Chattanooga, Tenn.- The Tennessee Aquarium is now offering an
exciting new journey on the Chattanooga Riverfront. Visitors
have the opportunity to extend their Aquarium experience by venturing
into the heart of "Tennessee's Grand Canyon." The River Gorge
Explorer transports as many as 70 passengers - up to five times
daily - into the Gorge to experience this unspoiled stretch of
the Tennessee River. This hi-speed catamaran is the first of
its kind to operate on an inland waterway in North America. 




Boarding the Tennessee Aquarium's River Gorge Explorer is an
experience unlike any other for most guests.  The sleek design
of this vessel is packed with extraordinary technology that enhances
the boat's performance and passenger comfort.



The River Gorge Explorer launches at the Chattanooga Pier next
to the Tennessee Aquarium.  Four water jets propel this catamaran-style
watercraft smoothly and swiftly downstream during each 90 minute
cruise. Angled seating allows 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 offers
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.



Tennessee Aquarium member prices will be $24 for adults and
$18 per child. Pricing for non-members will be $29 for adults
and $ 21.50 per child. All children under 3 riding the River
Gorge Explorer will be charged $18.00. They are counted as a
passenger according to U.S. Coast Guard Regulations. The River
Gorge Explorer will also be available for private company outings
or special events.



Tennessee Aquarium's River Gorge Explorer Specifications



Overall length- 65 feet

Beam- 23.5 feet

Draft at rest- 3 feet

Cruising draft- Less than one foot

Engines- Caterpillar C-18

Rating- 875 horsepower / 2300 rpm

Max Speed- 50 mph (approx.)

Passengers- 70

Certification- U.S. Coast Guard, Subchapter T



The Tennessee Aquarium inspires wonder and appreciation for
the natural world. 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