riverboat knoxville

Knoxville's riverboat, the Star of Knoxville, offers lunch and dinner cruises, party cruises, late night party cruises, and sightseeing cruises on the Tennessee River. Live music. Charters available. The Star of Knoxville is an authentic paddlewheeler with a capacity 325 passengers. The main deck seats 144 passengers and is fully enclosed, air conditioned, and heated for year-round comfort. The vessel is equipped with two (2) bars, a dance floor, band stage, and is exquisitely decorated for the most elegant dinner and entertainment available. If you don't feel like having the black-tie event, the atmosphere is functional as a jeans and shorts type of place for the family reunions and football parties. Live entertainment on dinner cruises includes Gospel, Country, Murder Mystery, Contemporary, easy listening, or DJ. Dance floor is available after dinner. Lunch and sightseeing cruises include a captain's commentary and history of the Tennessee River as well as the "star of Knoxville", live entertainment may be scheduled on lunch cruises with over 50 passengers. A cash bar is available on all public cruises, except Gospel. tnriverboat.com

Cuisine: American Serve: Lunch, Dinner Hours: Call for departure times Location: Waterfront Map & Directions Features: Reservations Required River Cruises Night Themes Weddings Private Charters Wheelchair Access

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Emilie Stooksbury

The star of knoxville: a look inside.

When we sat down with Bailee Bridwell to learn more about The Star of Knoxvill e riverboat, we figured this thing you’re reading now would be about said boat. After all, it is one of only four authentic paddlewheel riverboats in the USA, right on the Tennessee River in good ole downtown Knoxville. Cool, right?

Very cool, yes. BUT y’all, > this family. They are precious. Settle in for the cutest story. (And then, once you’ve fallen in love with the Cheek/Bridwell fam, we promise we’ll tell you all about how you can bring your very own pizza and wine to deck of the boat. Cross our hearts.)

THE (ADORABLE) STORY:

Let’s start with the parents. Bailee Bridwell’s father, Mike Cheek, started working on riverboats in Nashville at the geriatric age of fifteen years old. (We assume he liked it okay, because he’s now been in the riverboat business for a mere 43 years.) After spending a few summers as a deckhand, in walked a new boat photographer: Tammy.

Because this is the cutest story ever, Mike and Tammy obviously fell in love, got married, and started a little family. (*sob*🥺💛)

Awhile later, this little family moved to Knoxville from Nashville so Mike could be the General Manager of, you guessed it, the Star of Knoxville. Mike made the trip in 1988, but get this: When the owners decided to move the riverboat in 1994, Mike offered to buy her so she could stay in our sweet Knoxville. Tennessee. (We could hardly contain ourselves when we heard this tidbit of information. Is this not a Hallmark movie waiting to happen?? Romance, risk, rivers – this story has it all!)

Okay, back to the story.

Bailee and her brother were just babies when the Cheeks moved to the Scruffy City, so they basically grew up on The Star of Knoxville. They went on all the cruises. They knew all the crew. They even ended up being on the crew as teenagers. (As a little kid, the “Boomsday Cruise” was her favorite. The boat would be so close to the fireworks, they’d all end the night covered in ashes. KNOXVILLE FREAKING GOALS.)

After college, Bailee left for a few years to gain experience on other boats (one of the biggest riverboats in the country in Savannah, to be exact), and when she finally came back to Knoxville in 2019, her parents handed her the keys.

This family affair has come full circle now. Bailee’s dad, brother, and husband are all captains – but it gets even cuter. You know how Bailee and her brother grew up on the boat? Well, if you see a stroller in the corner or some precious babies being passed around by the crew, you’re more than likely on a cruise with Bailee’s own sweet twins who are all set to grow up on the same boat as their mom and uncle. Some members of the crew have literally seen two generations of kiddos grow up on the boat. (*pause to sob from cuteness*)

Image by @tennesseeriverboat

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Star of Knoxville shines as nightlife destination | Katherine Whitehead

As the nightlife columnist, I’ve experienced almost everything there is to do in downtown

Knoxville. The breweries? I’ve been there. The restaurants? I’ve tried them. The clubs? I

vaguely remember. But the Star of Knoxville Riverboat? Never tried it. That is, until this past weekend.

As a native Knoxvillian, I was already familiar with the riverboat. I often saw it floating slowly down the Tennessee River, glowing through the night sky as I watched it from the balcony of my apartment. It looked like one of those old-timey paddlewheelers romanticized in New Orleans or like a boat you would rent out for your friend’s wedding reception. The last thing on my mind was an affordable nightlife destination.

But over Memorial Day weekend, my idea of the boat changed significantly. On a Saturday evening, my partner and I boarded the boat for the first time. We had been wanting to go for a while, and we landed on the 6 p.m. sightseeing excursion. We boarded the vessel near Calhoun’s and were met by a mix of people waiting in line — younger couples like ourselves, older couples, families and friends — all anxiously awaiting an evening on the Tennessee River. As we prepared to board, we were instructed by an employee to get together for a photo behind a safety float bearing the boat’s name. It was sort of cheesy but also sort of cute — like something I would have done with my family on a cruise ship at 10 years old.

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The Star of Knoxville Riverboat is an authentic paddlewheeler with two levels, an enclosed main deck that seats 144 passengers and an open-air top deck. Because we had chosen to do the sightseeing trip, we were instructed to go upstairs. Although my view of the main deck was limited while passing through to the stairwell, I was able to get a peak at the beautiful place settings for dinner, the bar and a small stage for a band. The space looked like a great place to enjoy a romantic dinner date or celebrate a special occasion. And while I would definitely go back to try the food, it seems like the real fun (and the more affordable kind) was had by those of us on the top deck.

The top deck is nothing fancy, with chipped paint and fold-out tables like the kind often stored in a garage. The bathroom was simple and the bar was just that — a wooden countertop to set your drink. But while the boat could use a facelift, its imperfections somehow added to the charm. And an evening on the water can be as special as you want to make it.

Plus, the real treat is the views.

As the boat set sail, my partner and I explored the deck. As we walked along the railing from the bow to the stern with drinks in hand, we were able to gaze at the sights of downtown Knoxville — including a few notable spots like Neyland Stadium and the Sequoyah Hills historic homes. As a UT alum, I felt giddy showing off the university to the people I was with and thankful for the often underappreciated amenity of our downtown being right on the water.

The drinks were affordable, with each beer costing just $5 — from domestic favorites to a few local ales.

Once we got to the end of Sequoyah Hills, the boat turned and headed back toward downtown. It was exciting to see how happy everyone onboard seemed to be as the sights missed on the first half of the ride would now become visible on the way back.

NIGHTLIFE: Knoxville's alive with open bars and packed concerts. Will it last?

As the view of the city came into focus again, “Rocky Top” began playing from the speakers — prompting myself and others to stand up and dance. Embarrassingly enough, I was the only one to shout “woo.”

But that was OK because the space felt like a judgment-free zone. Everyone on board, no matter their walks of life, came together for the same thing: to have a good time and see some sights. Throughout the evening, an impressive playlist of feel-good tunes spanning decades set the mood. One couple even slow danced to “Tennessee Whiskey"' as the sun was going down.

As we approached the dock, I was a bit upset the two-hour adventure was coming to an end. But I walked away knowing we got our money’s worth. With $25 tickets and a

buy-four-get-one-free drink special, my partner and I were able to enjoy a unique Knoxville experience for around just about $35 per person. We are considering embarking again for a tour with friends or upgrading our tickets for a date night with dinner down below.

Seeing Knoxville from the river provided a different look at the city — one that I had never seen before and would not have been able to see anywhere else. Although the boat could have used a fresh coat of paint, the entire evening was picturesque enough. The riverboat has now become one of my favorite downtown activities.

Star of Knoxville Weddings

Weddings onboard the “Star of Knoxville” riverboat are a most unique and distinctive choice for your wedding. We can provide complete arrangements for the most intimate of weddings to the most elaborate, accommodating anywhere from 2 to 110 for a ceremony and reception and up to 235 for a reception only. The vessel is equipped with two (2) bars, a dance floor, and band stage. The open air observation deck is ideal for an outdoor setting. Our main interior is fully air conditioned and heated, for a great dining and entertainment experience and is a perfect choice for the most important day of your life. From black tie events to very casual, the atmosphere is right for any occasion. The beautiful Tennessee River proves to be the most romantic, enchanting, and memorable atmosphere in East Tennessee. You and your guests will be mesmerized by scenery and fully entertained during any of our cruises.

Our wedding package below helps take care of many of your wedding needs. We have our own personal chef to take care of all of your catering needs. The only services we do not provide are photography, wedding cakes, and floral. Let our experienced staff help you plan the perfect wedding that your group will long remember. We are also the perfect facility for rehearsal dinners, bridesmaid luncheons, bridal showers, or bachelor/ bachelorette parties.

Star Wedding Package

The Star Wedding Package is our most popular package available for ceremonies and receptions. Let us provide all the following services to help make the most important day in your life stress free!

1 hour dockside for boarding and ceremony

2 hour cruise on the Tennessee River for reception (additional time available)

A captain/crew member to perform the ceremony

DJ for ceremony music and reception entertainment

Use of Bridal Suite for 2 hours before boarding

Access to boat 2 hours for decorating before boarding

Cash bar and bartender

Archway for ceremony

All tables and chairs

Bride and Groom table

Registration table

Dinner Cruise certificate for 2 for Bride and Groom

Bottle of Champagne (non alcoholic available)

Our professional wedding planner services

1 wedding rehearsal

Wedding Photos

FREQUENLY ASKED QUESTIONS…

Decorations.

THE RIVERBOAT COMPANY AND ITS STAFF ARE NOT RESPONSIBLE FOR DECORATING, GIFTS, OR ANY FURTHER SPECIAL ARRANGEMENTS UNLESS PURCHASED THROUGH THE RIVERBOAT COMPANY. PLEASE GIVE US THE NAME OF EACH DECORATOR SO THAT OUR STAFF WILL BE AWARE WHO IS ALLOWED ON THE BOAT EARLY.

ITEMS LEFT BEHIND

YOU ARE RESPONSIBLE FOR ALL MATERIALS THAT ARE BROUGHT ON BOARD. IF ANY ITEMS ARE LEFT AFTER THE EVENT, WE ARE NOT RESPONSIBLE FOR LOST OR DAMAGED ITEMS. THE RIVERBOAT COMPANY STAFF IS NOT RESPONSIBLE FOR COLLECTING ITEMS OR BOXING THEM UP TO BE PICKED UP THE NEXT DAY.

ITEMS NOT ALLOWED

THE RIVERBOAT COMPANY DOES NOT ALLOW CONFETTI OR RICE OF ANY KIND TO BE USED FOR THE CEREMONY OR THE RECEPTION AS IT CAN BE HAZARDOUS TO THE WILDLIFE ON THE RIVER. WE ALSO DO NOT ALLOW OPEN FLAMES ON THE RIVERBOATS AND THUS SUGGEST BRIDES TO USE LED LIGHTS INSTEAD. NO PAPER LANTERNS OR BALLOONS ARE ALLOWED ON THE OUTSIDE PATIO OR RAILINGS OF THE BOAT UNLESS SECURED TO THE BOAT ITSELF. WE DO NOT WANT ANYTHING TO FLY OFF OF THE BOAT INTO THE RIVER.

FOOD & BEVERAGE POLICY

NO FOOD OR DRINK IS ALLOWED TO BE CARRIED ON OR OFF THE RIVERBOAT. WEDDING CAKES AND CUPCAKES ARE THE ONLY EXCEPTION TO THIS POLICY.

BOOKING AND CANCELLATION POLICY

RESERVATIONS ARE ONLY CONFIRMED UPON RECEIPT OF DEPOSIT. DEPOSITS ARE NONREFUNDABLE. IF FOR SOME REASON YOU NEED TO CANCEL, PATRON FORFEITS ENTIRE DEPOSIT IN THE EVENT OF CANCELLATION. FINAL GUARANTEES AND PAYMENT ARE TO BE GIVEN NO LATER THAN 14 DAYS PRIOR TO THE EVENT. NO CANCELLATION FOR INCLEMENT WEATHER UNLESS THE CAPTAIN DETERMINES IT IS UNSAFE TO SAIL.

Volunteer Boat Rentals

Experience Knoxville From the Water

How it Works

1. Make your reservation via the button below

2. Specify which pickup spot works best for you

3. Meet at the designated spot at the designated time

4. Live it up on the waters of Knoxville with Volunteer Boat Rentals

We offer all UT and Pelissippi State students and faculty 25% off all rentals!

For Questions email: [email protected]

Call or Text: (903) 646-1536

Pickup Spots

Maloney Road Park – 3516 Ginn Dr, Knoxville, TN 37920

Riverside Landing Park – 1648 Riverside Dr, Knoxville, TN, 37915

BOAT RENTALS

2016 Sea Ray 220 Sundeck

Our flagship boat rental is perfect for water sports, a private lake party, waterfront dinner, or family day of fun on the waters of Knoxville, Tennessee.

Enjoy Knoxville with Volunteer Boat Rentals when you book our Sea Ray 220 Sundeck.

Bring up to 12 friends or family members for a day on the water.

Our boat rentals come with bluetooth audio, wake board, inner tubes, retractable Bimini tops, and even on-board coolers.

Volunteer Boat Rentals is a family owned and operated business here in Knoxville, TN. Our founder is a current University of Tennessee student and we love and support the Vols through the good times and bad. We’re committed to providing your party with a professional, experienced captain to safely lead you on a charter boat rental. We provide charter boat rentals on the Fort Lake Loudon and the Tennessee River in Knoxville, Tennessee.

Volunteer Boat Rentals will give you the full lake experience without the hassle or maintenance of owning your own boat. All of charter captains are licensed Tennessee boaters with experience navigating the local waterways. Whether you throw a party on the lake, wakeboard and wake surf, or enjoy a sunset dinner at Calhoun’s on the River – you’ll be in goods hands with us.

BOAT RENTAL HOURS & RATES

Monday-sunday: 9am to 7pm.

DON’T LOSE YOUR MONEY, INQUIRE ABOUT OUR SUBSCRIPTION PROGRAM

For any additional questions or comments, contact us now

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Fall Foliage Cruise

Quick details.

• Tags Category: Public Cruises

Enjoy autumn views during this lunch cruise

Relax on the Volunteer Princess as you view the colors of fall along the Tennessee River. Take a seat at your private table. Enjoy a one-and-a-half-hour cruise around Knoxville and indulge in a three-course meal featuring fresh ingredients. Visit our bar on the upper deck and sip on your favorite drink. We promise the best lunch cruise in Knoxville.

Boarding: 12:00 p.m. | Cruising: 12:30 – 2:00 p.m.

Dress Code: Smart casual attire. We recommend bringing along a light jacket or wrap as it may get breezy on board.

Weather Conditions:  Cruise sails rain or shine!

Atmosphere: Drinks, dinner, and an unforgettable evening.

• Caesar Salad
• Bacon Wrapped Chicken
• Seasonal Vegetables
• Chef’s Dessert

What’s Included

• 1.5-hour cruise around Knoxville
• Three-course lunch
• Private table
• Fully stocked bar and more!

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Sunset Dinner Cruise

Searching for a unique date night? Celebrating something special? Or just want a night out on the water? Our Sunset Dinner Cruise is just for you!

Brunch Buffet Cruise

Looking for a new Sunday brunch spot? Join us on the Volunteer Princess and enjoy brunch on the water!

• Special Availability

Casino Night

Searching for a unique night out on the town? Try your hand at black jack or roulette!