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Explore beautiful Nashville

Tennessee Rivers Cruise

Chattanooga to Nashville - Example 9 Day Cruise aboard American Melody
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Embark on a 9-day Tennessee River cruise from Chattanooga to Nashville aboard American Melody. Begin with a relaxing hotel stay in Chattanooga, then cruise through the Appalachian Mountains, enjoying breathtaking landscapes. Explore Decatur's historic charm and Florence's vibrant music scene. Discover Savannah's Civil War history at Shiloh National Military Park and Paducah's artistic heritage. Relax while cruising Lake Barkley and the Cumberland River's scenic beauty. Conclude in Nashville, the heart of country music, with visits to the Grand Ole Opry, Country Music Hall of Fame, and historic downtown landmarks. This nine-day adventure blends relaxation, exploration, and cultural enrichment.
Chattanooga TennesseeExplore beautiful NashvilleCruise the rivers of KentuckyExplore beautiful NashvilleExplore beautiful Nashville
Highlights
  • Discover the Southern charm of the Old Decatur Historic District
  • Visit downtown Florence's unique shops and live entertainment venues
  • Explore Paducah, a National Heritage Destination for arts and culture
  • Experience Nashville's country music scene at iconic attractions
Places Visited
Activity Level: Variable
Activity options vary depending on destination and operator. Activity level is determined by the range and intensity of activities you choose to participate in. Discuss with your Trip Planner which options are best for you.
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Full Itinerary

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Day 1: Chattanooga, Tennessee

Arrive in Chattanooga and check into your hotel. Set between Southeast Tennessee's mountains and the scenic Tennessee River, Chattanooga is one of America's most beautiful cities. Wander through the picturesque downtown, featuring squares and parks all within walking distance of the ship.

Day 2: Cruising the Tennessee River | Embark

Step aboard your ship and spend a relaxing day cruising through the Appalachian Mountains, navigating the river amidst breathtaking scenery. Embark on your voyage with live entertainment from our musicians and the company of fellow guests and crew.

Day 3: Decatur, Alabama

Southern charm abounds in the Old Decatur Historic District. Admire houses built from the 1800s to the present, ranging in style from the French-influenced Empire period to Edwardian Cottage and beyond. On your way, peruse the many unique shops found along Bank Street and 2nd Avenue. Visit the fascinating area museums, including the Cook Museum of Natural Science, the Carnegie Visual Art Center, and the U.S. Space & Rocket Center.

Day 4: Florence, Alabama

Florence is one of four cities that make up the "the Shoals," an area spanning two counties and separated by the Tennessee River. Explore the charming downtown, with locally owned stores featuring everything from handmade jewelry and bohemian chic fashion to antique collectables. Stop at the Wine Seller for a tasting or sip Java at the popular Bookmarks Coffee Shop in the public library. There are a variety of venues in which to enjoy live entertainment including the Shoals Theatre and FloBama Music Hall. Explore the home of W.C. Handy, known as the “Father of the Blues,” and visit the Frank Lloyd Wright Rosenbaum House, the only Wright building that is open to the public in the Southeast.

Day 5: Savannah, Tennessee

Part of Hardin County, Savannah is the largest town on the Tennessee River, with a celebrated southern heritage. Home to the nation’s most well-preserved battlefield, Shiloh National Military Park, the town also has a rich Civil War history. Admire the city’s historic district featuring 42 unique, now privately- homes, including the Cherry Mansion which served as the headquarters of General Ulysses S. Grant at the time of the Battle of Shiloh. Other points of interest include the Savannah Theater, Savannah Cemetery, and recently revitalized Main Street.

Day 6: Paducah, Kentucky

Residing at the confluence of the Tennessee River and the Ohio River, Paducah will make you feel as if you stepped back in time. Founded by William Clark (of Lewis and Clark), Paducah is known as a National Heritage Destination with many talented culinary artists, painters, potters, and jewelers creating and displaying their works there. Also known as “Quilt City,” there is plenty to do in Paducah from shopping to visiting one the many fine museums, to participating in a hands-on creative workshop at a local art gallery. Be sure to visit the Railroad Museum, featuring equipment and memorabilia from the romantic past of America’s railroads.

Paducah Local Loop - Complimentary Excursion

Explore downtown Paducah at your own pace. Visit the areas many museums and shops and stop at the riverfront to view the wall murals that tell the story of Paducah's past.

Making stops at: 

Paducah Railroad Museum - Explore this interactive museum showcasing equipment and memorabilia from the romantic past of America's railroads.
River Discovery Center - Celebrate Paducah's maritime legacy and lore with interactive water-filled exhibits, including a working model of a lock and dam. 
Inland Waterways Museum - You can be a captain and choose your vessel type in the state-of-the-art boat simulator, as well as explore and learn about the history, environments, culture, and economy of these rivers through interactive exhibits.
Lowertown Arts District & Neighborhood - Explore this 25 sq. block neighborhood on the National Register of Historic Places. Look for the directory at the old Texaco Station.

Day 7: Cruising Lake Barkley and the Cumberland River

Admire the picturesque scenery of America's Heartland, including the Kentucky Lakes and rolling landscape of 170,000 acres of protected forest. Experience a relaxing day cruising Lake Barkley and admire panoramic views of the Cumberland River from the comfort of your private balcony.

Day 8: Nashville, Tennessee

From the legendary Grand Ole Opry to the Country Music Hall of Fame, Nashville is the official headquarters of country music. The lively streets are lined with art galleries and unique shops that welcome you at every turn. Take time to explore historic downtown, including the famous Country Music Hall of Fame Museum and Honky Tonk Row. Consider touring The Hermitage, the home of President Andrew Jackson. In the evening, be treated to a show at the Grand Ole Opry.

Grand Ole Opry Show - Complimentary Excursion

Enjoy live country music at its best with a visit to the Grand Ole Opry. The evening show will begin at 7:00 pm, featuring up and coming country artists, as well as musical groups that have been Opry Members for years.

Activity Level: Low | ADA ACCESSIBLE: Yes

Discover Nashville - Complimentary Excursion

Enjoy a narrated exploration of historic downtown Nashville. Along the way, view Honky Tonk Row, Bicentennial Park, the State Capitol Building, and more. Stop at the Country Hall of Fame and Museum, home to a growing collection of over 2.5 million artifacts, including one-of-a-kind recordings, films, instruments, and more.

Discover the connections between country music's past and artists of today in the interactive gallery space. Witness everything from Hank William's cherished Martin guitar and Elvis Presley's custom Cadillac to outfits and instruments from all of your favorite artists.

Activity Level: Low | ADA ACCESSIBLE: Yes

Day 9: Nashville, Tennessee | Disembark

  • 1 Breakfast
Enjoy breakfast on board the ship, before beginning your journey home. Reflect upon your adventures and the new friends made along the way.

Ship/Hotel

American Melody

Dates & Prices

My Preferred Start Date

This itinerary is no longer available. For other trip ideas, please visit United States Small Ship Cruises, River Cruises & Tours.
Single Balcony
Queen-size bed, full-size private bathroom with a full set of amenities, sliding glass doors open to private balcony, satellite TV and DVD player, complimentary WiFi Size: 250 sq. ft., including balcony
Standard Balcony
King-size bed, full-size private bathroom with a full set of amenities, sliding glass doors open to a private balcony, sitting area, writing desk, satellite TV and DVD player, complimentary WiFi Size: 275 sq. ft., including balcony
Deluxe Balcony
King-size bed, full-size private bathroom with a full set of amenities, sliding glass doors open to private balcony, sitting area, writing desk, satellite TV and DVD player, complimentary WiFi, Size: 316 sq. ft., including balcony
Premium Balcony
King-size bed that can convert to two twin beds, full-size private bathroom with a full set of amenities, sliding glass doors open to private balcony, sitting area, writing desk, satellite TV and DVD player, complimentary WiFi. Located on the top deck, these spacious staterooms feature commanding views of the passing river landscapes. Size: 350 sq. ft., including balcony
Veranda Suite
King-size bed that can convert to two twin beds, full-size private bathroom with a full set of amenities, large living area, sliding glass doors open to private balcony, satellite TV and DVD player, complimentary WiFi. Size: 405 sq. ft., including balcony
Grand Suite
Grand Suite
King-size bed, floor-to-ceiling glass windows offering 270-degree panoramic views, large balcony, private dining area, full-size private bathroom with a full set of amenities, satellite TV and DVD player, complimentary WiFi, individual climate control. Each Grand Suite features a separate bedroom and living area, ideal for gathering with family and friends after an invigorating day of exploration. Size: 650 sq. ft., including balcony
Included
  • 8 Breakfasts, 6 Lunches, 7 Dinners
  • 8 Nights Accommodations
  • Accommodations as listed
  • Ground transportation as listed
  • Activities as listed
  • Meals as listed
  • Access to a 24-7 Emergency line while traveling
  • Snacks
  • Onboard Entertainment 
  • Onboard gratuities
  • Port charges and fees
  • Complimentary cocktail parties
  • Dining service
Excluded
  • Travel Insurance
  • Personal Expenses
  • Flight costs (please request a quote)
  • Additional excursions during free time
  • Fuel and transportation surcharges (when applicable)
  • Signature shore excursion - Should be reserved in advance due to limited availability.

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The trip might have been the absolute best of our lifetime (thus far). We particularly want to commend our guide Peter in the Guilin area-he was so incredibly attentive, energetic, enthusiastic-and absolutely dedicated to ensuring that our meals were 100% vegetarian.
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