FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
+ RENTAL BOAT
Do I need a boating license to operate an RGE boat?
To rent a boat you must have one of the following:
Valid Tennessee boaters license (bring a copy to your reservation)
Born before 1/1/1989 with a valid state driver's license and previous boating experience
Equivalent state boaters license (if out of state, bring a copy to your reservation)
-We require all renters to take the following course. [1]: https://www.rentalboatsafety.com/power-boats
+ What is the age requirement to rent and drive a boat?
You must be 25 years of age to rent a boat with a valid state drivers license.
+ Where do I park if I am renting a boat?
Please plan to arrive 15 minutes before your reservation and park at our location, 3 cars max per group. We recommend groups carpooling or you can do a pick up at the Suck Creek boat ramp.
+ What is permitted and NOT permitted on the boats?
Food, drinks, and pets (a nonrefundable pet deposit of $50) are permitted. No grills, no swimming while the motor is on, no pulling any tubes or floats, no towing other boats, everyone must stay seated while the boat is in motion, no sitting on the railings, boat gates must be closed while the boat is moving, no anchoring or swimming in the middle of the river (you can anchor just not in the middle), no jumping off double-decker boat, no riding on top of the double-decker are permitted.
+ Can we pull inflatable tubes or water skis behind the boat?
No, you are not allowed to tow anything behind the boats.
+ Can I go through the channel locks?
Going through the channel locks is not permitted!
+ How many people can fit on a boat?
Our Silver Wave and 2021 Suntracker can fit up to 8 people and our 30 ft Suntracker can fit 12 people.
+ Does RGE provide fuel?
The boat is full of fuel when the customer departs and will be refueled at the end of the rental at the customer’s expense. The amount of fuel will be deducted from the deposit or the customer can pay directly.
+ Are there restrooms on the boats?
No
Where can I find the Boat Rental Waiver and Agreement documents?
Both the Pontoon Rental Agreement and Wavier are found on the booking confirmation email. Please sign and bring to your reservation or email signed documents to jesse@rivergorgeexcursions.com.
+ TOURS
How long is the tour?
2 hours
Where do you go on the river?
The tours are along the beautiful Tennessee River Gorge. The tour starts at Suck Creek, goes to Raccoon Mtn., and ends at the starting point.
How many people can reserve a tour?
6 people
Are tours private?
Yes, they are private for groups . Our tours can hold up to 6 people in a group.
Can I bring food or drinks on the boat?
Yes, you can bring any food or drink on the boat tours/rentals.
+ Where do I park if I am going on a tour?
Please plan to arrive 15 minutes before your reservation and park at our location, 2 cars max per group. We recommend groups carpooling.
+ SAFETY
+ Do lifejackets have to be worn on the boat?
All children ages 12 and younger are required to wear a Coast Guard approved PFD while on the open deck of a recreational boat except when anchored, moored, or aground. One wearable device of the appropriate size must be on board for each person in the boat or each person being towed. River Gorge Excursions recommends that PFDs be worn by everyone at all times.
+ Are the boats accessible for everyone?
Yes, we can make it accessible for anyone!
+ Is alcohol allowed on the boats?
Alcohol is allowed on the boats, however the driver can not drink.
+ Can we pull inflatable tubes or water skis behind the boat?
No, you are not allowed to tow anything behind the boats.
+ What if the boat breaks down or runs out of fuel?
If the boat runs out of fuel, it will be a minimum $50 fee plus the price of fuel depending on how far away you are. If the boat breaks down, we will come to get you and assess if it was the boat or operator's fault.
+ What if we lose or break the anchor provided on the boat?
There is a $50 charge credited to the payment used/provided.
+ CANCELLATION POLICY
+ How do I cancel or modify my reservation or tour?
You must call at (423) 987-1711 or email us!
+ What happens if I cancel my reservation?
We have a 7-day cancellation policy. If you cancel before the seven days, you will get a full refund. If you cancel between one week to 48 hours before your reservation, you will receive half a refund. If you cancel within 48 hours NO refunds will be given.
+ What is RGE's no-show policy?
No refunds are given if there is a cancellation within 48 hours!
+ What if there is bad weather?
If 75% of the rental time is complete there will be no reimbursement. However, if it is severe weather, we will prorate the rental amount and if severe weather cancels the reservation, we will refund or reschedule the boat rental. If you leave in the Chattanooga area, you must reschedule if due to weather. If you have to reschedule it is your responsibility to get back with us for a new date.