Summer boat cruises now offered at Reelfoot Lake

By Robert Cloar
If you get the chance, take the Scenic Boat Cruise on Reelfoot at least once in your life. You can drive around the highway and see the lake or you can get in the cruise boat and experience the lake.
It’s one of the oldest traditions at Reelfoot, or for any of Tennessee’s state parks for that matter, and is truly a must for anyone who enjoys Reelfoot Lake.
Since 1961, cruise boats piloted by experienced naturalists have provided the best way to view Reelfoot’s most interesting areas without fishing or duck hunting.
The cruise tours the islands, flooded timber and lily pads while State Park naturalists provide insight and information about all aspects of the lake.
It’s a great opportunity to view birds, including Great Blue Herons and the occasional Bald Eagle, as well as the diverse aquatic plants. You might even see a snake or two.
Take it from someone who has taken the cruise, it’s something you will never forget. It’s been almost 25 years since I took my first cruise and I still remember it well. So, make the time, get the family together, and take a relaxing trip around Reelfoot. You won’t regret it.
Interpretive cruises depart from the Visitor Center/Ellington Assembly Hall at 9 a.m. daily, May through October (weather permitting). The tour is approximately three hours long.
Short cruises are offered on weekends and holidays at 1:30 and 2:45 p.m. This cruise is approximately one hour long.
Sunset cruises are also available on a limited basis on Saturday nights at 6 p.m. Sunset cruises last approximately two hours. Make sure to call for dates available.
Reservations are required. Call 731-253-9652 to make your reservation.
PRICES ARE AS FOLLOWS:
Long Cruise and Sunset Cruise — $9 for adults
Long Cruise and Sunset Cruise — $6 for children under 16 years old
Short Cruise — $6 per person/all ages
WCP 5.14.09

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