The General Jackson Showboat in 2018

The General Jackson Showboat in 2018

 Photo: Eagledj, via Wikimedia Commons

The General Jackson Showboat — the kitschy and iconic Nashville institution ranking among the last remnants of bygone theme park Opryland USA — will soon cease operations after more than 40 years cruising along the Cumberland River.

Opry Entertainment Group confirmed the General Jackson’s closure in a statement provided to Nashville Post sister publication Nashville Scene on Monday, citing maintenance issues related to the boat. Its final public cruise will be held Dec. 15. 

“After an extensive evaluation, we have decided to retire the General Jackson Showboat due to ongoing maintenance challenges that have impacted its operating schedule,” the statement reads.