Great Smoky Mountains Cruise - Land & Cruise
Knoxville, TN to Huntsville, AL
Huntsville, AL to Knoxville, TN
Embark on an immersive exploration of Great Smoky Mountains National Park, America’s most visited national park, spanning the border between North Carolina and Tennessee. Admire mist-covered peaks and sweeping vistas at every turn as you travel the foothills of the Appalachians. Led by your Adventure Guides, encounter diverse wildlife, pioneer homesteads, and scenic overlooks that reveal the quiet beauty and cultural depth of the region.
Along your journey, spend relaxing days cruising the Tennessee River through a network of reservoirs framed by forested ridgelines and distant mountain silhouettes. Towering bluffs, wooded banks, and quiet inlets create a constantly shifting landscape, with occasional sightings of herons, eagles, and deer on the shoreline.
Enjoy engaging stops in Fort Southwest Point, the dynamic tech and space hub of Huntsville, the picturesque river city of Chattanooga, and the alluring town of Decatur. Designed for guests seeking national park discovery paired with seamless inland river travel, this all-inclusive experience offers an intimate way to take in the Tennessee Valley’s natural beauty, history, and culture.
Upcoming Dates & Fares
Itinerary & Excursions
*Exact itinerary & excursions will vary by cruise date
Map & Itinerary Overview
Cruise the Tennessee Rivers and discover the Great Smoky Mountains. This 11-day itinerary includes a personalized exploration of Great Smoky Mountains National Park.
Day 1 - Knoxville, TN
Land at Knoxville’s McGhee Tyson Airport and settle into your hotel for an overnight stay. After breakfast, meet your guides and fellow travelers to begin your journey through the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Knoxville, a city that blends Southern charm with a vibrant arts scene, serves as the perfect gateway to your national park adventure, offering a unique mix of historic architecture, modern innovation, and scenic riverfront views.
In the heart of downtown, the iconic Sunsphere and World’s Fair Park stand as enduring symbols of the 1982 World’s Fair, framed by green space and sweeping views along the Tennessee River. These landmarks reflect Knoxville’s forward-looking spirit while remaining deeply rooted in its cultural heritage.
With its lively downtown, cultural institutions, and access to natural beauty in every direction, Knoxville offers an ideal starting point for an unforgettable exploration of the Great Smoky Mountains.
Day 2 - Pigeon Forge, TN
Travel from Knoxville to Pigeon Forge, nestled in the scenic foothills of the Great Smoky Mountains. Upon arrival, settle into your hotel in a town framed by mountain views along the entire Parkway corridor. Pigeon Forge is a spirited mountain destination known for its high-energy atmosphere, blending entertainment, attractions, and natural beauty at the edge of the Smokies.
As evening falls, be treated to a spectacular dinner show at Dolly Parton’s Stampede, where skilled horseback riders, music, storytelling, and dazzling special effects bring frontier-inspired tales to life in a large arena setting. Enjoy a hearty Southern meal while connecting with your Adventure Guides and fellow travelers, and experience firsthand the region’s tradition of dinner theaters and live entertainment venues that define the town’s vibrant, energetic appeal.
Day 3 - Great Smoky Mountains National Park
Begin your exploration of Great Smoky Mountains National Park, the most visited national park in the United States. Designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the park offers an extraordinary blend of scenic beauty and mountain culture.
Journey through the trails of Cades Cove in a caravan of Jeeps, guided by narrators who will share the story behind each twist in the path. This venture proves the profound beauty and calming presence of this Appalachian retreat.
Continue to the Sugarlands Visitor Center, where you'll gather insights into the park's detailed history and its diverse ecological community. A short, easy walk from the Visitor Center brings you to Cataract Falls, with water cascading down the mountainside.
Day 4 - Great Smoky Mountains National Park
The Great Smoky Mountains stretch across the horizon, their peaks shrouded in a misty veil that gives the range its name. Dense, old-growth forests blanket rolling hills in shifting shades of emerald and gold, interwoven with crystal-clear streams and flowing waterways that move through deep, quiet valleys. The park’s remarkable biodiversity is part of what makes it so special, including ancient forest ecosystems and one of the richest salamander populations in North America.
Above the alpine tree line, Clingmans Dome, the highest point in Tennessee and one of the most elevated viewpoints in the eastern United States, offers sweeping, panoramic layers of mountain ridges visible for miles in every direction. On your second day in the park, ascend to this iconic observation point for a breathtaking perspective of the Smokies and the vast Appalachian region.
Conclude your exploration in Gatlinburg, the primary gateway town to Great Smoky Mountains National Park, nestled in a narrow valley just outside its borders. This charming mountain town blends natural beauty with a lively, quirky character.
Day 5 - Cruising Along the Great Smoky Mountains
Board your ship to begin the cruise portion of your adventure. Today is yours to take in a constantly changing landscape of forested hills, misty peaks, and rocky shorelines. From your private balcony, admire mountain lakes that mirror the sky and the soft outline of ridgelines in the distance.
Bald eagles and herons fly overhead, while deer and other wildlife occasionally appear along the wooded banks. As your ship winds through narrow channels and open water, shifting light across the mountains creates a sense of quiet serenity.
Day 6 - Fort Southwest Point, TN
Experience Fort Southwest Point, a compact, fully reconstructed 18th-century military outpost perched on a scenic bluff above the confluence of the Clinch and Tennessee Rivers. Elevated above the waterways, the site pairs sweeping river views with living history demonstrations that bring frontier life into vivid focus through reconstructed barracks, period structures, and costumed interpreters.
Once a strategic outpost during early American westward expansion and part of the frontier network linked to the Lewis and Clark Expedition, the fort offers insight into soldier life, settlement patterns, and Cherokee diplomacy that shaped a young nation.
A short distance away, the region later became central to the World War II–era Manhattan Project, transforming it into a secret hub of scientific and military innovation. Explore this legacy at the American Museum of Science and Energy, where interactive exhibits in robotics, nuclear science, and energy tell the story of the “Secret City,” followed by a guided motorcoach tour of sites that defined the atomic age.
Day 7 - Cruising Along the Appalachian Mountains
Admire views of tree-covered ridges rising above calm, winding waterways as you enjoy a full day cruising through the magnificent Appalachian Mountains. From the sun deck, take in mountain layers stretching into the distance, often softened by mist or warm light.
Throughout the day, relax in the lounges with a good book, gather with fellow guests in the restaurant to share stories, or attend engaging presentations led by our onboard expert. As the sun sets, mountains stand silhouetted against a glowing sky, bringing a tranquil close to the day.
Day 8 - Chattanooga, TN
Once a major railroad and manufacturing center, Chattanooga evolved into one of the South’s most scenic and vibrant destinations. Framed by mountain landscapes and a revitalized riverfront, the city offers a compelling blend of natural beauty and cultural experiences, with nearby peaks also holding deep Civil War significance that adds a powerful historical dimension to the scenery.
Explore the nationally renowned Tennessee Aquarium, where immersive exhibits bring you face-to-face with native wildlife and showcase the remarkable biodiversity of the Southeast. Continuing to the National Medal of Honor Heritage Center, located in the city that first awarded the nation’s highest military honor. Through powerful, inspiring exhibits, it honors the courage and sacrifice of Medal of Honor recipients while sharing stories of leadership, service, and patriotism.
Day 9 - Cruising the Tennessee River
Cruise the Tennessee River through the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains, where forested hills, quiet coves, and wide stretches of water create some of the South’s most beautiful scenery. Watch the landscape shift from peaceful farmland to tree-lined shores as you travel between idyllic towns and historic ports.
On board, enjoy live performances inspired by the region’s rich musical heritage, featuring bluegrass and folk to classic river songs. Each evening, relax with complimentary drinks during cocktail hour while sharing stories with fellow travelers and your dedicated crew.
Day 10 - Decatur, AL
Unfolding along the banks of the Tennessee River and serving as a vital hub of activity and culture, the unique port of Decatur invites exploration. The Old State Bank, with its dignified facade, stands as a testament to Alabama’s early financial endeavors and its perseverance through economic shifts and the Civil War.
Step back in time with a visit to nearby Mooresville, an entire town listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Explore the onsite 1818 Farms, where you can take part in a hands-on pressed-flower workshop, observe a natural dye eco-printing demonstration, and stroll through a flower field.
Led by our guides, discover the U.S. Space & Rocket Center, which showcases the story and achievements of America’s space program, featuring rockets, spacecraft, and interactive exhibits.
Day 11 - Huntsville, AL
End your voyage in this dynamic city known for its deep ties to space exploration and technology. After breakfast on board, we say goodbye and provide transfer to the airport for your journey home. Take a moment to reflect on the experiences you’ve had, the meaningful memories you’ve made, and the lasting connections formed along the way.
Enjoy a 1-night stay, before beginning your Great Smoky Mountains National Parks exploration. After breakfast, meet your Adventure Guides and fellow guests and be treated to a scenic ride to Pigeon Forge.
Experience this extraordinary show, which features friendly competition, horse riding stunts, special effects, elaborate musical productions, plus a delicious, four-course meal that ends with a decadent dessert. You may also enjoy an aerial performance featuring an original song written and recorded by Dolly Parton.
Activity Level: Moderate (due to elevation) | ADA Accessible: Yes
Enjoy a relaxing journey through Cades Cove, an area where European settled in the early 1800s. As you make your way, view historic structures like restored churches, old grist mills, and pioneer log cabins, existing in harmony with a diversity of wildlife, from raccoons and white tail deer to black bears. Admire scenic views of the mountain tops, wildflower meadows, and rolling green landscape. Enjoy a group lunch within the park.
Activity Level: Moderate to High | Accessible: No
Visit this convenient resource for information about the area. Natural history exhibits on display feature the park's indigenous plants and animals and park rangers are available to answer any questions you may have. The onsite bookstore carries a wide array of books, guides, and other items to make your trip memorable. Enjoy a group dinner at a popular local venue before returning to the hotel.
Activity Level: Moderate | ADA Accessible: Yes
Venture to the highest point in Great Smoky Mountains National Park, also the highest point in Tennessee. At the observation tower on the summit, enjoy spectacular 360° views of the Smokies and beyond. After, enjoy lunch with your fellow travelers and Adventure Guides.
Activity Level: Moderate | Accessible: No
With all its natural beauty, outdoor attractions, and amenities, this visitor center serves as the gateway to Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Featured here is the Museum of the Cherokee Indian, Oconaluftee Indian Village, the Qualla Arts and Crafts, Inc., and more.
Activity Level: Moderate | ADA Accessible: Yes
At the foot of the Great Smoky Mountains lies charming and picturesque Gatlinburg. Guests come from around the world to explore this mountain town. Take time to explore downtown, shop for the perfect souvenir, or enjoy a local artisan's work. In the evening, enjoy a dinner with your travel group.
Activity Level: Moderate | ADA Accessible: Yes
As you board the ship, be welcomed by the crew who will ensure that every detail of your journey is seamless. Take the time to meet fellow travelers, share stories, and immerse yourself in the relaxed atmosphere of small-ship cruising.
From panoramic deck views to thoughtfully designed lounges, every corner of the ship offers a chance to relax, socialize, and prepare for the memorable adventures that await.
Step into the past at Fort Southwest Point, a fully reconstructed 1790s fort where history and exploration meet. As one of the key military outposts during the era of westward expansion, the fort played a role in the early frontier network that helped launch the Lewis and Clark Expedition. Explore reconstructed barracks, meet costumed interpreters, and hear stories of soldiers, settlers, and Cherokee diplomacy that shaped a young nation.
Activity Level: Moderate | ADA Accessible: No
Step inside the top-secret world of the Manhattan Project at the K-25 History Center in Oak Ridge. Located on the site of one of the largest and most important uranium enrichment facilities of World War II, this museum brings to life the untold story of the people, science, and mission behind America’s push to end the war.
Through interactive exhibits, powerful personal stories, and rare artifacts, visitors gain a deep understanding of how the K-25 plant helped shape global history and launched the Atomic Age. Whether you're a history buff, a STEM enthusiast, or just curious about America's secret city, the K-25 History Center offers a fascinating journey into the heart of innovation and wartime secrecy.
Activity Level: Low | ADA Accessible: Yes
Discover the power of science, history, and innovation at this engaging museum. Explore the fascinating story of the Secret City and its pivotal role in the Manhattan Project. Engage with hands-on exhibits in energy, robotics, nuclear science, and more. After, take a guided motorcoach ride to historic sites that shaped the atomic age.
Activity Level: Low | ADA Accessible: Yes
There are a variety of activities scheduled on board when the ship is underway, which vary depending on the itinerary and scheduled date. Enjoy destination-focused enrichment programs with special guest speakers who present topics related to the region and ports of call, including Art Classes, Cooking Demonstrations, Mixology (practice of making great cocktails), Trivia, Game Shows, and more.
From scents to spirits, you will enjoy creating your own candle to take home. Next, learn how to craft a special cocktail (or mocktail) from a master mixologist. In between these hands-on experiences, you will walk a short distance as your guide provides an engaging narrative about Chattanooga.
Activity Level: Moderate | ADA Accessible: Yes
Lying near the bank of the river, the Tennessee Aquarium is nationally renowned for its design, exhibits, and programs. Trace the path of water from the mountains to the sea, come face-to-face with the fascinating native animals of the region, and discover the rich biodiversity of the Southeast through engaging exhibits.
Activity Level: Low | ADA Accessible: Yes
Chattanooga has become a culinary destination. Join this dining experience as you visit four fabulous restaurants, which feature American, Italian, French, and Spanish cuisine. Enjoy specially prepared masterpieces as you interact with the chef at each location. We will take you to the first location and from there, you will take short walks from one restaurant to another.
Activity Level: Moderate
This is a Signature shore excursion and should be reserved in advance. Please call (800) 894-8570 for information.
Delve into the heroic legacy of America's bravest at the National Medal of Honor Heritage Center in Chattanooga, the city where our nation's highest military honor for valor was first awarded. On a self-guided exploration, view inspiring exhibits that chronicle the unparalleled acts of valor and sacrifice recognized by our nation's highest military honor. Through interactive displays and historical artifacts, gain a deep appreciation for these extraordinary individuals who epitomize the spirit of American heroism.
Activity Level: Low | ADA Accessible: Yes
Take a step back in time as you explore Mooresville, one of Alabama's most important and intact villages and a town many people have called Alabama’s Williamsburg. The entire town of Mooresville is on the National Register of Historic Places and was the first incorporated by the Alabama Territorial Legislature in 1818.
Visit the 1818 Farms, where you can take part in a hands-on pressed-flower workshop, see a demonstration of a natural dyeing eco printing process, and stroll through a flower field. Next, take a leisurely stroll down Mooresville’s tree-lined streets, peeking into some of the gardens and learning about the history of the town, including interesting stories about its past and present residents and their homes. Get an inside look at the c. 1821 Stagecoach Tavern and c. 1839 Brick Church and be treated to a scrumptious local treat.
Activity Level: Moderate | ADA Accessible: No
Enjoy this charming town at your leisure, with stops at:
- Carnegie Visual Arts Center – Beginning as Carnegie Library in 1904, this historic building was transformed into an arts center in 2003. Explore the permanent and temporary exhibits which feature a multitude of mediums.
- Cook Museum of Natural Science – This state-of-the-art museum features exhibits on zoology, geology, paleontology, and nature.
- Morgan County Archives – Home to historical rarities and nearby to local antique stores, yarn boutiques, and other shopping.
- Old State Bank and Union Depot – A historic Classic Revival-style building offering, this historic bank displays life in Decatur in the 1830s. The Decatur Union Depot is filled with working model trains and railway memorabilia.
Activity Level: Low | ADA Accessible: Yes
Experience the history of space exploration as you recount the first time you heard "That's one small step for a man, one giant leap for mankind!" You may even choose to participate in some of the hands-on exhibits and movies that the U.S. Space & Rocket Center offers. Whatever you choose, you will leave with a new admiration for space pioneers of the past and future.
Activity Level: Moderate | ADA Accessible: Yes
Why not stay an extra night or two to immerse yourself in the spirit of this vibrant city? Ask your onboard Hotel General Manager for recommendations on area hotels, attractions, and more.
Enjoy a 1-night hotel stay, breakfast, and transportation to the ship. All luggage will be brought directly from the hotel and placed in your stateroom aboard the ship.
Built for the 1982 World’s Fair, the Sunsphere is a one-of-a-kind structure. The 4th Floor Observation Deck offers a breathtaking 360º view stretching from downtown to the Great Smoky Mountains including World’s Fair Park, the Tennessee River, and the University of Tennessee Campus. A 1982 World’s Fair timeline, gallery, memorabilia, and gift shop await you.
Activity Level: Low | ADA Accessible: Yes
Journey through Civil War history on this driving exploration that brings to life the dramatic events that shaped East Tennessee during America’s most defining conflict. From fortified earthworks and preserved battle sites to historic homes and cemeteries, this experience connects over a dozen locations that reveal Knoxville’s pivotal role in the Civil War.
Activity Level: Low | ADA Accessible: Yes
Step into a storybook of pioneer life at this museum, where history lives and breathes in the foothills of East Tennessee. Wander through authentic log cabins, barns, and farmsteads, each filled with the tools, treasures, and tales of the hardy souls who settled this rugged region. With over 250,000 artifacts, live demonstrations, and traditional Appalachian music echoing through the air, this Smithsonian Affiliate Museum offers an unforgettable journey into the spirit, ingenuity, and resilience of Appalachian culture.
Activity Level: Low | ADA Accessible: Yes
Map & Itinerary Overview
Cruise the Tennessee Rivers and discover the Great Smoky Mountains. This 11-day itinerary includes a personalized exploration of Great Smoky Mountains National Park.
Day 1 - Huntsville, AL
Enjoy a one-night stay in this dynamic city, home to NASA’s Marshall Space Flight Center and long recognized for its role in space exploration and innovation. Often called “Rocket City,” it blends a distinctive scientific heritage with Southern charm, brought to life through a vibrant arts, music, and culinary scene.
Set against the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains, the city also provides easy access to hiking trails, nature walks, and scenic vistas, offering an inspiring backdrop for both discovery and relaxation.
Day 2 - Cruising the Tennessee River
Board your ship, settle into your stateroom, and begin to unwind as we set off along the river. As we glide forward, watch the shoreline come to life as wooded banks, quiet coves, and small river towns create an ever-changing panorama of scenery.
Meet the crew and connect with fellow guests in our spacious, welcoming lounges or out on the sun deck, where the open air and expansive views set the tone for the days ahead.
Day 3 - Chattanooga, TN
Chattanooga, on the shores of the Tennessee River, boasts a stunning blend of natural beauty and urban charm, with the scenic backdrop of the Appalachian Mountains hugs its skyline. The city’s past comes alive at the historic Bluff View Art District, where cobblestone streets lead to galleries and cafes. Food enthusiasts will delight in the diverse culinary scene, from classic Southern comfort dishes to innovative farm-to-table fare. Visitors can explore vibrant neighborhoods filled with art galleries, boutiques, and museums, all reflecting the city’s unique heritage and culture.
Day 4 - Cruising the Appalachian Mountains
Admire sweeping views of tree-covered ridges rising above calm, winding waterways as you enjoy a full day cruising along the magnificent Appalachian Mountains. From the sun deck, you can see layers of mountains stretching into the distance, often softened by drifting mist or touched with golden light. Throughout your day, read your favorite book in one of our comfortable lounges, gather with fellow guests in the restaurant and share your adventures, or listen to an engaging presentation by our onboard expert. As the sun sets, view magnificent mountains silhouetted against the glowing sky, bringing a tranquil close to an amazing day.
Day 5 - Fort Southwest Point, TN
Experience this reconstructed 18th-century military outpost that once played a key role in early American expansion and Cherokee relations. Overlooking the confluence of the Clinch and Tennessee Rivers, Fort Southwest Point offers not only scenic views, but also insight into frontier life. Just a few miles away, the area later became significant for the role it played during World War II with the development of the Manhattan Project. This secret project helped develop the atomic bomb, transforming the region into a hub of scientific and military activity. During our stop in Fort Southwest Point, guests can explore both early American frontier history and its unexpected connection to one of the most pivotal events of the 20th century.
Day 6 - Cruising Along the Great Smoky Mountains
Today is yours to bask in the beauty of a constantly changing landscape of forested hills, misty peaks, and rocky shorelines. From your private balcony, admire the glassy surface of mountain lakes that mirror the sky and the soft outline of ridgelines in the distance. Bald eagles and herons fly overhead, while deer and other wildlife occasionally appear along the wooded banks. As your ship winds through narrow channels and open water, the play of sunlight and shadow across the mountains creates a sense of perfect serenity.
Day 7 - Knoxville, TN
Begin your land exploration in Knoxville, a vibrant riverfront city nestled in the foothills of the Great Smoky Mountains on the Tennessee River. The city features a revitalized downtown with well-preserved late 19th-century architecture, alongside theaters, restaurants, and lively public spaces.
A defining landmark of Knoxville’s modern identity is the SunSphere, built for the 1982 World’s Fair and still standing as a distinctive symbol of the city skyline. Knoxville’s World’s Fair legacy continues to shape its identity as a place of innovation and civic pride. From the SunSphere’s 4th-floor Observation Deck, take in sweeping 360º views stretching from downtown to the Great Smoky Mountains, including World’s Fair Park, the Tennessee River, and the University of Tennessee campus.
To deepen the sense of regional heritage, step into pioneer life at the Museum of Appalachia, where authentic log cabins, barns, and farmsteads preserve the tools, artifacts, and lived experiences of early settlers in East Tennessee.
Day 8 - Pigeon Forge, TN
Travel from Knoxville to Pigeon Forge, nestled in the scenic foothills of the Smokies. Upon your arrival, settle into your hotel. Pigeon Forge, known for its eccentric attractions, including whimsical museums like the Titanic Museum Attraction, shaped like the famous ship, and WonderWorks, an upside-down building filled with interactive exhibits. Be treated to a spectacular dinner show at Dolly Parton's Stampede, where skilled horseback riders and dazzling effects bring stories to life in an arena, all while enjoying a true Southern dinner and getting to know your Adventure Guides and fellow explorers.
Day 9 - Great Smoky Mountain National Park
Journey through the trails of Cades Cove in a caravan of Jeeps, guided by narrators who will share the history behind each twist in the path. This venture proves the profound beauty and calming presence of this Appalachian retreat.
Continue your exploration at the Sugarlands Visitor Center, where you'll gather insights into the park's detailed history and its diverse ecological community. A short, easy walk from the Visitor Center brings you to Cataract Falls, where water ribbons down the mountainside.
Day 10 - Great Smoky Mountain National Park / Gatlinburg, TN
The Great Smoky Mountains stretch across the horizon, their peaks shrouded in a misty veil that gives the range its name. The dense forests blanket rolling hills in shades of emerald and gold, interspersed with crystal-clear streams that move through the valleys.
Above the alpine tree line, Clingmans Dome offers one of the most captivating reaching views in the Appalachian Mountains. On your second day in the park, ascend to this man-made observation point for sweeping views of the Smoky Mountains and the landscape beyond.
Visit nearby Gatlinburg, Tennessee, a charming town hiding in a narrow valley just outside the park, that captures all the quirky charm you’ve come to know along the way.
Day 11 - Knoxville, TN
End your journey with breakfast at the hotel with fellow travelers. Should you choose to stay, there’s much more to see, take your time to explore Knoxville, where Southern charm, a vibrant arts scene, historic architecture, and modern innovation come together. From its lively downtown to scenic river views, Knoxville is the perfect place to end your national park adventure.