NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WZTV) — The General Jackson Showboat will be retired after more than four decades on the Cumberland River, Opry Entertainment Group said, citing ongoing maintenance challenges that have affected its operating schedule.
The company told FOX 17 News it made the decision after an extensive evaluation that led to the discovery of maintenance issues.
“After an extensive evaluation, we have decided to retire the General Jackson Showboat due to ongoing maintenance challenges that have impacted its operating schedule. For many years, the General Jackson has offered visitors a unique way to connect with Nashville, and we are grateful to the teams who brought the experience to life,” the company told FOX 17 News. “Although the chapter is closing on the General Jackson, we remain committed to offering attractions and entertainment across our portfolio that feature the rich talent and music culture that have made Nashville a world-famous entertainment destination.”
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Opry Entertainment Group said all dates currently listed on the public cruising calendar are expected to sail.
A Nashville attraction since 1985
The modern General Jackson began as an Opryland project. Opryland announced plans for the showboat in 1983, and Jeffersonville, Indiana-based Jeffboat built it as a four-deck paddle-wheel vessel. The boat launched into the Ohio River on April 20, 1985, and was christened in Nashville on July 2 of that year…