Frequently Asked Questions

The following is a list of the most frequently asked questions about Volunteer Princess Cruises.  If you need further assistance or information that cannot be found on this site, please call our event planners at (865) 541-4556.

I want to make reservations for a cruise but do not have a credit/debit card.   Can I still make reservations?

Yes.  Our office is located at Volunteer Landing Marina in downtown Knoxville and is open Monday-Friday from 9:00-4:30 PM, or by appointment.  A reservation may be made at this location with cash.

Where do we park for the cruise?

Parking can be found under the bridge in the Ruth's Chris Parking lot.  There is a sign marked public parking.  Do not park in the Calhoun's/Riverboat spaces.  They will tow you.

What is your cancellation/refund policy?

Volunteer Princess Cruises cancellation policy states that cancellations for normal public cruises must be made 48 hours in advance to receive a refund.  This includes Brunch, Dinner, Taco, and Pizza cruises, but does not include special holiday cruises.  Cancellations for special holiday cruises must be made at least one week in advance.  Refunds will not given if you cancel after the noted grace period.  All cruises are subject to cancellation at the Captain's discretion for adverse weather or mechanical reasons.  All public cruises require a minimum of 20 passengers to set sail.  If a public cruise is cancelled due to a lack of reservations, your credit card will be issued a complete refund.

What is the dress attire?

For dinner cruises, we recommend men wear dress slacks with a dress shirt and women wear cocktail attire.  We do not have a dress code, but we hope our guests experience the special atmosphere to its fullest.  A dinner cruise aboard the Volunteer Princess is an opportunity to dress up!

For lunch and brunch cruises, we recommend dressy casual attire.

What is Boarding Time?

Boarding time is the earliest that you and your guests may board the ship.  Boarding time begins 30 minutes prior to departure time, unless noted otherwise.  You are welcome to board anytime after that up until the Cruise Time.  The ship will leave the dock at Cruise Time.  No boarding will be allowed once the ship has set sail.

What if it rains?

The Volunteer Princess will cruise in most weather conditions year round.  The yacht has two fully enclosed decks which are climate controlled, so weather will not affect your cruise.  In case of severe weather conditions or upon the direction of the United States Coast Guard, the yacht will remain dockside until weather permits.

Is there pre-assigned seating?

Yes, all tables are assigned.  As you board, our cruise coordinator will direct you to your assigned, private table.

How many people will I be seated with at our table?

The Volunteer Princess prides itself in providing each party their own private table.  Under no circumstance will you be seated at the same table with someone you do not know.

Where do I pick up my tickets?

Volunteer Princess Cruises does not issue tickets for public cruises.  Once your reservation has been made, all you have to do is check in with the cruise coordinator at boarding.

What is our cruise route?

The Volunteer Princess departs from Volunteer Landing Marina and heads downstream the Tennessee River.  The Volunteer Princess offers exclusive views of downtown Knoxville's riverfront from every table.  Various landmarks that can be seen on every cruise include the Sunsphere, Neyland Stadium, Thompson Boling Arena, the University of Tennessee, the beautiful multi million dollar homes in Sequoyah Hills, and Loony Island.  On cruises of 3 hours or more, Cherokee Country Club and Lakeshore park can be seen. 

When does the season end?

The Volunteer Princess is able to cruise all year round.  The Tennessee River does not freeze and is deep enough for us to navigate year round.  Also, since both decks are totally enclosed and climate controlled, you will always be in the comfort of heat or air conditioning.

What size groups can you accommodate?

We can accommodate groups from 2-149.  Please call our event planners if you have a date you are interested in.

Is the yacht handicap accessible?

Volunteer Princess Cruises can accommodate standard wheelchairs on the main deck of the yacht, however there is no elevator for access to the upper deck.  Please indicate when making your reservation that you have handicap guests in your party.

What beverages are served on the cruise?

Soft drinks, tea, beer, wine, and liquor drinks are available for purchase onboard at our cash bar.  Water and coffee are complimentary.

Do you offer vegetarian meals?

Yes.  If you have any special dietary concerns, please notify us prior to the cruise date so that special arrangements can be made.

Is smoking allowed on the cruise?

Smoking is allowed on the outside areas of the lower deck only.

Does my ticket price include gratuity?

No, Volunteer Princess Cruises does not include gratuity in the ticket price.  At the end of the cruise, your server will bring your final check to you including bar tabs.  The standard gratuity is between 15-20%.