Spring is a special time to experience the Tennessee Aquarium River Gorge Explorer. This 70 passenger high-speed catamaran is the first of its kind in the Southeast. Aquarium visitors can extend their “mountains to the sea” adventure by cruising into the Tennessee River Gorge aboard this sleek vessel. An Aquarium naturalist will point out wildlife and historic points of interest along the way.  Did you know the Tennessee River was a strategic transportation artery for both the North and South during the Civil War? Notable military points exist between Downtown Chattanooga and historic Pot Point. Find out more aboard the Tennessee Aquarium River Gorge Explorer.

 Ticket Prices:

Adult $29 / Child $21.50 (3 -12) / Toddler $18

All children under 3 riding the River Gorge Explorer will be charged $18. They are counted as a passenger via Coast Guard regulations.

>> Click here for Boat Schedule

Cruises take 2 hours except for the 3 hour sunset cruise. Please allow 10 minutes for loading and disembarking. The boat boards at the Chattanooga Pier - two blocks from the Tennessee Aquarium. Refreshments & restrooms are available on the boat. The Explorer is handicap accessible, however only two wheel chairs or small motorized chairs are allowed aboard each trip due to limited cabin space. Passengers with large motorized chairs or scooters are asked to transfer to a manual wheelchair located at the Chattanooga Pier prior to boarding or transfer to a cabin chair. Advance reservations are recommended.

A River View of Civil War History
Notable military points exist between Downtown Chattanooga and historic Pot Point. Tennessee Aquarium naturalists highlight strategic locations for passengers aboard the Tennessee Aquarium River Gorge Explorer.

Tour Highlights and Descriptions
Join us aboard the River Gorge Explorer and experience “Tennessee's Grand Canyon” as it was meant to be seen - from the water.

About the Tennessee River Gorge
The Tennessee River Gorge winds along 26 miles of the Tennessee River, and contains over 27,000 acres of protected land.

Ticket Information & Sales
Order your tickets online anytime for the Aquarium, IMAX Theater and River Gorge Explorer and you can pick them up at the will-call window.

Charter a Cruise
Whether it's a special occasion with family and friends, or a relaxing company cruise, the River Gorge Explorer can be chartered for all kinds of events making it both flexible and fun!