The Tennessee Aquarium's River Gorge Explorer is not your grandfather’s boat. Have you ever gone from 55 mph to 0 in 10 seconds or less? The 360° spins, 90° turns at cruise speeds and sudden stops are not things you expect while cruising the Tennessee River, but The River Gorge Explorer is not your ordinary boat.
Able to come from cruising speed to a dead stop with zero wake in less than 150’, this sleek, 70-foot catamaran powered by four Caterpillar diesel engines has been designed for just such an experience. In fact, this particular boat was the first of its kind ever to be commissioned and certified for use in a river such as the Tennessee. It is the only boat of its kind to operate in inland water anywhere in Europe or the U.S.
Besides being able to maneuver like no other, it can also be operated by remote control. The captain can be on the top deck and sidle up close enough to the dock to retrieve his lunch. Upon returning to berth, the captain snugs the boat up to the dock completely by remote control while the crew ties it off.
Comfortable captains chairs in a glass enclosed cabin let you ride in comfort as the naturalist entertains you with commentary about the history of sites on shore. Places with names like Moccasin Bend and rapids like the “Pan” and eddies like the “Suck”, made navigation on the river treacherous in earlier times.
Wildlife abounds along the banks of this stretch of the river known as the Grand Canyon of the South. Turkey, red-tailed hawks, bald eagles and deer can be spotted during the two-hour cruise. Sheer rock cliffs line the river.
Tales of early settlers, Indians and soldiers in Blue and Grey are spun as the “Explorer” winds its way toward the Nickajack.
The Explorer’s speed gives you an adrenalin rush from your comfortable cabin seats, but the top deck offers ample opportunity to get up close and personal as you feel the wind in your face and see eagles flying overhead.
When in Chattanooga, take time for an adventure. See nature at its best from the deck of the River Gorge Explorer. Tickets are available at the Tennessee Aquarium Ticket office. Reservations are suggested.
Side bar info: www.chattanoogafun.com
River Gorge Explorer tickets – Adults - $29.00
Child 3-12 yrs – 21.50
Child under 3 – 18.00
Aquarium/Imax/River Gorge Explorer combo Adult - $53.95
Child 3-12 - 37.95
Child under 3 – 18.00
Roger Curtis
mail@stbespresso.com