Each 90 minute cruise will begin as passengers board the River Gorge Explorer at the Chattanooga Pier next to the Tennessee Aquarium.  Four water jets will propel this catamaran-style watercraft smoothly and swiftly downstream.  Angled seating will allow each guest to relax in the climate-controlled cabin and enjoy the scenic beauty and wildlife through oversized windows and overhead sky panes. An onboard concession kiosk will offer guests an opportunity to purchase refreshments.

Once inside the Gorge, guests will step out onto a topside viewing deck to enjoy searching for eagles, osprey and other animals that live within this protected habitat.  A Tennessee Aquarium naturalist will point out native plants and animals, discuss the rich history of the Gorge and emphasize the importance of conservation efforts.

The Tennessee River Gorge Trust has been able to preserve over 16,000 acres of land within this incredibly rich area. The right combination of geographic location and terrain has produced micro-climates sustaining one of the most biologically diverse ecosystems in the world.

The Gorge is home to more than 1,000 varieties of plants, and hundreds of animal species and has been designated a United Nation’s Biosphere Reserve. The vast, unbroken habitat bordering the river makes this stretch of Tennessee a birder’s paradise. Neo-tropical migratory species as well as native songbirds and raptors thrive within this protected habitat.

Historically, the area has been a cradle of civilization providing people with all the essential ingredients for survival.  In fact, archaeological sites on Williams Island suggest people have been hunting, gathering and farming in the Gorge since the end of the last ice age, 10 to12,000 years ago. More recent history reminds us of the raging waters of a wilder Tennessee River and the navigational hazards early American settlers had to contend with. The Gorge also played a role in the course of the Civil War.

Now the journey that takes you from the mountains to the sea in the two Aquarium buildings will be deepened.  This will be a real opportunity to build on the freshwater to saltwater learning experience by adventuring into this amazing habitat aboard the River Gorge Explorer.

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The Tennessee Aquarium inspires wonder and appreciation for the natural world. Aquarium admission is $19.95 per adult and $12.95 per child, ages 3-12. Each ticket purchased helps support Aquarium conservation programs. The IMAX® 3D Theater is next door to the Aquarium. Ticket prices are $8.50 per adult and $6.00 per child. Aquarium/IMAX combo tickets are $25.95 for adults and $17.95 for children. Advance tickets may be purchased online at www.tnaqua.org or by phone at 1-800-262-0695. The Aquarium, located on the banks of the Tennessee River in Chattanooga, is a non-profit organization. Open every day except Thanksgiving and Christmas, the Aquarium and IMAX are accessible to people with disabilities. Members enjoy unlimited visits and other benefits. Call 267-FISH to join.

ONLINE press kits & downloadable images: http://www.tnaqua.org/Newsroom/Newsroom.asp