A Seasonal Tradition on the Tennessee River
Every autumn, the Tennessee River gorge transforms into a canvas of breathtaking reds, oranges, and golds, making it one of the most stunning waterways in the Southeast. Erwin Marine Sales is proud to celebrate this natural beauty with our annual color cruise, a tradition that has become one of the highlights of the boating season. On Saturday, October 18th, 2025, boat owners from across the region will gather for an unforgettable two-hour scenic voyage that captures the best of fall from the water. Departing at 11:00 a.m. from our Riverfront Marina in downtown Chattanooga, the cruise will take us one hour into the gorge and one hour back, giving everyone on board front-row views of the spectacular fall foliage. The crisp autumn air, mirrored reflections on the river, and the camaraderie of fellow boaters make this event a standout in every sense. This is not simply a boat outing; it is a cherished moment to pause and enjoy the fleeting beauty of the season.
A Scenic Cruise and a Festive Return
After two hours on the water, we will return to the marina for a well-earned celebration. At 1:00 p.m., a delicious barbecue lunch will be served, complete with classic favorites, sodas, water, and beer for those who wish to enjoy a cold refreshment. Lunch is more than a meal; it is an opportunity to gather as a community, share stories from the morning’s color cruise, and spend time with friends who share a love for boating. Adding to the fun, participants will receive an exclusive event t-shirt, a token of the day and a reminder of the tradition. Please note that shirts are available only for those who join the cruise itself, making them exclusive.
The celebration does not end there, however. With lawn games like cornhole and football set up, the afternoon is filled with laughter and friendly competition. To cap it off, TVs will be tuned to the highly anticipated Tennessee vs. Alabama football game, giving everyone the chance to cheer on their team in great company. The color cruise may begin with the beauty of nature, but it extends into a full day of food, fun, and community.
Details and Logistics for Attendees
We want every boater to have a seamless experience at this year’s color cruise. Dock space reservations are available through Dockwa, ensuring peace of mind for those who prefer a reserved spot. Free docking will be offered along the hard wall during the day, while overnight docking will require a standard Dockwa reservation. For those navigating by water, Erwin Marine Sales will be monitoring VHF Channel 72 throughout the event, keeping communication simple and reliable. If you plan to arrive by car, convenient parking will be available across the street from the marina.
The event location at 201 Riverfront Parkway in downtown Chattanooga places participants in the heart of the action, with easy access to both the cruise and the day’s festivities. It is important to remember that this event is open exclusively to boat owners, and no free rides will be provided. This policy ensures that the tradition remains a gathering of the boating community, where everyone comes aboard their own vessel to share in the season’s beauty together.
A Day of Camaraderie and Lasting Memories
The color cruise is more than a day on the water; it is a way to celebrate what boating truly means. It is about connecting with friends, making new ones, and appreciating the gift of time spent outdoors. The Tennessee River gorge in the fall is a sight to behold, but what makes this event so special is the sense of community it fosters. From the moment the boats gather at the dock, there is a shared anticipation and excitement that sets the tone for the day.
The return to shore is equally rewarding, with a lively atmosphere where laughter fills the air and the day unfolds into a celebration that combines tradition with pure enjoyment. For many, this is a day marked on the calendar months in advance, and for good reason, it represents the perfect combination of boating, fall scenery, good food, and friendship. This year’s color cruise promises to be no different, offering memories that will last long after the final game whistle blows.
Event Highlights at a Glance
To help you plan your day, here are the highlights of the 2025 color cruise:
- Date: Saturday, October 18, 2025
- Location: 201 Riverfront Parkway, Chattanooga, TN 37402
- Departure: 11:00 a.m. sharp (two hours round-trip into the gorge)
- Lunch: Served at 1:00 p.m., featuring BBQ and drinks
- Exclusive T-Shirts: Available only for cruise participants
- Games: Cornhole, football, and the Tennessee vs. Alabama game on TV
- Docking: Free daytime docking at the hard wall, overnight reservations via Dockwa
- Communication: Tune to VHF Channel 72 for updates
Why This Tradition Matters
In a world where schedules are packed and time often feels fleeting, the color cruise offers something unique: an opportunity to slow down, take in the natural beauty of the season, and reconnect with what matters most. For boat owners, it is a reminder of why the water feels like home, particularly when shared with family and friends. For the Chattanooga community, it has become a cornerstone event, blending the best of the river with the best of fall. Whether this is your first year or you have joined us many times before, the 2025 color cruise will be a day to remember. We look forward to welcoming everyone aboard for a celebration of boating, autumn, and community spirit at its finest.