Best Boat & Sunset Cruises in Nashville: Skyline, Lakes & BYOB Fun

There’s something magical about seeing Nashville from the water. As the sun dips low and the city lights begin to glow, the Cumberland River transforms into a stage for skyline views, music, and good times with friends. But Nashville isn’t just about downtown river cruises — just outside the city, lakes like Old Hickory and Percy Priest offer a completely different vibe. Whether you’re looking for a BYOB party boat, a romantic sunset ride, or a full-blown lake day with slides and swimming, Nashville has a cruise for every mood. Let’s dive into the best boat and sunset cruises you can book right now.

Why Take a Boat or Sunset Cruise in Nashville?

A Different Perspective on Music City
Most visitors experience Nashville from Broadway honky-tonks or rooftop bars. A cruise gives you a front-row seat to the skyline — bridges lit up, stadiums glowing, and the city shimmering on the water.

Escape the Downtown Crowds
The river offers open air and room to breathe, while lakes like Old Hickory and Percy Priest feel like true getaways, just 30–40 minutes from downtown. With transportation included for some tours, you don’t even need a car to trade neon lights for shoreline views.

Perfect for Groups
From bachelor and bachelorette parties to family outings, a boat cruise makes planning simple. Bring your own drinks, cue up the playlist, and let the captain handle the rest.

Memorable Moments
Sunset on the water is always special. Whether it’s a skyline photo with friends, a toast as the sky turns pink, or a cannonball off a pontoon slide, these are the kinds of Nashville memories you’ll talk about long after the trip.

Top Boat & Sunset Cruises in Nashville

Public Downtown Tiki Boat Cruise (Cumberland River)
The classic Nashville BYOB river cruise. For 90 minutes, you and your group float down the Cumberland with skyline views, tropical décor, Bluetooth speakers, and an island-style party vibe. Perfect for bachelorette groups, birthdays, or anyone who wants a lively pregame before hitting Broadway.

Private Sunset Tiki Boat Cruise (Cumberland River)
Looking for exclusivity? This private option gives your group the boat to yourselves. It’s the same skyline and tiki fun, but with the intimacy of a private celebration. Ideal for couples, families, or groups who want to kick back without sharing space.

Old Hickory Lake Tiki Boat Cruise
Just 30–40 minutes outside the city, Old Hickory Lake offers a slower, more scenic escape. This cruise trades downtown neon for shoreline views, calm waters, and a laid-back tiki bar atmosphere. Still BYOB, still fun, but more about relaxing than raging.

Nashville Toons Double-Decker Pontoon (Percy Priest Lake)
Think of this as Nashville’s ultimate lake day. A double-decker pontoon with slides, sunshine, and space for big groups. With roundtrip transportation from downtown included, it’s convenient too. Perfect for bachelor/bachelorette parties who want to swim, sip, and celebrate off the beaten path.

Pontoon Saloon (Cumberland River)
One of Nashville’s most well-known party cruises, the Pontoon Saloon offers themed rides like Mimosa Cruises, Sunset Cruises, and all-out DJ-hosted parties. It’s a social, high-energy way to meet fellow travelers while soaking in the skyline.

General Jackson Showboat (Cumberland River)
For something completely different, step aboard a paddlewheel riverboat for dinner, drinks, and live entertainment. This classic Nashville experience is less about partying and more about mixing Southern dining with music and scenic views.

How to Choose the Right Cruise for You

• For Skyline Party Vibes: Public Tiki Boat Cruise or Pontoon Saloon.

• For Romantic or Private Groups: Private Sunset Tiki Boat or Old Hickory Lake Tiki Cruise.

• For a Full Lake Day Adventure: Nashville Toons on Percy Priest Lake.

• For Classic Southern Charm: General Jackson Showboat.

Think about your group size, mood (party vs. chill), and whether you want downtown convenience or a lake escape.

Tips for Making the Most of Your Sunset Cruise

• Book early — sunset slots fill up quickly.

• BYOB wisely — check policies for cans vs. glass, and bring a cooler if allowed.

• Dress for the weather — light layers, sunglasses, maybe even a swimsuit if your boat has slides.

• Charge your phone — between skyline photos and group selfies, you’ll need it.

• Plan your night — pair a cruise with dinner or Broadway honky-tonks for the ultimate Nashville evening.

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re gliding past the skyline on the Cumberland or making a splash on Percy Priest Lake, a boat cruise is one of the most memorable ways to experience Nashville. From party-ready tiki boats to romantic sunset rides and double-decker pontoons with slides, there’s a cruise for every type of traveler.

👉 Ready to book? Check out the Public Tiki Boat Cruise or Private Sunset Tiki Boat Cruise to start planning your time on the water.