General Jackson Showboat: a legendary river cruise
Published: Jun 18, 2009
The lapping sound of the Cumberland River against the bank provides the perfect background music for lunch or dinner aboard the General Jackson Showboat.
The 300-foot paddle-wheel boat takes diners for a ride along the river as they enjoying a midday meal or an evening feast. The General Jackson, which claims to be the largest showboat in the world, sails past some of the city’s iconic and historical landmarks with a backdrop of downtown Nashville.
The boat holds up to 1,200 passengers and 157 crewmembers and features four decks to take in the sights, from downtown’s high-rises to the rolling countryside.
Whether on a lunch date or a romantic dinner, the General Jackson provides the right atmosphere.
The midday cruise features live music on the Hurricane Deck and a family-style dining option, serving country potato salad, southern cornbread stuffed chicken, slow-roasted country pit ham and country cheesecake. Tim Watson, a fiddler and comedian, entertains on deck until November, performing high-energy country music and onstage antics. The midday cruise lasts 2 ½ hours.
The evening cruise features an exploration of country music, with selections from legends such as Hank Williams, Patsy Cline and other icons of the Grand Ole Opry kicking off the presentation.
That's followed by hits from Garth Brooks, Reba McEntire and Dolly Parton, and then by the music of today’s country stars such as Carrie Underwood and Rascal Flatts. Diners can enjoy a prime rib dinner during the three-hour cruise. On Friday, Saturday and Sunday nights the cruise offers a buffet and live or DJ-spun music.
Along the way, cruisers can see some historic spots such as Demonbreun’s Cave, Shelby Street Bridge and Riverfront Park.
The General Jackson cruises operate year-round. Tickets start at $33.95 for juniors (ages 4-11) and $53.95 for adults. Evening cruises start at $57.95 for juniors and $87.95 for adults.
- by Leah Caudle , Nashville Reporter for HelloMetro
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