General Jackson Showboat to shut down after 40+ years on the Cumberland River

Driving the news: Opry Entertainment Group, which owns the vessel, said in a statement that ongoing maintenance problems prompted the decision to retire the boat.

• Mechanical difficulties forced the cancellation of the General Jackson's Fourth of July cruise this summer, disrupting plans for more than 1,200 would-be passengers, WSMV reported.
• The company subsequently advertised dockside-only entertainment while repairs kept the boat from cruising.

By the numbers: The 300-foot vessel began voyages in 1985 and can accommodate up to 1,000 passengers. It features four decks, including a theater for live performances.

What's next: The final public cruise is scheduled for Dec. 15.