Absolutely Perfect In All Ways
My Friend and I went on the Riverboat Twilight and it was the most perfect/awesome adventure! From reserving our trip to our final walk to our car after the two day cruise, all was perfect! Staff are amazing, from the Captain to the servers, to the musical entertainers. The food is suburb and generous! Everything is very well organized, from our luggage/hotel in Dubuque/seating for meals, free shuttles in Dubuque, etc! The scenery and info along the way from the captain was wonderful! This was an absolutely perfect two day cruise, and we are going again in Mid October as we loved it so much!!.
Karen V Pella, Iowa
History Along The Mississippi
Along the Mississippi River is a story of American history that runs through wars, flows through culinary traditions, and wades along the vibrant jazz scene. Road Scholar has local experts who will be on the southern journey to discover the natural, political, military, and music history from Minnesota to New Orleans.
Mississippi River Gateway Cruise
On this 11-day Mississippi River Gateway cruise, cruise the Mississippi River from the banks of the Bayou to the shores of St. Louis. Embark on a modern riverboat and enjoy guided excursions to famous port cities, locally inspired cuisine, and a full array of small ship amenities.
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Lower Mississippi River Cruise
On this 8-day Lower Mississippi River cruise sailing between New Orleans, Louisiana and Memphis, Tennessee, enjoy customized excursions from iconic ports in Oak Alley and Natchez where you gain an insiders perspective of classic antebellum homes and renowned plantations.
Cruises On The Mississippi River
Mississippi River cruise itineraries are usually separated into the Upper and Lower part of the river. The Upper Mississippi is generally considered to be between St. Louis, Missouri and St. Paul, Minnesota and the Lower Mississippi is between Memphis, Tennessee and New Orleans, Louisiana. Cruises are sometimes combined with other waterways, such as the Ohio River and the Tennessee River.
Since the weather tends to be warmer in the southeastern United States, travel on the Lower Mississippi is available during most of the year while cruises on the Upper Mississippi are more seasonal and usually only available between June and October.
American Queen Steamboat Company is offering some quick, easy voyages from New Orleans aboard American Duchess to ring in this year and next. Photo courtesy of American Queen Steamboat Company
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Viking Mississippi Float Out
February 2022. The 386-guest Viking Mississippi® was floated out in Louisiana, marking a major construction milestone and the first time the ship has touched water. Set to debut in summer 2022, the Viking Mississippi will sail Vikings highly anticipated voyages on the Lower and Upper Mississippi River, between New Orleans and St. Paul.
Popular Ports On The Mississippi
You can cruise all the way from New Orleans to St. Paul or Minneapolis along the length of the Mississippi or choose from shorter itineraries spanning a portion of the river. Typically, cruises along the Lower Mississippi travel between New Orleans and Memphis, Tennessee, while ships on the Upper Mississippi sail between St. Louis and the Twin Cities. Highlights at popular stops along the river include Cajun culture in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, the iconic Gateway Arch in St. Louis, Civil War history in Vicksburg, Mississippi, music and BBQ in Memphis, and plenty of charming small towns and picturesque views along the way.
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Mississippi Holiday Season Memphis To New Orleans
Discover the history and charm of the Lower Mississippi on this special voyage. Stroll to the beat of Christmas jazz, savor Cajun cuisine and shop for festive treasures in New Orleans marvel at Christmas light displays and decorated historic homes in Baton Rouge and Natchez and discover Memphis, complete… Read MoreDiscover the history and charm of the Lower Mississippi on this special voyage. Stroll to the beat of Christmas jazz, savor Cajun cuisine and shop for festive treasures in New Orleans marvel at Christmas light displays and decorated historic homes in Baton Rouge and Natchez and discover Memphis, complete with exclusive Privileged Access to Graceland, decorated for Christmas. Onboard festivities include special celebratory regional dining, seasonal treats and more to celebrate the holidays.
Starting at: $4,299
Experience Travel With Road Scholar
Climb aboard a river cruise to learn about a new destination from a unique point of view. At Road Scholar, we offer two educational riverboat cruises on the Mississippi. Free round-trip airfare is available from select cities across the United States.
Enroll now at Road Scholar now and get access to riverboat travel guides and information about the other riverboat cruises and ocean voyages that we offer in the United States.
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Complete Mississippi River Cruise
On this 16-day Complete Mississippi River Cruise from Minneapolis to New Orleans, watch landscapes, cultures and even language transform each new experience as rare and beautiful as the last. Traversing the entire Mississippi River is a true bucket-list experience.
Usa River Cruises: Your Destination Awaits
Our booking agents are ready to answer any questions you may have and to accommodate any and all special needs.
Each member of our staff is uniquely qualified to customize the trip of a lifetime. Most of us have taken these cruises ourselves and are intimately familiar with every detail of the journey, making us the best possible resource for you.
USA River Cruises specializes in rail trips and small-ship cruises. This means our ships typically hold fewer than 900 passengers more often than not its much fewer than that!
Were based in Vancouver, Washington, just across the mighty Columbia River from Portland, Oregon. Thus, our passion began locally, with ships on the Columbia. However, we have grown to appreciate river cruise vacations all over the United States as well as all over the world!
Our agents are friendly and responsive most have personal experience on board many of our ships. Thats why USA River Cruise agents are the small-ship cruising and cruise vacation experts.
- May 15, 2023,June 19, 2023
St. Paul to New Orleans
New Orleans to St. Paul
St. Paul to New Orleans
New Orleans to St. Paul
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How Much Does The Viking Mississippi Cost
Available rooms on a Jan. 7 round-trip cruise from New Orleans, with stops in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, and Natchez, Mississippi, among others, start at $3,999 per person based on double occupancy, according to Viking’s website.
The fare includes port taxes and fees, a shore excursion at each port, complimentary Wi-Fi, all meals, wine, beer and soft drinks with lunch and dinner, and more.
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Wonderful Relaxing Two Days
Extremely enjoyable trip. The cruise itself was delightful as you slowly moved up and down the river enjoying the wildlife and listening to the Captain explain the view and history. Unless you are a very big eater you have to be selective as they feed you FIVE times a day. Not only is the food plentiful but it is also very good. The Grand Resort in Dubuque was a nice stay as we had a view of the river. There was adequate time to explore some of the sights In Dubuque. I think we will do this trip again in the future.
Ron S. Tipton, Iowa
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Mississippi Holiday And Vacation Packages Reviews
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“Accommodation was great.The optional tours were well worth visiting. Lots of music….”
Rhythms of the South
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“Our guide Austin Coop was excellent. He was attentive and knowledgable. One man on…”
Tastes and Sounds of the South
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“Ottima organizzazione sotto tutti i punti di vista, Peter è stato travolgente.”
America’s Musical Heritage
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“Got to be the best music tour ever! Brilliant holiday visiting the three most well…”
Bourbon, Beale & Broadway!
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“The tour was well organised, interesting and fun. It was a very easy and enjoyable…”
Southern Sounds
About La Crosse Queen Cruises
Cruise back in time and explore the Upper Mississippi with us! The La Crosse Queenis a modern-day replica of the grand river boats that plied the Mississippi River in the early 1900s. Cruising out of La Crosse, Wisconsin, she is one of the few authentic Mississippi River paddlewheel river boats still in operation in the United States today. In keeping with early traditions, she was built with sternwheels that are her only means of propulsion.
The La Crosse Queen has a split sternwheel, and each half is run by a twin diesel engine that powers hydraulic motors, which turn the paddles. The split paddlewheel gives the Queen greater maneuverability and dependability. This is in contrast to most Mississippi River paddlewheelers in operation today that have a free wheeling paddlewheel at the stern of the boat for visual effect, but have traditional screw-type engines hidden for their real means of propulsion.
The La Crosse Queen is U.S. Coast Guard inspected for safety and is licensed to carry up to 149 passengers.
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Choosing A Mississippi River Cruise Itinerary
Because it is so long, the Mississippi River is usually divided into three parts. Each segment typically takes a week, or you can combine them for a three-week cruise. The scenery along the river is generally prettier and the wildlife more prevalent the farther north you are on the river. All segments can be done in either direction.
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Keep in mind that sailing against the current slows the boat and generally means fewer ports or less time in port, but you’ll have more time to relax onboard.
Lower Mississippi : A weeklong sailing, which can run in either direction, this stretch of the river can include port stops like Oak Alley and Nottoway plantations, Baton Rouge and St. Francisville in Louisiana Natchez, Vicksburg and Greenville in Mississippi and Helena, Arkansas. The occasional New Orleans cruise, which can run from five to seven days, typically visits the same ports, minus Memphis.
Middle Mississippi : Also weeklong itineraries that can run in either direction, these sailings typically feature stops at New Madrid and Cape Girardeau, Missouri Paducah, Kentucky and Chester, Illinois. Memphis to St. Louis sailings feature more scenic sailing and fewer port stops than other Mississippi itineraries, and, as such, fewer of these itineraries are offered.
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Mississippi and Ohio rivers: Some Mississippi River sailings also spend time visiting Ohio River ports.
Mississippi River Cruise Lines
There are three main cruise lines that offer itineraries along the Mississippi River: Viking River Cruises, American Queen Voyages, and American Cruise Lines. Viking is known for its luxury river, ocean, and expedition cruises to incredible destinations around the world, and the Mississippi itineraries are a newer addition to its wide range of river cruises, offered aboard the new Viking Mississippi ship. American Queen Voyages offers several cruises along the Mississippi on paddle wheel steamboats like the American Queen.
American Cruise Lines has both new, modern riverboats and paddle wheelers, so you can choose your ideal sailing experience depending on your itinerary. These cruise lines all offer similar itineraries along the river, so we recommend looking into the ships and amenities on board and finding what’s included in the rate to help make your decision.
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Heart Of The Delta Memphis To New Orleans
Immerse yourself in history and heritage on this journey from New Orleans to Memphis. Soak up the rich French and Acadian cultures that infuse the Lower Mississippi, and be inspired by the stories of famed musicians and civil rights heroes. Savor delicious Cajun and Creole cuisine, as well as Memphiss… Read MoreImmerse yourself in history and heritage on this journey from New Orleans to Memphis. Soak up the rich French and Acadian cultures that infuse the Lower Mississippi, and be inspired by the stories of famed musicians and civil rights heroes. Savor delicious Cajun and Creole cuisine, as well as Memphiss famous BBQ. And stir your soul with the rhythms of Dixieland jazz, Delta blues and gospel.
Starting at: $3,999
Graceful Traditions Of The Era Of Steamboat Travel With Modern
Spacious luxury awaits aboard the American Duchess, a boutique-style riverboat that combines modern day amenities with a nod to the graceful era of steamboat travel. With some of the largest accommodations on the Mississippi River, the ship is home to 83 comfortable staterooms and balconied suites ranging from 180 to 550 square feet. Unique to the American Duchess are her Loft Suites, which feature two stories enhanced by floor-to-ceiling windows, two full bathrooms, a comfortable dining area, a beautiful lounge with a queen sofa-bed, a private balcony and an upstairs bedroom.
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Mississippi River Cruise Tips
Prepare for small towns. Itineraries might incorporate major cities like New Orleans and Memphis as cornerstones, but your experience will also focus on smaller towns along the way.
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Prepare for calm waters. Inland waterways are much calmer than those on ocean-based trips, which is great news if you’re prone to seasickness.
Listen up. Because of the short distances between ports, full days of river cruising are rare. However, when you spend time sailing, there is usually commentary from a “riverlorian” over the public address system explaining some of the sights you pass.
Mother Nature rules. The same way a hurricane might force an oceangoing cruise ship to change course, bad weather on the rivers can alter itineraries. In particular, heavy rain and droughts can make or break a river trip. For instance, one year’s drought along the Mississippi River kept waters so low that riverboats couldn’t sail upriver, and operators had to push some of their Upper Mississippi sailings onto the Ohio. Another year, too much rain flooded the river, making it impossible for riverboats to get under bridges and forcing the closing of several locks. The result was the same as during the drought. Boats scheduled to sail the Upper Mississippi were diverted onto the Ohio.
Mississippi River Port Highlights
New Orleans, Louisiana: Thick with atmosphere, New Orleans is world-famous for its annual Mardi Gras celebration, beautiful French Quarter neighborhood, great Southern and Creole cooking and some of the world’s best jazz music.
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Vicksburg, Mississippi: The site of a famous Civil War battlefield, Vicksburg also offers visitors a glimpse into its Southern heritage with antebellum plantations, old churches and restored train depots. A popular attraction is National Military Park, where visitors can learn about the siege and defense of the city. The park includes more than 1,370 monuments and markers, a restored Union gunboat and a national cemetery. Boat-lovers might like the Old Depot Museum, which features the world’s largest collection of ship models, as well as a collection of riverboat models and U.S. Navy ships with Mississippi names.
Baton Rouge, Louisiana: Louisiana’s state capital is an intriguing mixture of African-American and Caribbean cultures and a hot spot for Creole and Cajun cuisine. Visit Louisiana’s Old State Capitol or new state capitol building — or head to the LSU Rural Life Museum for a showcase of what life was like on a typical 19th century plantation. Visit the kitchen, slave cabins and grist mill before touring a replica of the town.
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Upper Mississippi River Cruise St Louis To Minneapolis
This luxury 9-day Upper Mississippi River cruise between St. Louis and Minneapolis offers adventure, beauty and comfort to all who embark upon it. The Upper Mississippi River offers the opportunity to explore the territory that served as Mark Twains muse.
What Else Do Travelers Need To Know
The Viking Mississippi has nine accessible staterooms. Viking asks guests with disabilities to travel with “an able-bodied companion who can assist them as the staff is not permitted to lift guests or push wheelchairs,” according to its website.
Passengers who use wheelchairs must bring their own with the exception of emergencies and fill out an accessibility form at least 30 days before their trip. They can request a copy of the form by calling 1-877-668-4546.
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Highlights Of The Mississippi River
A Mississippi River cruise offers the rare opportunity to sail through America’s heartland on the worlds #1 river cruise line. Explore picturesque towns and boom cities take in views of pastoral farms and towering bluffs and immerse yourself in the region’s rich history and culture with an included excursion in every port. Here are a few highlights Viking reveals to you:
- Festive French Quarter and Creole cuisine in New Orleans
- Cajun heritage in Baton Rouge
- Civil War history at Vicksburg National Military Park
- Memphis BBQ, Graceland and appreciation of the Delta Blues
- Steamboat sailings with diverse wildlife sightings
- Up close look at Americas national symbol, the bald eagle
- Gateway Arch in St. Louis and the pioneering spirit of the Midwest
- Norwegian cultural experience at Vesterheim
- Intricate locks and dams of the Upper Mississippi
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Mississippi Holiday Season New Orleans To Memphis
Discover the history and charm of the Lower Mississippi on this special voyage. Stroll to the beat of Christmas jazz, savor Cajun cuisine and shop for festive treasures in New Orleans marvel at Christmas light displays and decorated historic homes in Baton Rouge and Natchez and discover Memphis, complete… Read MoreDiscover the history and charm of the Lower Mississippi on this special voyage. Stroll to the beat of Christmas jazz, savor Cajun cuisine and shop for festive treasures in New Orleans marvel at Christmas light displays and decorated historic homes in Baton Rouge and Natchez and discover Memphis, complete with exclusive Privileged Access to Graceland, decorated for Christmas. Onboard festivities include special celebratory regional dining, seasonal treats and more to celebrate the holidays.
Starting at: $4,349
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