The 3 Best Cruises And Boat Tours in French Broad River Tennessee
The French Broad River in Tennessee offers more than just a scenic backdrop; it’s a playground for boaters, nature lovers, and thrill-seekers alike. Known for its strong current and scenic views, this river provides a variety of ways to experience its beauty—whether you’re zooming past islands at high speed or taking in the view from above. These tours are perfect for those who crave adventure, wildlife encounters, or a taste of local history.
From eco-adventures in Seven Islands State Birding Park to combined aerial and water thrills, there’s something to match different interests and energy levels. If you’re looking for a memorable day on the water (or sky), check out the options below.
Quick Overview
Our list features three standout tours: two Jet Boat Adventures that combine speed with sights, and a Thrilling Helicopter and Jet Boat Tour that mixes airborne views with fast-paced river action. All of these are highly rated, offering unique ways to explore the French Broad River. For more details on each, see the links provided: Jet Boat Adventure: Seven Islands State Birding Park Tour, Smoky Mountain Thrilling Helicopter and Jet Boat Tour, and Jet Boat Adventure in the Smokies: Dam Tour.
1. Jet Boat Adventure: Seven Islands State Birding Park Tour
For around $119 per person, this 50-minute eco-adventure (more info) takes you to Seven Islands State Park on the French Broad River, where wildlife and nature take center stage. This tour is designed for those who want to experience the river’s natural beauty while feeling the adrenaline rush of a powerful jet boat.
What makes this tour stand out is the chance to spot wildlife in their habitat, from herons to turtles, all while riding a jet boat that whips through the water at high speed. The boat tour’s expert guides are knowledgeable about the local ecosystem, making it educational as well as exciting. The boat itself is built for quick turns and splashes, providing a true thrill ride. Expect to see the river’s scenic views, with plenty of opportunities to take photos.
This tour is ideal for nature lovers who want a fast-paced experience with a bit of wildlife spotting thrown in. Reviewers praise the enthusiasm of the guides and the “breathtaking views,” with some calling it “the highlight of their trip.” The main drawback? Limited seating means early booking is a good idea.
Bottom line: An exhilarating ride packed with wildlife viewing opportunities, perfect for those short on time but craving a big adrenaline rush.
2. Smoky Mountain Thrilling Helicopter and Jet Boat Tour
This tour combines air and water thrills for $119 per person (more details), lasting about 1 hour. It’s the only tour that explicitly pairs a helicopter flight with a jet boat ride, giving you a multifaceted view of the French Broad River and the surrounding Smoky Mountains.
The experience begins with a helicopter ride over the river and nearby mountains, offering stunning aerial vistas that are perfect for photography. After the helicopter, you’ll jump into a jet boat for a high-speed cruise along the river, zipping past islands and wildlife habitats. The tour is designed to show off all facets of the landscape, making it ideal for those who want a rundown.
Reviews highlight the “amazing combination” and the “breathtaking views from above”, with many saying it’s a “must-do for thrill-seekers.” The helicopter portion is usually more relaxed but provides a great photo opportunity, while the jet boat delivers the adrenaline. The tour’s balanced mix of adventure and scenic beauty makes it stand out, especially for those who want more than just a boat ride.
Bottom line: Best suited for travelers craving both aerial and water adventure—an impressive way to experience the French Broad River landscape.
3. Jet Boat Adventure in the Smokies: Dam Tour
For just $74, this 25-minute jet boat tour (full info) offers a compact but memorable visit to Douglas Dam on the French Broad River. It’s perfect for those short on time but still wanting a dose of excitement and history.
The trip takes you to see the historic Douglas Dam, an engineering marvel that has played a crucial role in regional power generation. During the ride, you’ll likely spot a bald eagle hunting for its next meal, adding a wildlife element to the experience. The boat is capable of quick turns, giving you a fun thrill ride as you approach the dam. Guides share insights about the dam’s history and its importance to the area, making the tour both entertaining and informative.
Because of its shorter duration, this tour is a great option for families or travelers with limited time. Reviewers often mention the “close-up views of the dam” and the chance to learn about its engineering. The price-to-value ratio is excellent, especially for a quick, high-energy outing.
Bottom line: An excellent choice for history-minded travelers or those wanting a quick, exciting, and educational boat ride.
How to Choose
When deciding between these tours, consider your budget, available time, and interests. If you want an intense wildlife and river experience in a short time, the Jet Boat Adventure offers a quick thrill. For those seeking a more comprehensive view combining aerial and water adventures, the Smoky Mountain Thrilling Helicopter and Jet Boat Tour provides a full-package experience. Meanwhile, the Dam Tour is perfect if you’re short on time but want a focused visit with a dose of history and wildlife.
Booking early is wise, especially during peak seasons, as these tours tend to fill up quickly. Check availability and start times in advance to plan your perfect day on the river.
Final Thoughts
The French Broad River offers a variety of ways to explore its waters, from adrenaline-pumping jet boats to scenic aerial views. For travelers interested in wildlife and nature, the Seven Islands State Birding Park tour provides an active way to see the local ecosystem. If you’re looking for a multisensory experience combining sky and water, the Helicopter and Jet Boat tour is hard to beat.
And for those short on time but still craving excitement, the Dam Tour offers a compact, educational adventure filled with wildlife encounters. Whichever you choose, early booking is recommended to ensure you don’t miss out on these popular adventures.