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Baton Rouge River Cruises

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Contact Info, Karron Alford Director of Marketing & Technology [email protected]

After a year of cancellations, Louisiana’s capital city prepares to welcome passengers this week  

Baton Rouge (March 22, 2021)—Mississippi River Cruises have set sail as current CDC provisions are allowing U.S. based river cruises to return to the waterways. On Tuesday, March 23, Baton Rouge is set to welcome passengers aboard one of American Cruise Lines modern riverboats. This will be followed by the arrival of American Queen Steamboat Company’s arrival on March 27.

American Jazz, the first riverboat to arrive, is scheduled to dock around 7 a.m. on Tuesday, March 23 with an estimated departure time of 5 p.m. Visit Baton Rouge staff members will be there to welcome the passengers that morning. American Duchess, a paddlewheel riverboat with the American Queen Steamboat Company will arrive early on Saturday, March 27. As with all incoming river cruises, times of arrival and departure are subject to change.

Just over a year ago, downtown Baton Rouge’s City Dock saw less traffic as river cruises came to a sudden halt due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The two companies, American Cruise Lines and American Queen Steamboat Company welcomed their last pre-pandemic riverboats on March 10 and March 11, 2020. In total, Baton Rouge saw a total of 145 riverboat docking cancellations due to the pandemic.

Paul Arrigo, Visit Baton Rouge’s President and CEO says, “The return of the riverboats to our city falls in line with was the data shows us at it relates to the willingness people have to travel. We feel that now with the COVID-19 vaccine being administered we’re in a better position to safely welcome our visitors.”

Between the two companies, American Queen Steamboat Company and American Cruise Lines, there are a total of seven riverboats scheduled to dock in downtown Baton Rouge throughout the year with an estimated 100 riverboat arrivals this year. The companies are following strict guidelines that may include limited capacity on the riverboats and changes to the passenger’s schedules and tours while docked in Baton Rouge.

Alexa Paolella, American Cruise Lines Manager of Public Relations adds, “American Cruise Lines is delighted to begin operating again on the Mississippi River. American Jazz , our brand new modern riverboat, departed on Sunday, March 21, from New Orleans on a 7 night cruise to Memphis. This follows our resumption of cruises in the Southeastern U.S. on March 13. We appreciate the support of the communities we visit and are proud to be back to work with our local business partners in each port of call. We look forward to visiting and supporting the wonderful towns along the Mississippi River.”

Among those looking forward to the riverboats returning are local business owners and while they’ve been waiting for their arrival; they’ve expressed that timing had to be right to make sure that this is for the long term.

Gabe Vicknair, Assistant Executive Director of the Downtown Development District says, “We are extremely excited to hear the news of the return of the riverboats and are eager to welcome them back. This will be a long awaited and a welcomed boost for downtown businesses.”

Included in through use of this link are images of American Cruise Lines modern riverboats, two of which are debuting this 2021 on the Mississippi for the first time, American Jazz on 3/21/21, and American Melody later this year. Assistance with securing additional images and video are available upon request by contacting, Karron Alford, [email protected] .

About Visit Baton Rouge

The mission of Visit Baton Rouge is to increase visitation to and awareness of the Baton Rouge Area, therefore enhancing economic impact. For more information, log onto www.VisitBatonRouge.com to access all Baton Rouge press releases, log onto VisitBatonRouge.com/media/press-releases .

Karron Alford

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Baton Rouge River Center: American Cruise Lines and American Queen both operate riverboat cruises that visit Baton Rouge and disembark at the Baton Rouge River Center, which is located at 275 South River Road, Baton Rouge, LA 70802. A short walk to most attractions.

Baton Rouge, Louisiana's capital city, is a vibrant mix of Southern charm and metropolitan energy. With a rich history and stunning natural beauty, Baton Rouge is a must-visit destination for tourists.

One of the city's most popular attractions is the Louisiana State Capitol, a beautiful art deco building that stands 450 feet tall and offers breathtaking views of the Mississippi River and the city. Visitors can take a guided tour to learn about the building's history and architecture, or simply admire the stunning stained glass and murals.

The USS Kidd, a World War II destroyer, is another popular tourist spot. The ship is now a museum that offers visitors a glimpse into life at sea during the war. Visitors can explore the ship's decks, cabins, and engines and learn about the sacrifices made by the crew.

For those interested in the city's history, a visit to the Shaw Center for the Arts is a must. The center is home to several museums, including the Louisiana Art & Science Museum, which showcases the state's natural and cultural history through interactive exhibits and collections.

Baton Rouge is also surrounded by lush green spaces, including the Shaw Nature Reserve, which is a great place to hike, fish, or simply relax in nature. The Louisiana State University Lakes are also popular with tourists, offering opportunities for boating, fishing, and bird-watching.

For foodies, Baton Rouge is a gastronomic delight, with a wide range of local cuisine that features flavors influenced by the city's Cajun, Creole, and Southern roots. Visitors can enjoy traditional dishes like gumbo, jambalaya, and crawfish etouffee, as well as fresh seafood, BBQ, and more.

In conclusion, Baton Rouge is a city with something for everyone, from its rich history and culture to its stunning natural beauty and delicious cuisine. Whether you're a history buff, nature lover, or foodie, you'll find plenty to keep you entertained and enchanted during your visit.

There are several excursions that can be taken from Baton Rouge, including:

Louisiana State Capitol: This is a large building located in Baton Rouge and is known for its stunning architecture and rich cultural heritage.

USS Kidd Veterans Memorial & Museum: This is a museum located in Baton Rouge and is dedicated to the history of the USS Kidd, a destroyer that served in World War II.

Shaw Center for the Arts: This is a large arts center located in Baton Rouge and is known for its performance and visual arts exhibitions.

Louisiana Art & Science Museum: This is a museum located in Baton Rouge and is dedicated to the arts and sciences, with a focus on the history and culture of Louisiana.

Louisiana State University: This is a large university located in Baton Rouge and is known for its vibrant campus culture, academic programs, and research initiatives.

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Baton Rouge (Louisiana)

Cruise port schedule, live map, terminals, news.

Region Canada and USA Rivers

Local Time 2024-05-11 03:11

Port Baton Rouge cruise ship schedule shows timetable calendars of all arrival and departure dates by month. The port's schedule lists all ships (in links) with cruises going to or leaving from Baton Rouge, Louisiana. To see the full itineraries (ports of call dates and arrival / departure times) and their lowest rates – just follow the corresponding ship-link.

Baton Rouge LA is a Mississippi River cruise port and the capital city of Louisiana (USA) with population around 230,000 (urban 595,000, metro 830,000). The city is also Louisiana state's political hub and its second-largest metropolitan area (after New Orleans ).

Baton Rouge is a major petrochemical, industrial, medical, motion picture, research and growing technology center of Southern USA. Port of Greater Baton Rouge is currently ranked the USA's 10th largest (by annual cargo shipping volumes/tonnage). It is also the farthest port upstream Mississippi River with capacity to handle Panamax cargo ships (DWT tonnage 52,500, LOA length 289 m / 950 ft), width 32 m / 106 ft).

The city owes its historical importance to the strategic site upon Istrouma Bluff. This enabled development of a business quarter that is safe from seasonal flooding. Additionally, the city built a levee system stretching from the bluff southwards. This series of dikes protect the low-lying agricultural areas and the city's riverfront. Baton Rouge was ruled by 7 different governments, including French, British, Spanish (colonial era), Confederate.

Baton Rouge is a college city with Louisiana State University, Southern University, Baton Rouge Community College, and Our Lady of the Lake College. All college students make approx 20% of the city population.

On August 1, 2020, the Louisiana state (Governor John Bel Edwards) signed an agreement with the US Army Corps of Engineers for deepening Lower Mississippi River from 45 ft (13,7 m) to 50 ft (15,2 m). The USD 250 million (~EUR 213 M) project will provide larger cargo ships (Post-Panamax vessels) with access to Port Baton Rouge, Port South Louisiana, St Bernard Port (Chalmette LA), Port NOLA (New Orleans) and Plaquemines Port (at Mississippi's mouth on Gulf of Mexico, near Belle Chasse LA). Project's funding included USD 81 million from LADOTD (Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development / state government organization).

The deepened Lower Mississippi (from the Gulf of Mexico to Port Baton Rouge) has length ~256 mi (412 km). The dredged from the river bed material (first 30 mi, near the river's mouth) will restore ~1462 acres (592 hectares / 6 km2) of critical marsh habitat.

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Dinner Cruise

Trip Highlights

A delicious dinner buffet, live musical entertainment, relaxing or dancing to the music, soaking in beautiful scenery along the mississippi river, description.

Enjoy a night of dinner and dancing on this cruise on the Mighty Mississippi. Indulge in a delicious buffet and share a wonderful dinner with your family or friends, then enjoy live music from the dance floor or the deck.

Once on board, you are escorted to your table, then you are free to roam the boat until the captain announces that dinner is ready. After dinner, you are free to dance or sit back and enjoy the music. Live entertainment is included on our Dinner Cruises. It may be The Rivermen playing modern jazz (Saturday night from Memorial Day thru September), or you might get to enjoy the music of Tim Hart (Mondays & Tuesdays), or Adam Ledbetter and David Damm (Sunday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday). Listen or dance to their favorite tunes — and they have been known to take a request or two. And you never know when a crew member or two may step up on the stage and join in.

Departure time: 6:30 p.m. Yearly availability: May 3 - Oct 28 Weekly availability: Varies - check calendar

300 Riverfront Drive, Hannibal, MO. 63401

Why take this tour?

It’s a fun night of music for the young and the young at heart! You never know when members of the crew might take up a mic and sing you a song. Our dancefloor is available after dinner if you are so inclined, or you can choose to dance under the stars on the outer decks (no dancing on the tables and chairs, please).

A cruise aboard the Mark Twain Riverboat is great for family events. Whether you are a visitor or resident of Hannibal, our unique riverboat experience makes a wonderful memory for you to take home with you! We’re looking forward to having you on board!

Alcoholic beverages

Things to know.

They are available for purchase from our fully stocked bar and concession stand

Sunday - Friday Nights

Enjoy the music of Adam Ledbetter on piano and David Damm on a variety of instruments. Listen or dance to their favorite tunes. They might even take a request or two! You never know when members of the crew might take up a mic or drumsticks and join them.

Saturday Nights

The tradition of music on the river continues with the sound of modern jazz, big band, blues, and just about everything else from The Rivermen, a four-piece (or more) ensemble. More than 50 years of entertaining qualifies this ensemble to offer all ages a good time. The Rivermen show you why the river, Hannibal to New Orleans, is musical in many ways.

Departure Time

All cruises depart from Center Street Landing on the waterfront in historic Hannibal, MO. Boarding begins 30 minutes before the scheduled departure time.

Adults (Ages 13 & Older) - $54.95

Children (Ages 5-12) - $24.95

Wee Ones (Ages 2-4) - $8.00

Babies (Ages 2 & Under) - Free

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Sightseeing Tour

This one-hour sightseeing cruise travels along the mighty Mississippi River, allowing you to soak up the scenery at a relaxing, rhythmic pace. Listen as the captain guides your cruise with historical commentary on the history, legends, and sights of the Mississippi River.

A cruise aboard the Mark Twain Riverboat is great for family events. Whether you are a visitor or resident of Hannibal, you can make wonderful memories aboard our unique riverboat experience! Looking forward to having you onboard!

Departure time: Varies - check calendar Yearly availability: April 1 - Nov. 4 Weekly availability: Daily

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From the Archives: Garden Party

A new mobile photo booth is bringing 3d-printing action figures to baton rouge, trash talk: litter awareness and steam skills combine to create a cleaner community, giving back: providence road, a neighborhood’s namesake live oak trees form the canopy over wendy and jeffrey carbo’s lush gardens, step inside the floral-filled and boldly patterned spaces created for last fall’s ivy house designer showhouse, open book: inside valorie hart and sara essex bradley’s new title, ‘bohemian soul’, new orleans meets baton rouge in the home on this month’s cover, for art’s sake: opportunities to unleash your inner artist, the creatives: nonprofit organizer and artist chelsea borruano, the new greater baton rouge children’s choir is bringing music education to the next generation of musicians, a two-part exhibition brings fashion designer geoffrey beene’s work home to louisiana, at 98, ruth gascon continues to share her passion for painting, my favorite things: jason andreasen, lsu women’s golf stars ingrid lindblad and latanna stone are attracting national attention, the work of quiet international art star simon röhlen is speaking loudly in baton rouge, celebrations call for something sweet, like this pound cake, aimee’s pretty palate: wedding season sweetness, strawberry fields: fruit-forward recipes to savor the season, zippy’s reveals its expansion with double the bar space, trendy decor and refreshed menu, what’s the story behind la sessionistas, the instagram account documenting style at the capitol, natural selection: bamboo finds for home and wardrobe, local pieces for the pickleball lover in your life, we’re in a denim daze, w.o.w.: julie anne rousseau and bailey brandon, w.o.w.: jordan kepper and dustin johnson, w.o.w.: alexis garland and cole lambert, w.o.w.: brogan taj and chase rawson.

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Rollin’ on the River: Baton Rouge serves as port of call to three major cruise lines

‘When I was a boy,” begins Mark Twain in Old Times on the Mississippi , his 1875 memoir, “there was but one permanent ambition among my comrades … to be a steamboatman.” Though Twain may never have quite materialized into a full-time river rat (instead becoming the author of the Great American Novel—too bad), he did chart a few journeys up and down Old Muddy in his day, even landing in the “tropical swelter” of Baton Rouge, a fragrant city “clothed in flowers … like a greenhouse.”  

That spirit of adventure hasn’t yet been lost on modern travelers. This summer, even levee-bound landlubbers will see for themselves new vessels from Viking , American Queen Voyages and American Cruise Lines dropping anchor in our downtown port, sending droves of new explorers into our city that marked, for the novelist, the start of “the absolute South.”

Viking, perhaps best known for its grand river tours of Europe, will set sail its first-ever Mississippi River cruises this month with the Viking Mississippi, a brand-new ship accommodating up to 386 guests in 193 staterooms designed to suit its one-of-a-kind style built specifically for the river. The ship—which was built in Houma by Edison Chouest Offshore —features open verandas for al fresco dining, a 360-degree promenade deck, and the Explorers’ Lounge and Bar with panoramic views of the river. Interior designer and architect Richard Riveire , a Texas native, says that he relied on memories of his grandmother’s firefly-dotted porch for the unique design, sending an appreciation for the sights and sensations of the journey deep through every detail.

 “We are very pleased at the initial response and support we have received from guests and community partners along the Mississippi River,” said Torstein Hagen, chairman of Viking, when the new ship was announced.  

Starting this summer, the ship will initially carry passengers on three Baton Rouge-inclusive itineraries: “Heart of the Delta” and “New Orleans and Southern Charms”—both of which also include stops in nearby Mississippi, St. Francisville and Darrow—as well as “America’s Great River,” which travels between New Orleans and St. Paul, Minnesota. With shore excursions showcasing the Old Governor’s Mansion and Capitol Park, plus tours of the Rural Life Museum , USS Kidd , and the Atchafalaya Swamp, travelers can expect their one-day stop in the Capital City to be full of history.

Architectural distinctiveness is also one of the main calling cards for American Queen Voyages’ American Queen vessel, the largest paddlewheel steamboat ever built. With Gilded Age-inspired design Twain would have likely recognized (along with a sitting room named in his honor), the ship joins its other Mississippi-bound vessels the American Countess and the American Duchess in scheduling an 8-hour stop in Baton Rouge during its 9-day “Round Trip New Orleans” itinerary. Motorcoach tours will allow passengers to explore art, food and historical markers in a snapshot of Southern culture.

“Many of our guests have cruised Europe many times but want to deeply discover North America now,” says Michael Hicks, senior director of marketing communications for American Queen Voyages. “We call it the Ameri-cation.”

American Cruise Lines might second that statement, setting sail a Mississippi River fleet of five riverboats this year, including two classic paddlewheelers (American Heritage and American Splendor, newly renovated and redecorated for 2022), plus three new contemporary-style riverboats (American Melody, American Jazz and American Symphony, the latter of which will debut this August), all of which stop in Baton Rouge. With a smaller size accommodating 100 to 190 passengers, these ships offer a more intimate experience, along with local excursions to the LASM and LSU Museum of Art .

“Most of our river cruise guests generally tend to be more mature, retired travelers, and most co me from the U.S. and North America, but we do also have guests of all ages on board, and from around the world,” says Alexa Paolella, public relations manager for American Cruise Lines. “Baton Rouge is a historic and amazing city, and it’s featured along many of our most popular Mississippi River itineraries. From visits to the USS Kidd to explorations of the bayous, there are far too many wonderful attractions to name just one.”

The sentiment is music to the ears of tourism experts at Visit Baton Rouge , who meet each ship with smiling faces, a mobile information cart, and an offering of Mardi Gras beads.  

“It’s great to see those passengers exploring Baton Rouge’s restaurants and coffee shops and museums,” says president and CEO Paul Arrigo, “and know that they’re going back home and talking about the great time they had here.”

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The 7 Best Mississippi River Cruises for 2024

T he more than 2,300-mile Mississippi River invites travelers to discover its multifaceted heritage, with a vast range of deeply rooted culture, music and history. A cruise is a fantastic way to discover many of the riverfront cities on a single trip, from the comfort of your modern riverboat or traditional paddle-wheeler.

The following Mississippi River cruise itineraries can help you choose from cruises of various lengths and options for the Lower and Upper Mississippi. Note that all fares are listed as double occupancy (based on two people per cabin), and that they might not reflect taxes, port fees or gratuities. The itinerary availability listed is also subject to change.

American Cruise Lines

American Cruise Lines operates small ships accommodating between 90 and 180 passengers that are built, flagged and crewed in the U.S. – and it's the only company in the world operating a 100% U.S.-flagged fleet of riverboats and cruise ships. ACL's itineraries traverse waterways across 35 states, with 11 itineraries dedicated to the Mississippi River. Cruisers can choose to sail on modern riverboats with a sleek interior design or while away their time aboard classic paddle-wheelers reminiscent of days gone by.

ACL offers variety as well as versatility: This line boasts both the longest and shortest sailings on this list with cruises ranging from eight to 60 days in length, including The Great United States. This inaugural 60-day voyage spans four major rivers and 20 states, making it the longest U.S. river cruise in history.

Complimentary hotel and transportation packages are available from every departure city before your cruise. You can book certain premium packages for added perks, such as two nights spent next door to Graceland in Memphis – with VIP tickets and a city tour included in the price.

Music Cities Cruise

Length: Eight days

Price: Starts at $3,610 per person

Spend a week getting lost in the sounds of the Memphis blues, rock 'n' roll and country music legends on the seven-night Music Cities Cruise. A hotel stay the night before your sailing is included, but embarking in Memphis means you also have the chance to splurge on a two-night pre-cruise package near Elvis' former home Graceland .

Ports of call include Paducah, Kentucky; Dover, Tennessee; and Clarksville, Tennessee, with an overnight in Nashville and an included excursion to a show at the Grand Ole Opry. Two scenic sailing days feature picturesque views of America's Heartland along the Mississippi, Ohio and Cumberland rivers as well as Lake Barkley.

2024 dates: In 2024, there are two available itineraries in September and November.

Grand Heartland Cruise: St. Paul to New Orleans

Length: 15 days

Price: Starts at $9,455 per person

This 15-day voyage allows you to explore America's rich history in towns along the Upper and Lower Mississippi River. The immersive voyage covers six states and 12 cities including St. Paul, Minnesota ; Dubuque, Iowa; St. Louis, Missouri ; Memphis, Tennessee; Natchez, Mississippi; Baton Rouge, Louisiana ; and more.

Take a step back in time while visiting Mark Twain's boyhood home in Hannibal, exploring stately historic estates in Natchez and Civil War sites in Vicksburg. At the end of a busy day ashore, you'll have plenty to chat about with fellow passengers during the evening cocktail hour.

2024 dates: American Heritage – ACL's traditional paddle-wheeler – and three modern riverboats set off on this journey from August to October in 2024.

Complete Mississippi River Cruise: New Orleans to St. Paul

Length: 22 days

Price: Starts at $14,935 per person

If you want to see the entire Mississippi in one shot, check out this multiweek sailing that begins in New Orleans and ends in St. Paul, Minnesota. Along the way, you'll sail 1,393 miles, visit 10 states and experience a staggering 20 ports of call as you tour Louisiana and then head northbound to Minnesota.

In the South, walk the battlefields of the Civil War and sample delicious Southern barbecue before listening to the rhythms of jazz, the blues and rock 'n' roll. Then, explore the small and larger cities along the upper parts of the river. Remember to take time to gaze out at the picturesque scenery and the rolling farmlands of America's Midwest before disembarking in St. Paul.

2024 dates: Three of ACL's modern riverboats sail this itinerary in May, June and August in 2024.

The Great United States

Length: 60 days

Price: Starts at $51,000

This two-month long journey – the longest domestic itinerary ever created – will check all the boxes for U.S. history and Civil War buffs, music and nature lovers, culinary enthusiasts, and beer and distilled spirits aficionados alike as the ship traverses America's iconic waterways through 20 states and 50 ports of call.

This epic journey showcases the natural beauty and living history of the U.S. from sea to shining sea. The sailing embarks in Portland, Oregon , on the Pacific Coast before traveling east to the Atlantic shore along four major rivers that highlight some of the country's most stunning coastlines. Upon arrival in New York Harbor, guests will have an unforgettable view of one of the most iconic landmarks in the U.S.: the Statue of Liberty .

Passengers can follow in the footsteps of Lewis and Clark along the Snake and Columbia rivers; cruise along Ol' Man River in search of Mark Twain and Elvis; see the vibrant colors of fall during peak season on the Hudson River; and take in the coastal breezes (and fresh seafood) along New England's rocky coastline.

This curated adventure also includes two flights: Jackson, Wyoming , to New Orleans as well as St. Paul to Portland, Maine , plus a land package through Glacier , Yellowstone and Grand Teton national parks. All-inclusive pricing covers the pre-cruise hotel stay, all flights and hotels between cruise segments, an ACL jacket and gear pack, daily excursions, all meals and beverages, gratuities and port charges, entertainment, and Wi-Fi.

2024 dates: The inaugural cruise sets sail on August 16, 2024.

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Viking River Cruises

Viking is no stranger to sailing Europe's rivers; the brand is synonymous with river cruising worldwide aboard its dozens of ships. However, Viking River Cruises is a newcomer to U.S. rivers, with its purpose-built ship: the 386-passenger Viking Mississippi. Looking to carve out its own niche in the American river cruising category, Viking claims it has the region's "first truly modern cruise ship" with its distinct Scandinavian design and expansive top sun deck with an infinity plunge pool.

Viking's mostly all-inclusive fares include a complimentary excursion in each port, destination lectures and performances, beer and wine at meals, free Wi-Fi, specialty coffees and teas, and more. The line offers five itineraries ranging in length from eight to 22 days along the Mighty Mississippi. Pre- and post-cruise extensions can be added to all voyages for an additional expense.

New Orleans & Southern Charms: Round-trip from New Orleans

Price: Starts at $3,999 per person

If you don't know which Viking Mississippi itinerary to choose, start here. A round-trip voyage from New Orleans is convenient for booking flights and offers an excellent opportunity to extend your stay in NOLA. Six guided tours are included across eight days, from the historic estates of Natchez to Vicksburg National Military Park. A stop in St. Francisville gives you the chance to marvel at some of the 140-plus buildings it has on the National Register of Historic Places.

If you extend your stay in New Orleans, plan to sample the local Creole cuisine and take in some of the city's nightly jazz entertainment. In the morning, grab a beignet and a steaming cup of chicory coffee au lait at the original Café du Monde in the French Market.

2024 dates: This itinerary is available on select dates in February, November and December.

Heart of the Delta: New Orleans to Memphis

Length: Nine days

Price: Starts at $4,299 per person

Similar to its round-trip New Orleans Southern Charms itinerary, the Heart of the Delta cruise begins in New Orleans and calls on the same five ports, before sailing through the Lower Mississippi and disembarking in Memphis. Enjoy scenic views of the serpentine river route – perhaps with expert commentary or a local cooking demonstration – and then take time to explore the birthplace of the Memphis blues, which is also a center of civil rights history.

2024 dates: In 2024, this cruise is available in February, March, April, May, June and November.

America's Great River: St. Paul to New Orleans

Price: Starts at $12,999 per person

This Viking voyage sails from St. Paul to New Orleans on a two-week trip that calls on 13 ports with one day of scenic sailing. This itinerary combines the best of Viking's other Mississippi sailings for an all-encompassing Midwestern and Southern experience with 12 guided tours.

Included in the fare is a tour of Graceland; a stroll through small-town Burlington, Iowa, to see Snake Alley, deemed the most crooked street in the world; and a visit to the National Eagle Center of Red Wing, among others. For an additional fee, hop on an airboat ride through the Atchafalaya Swamp in Baton Rouge or tour the Anheuser-Busch Brewery of St. Louis.

2024 dates: Viking has availability for this itinerary in July, September and October.

Want to cruise the Mississippi River? See the top cruises on GoToSea , a service of U.S. News.

FAQ Module : Travel - Top Mississippi River Cruises FAQs

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Gwen Pratesi has been an avid cruiser since her early 20s. She has sailed on nearly every type of cruise ship built, including the newest megaships, paddle-wheelers on America's waterways, and an 18-stateroom river ship on the Mekong River in Vietnam and Cambodia. Most recently, she traveled on a small luxury expedition vessel in Antarctica and crossed the notorious Drake Passage twice. She covers the travel and culinary industries, specializing in cruises, for major publications including U.S. News & World Report.

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