Throughout history many great cities have relied on the water ways for survival, and transportation, but rarely were they used as means for entertainment. Today the water ways, much like the Cumberland River that runs through the heart of Nashville, are being utilized in other ways. Since the 19th century steam-powered water going vessels, the "Riverboats", have given land lovers new reason to go aquatic. A variety of shows and performances, and even first class dinners are offered. At 300 feet, The General Jackson Showboat is one of the largest paddlewheel riverboats in the country, and is known for its outstanding.live shows. It features four impressive decks with a beautiful two-story Victorian Theater in the center of the boat. On stage live music shows are performed during mid-day and evening cruises, offering a variety of entertainment choices all year long. Special Holiday Cruises begin mid November each year that include a festive Musical New Year's Eve celebration which is something you'll only find in Music City! The General Jackson Showboat is a great attraction for families, including the kids. The General Jackson is also a great place for theme meetings, business events, and cruises. Most cruises feature what music city is known for, the country music, along with a variety of musicals and gospel music performances. Large enough to accommodate groups of up to 1,100, along with everything you need, including catered dining, dancing and entertainment. This year the General Jackson celebrates 25 years of bringing the best live entertainment on the Cumberland River to Nashville, Tennessee. Beginning March 5, 2010 through November 14, 2010 tickets go on sale, and you can purchase them by visiting their site at: www.generaljackson.com/.
The Music City Queen, a smaller version of the General Jackson, caters to a more low-key excursion offering many things, such as sight seeing, smaller one on one shows, and dinner party cruises. One of the most popular, the Opry Country Classic Riverboat Cruise offers a delicious dinner and cruise down to the Ryman for the exciting Opry Country Classics show, where you can enjoy a nostalgic retrospective of songs that have defined country music for generations of fans. For more info on The Music City Queen, check out the General Jackson site here: www.generaljackson.com/.
For anyone looking for a more intimate occasion where you can get down close to nature, the Blue Heron Cruise in Ashland City promises to offer a 90-minute cruise that will transport you to tranquility! You will be surprised at the abundance of nature located just 30 minutes northwest of Nashville, TN. Every cruise is a new experience, defined by the route, weather, wildlife, and passengers aboard! Along the way, bask in all the forms of wildlife including the blue heron and other wild birds, & turtles sunning themselves on branches along the shore. There's even a Kids' Adventure Cruise and several other "Theme Cruises" available. Just visit their site here: www.blueheroncruises.com
For someone adventurous, and looking to get more active, and involved in physical, competitive teamwork, join others like you down at the Cumberland for the 4th Annual Dragon Boat Races and River Festival at Riverfront Park, in Downtown Nashville. In Music City’s newest tradition, the Dragon Race, Twenty rowers, sitting in a long canoe-like vessel, must paddle in absolute harmony or victory is unattainable. A drummer sitting at the head of the boat sets the pace - "think Spartacus with less dying". Dragon boating started in China 2,500 years ago. The prows of the boats are decorated with a large, fearsome dragon head while a scaly, dragon tail curls from the stern. Check it out here: www.nashvilledragonboat.com
