Knoxville River Cruise Aboard the Volunteer Princess

Knoxville River Cruise Aboard the Volunteer Princess: A Complete Guide

If you’re looking to see Knoxville from a different angle, a cruise aboard the Volunteer Princess is quite the way to do it. While we haven’t personally set sail on this particular boat, reviews and detailed descriptions paint a picture of a smooth, enjoyable experience that combines scenic views with comfort and good company. Whether you’re planning a casual outing, celebrating a special occasion, or seeking a peaceful way to unwind, this cruise offers a lot for a modest price.

What we love about this experience is the easy access to the dock, the stunning views of Knoxville’s landmarks, especially the Sunsphere, and the quality of the food served onboard. Plus, the fact that it’s climate-controlled makes it a reliable choice year-round. One thing to consider is that the cruise doesn’t include alcoholic beverages, so if you’re hoping for wine or cocktails, you’ll need to bring your own or plan accordingly. This is ideal for travelers who enjoy a relaxed, scenic river ride with some comfort. It suits those wanting an authentic water-based perspective of Knoxville without the fuss of a long or overly commercialized tour.

Good To Know

• Comfortable, climate-controlled decks allow year-round sailing regardless of weather.
• Affordable price point makes it accessible for many travelers at about $32 per person.
• Scenic views of Knoxville’s landmarks, including the Sunsphere and local riverfront mansions.
• Good food and friendly staff seem to be highlights, with reviews mentioning tasty meals and excellent service.
• Flexible options for public cruises or private events, perfect for celebrations or casual outings.
• Limited included amenities — no alcohol provided, but restrooms and onboard seating add to the convenience.

The Itinerary in Detail

The Volunteer Princess offers a straightforward cruise with a few highlights that are worth noting. Starting from the dock at 956 Volunteer Landing Lane, the trip begins with a gentle departure onto the Tennessee River. The boat’s modern, enclosed decks ensure that regardless of weather, you’ll enjoy the ride without worries about sunburn, rain, or wind.

One of the most praised parts of the cruise, based on consistent positive reviews, is passing the Sunsphere, a symbol of Knoxville’s 1982 World’s Fair. This instantly recognizable structure makes for a fun photo opportunity and offers a sense of local pride. As the boat glides downstream, you’ll also see the homes of Big Orange Country, which are often described as stunning and well-maintained. The opportunity to see luxury residences from the water adds a special touch, especially for those interested in architecture or simply enjoying beautiful vistas.

The cruise lasts approximately two hours, a duration that balances leisurely sightseeing with enough time to relax and take in the scenery. According to travelers, the boat departs promptly, and the staff are credited with being welcoming and attentive. While food and drinks are available onboard, reviews mention that the meals are tasty and fresh, with some describing the experience as a peaceful and classy setting—ideal for celebrating birthdays, anniversaries, or just a day out with friends.

The cruise includes a restroom on board, which enhances comfort during the trip. It’s also worth noting that the service animals are allowed, making it accessible for travelers with emotional support or service pets. However, the lack of alcohol means you might want to bring your own drinks if you’re celebrating or just prefer a glass of wine with the scenery.

The Experience: What You Can Expect

From start to finish, the Volunteer Princess promises an enjoyable two hours on the water. Booking is straightforward with mobile ticketing, and the cruise can accommodate up to 132 travelers, giving it a lively but not overcrowded atmosphere.

The departure point is easy to find, and parking is described as convenient, with helpful email instructions for navigating the area. Once onboard, the staff greets guests warmly—many reviews highlight the friendliness of the crew. The interior is designed for comfort, with fully enclosed decks that allow you to step outside for fresh air or stay inside to enjoy the views in a climate-controlled environment.

The scenery is widely appreciated. Besides the Sunsphere, travelers will see the bridge crossings, scenic riverfront homes, and the stadium, creating a varied and appealing backdrop. Several guests noted the wealth of beautiful homes and the lively atmosphere created by fellow passengers taking photos and chatting.

Food and Beverage

While alcoholic drinks are not included, the tasty food and excellent service stand out. Reviewers mention that their meals were fresh, tasty, and served with care, making the cruise feel more like a relaxed dining experience on the water. The onboard staff are friendly and attentive, and the dining area provides a good vantage point for enjoying the scenery.

If you’re a foodie, you’ll appreciate that the cruise offers a three-course meal (salad, entree, dessert) on some trips, as described by travelers. The food quality is reportedly quite good, and the experience feels like a classy, low-key celebration.

Value and Cost

At $32.25 per person, the cruise offers remarkable value for the experience. For that price, you get a scenic ride, good food, friendly service, and a chance to see Knoxville’s sights from a unique perspective. The reviews suggest that many guests consider it an excellent price-quality balance, especially given the included comfort and scenery.

The cruise isn’t a narrated tour, so if you’re expecting detailed historical commentary, you might find it a bit lacking. However, the focus on relaxation, scenery, and good food makes it a perfect choice for those who simply want to unwind and enjoy the river.

Who Will Love This Cruise?

This experience is well-suited for families, couples, small groups, or even corporate events. It’s particularly ideal if you value comfortable, climate-controlled environments and appreciate scenic vistas. Those celebrating a special occasion will find the setting both elegant and relaxed.

However, travelers looking for a guided, educational tour or alcohol-inclusive experience should consider other options. The cruise’s emphasis is on scenery and comfort, making it perfect for those seeking a peaceful, visually appealing outing.

Final Thoughts

The Volunteer Princess cruise in Knoxville offers a calm, scenic journey along the Tennessee River that combines comfort with stunning views. The fact that it’s fully enclosed means you can enjoy the experience regardless of weather, and the friendly staff are often praised for their attentiveness.

While it may not be a comprehensive sightseeing tour with narration, it excels in providing a relaxing, enjoyable water experience with the opportunity to see Knoxville’s landmarks and luxury homes from a unique vantage point. The reasonably priced meals and the scenic backdrop make it a worthwhile outing for those celebrating, relaxing, or simply wanting to see a different side of Knoxville.

For travelers who prioritize comfort, good value, and beautiful scenery, this cruise hits all the right notes. It’s best suited for those who enjoy a laid-back atmosphere with the option to indulge in tasty food and take plenty of photos. No matter your reason for visiting Knoxville, this cruise is a peaceful, picturesque way to spend a couple of hours on the water.

FAQ

Is this cruise suitable for all weather conditions?
Yes, the Volunteer Princess has fully enclosed, climate-controlled decks, so you can enjoy the cruise regardless of rain, wind, or heat.

How long does the cruise last?
The cruise lasts approximately two hours, providing ample time to relax and take in the sights.

Are alcoholic beverages included?
No, alcohol is not included. You may want to bring your own drinks if desired, as reviews mention the experience could be enhanced with a glass of wine or champagne.

Where does the cruise depart from?
It departs from 956 Volunteer Landing Lane in Knoxville, and parking is generally accessible with provided directions.

Is the cruise appropriate for children or people with mobility issues?
Most travelers can participate, and the cruise is designed for convenience with onboard restrooms. Service animals are allowed, making it accessible for travelers with disabilities.

Can I book a private event?
Yes, the Volunteer Princess is available for private bookings, perfect for celebrations or corporate outings, tailored to your needs.

What is the price, and is it good value?
At around $32.25 per person, it’s considered great value given the scenery, comfort, and included amenities like good food and a pleasant atmosphere.

In summary, the Volunteer Princess in Knoxville promises a relaxing, scenic escape on the water that combines comfort, good food, and impressive views. It’s a wonderful choice for those who want an easy, enjoyable way to appreciate Knoxville’s riverfront and landmarks without fuss or overcomplexity. If you’re after a peaceful cruise with friendly service, this experience hits the mark.