Business Details
20 Years
experience
Luxury River Cruises in Knoxville, TN
Since 2006, Volunteer Princess has been redefining river cruising in Knoxville through exceptional hospitality and unforgettable experiences. As the only modern luxury dining yacht on the upper Tennessee River, we combine stunning waterfront views with gourmet dining and meticulous event planning. Our U.S. Coast Guard-certified vessel, staffed by rigorously trained professionals, ensures safety remains our top priority while delivering seamless service for public cruises, private charters, and special events. With two climate-controlled decks accommodating up to 132 guests, we offer year-round celebrations featuring in-house catering, full bar service, and panoramic vistas of Neyland Stadium and historic river homes.Our dedicated event planners handle every detail, from intimate gatherings to corporate functions, ensuring each occasion becomes a cherished memory. Named after the University of Tennessee Volunteers, our 96-foot yacht represents Knoxville's spirit of innovation and hospitality. After nearly two decades of operation, we continue to set the standard for river cruises through our commitment to quality, safety, and customer satisfaction.
Services
Public Cruises
Private Charters
Wedding Cruises
Group Events
Specialty Cruises
Details
- Year established: 2006
Highlights and features
- Established in 2006 with proven event expertise
- U.S. Coast Guard-certified vessel with annual safety inspections
- Climate-controlled decks for year-round comfort
- Dedicated event planners handle every detail
- Gourmet dining with locally inspired cuisine options
Associations and certifications
- U.S. Coast Guard
What people say
Best dinner cruise
Wonderful staff
Breathtaking scenery
Unforgettable experience
Professional event planning
Services
Public Cruises
Daily public cruises offer scenic river views, sunset dining, and historical exploration. Our 96-foot luxury yacht accommodates up to 132 guests with climate-controlled decks and gourmet meals. Perfect for families, tourists, and local residents seeking memorable river experiences.
Private Charters
Custom private charters for weddings, corporate events, and special occasions. Full-service catering, dedicated event planning, and exclusive vessel access create tailored celebrations. Climate-controlled spaces ensure comfort for year-round events.
Wedding Cruises
Complete wedding packages including ceremony, reception, and rehearsal dinners aboard our luxury yacht. Professional planners coordinate floral arrangements, catering, and entertainment while panoramic river views create unforgettable backdrops for special moments.
Group Events
Specialized group event planning for reunions, fundraisers, and business meetings. Customizable packages include reserved seating, themed decorations, and team-building river excursions. Experienced staff ensures seamless execution for groups of all sizes.
Specialty Cruises
Seasonal themed cruises for holidays, sporting events, and cultural celebrations. Valentine's Day, Mother's Day, and New Year's Eve voyages feature special menus and entertainment. Tailgating packages connect directly to University of Tennessee games at Neyland Stadium.
Questions
What types of cruises are available in Knoxville?
We offer public sightseeing cruises, sunset dinner cruises, private charters, wedding events, group outings, and seasonal specialty cruises for holidays and special occasions.
Can I book a private event on the river?
Yes, our luxury yacht accommodates private charters for weddings, corporate events, and family reunions with customizable packages and dedicated event planning services.
What dining options exist aboard the cruise?
Full-service catering includes breakfast, lunch, and dinner options with locally sourced ingredients. Menus feature steak, seafood, vegetarian choices, and specialty cocktails in elegant dining settings.
Is the boat accessible for special needs guests?
Our vessel meets ADA accessibility standards with wheelchair ramps, accessible restrooms, and priority boarding assistance available upon request during reservation.
How does safety certification work for river cruises?
Volunteer Princess maintains U.S. Coast Guard certification with annual inspections, safety drills, and crew training to ensure compliance with all marine safety regulations.
What happens during inclement weather?
Our climate-controlled decks allow year-round operation regardless of weather conditions. Cruises operate rain or shine with indoor spaces maintaining comfortable temperatures for all guests.
Reviews (6)
Shaun Johnson
Jun 04, 2022
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What a beautiful dinner cruise! Food was amazing, staff were friendly and we enjoyed every minute of it. We highly recommend this dinner cruise.
M. W.
May 09, 2022
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We all loved the entire experience. The staff was terrific, the ride down the river was beautiful. The dinner was excellent. We all really enjoyed the food. It was amazing and the portions were perfect. The drinks from the bar were delicious and well made. It nice because the yacht not too big, you get great service from the crew. The captain is nice and let's you come in to the pilot house and let you drive the boat.
Angela Williamson
Apr 06, 2022
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We had a great time on the water. The only real complaints are that there is no souvenir shop to look at and I'm pretty sure my wife and I got sick from the food. We had the tenderloin and you didn't get a choice to tell them how you wanted it prepared we always get our meet medium well or well done and it came out with blood running out of it basically. And a few hours after that we feel like we've been hit by a train and throwing up constantly and diarrhea. So not impressed with the food at all for the price of the trip.
Lisa Marie
Feb 08, 2022
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Such an AMAZING experience! If you get the chance to do this excursion please DO IT! It was nice to have someone Waiting on ME and the views are incredible. Right from your table with a window view!
Cassandra Chandler
Jan 24, 2022
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I came here for my husband's business party, and what an amazing time we had. Food was good, the boat was beautiful, and the drinks were amazing and not overly priced. Staff all had great attitudes and services, and the captain is definitely full of jokes. They'll let you drive the boat and go anywhere you want. If you have time and are looking for a couple hour stress free adventure, here is a good spot to come.
Gs Jackson
Nov 10, 2021
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Everyone who visits Knoxville should take a cruise with the Volunteer Princess! The food is amazing and the bartenders make excellent cocktails! We took our entire wedding party - and it was the highlight of the weekend! Definitely recommend.
