The Tennessee Rivers Cruise

Pre-Cruise

On our Tennessee Rivers cruise itineraries, we offer a1-Night Complimentary Pre-Cruise Hotel Stay, providing you with a seamless way to board the ship and explore the local area.  

Pre-Cruise Hotel Stays must be reserved at least 30 days before your cruise date.

Excursions & Entertainment

• 1-Night Complimentary Pre-Cruise Hotel Stay
  1-Night Complimentary Pre-Cruise Hotel Stay

  Each Mississippi itinerary comes complete with a Complimentary Pre-Cruise Hotel Stay. Arrive the day before your scheduled cruise date and American Cruise Lines will handle the rest. The package includes a premium hotel stay, where you can enjoy the city at your leisure.

  On the morning of the cruise, meet in the hotel lobby and we will transport you to the ship to begin your cruise. All luggage will be brought directly from the hotel and placed in your stateroom aboard the ship.

  Pre-Cruise Hotel Stays must be reserved at least 30 days before your cruise date. Call 1-800-460-4518 to reserve your space.

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Day 1 - Chattanooga, TN

Nestled between the mountains of Southeast Tennessee, along the scenic Tennessee River, Chattanooga is one of America's most splendid cities. Enjoy a Welcome Reception on board as you begin your journey cruising along this breathtaking river with the majestic Appalachian Mountains serving as a beautiful backdrop.

Excursions & Entertainment

• Welcome Aboard
  Welcome Aboard

  As you embark upon your journey, enjoy a Welcome Aboard Reception with cocktails, hors d’oeuvres and entertainment. Meet the crew, your onboard experts, and fellow guests. Learn more about the wonderful adventure ahead of you.

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Day 2 - Decatur, AL

Southern charm abounds in the Old Decatur Historic District. Admire houses built from the 1800s to the present, ranging in style from the French-influenced Empire period to Edwardian Cottage and beyond. On your way, peruse the many unique shops found along Bank Street and 2nd Avenue. Visit the fascinating area museums, including the Cook Museum of Natural Science, the Carnegie Visual Art Center, and the U.S. Space & Rocket Center.

Excursions & Entertainment

• River City & Old State Bank Building – Complimentary Excursion
  River City & Old State Bank Building – Complimentary Excursion

  Decatur, Alabama known as “River City,” hosts the largest collection of Victorian, early 20th-century craftsman, and bungalow-style homes in Alabama. Visit the oldest standing bank building in the state. Its vault, with 22-inch-thick walls, was a haven from blistering bullets, mortar bombs, and cannon fire.

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• US Space & Rocket Center
  US Space & Rocket Center

  Operated by the government of Alabama, the U.S. Space & Rocket Center hosts one of the largest collections of rockets and space memorabilia on display anywhere in the world. It is here that the rockets that put the first U.S. satellite into orbit and sent men to the moon were developed; propulsion for the space shuttle was developed; modules for the International Space Station (ISS) were designed and built; and America’s next great ship – the Space Launch System – is being designed.

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Day 3 - Florence, AL

Florence is one of four cities that make up the "the Shoals," an area spanning two counties and separated by the Tennessee River. Explore the charming downtown, with locally owned stores featuring everything from handmade jewelry and bohemian chic fashion to antique collectables. Stop at the Wine Seller for a tasting or sip Java at the popular Bookmarks Coffee Shop in the public library. There are a variety of venues in which to enjoy live entertainment including the Shoals Theatre and FloBama Music Hall. Explore the home of W.C. Handy, known as the “Father of the Blues,” and visit the Frank Lloyd Wright Rosenbaum House, the only Wright building that is open to the public in the Southeast.

Excursions & Entertainment

• Sounds of Alabama
  Sounds of Alabama

  As you travel to the Muscle Shoal Region of Alabama, explore the recording studios that launched the careers of such legendary performers as Aretha Franklin, Willie Nelson, The Rolling Stones, Paul Simon, and Percy Sledge. FAME Studios, Muscle Shoals Sound, and a host of other recording studios comprise “little Muscle Shoals,” what was known in the 1960's as the “Hit Recording Capital of the World.” Learn about William Christopher Handy, “Father of the Blues,” a talented musician and songwriter who was born in Florence. He made a considerable contribution to the musical community, with compositions such as “Moonlight Blues,” “St. Louis Blues,” and “Yellow Dog Blues.” Today, there are recording studios all over the Muscle Shoals region, still making hits and propelling artists to fame.

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• Alabama’s Renaissance City & Edith Newman Culver Museum
  Alabama’s Renaissance City & Edith Newman Culver Museum

  Enjoy a city exploration and narrated drive through Florence Alabama, known as "Alabama's Renaissance City," because of its annual hosting of the Alabama Renaissance Faire. Learn about how the town was a stop along the Trail of Tears, burned during the Civil War, visited by U. S. General William Sherman, and the site of the largest cavalry force ever amassed in the Western Hemisphere. Visit to the Edith New Culver Museum which features Native American artifacts, Civil War relics, and the unique heritage of Waterloo, one of Alabama’s oldest incorporated towns.

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Day 4 - Savannah, TN

Part of Hardin County, Savannah is the largest town on the Tennessee River, with a celebrated southern heritage. Home to the nation’s most well-preserved battlefield, Shiloh National Military Park, the town also has a rich Civil War history. Admire the city’s historic district featuring 42 unique, now privately- homes, including the Cherry Mansion which served as the headquarters of General Ulysses S. Grant at the time of the Battle of Shiloh. Other points of interest include the Savannah Theater, Savannah Cemetery, and recently revitalized Main Street.

Excursions & Entertainment

• Catfish Capital & Tennessee River Museum – Complimentary Excursion
  Catfish Capital & Tennessee River Museum – Complimentary Excursion

  Discover Savannah’s rich history and learn how this city became known as the “Catfish Capital of the World” and a substantial trade hub, thanks to its proximity to the Tennessee River. Travel down Main Street passing by historic homes, many which have been carefully preserved, such as the Cherry Mansion. Located on a bluff overlooking the east bank of the Tennessee River, this magnificent antebellum home has historical significance for its role as General Ulysses S. Grant's headquarters at the time of the Civil War Battle of Shiloh. Explore the Tennessee River Museum with its interactive and educational displays, detailing the unique history of the region, from pre-historic times to post war reconciliation.

  Activity Level: Low | ADA Accessibility: Yes

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• Shiloh National Military Park
  Shiloh National Military Park

  Travel to nearby Shiloh, located nine miles south of Savannah, and visit Shiloh National Military Park, considered to have one of the best-preserved battlefields in the U.S. The expansive 4,200 acres of the park includes a visitor center that houses many Civil War artifacts, along with a historic demonstration video of the battle of Shiloh for guests to get a better understanding of its importance.

  Activity Level: Low | ADA Accessibility: Yes

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Day 5 - Paducah, KY

Residing at the confluence of the Tennessee River and the Ohio River, Paducah will make you feel as if you stepped back in time. Founded by William Clark (of Lewis and Clark), Paducah is known as a National Heritage Destination with many talented culinary artists, painters, potters, and jewelers creating and displaying their works there. Also known as “Quilt City,” there is plenty to do in Paducah from shopping to visiting one the many fine museums, to participating in a hands-on creative workshop at a local art gallery. Be sure to visit the Railroad Museum, featuring equipment and memorabilia from the romantic past of America’s railroads.

Excursions & Entertainment

• Paducah City Excursion & National Quilt Museum
  Paducah City Excursion & National Quilt Museum

  Let our local guide take you through the quaint city of Paducah. This tour has been carefully divided into three distinct sections to make sure you experience all that Paducah has to offer. First, tour the downtown as our local expert guide points out the areas’ many historical sites. Then, ride along the riverfront where you will witness more than 50 life-sized panoramic murals depicting elements of Paducah’s past. End the tour at the National Quilt Museum, the world's largest museum devoted to quilt and fiber art.

  Activity Level: Low | ADA ACCESSIBLE: Yes

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• Paducah Local Loop - Complimentary Excursion
  Paducah Local Loop - Complimentary Excursion

  Discover downtown Paducah at your own pace. Visit the areas many museums, including the Paducah Railroad Museum, featuring equipment and memorabilia from the romantic past of America’s railroads. Stop at the River Discovery Center, which celebrates Paducah’s maritime legacy, and the National Quilt museum, where you can view exhibits by talented quilters. Explore the Lowertown Arts District & Neighborhood, listed on the National Register of Historic Places, as well as the Civil War Museum & Tilghman House, an 1852 Greek-revival home, which tells the story of Paducah’s influence during the Civil War. Take time for shopping and walking along the riverfront to view the many wall murals which chronicle Paducah’s past.

  Activity Level: Low | ADA Accessibility: Yes

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• River Discovery Center - Complimentary Excursion
  River Discovery Center - Complimentary Excursion

  Paducah’s location at the confluence of the Ohio and Tennessee Rivers makes it unique. The city is home to some of the nation’s largest barge and towing companies. At the River Discovery Center, learn all about the inland waterways and the impact they have on the daily lives of local residents. You can be a captain and choose your vessel type in the state-of-the-art boat simulator, as well as explore and learn about the history, environments, culture, and economy of these rivers through interactive exhibits.

  Activity Level: Low | ADA ACCESSIBLE: Yes

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Day 6 - Cruising Lake Barkley and the Cumberland River

Admire the picturesque scenery of America's Heartland, including the Kentucky Lakes and rolling landscape of 170,000 acres of protected forest. Experience a relaxing day cruising Lake Barkley and admire panoramic views of the Cumberland River from the comfort of your private balcony.

Excursions & Entertainment

• A Day of Cruising
  A Day of Cruising

  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, App-titude Classes (Tech Made Easy), Cooking Demonstrations, Mixology (practice of making great cocktails,) Trivia, Game Shows, and more.

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Day 7 - Nashville, TN

From the legendary Grand Ole Opry to the Country Music Hall of Fame, Nashville is the official headquarters of country music. The lively streets are lined with art galleries and unique shops that welcome you at every turn. Take time to explore historic downtown, including the famous Country Music Hall of Fame Museum and Honky Tonk Row. Consider touring The Hermitage, the home of President Andrew Jackson. In the evening, be treated to a show at the Grand Ole Opry.

Excursions & Entertainment

• Ryman Auditorium
  Ryman Auditorium

  Learn the fascinating story of the Ryman Auditorium with a guided backstage tour! Constructed in 1880, Thomas G. Ryman built this theater, originally named The Union Gospel Tabernacle, for evangelist Reverend Sam Jones so that his inspiring words could be clearly heard by all. After Ryman’s passing in 1904, the theater name was changed to Ryman Auditorium to honor the man who created this historic landmark. Today, the Ryman Auditorium is associated with country music legends and inspiring artists striving to make a name for themselves.
  
  Please Note: This tour is only offered on cruises ending in Nashville, TN.

  Activity Level: Moderate | ADA ACCESSIBLE: Yes

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• Grand Ole Opry Show - Complimentary Excursion
  Grand Ole Opry Show - Complimentary Excursion

  Enjoy live country music at its best with a visit to the Grand Ole Opry. The evening show will begin at 7:00 pm, featuring up and coming country artists, as well as musical groups that have been Opry Members for years.

  Activity Level: Low | ADA ACCESSIBLE: Yes

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• Johnny Cash and Patsy Cline Experience
  Johnny Cash and Patsy Cline Experience

  Start your excursion at the Johnny Cash Museum, ranked the #1 music museum in the world by Forbes, Conde' Naste, and National Geographic Traveler. Explore the largest and most comprehensive collection of Johnny Cash artifacts and memorabilia in the world. Next, walk upstairs to The Patsy Cline Museum which celebrates the life of the legendary songstress who made an indelible mark on country music and remains one of the biggest names in country history. Featured are hundreds of never before seen artifacts, personal belongings, videos, and much more.

  Please Note: This tour is only offered on cruises ending in Nashville, TN.

  Activity Level: Low | ADA Accessibility: Yes

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• Discover Nashville - Complimentary Excursion
  Discover Nashville - Complimentary Excursion

  Enjoy a narrated exploration of historic downtown Nashville. Along the way, view Honky Tonk Row, Bicentennial Park, the State Capitol Building, and more. Stop at the Country Hall of Fame and Museum, home to a growing collection of over 2.5 million artifacts, including one-of-a-kind recordings, films, instruments, and more.

  Discover the connections between country music's past and artists of today in the interactive gallery space. Witness everything from Hank William's cherished Martin guitar and Elvis Presley's custom Cadillac to outfits and instruments from all of your favorite artists.

  Please Note: This tour is only offered on cruises ending in Nashville, TN.

  Activity Level: Low | ADA ACCESSIBLE: Yes

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Day 8 - Nashville, TN

Enjoy breakfast on board the ship, before beginning your journey home. Reflect upon your adventures and the new friends made along the way.

Excursions & Entertainment

• Continue the Journey in Nashville
  Continue the Journey in Nashville

  Why not stay an extra night or two to immerse yourself in the spirit of this vibrant city? Ask your onboard Hotel Manager for recommendations on area hotels, attractions, and more.

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