel. An Aquarium naturalist will lead you into this protected habitat, pointing out wildlife and historic points of interest along the way.  

See more of the Gorge 
There’s nothing more relaxing at the end of a long day than boating the tranquil waters in Tennessee's Grand Canyon. Now you can enjoy an extra hour of cruise time in the heart of the Gorge. Book a seat aboard the River Gorge Explorer’s 'Sunset Special' and get a three-hour cruise for the price of the two-hour excursion. Beer, wine and soft drinks will be available for purchase on these special evening trips.

 Ticket Prices:

Adult $29 / Child $21.50 (3 -12) / Toddler $18

All children under 3 riding the River Gorge Explorer will be charged $18. They are counted as a passenger via Coast Guard regulations.

>> Click here for Boat Schedule

Cruises take 2 hours except for the 3 hour sunset cruise. Please allow 10 minutes for loading and disembarking. The boat boards at the Chattanooga Pier - two blocks from the Tennessee Aquarium. Refreshments & restrooms are available on the boat.

Tour Highlights and Descriptions
Join us aboard the River Gorge Explorer and experience “Tennessee's Grand Canyon” as it was meant to be seen - from the water.

About the Tennessee River Gorge
The Tennessee River Gorge winds along 26 miles of the Tennessee River, and contains over 27,000 acres of protected land.

Ticket Information & Sales
Order your tickets online anytime for the Aquarium, IMAX Theater and River Gorge Explorer and you can pick them up at the will-call window.

Charter a Cruise
Whether it's a special occasion with family and friends, or a relaxing company cruise, the River Gorge Explorer can be chartered for all kinds of events making it both flexible and fun!