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The Best Mississippi River Cruises to Discover America's Heartland

By Jackie Sheckler Finch

The luxury ships and historic tours are nice, yes. But the real star of Mississippi River cruises has always been the river. There’s nothing quite so Americana as getting to know the many personalities of this 2,350-mile stretch, flowing from northern Minnesota’s Lake Itasca through 10 states until it reaches Louisiana , where the Mississippi River Delta gives way to the Gulf of Mexico.

The slow, meandering journeys of Mississippi River cruises have long proven an ideal way to discover the distinct stories of America’s heartland. In the words of Mark Twain (which no Mississippi River story would be complete without), the towns and cities located on the mighty river's shores are “cheering to the spirit” and “reposeful as a dreamland,” with “nothing to hang a fret or a worry upon.”

The challenge modern travelers now face is when, where, and how to go about this iconic American voyage . Below, see our answers to these frequently asked questions, plus our favorite Mississippi River cruises to book in 2024.

Which cruise lines do Mississippi River cruises?

After American Queen Voyages shut down in February, only two Mississippi River cruise lines currently remain in operation.

Celebrating its 50th anniversary, American Cruise Lines (ACL) has a fleet of more than 20 American-built ships sailing across the country and remains family-owned and American-crewed. ACL offers a Mississippi River fleet of three luxurious 180-passenger modern riverboats– American Melody , American Symphony , and American Serenade —plus two classic paddlewheel ships, the 180-passenger American Splendor and the 150-passenger American Heritage.

The new kid on the Mississippi is the Viking Mississippi, a 386-passenger, five-deck vessel that first set sail in September 2022. The cutting-edge cruise is Viking’s first foray in the US, adding to their fleet of more than 90 ocean, river, and expedition vessels navigating the world’s seven continents.

What is the average cost of a Mississippi River cruise?

For an 8- or 9-day cruise, the average cost of a Mississippi River cruise is around $4,000 per person in a stateroom. Although prices might seem high initially, many of these cruises include extras that aren’t always complimentary on ocean cruises such as free WiFi, at least one free shore excursion in every port, paid port taxes and fees, and a pre-cruise hotel stay. Viking offers complimentary beer, wine, and soft drinks with onboard lunch and dinner. Meanwhile, American Cruise Lines offers complimentary beer, wine, cocktails, and soft drinks. Gratuities are also included in American Cruise Lines fares.

What is the best time of year to go on a river cruise?

Spring (late March through mid-June) and autumn (September through November) are the best times of year to go on a river cruise in the US. Spring blossoms add a colorful touch to the shoreline, and you can never go wrong with autumn foliage. The temperatures are mild, if not pleasantly cool, and passengers are eager to welcome a new spring travel season—or to enjoy one last autumn river adventure before winter arrives.

What month is best for a Mississippi River cruise?

If we had to pick just one, September is the best month for a Mississippi River cruise. The weather is usually mild with less likelihood of rain, and autumn colors are beginning to paint the shoreline. Keep in mind, however, that the Mississippi is the fourth largest river in the world—so temperatures any time of year are not going to be the same in warmer Louisiana as they are in cooler Minnesota.

Below, see our favorite Mississippi River cruises to book in 2024, featuring stops in iconic American cities like Nashville , Memphis , and New Orleans .

22-day Mississippi River Odyssey: New Orleans to Red Wing, Minnesota

Enjoy the charms of America’s great river on a journey aboard the Viking Mississippi from New Orleans to Red Wing, departing September 20. Custom built to sail American waters, the vessel features river-facing staterooms with either French or step-out balconies.

Stops include Baton Rouge and St. Francisville in Louisiana; Natchez, Vicksburg, Greenville, and Rosedale in Mississippi; Memphis in Tennessee; Paducah in Kentucky; Cape Girardeau, St. Louis, and Hannibal in Missouri; Burlington, Quad Cities, and Dubuque in Iowa; La Crosse in Wisconsin; and ending in Red Wing, Minnesota.

With so many fascinating shore excursions to choose from, it’s well worth taking time to tour the St. Louis Arch . Opened in 1965, the monument to America’s westward expansion is far more than just a stunning photo by the riverside. Venture underground between the arch legs for a museum. Climb aboard a tram to be transported 630 feet up to the top of America’s tallest monument for some stunning views.

12-day Heart of the Delta: Memphis to New Orleans

The 386-guest Viking Mississippi spans five decks, making it one of the largest passenger vessels on the Mississippi. Inaugurated in 2022, the ship features a modern Scandinavian design with an infinity pool and a two-story Explorers’ Lounge observation area similar to its ocean ships. Directly in front of the Explorer’s Lounge is an expanded outdoor seating area known as The Bow. Three restaurants serve both Southern regional cuisine and international favorites.

The cruise starts in Memphis on November 14 and includes stops in Rosedale, Greenville, Vicksburg, and Natchez in Mississippi as well as St. Francisville, Baton Rouge, and Darrow in Louisiana, ending in New Orleans. The “Mississippi Sings the Blues” shore excursion visits iconic sites along the Mississippi Blues Trail such as historic Dockery Farms, considered the “birthplace of the blues.”

The tour stops in Clarksdale, the fabled “Crossroads” where legend says blues great Robert Johnson reputedly sold his soul to the devil in exchange for his guitar prowess. Stops at the GRAMMY Museum Mississippi and the Delta Blues Museum completes this perfect trip for music lovers.

9-day Music Cities Cruise: Nashville to Memphis

Music is the main focus of this cruise offered by American Cruise Lines, which begins in Nashville on July 9 with an unforgettable visit to the legendary Grand Ole Opry and ends in Memphis, where passengers will enjoy live music on Beale Street and a tour of Elvis Presley’s Graceland . On board the American Splendor, passengers will enjoy spacious cabins and popular rocking chairs. First inaugurated in 2016 and fully redecorated in 2022, this ship offers the nostalgia of a classic paddlewheeler along with the comfort of modern amenities.

While in Nashville, explore the Johnny Cash Museum, then walk upstairs to The Patsy Cline Museum. Nightly entertainment spotlights the musical heritage of this region as the world’s newest paddlewheeler journeys along the river. The itinerary also includes Clarksville and Dover in Tennessee plus Paducah in Kentucky. In Paducah, stroll along the riverfront with more than 50 life-sized panoramic murals depicting Paducah’s past. Stop by Paducah’s National Quilt Museum, the world’s largest museum devoted to quilt and fiber art.

23-day Complete Mississippi River Cruise: New Orleans to St. Paul

Sail 1,393 miles through 10 states on a comprehensive exploration of the mighty Mississippi on the new American Serenade . Inaugurated in 2023, the 91-cabin American Serenade won Best New River Cruise Ship of the Year 2023 by Cruise Critic , the first time an American ship has received this prestigious award.

“With extra-large all-balcony staterooms and suites, trendy interior décor, an innovative hydraulic bow and retractable ramp, and one of the most gorgeous sun decks we’ve seen on a river-going ship, American Serenade sets the bar for domestic US river cruising high,” the award notes.

The epic itinerary beginning July 18, 2024 includes 22 ports of call including Oak Alley, Houmas House, Baton Rouge, and St. Francisville in Louisiana; Natchez, Vicksburg, Greenville, and Tunica in Mississippi; Memphis in Tennessee; Cape Girardeau, St. Louis, and Hannibal in Missouri; Muscatine and Dubuque in Iowa; and Winona, Red Wing, and Saint Paul in Minnesota.

Sara Iannacone

Yousef Aljamal

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Todd Plummer

12-day Mississippi River Gateway Cruise: New Orleans to St. Louis

From the French Quarter in New Orleans to the towering Gateway Arch in St. Louis , this American Heritage cruise lives up to its name. Inaugurated in 2015 and totally redecorated in 2022, the 84-cabin American Heritage is the perfect vessel for this interesting itinerary, its design reminiscent of the days when steamboat paddlewheelers plied the Mississippi in the 1800s.

The 12-day voyage departs from New Orleans on July 2. Ports of call along the way include Baton Rouge in Louisiana; Natchez and Vicksburg in Mississippi; Memphis in Tennessee; and Paducah in Kentucky . An onboard expert shares tales of the importance of steam-driven paddlewheels in establishing riverfront communities along the great Mississippi River.

Step ashore in Natchez and enjoy a cold drink at the Under-the-Hill-Saloon, once one of the rowdiest establishments on the Mississippi River in the 1800s. Legend says that Mark Twain stopped here when he was just another riverman named Samuel Clemens.

9-day Lower Mississippi River Cruise: Memphis to New Orleans

This nine-day American Melody cruise departs Memphis on September 8 and features eight ports of call including Vicksburg and Natchez in Mississippi, and St. Francisville, Baton Rouge, and Houmas House in Louisiana. At Vicksburg Military Park, learn how the 101st Airborne Division got its “Screaming Eagles” nickname, plus the tale of its famous soldier, a young guitar player named Jimi Hendrix. At Houmas House, see the bedroom where Bette Davis stayed to film the 1964 movie Hush, Hush, Sweet Charlotte . Joan Crawford was the intended co-star but Bette and Joan feuded so Joan quit and Olivia de Havilland replaced her.

Launched in 2021, the five-deck American Melody has 91 staterooms, all with private balconies and full-length sliding glass doors. The ship has several spacious lounges, a fitness center, large dining room, café for casual dining, sun deck, library, and an impressive four-story glass atrium in the center of the ship. The ship’s unusual bow opens and lowers a platform for passengers to easily walk ashore.

9-day Upper Mississippi River Cruise: St. Louis to St. Paul

Board the American Symphony cruise ship to visit Mark Twain’s hometown and experience the real-life inspiration behind Life on the Mississippi, the classic memoir chronicling the author's days on the river as a steamboat pilot.

The 91-cabin American Symphony, recently inaugurated in 2022, has 100% private balcony accommodations and a unique bow that opens with a retractable gangway that can be extended for landings virtually anywhere. The ship also features lounges soaring 40 feet above the water with triple the glass of other riverboats for spectacular views. Comfy deck chairs welcome passengers to enjoy the undeveloped countryside, picturesque islands, and fascinating dams and navigation locks.

Departing September 27, this itinerary features seven ports of call including Muscatine and Dubuque in Iowa, and Winona and Red Wing in Minnesota. In Hannibal, visit the actual home—with a whitewashed Tom Sawyer fence—where Samuel Clemens (Mark Twain) grew up. In Dubuque, see the 1989 “Field of Dreams” movie site known for the famous quote, “If you build it, they will come.”

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7 best Mississippi River cruises

Mississippi River cruises have surged in popularity in recent decades. They are especially appealing to mature travelers looking to enjoy guided tours of top cities and small towns in several Southern and Midwestern states.

Add in regionally inspired cuisine enjoyed aboard a luxurious river ship, plus the camaraderie of other culturally curious travelers, and cruising the most celebrated river in the United States promises satisfaction on multiple levels.

Two major cruise lines sail the Mississippi, which stretches 2,340 miles from New Orleans to Minneapolis-St. Paul: American Cruise Lines and Viking . Each line offers several similar itineraries ranging from eight to 23 days, but the ships themselves differ. Some are retro-inspired paddlewheelers, others sleek modern riverboats. The onboard dining and entertainment, as well as the excursions in port, also vary across the lines.

For cruise news, reviews and tips, sign up for TPG's cruise newsletter .

We've rounded up the best Mississippi River cruises for seniors, history buffs and Americana lovers, so you can find your perfect U.S. river cruise itinerary based on your interests and travel preferences.

Best cruise for Civil War history: Lower Mississippi (round trip from New Orleans)

The Deep South attracts history buffs with its Civil War battlefields and cemeteries and 18th- and 19th-century mansions guarded by regiments of live oaks. Both cruise lines offer a Lower Mississippi river cruise, sailing round-trip from New Orleans, but only one features multiple excursions geared to those with a keen interest in the 19th-century conflict.

On American Cruise Lines' eight-day New Orleans to New Orleans itinerary , cruisers can visit Vicksburg, Mississippi, where the National Military Park commemorates the campaign, siege and defense of Vicksburg in 1863. In Louisiana's capital, Baton Rouge, a guided excursion explores critical locations in the Civil War's Battle of Baton Rouge and Port Hudson.

Other ports bring to life the pre-war South. In Oak Alley, Louisiana, guests can tour a Greek Revival mansion on a sugar plantation built and maintained by slaves. While no Civil War fighting took place in Natchez, Mississippi, the city is home to hundreds of lavish mansions from the era and the Historic Natchez Cemetery, which dates to 1822.

This itinerary is offered in 2024 and 2025 on four American Cruise Lines ships, ranging from the 150-passenger classic paddlewheeler American Heritage to the 180-passenger modern riverboat American Serenade. American Cruise Lines is known for its regionally inspired cuisine, served with complimentary wine and beer at lunch and dinner, plus complimentary cocktails, hors d'oeuvres and hosted entertainment in the main lounges.

Some excursions and a pre-cruise hotel stay in the Big Easy are included in the cruise fare. You can book additional day tours for an extra cost.

Related: Best river cruise lines around the world

If you're especially passionate about Civil War history, look for American Cruise Lines' special Civil War-themed cruises on limited dates, which allow a deeper dive into the period. These include a nine-day Lower Mississippi itinerary from Memphis to New Orleans (or vice versa).

In addition to visiting monuments and museums, you'll enjoy onboard lectures and presentations and interaction with other Civil War buffs. These sailings are aboard 150-passenger American Heritage and 180-guest American Melody, American Serenade, American Splendor and American Symphony.

Best cruise for music: Lower Mississippi (New Orleans to Memphis)

If you love the musical genres of the South, a Mississippi River cruise from New Orleans to Memphis (or vice versa) should be your choice.

From Crescent City, the birthplace of American jazz, to Memphis, known as the Home of the Blues and the Birthplace of Rock 'n Roll, this itinerary celebrates the region's homegrown rhythms. Both cruise lines offer itineraries between New Orleans and Memphis, but Viking features more excursions and onboard experiences tailored to music lovers.

Viking's 12-day Heart of the Delta itinerary includes a two-night pre-cruise hotel stay in New Orleans. This allows ample time to enjoy the city's street musicians and jazz clubs.

In Baton Rouge, you can visit the Capitol Park Museum, which showcases exhibits dedicated to Louisiana's musical heritage and Mardi Gras traditions. While in Natchez, Mississippi, classical music (played on a 1903 Steinway piano) and Southern cuisine are the stars of the excursion to Lansdowne and Joseph Stone House.

The port call in Greenville, Mississippi, is steeped in the blues with a chance to visit a museum dedicated to hometown legend B.B. King. The grand finale of the cruise is two nights in Memphis, where you can enjoy all things blues, barbecue and Elvis Presley.

Viking is a newcomer to the Mississippi River, and all sailings are aboard the 386-guest Viking Mississippi. The riverboat debuted in 2022 and features a modern Scandinavian design. Itinerary departures are available in 2024 and 2025.

Passengers can enjoy a sun terrace with an aft infinity pool and an Explorer's Lounge with panoramic forward views of the Mississippi. The Restaurant serves both Southern regional cuisine and global favorites, and the ship welcomes local musicians onboard for evening entertainment.

Related: Meet the only line that cruises from Washington, DC. Here's where it'll take you

Best cruise for art and architecture: Upper Mississippi

An Upper Mississippi cruise between St. Louis, Missouri, and St. Paul, Minnesota, provides access to some of the top architectural landmarks and artistic treasures of the American Heartland — from Eero Saarinen's soaring Gateway Arch to Frank Lloyd Wright's inimitable Taliesin.

Both cruise lines offer Upper Mississippi sailings from July through September. Viking and American Cruise Lines' itineraries and excursions are our picks for fans of American art and architecture.

Viking River Cruises' American Heartland itinerary sails from St. Louis to St. Paul (or vice versa) and runs 12 days with pre- and post-cruise stays in 2024 and 2025. You'll explore architectural gems aboard Viking Mississippi, itself an example of sleek, Scandinavian-inspired nautical architecture.

Highlights include St. Louis, where you'll admire Saarinen's circa-1965 Gateway Arch, the Cathedral Basilica of St. Louis featuring a 41-million-piece mosaic and the Renaissance Revival-style City Hall. From Dubuque, Iowa, you can head to Spring Green, Wisconsin, to visit Taliesin, Frank Lloyd Wright's private home, studio and school from 1911 to 1959.

After a day in Redwing, Minnesota, known for its pottery studios, you'll end your journey in the Twin Cities, home to the Walker Art Center and Minneapolis Institute of Art in Minneapolis and well-preserved Victorian buildings in St. Paul.

Related: River cruise packing list: What to pack when traveling by riverboat

American Cruise Line's nine-day Upper Mississippi river cruise covers much of the same ground, with a few differences. Sailings are available on the 150-passenger paddlewheeler American Heritage as well as on three sleek new 180-guest riverboats, American Melody, American Serenade and American Symphony. They're offered between June and late September/early October in 2024, 2025 and 2026.

Beyond the landmarks of St. Louis, highlights include Hannibal, Missouri, where you can visit the Mark Twain Boyhood Home and Museum, and Dubuque, Iowa, known for its colorful Victorian mansions. (An excursion to the Field of Dreams featured in the 1989 Kevin Costner movie is also available.)

Winona, Minnesota, boasts some of the state's most architecturally significant buildings, many featuring the beautiful stained glass for which the city is known. Then it's off to Red Wing, Minnesota, where you can explore the Pottery Museum before completing your journey in the Twin Cities.

Best extended cruise: Complete Mississippi

Want it all? You can visit 18 ports in six states on a 23-day Mississippi River journey from New Orleans to St. Paul. These itineraries are offered by both American Cruise Lines and Viking, and are perfect for seniors with plenty of time to explore.

American Cruise Lines offers the 23-day Complete Mississippi Cruise in 2024, 2025 and 2026, with sailings available on three 180-passenger modern river ships: American Melody, American Serenade and American Symphony.

After a pre-cruise hotel stay in New Orleans, passengers journey through all aspects of American history. You'll visit ports known for ornate mansions (Oak Alley and St. Francisville, Louisiana, and Natchez, Mississippi), Civil War battles (Baton Rouge, Louisiana and Vicksburg, Mississippi), music (Memphis and Greenville, Tennessee) and architecture (St. Louis and Dubuque, Iowa). You'll also call on a historic Missouri trading post in Cape Girardeau (a French river port).

Viking River Cruises' 22-day Grand Mississippi Voyage , available in 2024 aboard the 386-passenger Viking Mississippi, also embarks in New Orleans and visits 16 ports in nine states as it cruises north to St. Paul, Minnesota.

During this sailing, you'll overnight in Memphis, so there's time to fully savor barbecue, the blues and Elvis Presley's Graceland. A port call in Paducah, Kentucky, lets you explore the National Quilt Museum and colorful street murals.

You can enjoy excursions in Missouri's most famous big city (St. Louis) and small town (Hannibal) and then visit three ports in Iowa known for their historic architecture and agriculture (including a tour of the John Deere Pavilion). Learn about the Norwegian heritage of La Crosse, Wisconsin, and get to know the eagles and pottery of Red Wing, Minnesota, before disembarking in St. Paul.

Bottom line

History buffs and Americana lovers will find plenty to enjoy on a Mississippi River cruise. Your ship will stop in major cities and lesser-known towns, offering excursions to historic sites and evenings spent enjoying locally inspired cuisine and regional music.

The two cruise lines sailing America's most legendary river offer itineraries for every interest on ships designed with mature travelers in mind. Whether you want to visit Civil War sites, see top architectural landmarks or enjoy our country's best-loved musical genres, these two lines will offer a Mississippi River itinerary that will help you do it — in comfort and style as you make new friends on board.

Planning a cruise? Start with these stories:

• The 5 most desirable cabin locations on any cruise ship
• A beginners guide to picking a cruise line
• The 8 worst cabin locations on any cruise ship
• The ultimate guide to what to pack for a cruise
• A quick guide to the most popular cruise lines
• 21 tips and tricks that will make your cruise go smoothly
• Top ways cruisers waste money
• The ultimate guide to choosing a cruise ship cabin

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MISSISSIPPI RIVER CRUISES

Embark upon a once-in-a-lifetime American Adventure onboard a Mississippi River Cruise. Journey right into the heart and soul of America, sailing through one of the most iconic and longest rivers in the world.  

The mighty  Mississippi river  stretches 2,350 miles down the United States, from  Northern Minnesota  to the Gulf of Mexico. You'll get to know some of America's most exciting and culturally influential cities, such as  New Orleans,   Baton Rouge, St. Louis, Memphis,  and  Minneapolis. 

Start planning your Mississippi River Cruise today! 

UPPER OR LOWER MISSISSIPPI RIVER CRUISE?

If you have a little more than 2 weeks available, you can take a grand Mississippi adventure and sail the entire length of the river from Saint Paul, Minnesota, down to New Orleans. 

A Popular choice for cruising the Mississippi River is to choose between a 7-night cruise on the upper or lower section of the river, with a couple of extra nights hotel stay pre/post cruise. 

The northern section of the river boasts more wildlife and scenery; you'll usually cruise between St. Louis and Minneapolis. Experience incredible wildlife, such as the Bald Eagle and scenic views of river bluffs. You'll also enjoy the view as your ship navigates through the river's intricate lock system. 

The southern section of the river is where you will find historic river towns such as s Vicksburg and Natchez, Mississippi. You'll usually start and finish in New Orleans, Memphis, or St. Louis. Explore the historic estates and notable Civil War sites. Enjoy the bustling port cities of New Orleans and Batton Rouge with their incredible jazz and blues music scenes. 

Enquire with our team today to get prices! 

PADDLEBOAT OR MODERN RIVER CRUISE SHIP?

The classic paddleboat-style cruise usually comes to mind when you imagine a Mississippi River Cruise. The iconic  American Queen Steamboat Company , with its  American Queen ,  American Duchess , and  American Countess  ships, offers luxury, fine dining, comfortable and spacious accommodations, and exciting itineraries. 

The new state-of-the-art  Viking Mississippi  from  Viking Cruises  features the line's famous Scandinavian design, spacious public areas and high levels of comfort. This purpose-built for the Mississippi offers travellers a genuinely modern option in the region for the first time. 

Ready to experience a Mississippi River Cruise? Enquire today!

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What to Know About Mississippi River Cruises — From the Cruise Lines to Top Itineraries

See small towns and bustling cities by boat on a Mississippi River cruise.

Elizabeth Rhodes is a special projects editor at Travel + Leisure , covering everything from luxury hotels to theme parks to must-pack travel products. Originally from South Carolina, Elizabeth moved to New York City from London, where she started her career as a travel blogger and writer.

River cruises are a great way to see the world — you can visit several waterfront destinations and watch the scenery pass by from cozy accommodations and top-deck lounges on intimate luxury ships. And while rivers like the Danube and the Rhine are top choices for many travelers, you don't have to go abroad for a memorable river cruise. You can access some of the nation's iconic attractions and favorite cities right from the Mississippi River.

There are three main cruise lines traveling the Mississippi, with journeys ranging from less than a week to more than 20 days. Spring and fall are the best times of year to take a cruise along the river, as you'll avoid the summer heat and winter chill and enjoy more pleasant weather while you take in the surroundings.

Here's what you need to know about Mississippi River boat cruises, from choice itineraries to popular stops.

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 trips aboard its 193-stateroom Viking Mississippi adhere to the same standard of service.

American Queen Voyages offers several itineraries along the Mississippi — one along the Upper Mississippi, another on the Lower Mississippi, and one that also sails a portion of the Ohio River — on its signature paddle-wheel steamboats. The company's flagship, the American Queen, is said to be the world's biggest steamboat.

The itineraries on American Cruise Lines feature either modern riverboats or old-school paddle wheelers, so you can choose your ideal sailing experience.

All three cruise lines offer similar itineraries along the river, so we recommend looking into the ships, the amenities, and what's included in the rate (like pre-departure hotel stays and excursions) to help make your decision.

Popular Ports on the Mississippi

You can cruise all the way from New Orleans to Minneapolis, or you can sail shorter segments of the river. Typically, cruises along the Lower Mississippi sail between New Orleans and Memphis, while cruises on the Upper Mississippi sail between St. Louis and the Twin Cities.

Passengers on the Upper Mississippi may get the chance to hop off and explore Mark Twain's childhood home in Hannibal, Missouri, stroll the streets of Iowa's oldest city (Dubuque), or marvel at sacred bluffs in Red Wing, Minnesota. Along the Middle Mississippi, there's Paducah, Kentucky, a UNESCO-designated Creative City , and Chester, Illinois, the birthplace of Popeye the Sailor Man.

On the Lower Mississippi, you'll find Cajun culture in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, Civil War history in Vicksburg, Mississippi, and music and BBQ in Memphis .

Mississippi River Cruise Itineraries

There are many itineraries to choose from between the three major Mississippi River Cruise lines, but here are our top picks.

Viking River Cruises: America's Great River

Cruise from New Orleans all the way up to St. Paul on Viking's 15- or 17-day America's Great River itinerary aboard the 193-stateroom Viking Mississippi , a vessel designed just for this river. The journey starts in New Orleans and stops in Baton Rouge; Natchez and Vicksburg, Mississippi; Memphis; and St. Louis, where passengers can explore attractions like Gateway Arch National Park and the flagship Anheuser-Busch brewery. From there, it continues on to Hannibal, Missouri; Burlington, Davenport, and Dubuque, Iowa; La Crosse, Wisconsin; and Red Wing, Minnesota, where travelers can learn about America's most recognizable symbol at the National Eagle Center. In between action-packed stops, there's plenty of time to take in the scenery from your veranda or the boat's several public viewing areas.

American Queen Voyages: New Orleans to Memphis

Sail along the Lower Mississippi from New Orleans to Memphis on this nine-day cruise, which starts with a complimentary stay in New Orleans and a second day to enjoy the Big Easy. Then, it's on to Nottoway Resort and St. Francisville in Louisiana and Natchez, Vicksburg, and Greenville in Mississippi before a day of cruising through the Delta and disembarking in Memphis. There are a few different paddle-wheel riverboats that cruise this route for American Queen Voyages — find the specific ship for your journey when you select a date.

American Cruise Lines: Upper Mississippi River Cruise

This eight-day cruise starts in St. Louis and sails along the Upper Mississippi to St. Paul. Stops along the way include Hannibal, Missouri; Fort Madison, Davenport, and Dubuque, Iowa; and Winona and Red Wing, Minnesota. Several riverboats cruise this route, including American Melody and American Symphony , inaugurated in 2021 and 2022, respectively. These sister vessels offer large rooms and suites with contemporary furnishings and an upscale feel.

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Mississippi River

Explore America's true historic treasures on a cruise of the Mississippi River and its tributaries. This 2,320-mile waterway flows through 10 states, from northern Minnesota to the Gulf of Mexico. Its name comes from the Ojibwe word Misi-ziibi, meaning "Great River."

The Mississippi led explorers to new lands, and it served as an important lifeline for the transport of people and goods to the towns that rapidly grew along its banks. Centers of commerce and culture flourished along its main route and tributaries. Cities like St. Louis, Memphis, Vicksburg and New Orleans owe their existence to the Mississippi.

Step back to a time when life moved a little slower and riverboats slowly churned the waters. See Civil War battlefields, restored plantations, rolling farmland and picturesque riverfront towns filled with Victorian-era architecture. The region has a rich musical legacy as the birthplace of the blues, jazz and country music. It's been celebrated in literature, too, most notably by Mark Twain, who grew up in the port town of Hannibal, MO.

Sailings might spend time on the mighty Mississippi in addition to other waterways, like the Tennessee, Ohio, Illinois and Cumberland Rivers. Cruises are particularly good values, because your stateroom and onboard meals are included in a single rate that you pay upfront.

• ACL: Save up to $1,200 per couple off this cruise. Prices shown reflect discount. Expires June 16. Click here .
• ACL: Receive a free $150 per couple onboard credit on all sailings. Click here .
• Viking: Summer Solstice Sale! Save with reduced cruise fares and special air offers. Prices shown reflect the cruise discounts. Also, book with a reduced deposit of only $25 per person. Expires June 30. Click here .
• ACL: Receive free shore excursions on select cruises. Click here .

StarTribune

Which mississippi river cruise ship is right for you.

People have been leisure cruising on the Mississippi River since the storied days of steamships, showboats and paddlewheelers in the 1800s.

Now, three modern cruise lines ply the Great River, with at least seven ships docking as far north as the Minnesota river towns of Red Wing, Winona and St. Paul. Minnesotans take pride in owning the source of the Mississippi, but how many of us have sailed it?

In 2022, Viking River Cruises shipped its luxury European brand to America with the new, state-of-the-art, 386-passenger Viking Mississippi. But two U.S. competitors — American Queen Voyages and American Cruise Lines — have been here for years, each with its own fresh take on the classic riverboat. Itineraries to and from Minnesota explore up to 10 states and dozens of ports, from the wild and scenic Midwest to the blues-soaked Delta and iconic New Orleans.

Interest in these kinds of river trips has surged among baby boomers as a more slow-paced, cultural alternative to ocean cruising. But there's no reason why these voyages shouldn't appeal to a broader crowd. Choosing which Mississippi cruise ship is right for you comes down to your budget, your interest in American history or your taste for modern comforts. To get to know them better, I toured ships from all three lines during recent port stops in Minnesota.

For the best value American Queen Voyages

The fleet: AQV has a variety of paddlewheelers, from refurbished former casino boats (American Countess, American Duchess) to the 420-foot American Queen — the largest steamship ever built. The Queen and Countess will appear together on July 25 in Red Wing, where I toured the Countess.

Minnesota sailings: Nine-day itineraries from Red Wing to St. Louis (and vice versa) starting between $2,699 and $4,099; 16-day journeys from Red Wing to New Orleans starting between $6,189 and $8,599 (all-inclusive).

Relatively cheap and cheerful American Queen Voyages advances a romantic vision of rollin'-on-the-river showboat cruising from the days of Mark Twain.

The American Countess lived a previous life as a 1990s casino boat in Iowa. When AQV acquired this old showgirl, it magically sliced her in half and seamlessly inserted a new 60-foot midsection. They also added two signature red paddlewheels and enhanced her faux-Victorian facade. The smokestacks at the fore are for show, but the big wheels really do help propel the diesel-electric vessel.

Personally, I find the old-timey look a bit corny (they call it "showboating" for a reason), so I was prepared to find a chintzy, budget interior on the Countess. I was wrong — starting with the spacious Grand Lobby, a bright reception area, bar and lounge that wouldn't look out of place in a vintage city hotel. The elegant-but-not-stuffy feel extends to other public spaces, like the River Grill buffet-with-a-view on the bow, and the slightly more formal dining room.

The modern staterooms are compact but stylish, starting at 192 square feet for a double, with a veranda that opens up to a walking track. But we'd steer clear of the row of interior (read: windowless) rooms clocking in at 153 square feet, unless you're on a tight budget.

Of course, much of the appeal for cruise lovers is socializing outside of your room. Dining room seating is assigned in advance, so the friend-making can commence right away. But guests can play musical chairs upon request, which we'd imagine could turn awkward. You can always escape to the theater, where nightly Branson-esque musical revues have titles like "Riversong," "Country in Concert" and "Anything Goes Tonight."

Lunch was solid American comfort food, nothing revolutionary: a creamy shrimp pasta, a chicken Caesar, a hot Italian sandwich, a bacon cheeseburger. Vegan options were available. Drinks are inclusive except for premium brands.

More info: aqvoyages.com/river-cruises/

For small-ship perks and food American Cruise Lines

The fleet: ACL's American Symphony, American Serenade and American Melody are the smallest cruise ships on the Upper Mississippi. (One of ACL's small paddle-wheelers, American Heritage, will also appear in Minnesota this fall.) I boarded the 2022-christened Symphony in Red Wing.

Minnesota sailings: Eight days from Red Wing to St. Louis, from $4,425; 15 days from Red Wing to New Orleans from $9,455; and the more leisurely, 22-day "Complete Mississippi" from New Orleans to Minnesota from $15,255.

American Cruise Lines has unveiled its modern line of sleek, smaller "American Riverboats" with mostly identical specs: 269 feet long with a maximum of just 180 guests. Eschewing the "ye olde" steamship look, ACL opts for modern design and modern art.

But "small ship" doesn't mean cramped. ACL touts the "largest staterooms in the small ship industry" — a claim that is hard to disprove, but the smallest doubles start at a relatively spacious 275 square feet, on up to a 650-square-foot grand suite. All rooms have private balconies that overlook the water, and there are no interior rooms.

The expansiveness continues to the upper deck, where, impressively, the entire rooftop is a lounging space for those seeking 360-degree river views at sunset, plus a running/walking track. (On most ships we've seen, at least part of the top deck is off-limits.)

Lunch on the day I visited included down-home choices of fall-off-the-bone barbecue ribs or a brisket quesadilla — or better yet, a half-and-half plate of both — delivered by servers with warm Southern accents. The dining room is decidedly "coastal grandmother chic," with wicker and neutral tones in abundance. Ship entertainment includes show titles like "Not Fade Away" and "Forever Everly," so elder-boomer nostalgia is the order of the day.

Another stealth advantage of a small ship is climate-related: During last fall's historic low water levels on the Lower Mississippi, which grounded Viking and American Queen ships, ACL's lighter riverboats were largely able to sidestep delays, although some trips were rerouted. It's still early in the season, but river levels are reportedly dropping for a second year.

On the Symphony in Red Wing, guests sounded satisfied wrapping up a three-week grand tour of the river. Overheard: "A trip like this you lose all sense of time — the day of the week doesn't matter anymore." Sounds like travel bliss.

More info: americancruiselines.com/cruises/mississippi-river-cruises

For all-out luxury and music Viking River Cruises

The fleet: Viking has just one ship on our river, but it's the biggest one — the year-old, 450-foot Viking Mississippi. It's the only cruise ship that usually goes north of Red Wing to St. Paul, docking at Lambert's Landing.

Minnesota sailings: Eight or 12 days from St. Paul to St. Louis, from $4,499; 15 days from St. Paul to New Orleans, from $12,999; 22 days from New Orleans to St. Paul from $15,999.

Norwegian-rooted Viking was already known for bringing its Scandinavian style tours to European rivers, from the Rhine to the Rhône. In 2022, it took that formula to the heartland with new "purpose-built" ships for the Great Lakes and the Mississippi. The $90 million Viking Mississippi's maiden season was a rocky one , with construction delays, low river levels and canceled trips. In its second full season, Viking expects to get back on course.

Viking's new riverboat borrows many design cues from its worldwide fleet, and I recognized many features after sailing the Great Lakes on the Viking Octantis . The gathering spaces and dining areas are without equal, and the overall theme is a tribute to American music. The centerpiece of the first-deck Living Room is a vintage-style turntable that guests can use; vintage records from Louis Armstrong, Little Richard and Dolly Parton were displayed. A grand piano and drum kit looked ready to break out in live jazz. Woodwork alludes to guitar strings.

A sense of hygge extends to the all-exterior staterooms, starting with 268-square-foot king rooms with private verandas, or slightly larger rooms with broad sliding glass doors. The Restaurant offers formal dining, but we'd opt to spend most meals at the fifth-deck River Cafe, a smorgasbord of chef-driven American cuisine, including special menus from various ports of call — plus Mamsen's dessert bar, a Viking staple.

There's no Nordic spa on this Viking ship, but pack a swimsuit for the infinity plunge pool that extends the full width of the fifth-deck Sun Terrace on the stern — though that might attract more foot-soaking than selfie-taking influencers. (The only other Mississippi cruise ship with a pool is the original American Queen.)

If river levels remain a concern this fall, we'd recommend booking for next summer — or staying north of St. Louis. But if an epic Mississippi River cruise is a must-do item on your bucket list, you might want to start with the most dazzling ship.

More info: vikingrivercruises.com/cruise-destinations/mississippi/index.html

Simon Peter Groebner is Travel editor for the Star Tribune.

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The 8 top alaska cruise lines of 2024.

Discover the best lines and itineraries for your type of travel style.

The Top Alaska Cruise Lines

Courtesy of Royal Caribbean International

A cruise vacation to Alaska is a profound adventure. The spectacular natural beauty, rugged wilderness, massive glaciers and endless opportunities for wildlife viewing make a trip to the 49th state a once-in-a-lifetime experience for many travelers. As an added bonus, cruise ships can reach remote parts of the state, including Glacier Bay National Park & Preserve: one of the most significant (and picturesque) marine and wildlife sanctuaries in the world.

With the ever-growing popularity of the destination and an extended cruising season (some lines now travel to Alaska between April and October), more ships are heading north to the shores of The Great Land. With these expanded itineraries, there's more than ever to think about when booking your Alaska cruise.

To assist in your decision-making process, U.S. News listed the top cruise lines to consider across five categories, including the best options for families , luxury-seekers and adventurers. U.S. News consulted data provided by Cruiseline.com and the results of our 2024 Best Cruise Lines rankings to help develop this list of the top cruise lines sailing to Alaska.

• Best Overall: Holland America Line; Princess Cruises
• Best for Families: Norwegian Cruise Line; Royal Caribbean International

Best for Couples: Celebrity Cruises

• Best Luxury: Regent Seven Seas Cruises; Silversea Cruises

Best Small-Ship Expedition Line: UnCruise Adventures

Find your perfect cruise

Best Overall: Holland America Line and Princess Cruises

Holland america line.

Courtesy of Holland America Line

Alaska cruise ships: Eurodam , Koningsdam , Nieuw Amsterdam , Noordam , Westerdam , Zaandam Departure cities (cruises and cruisetours): Anchorage , Fairbanks and Whittier, Alaska; Seattle; Vancouver, British Columbia Starting from: $379 per person for seven-night Alaska Inside Passage cruise on May 1, 2024, or Sept. 22, 2024. Round-trip from Vancouver.

Holland America Line has been cruising Alaska's pristine glacial waters for more than 75 years – longer than any other cruise line. On top of that, the line features more voyages to Glacier Bay National Park & Preserve than its competitors. Seven-night round-trip sailings depart from either Seattle or Vancouver, while cruisetours – Holland America Line 's sea- and land-based packages – leave from several cities and extend each trip to nine to 18 days.

If this will be your first visit to Alaska, consider booking the comprehensive 14-day Yukon + Denali cruisetour. This Alaska adventure includes a voyage aboard Koningsdam, plus a three-night stay at Holland America's exclusive lodge in Denali National Park, where you'll have the opportunity to see Alaska's big five: moose, caribou, grizzly bears, Dall sheep and wolves – and book bucket list activities like flightseeing over Denali. If it's a picture-perfect day, your pilot might even be able to land on the tallest mountain in North America, also known as "The Great One." Other excursions include meeting dog mushers from the Iditarod, landing on the Yanert Glacier, heli-hiking or embarking on a covered wagon adventure on the Alaska tundra. The Yukon Territory portion of this trip is exclusive to Holland America; while there, visit the mining town of Dawson City and learn about Northern Canada's Klondike Gold Rush of August 1896.

Another highlight of sailing Alaska with Holland America is the Alaska Up Close program, which immerses guests in an array of expert-led lectures and excursions on board and shore. When it comes to dining , Holland America is the only cruise line to achieve the Responsible Fisheries Management (RFM) certification, which means cruisers will enjoy certified sustainable wild Alaska seafood on board (think: Alaskan king crab legs and fresh salmon). You may also have access to culinary excursions in partnership with Food & Wine magazine, as well as special offerings like Alaska salmon bakes.

Cruisers should also consider one of the Holland America's new itineraries for 2024: the 28-night Alaska Arctic Circle Solstice voyage aboard Westerdam, round-trip from Seattle. This sailing, which departs on June 9, 2024, features highlights like crossing the Arctic Circle; celebrating the summer solstice in Nome, Alaska; and watching Kodiak bears – the largest bears in the world – on Kodiak Island.

Insider tip: Sample Holland America Line's famous Dutch pea soup while glacier viewing on the outside decks. The crew passes around mugs of the warm soup in this Holland America tradition that gives a nod to the line's heritage – and keeps guests warm on chilly summer days in Alaska.

Princess Cruises

Courtesy of Princess Cruises

Alaska cruise ships: Grand Princess , Sapphire Princess , Royal Princess , Ruby Princess , Majestic Princess , Discovery Princess , Crown Princess Departure cities (cruises and cruisetours): Seattle; Anchorage, Alaska; Vancouver, British Columbia; San Francisco ; Fairbanks, Alaska Starting from: $398 per person for seven-night cruise from Anchorage (Whittier, Alaska) to Vancouver on May 18, 2024

Princess Cruises has a long history in Alaska, boasting more than 50 years of sailing to the Great Land. Cruise itineraries last between seven and 14 nights, and many visit the Inside Passage. Princess Cruises also owns and operates five wilderness lodges for guests of its cruisetours, plus exclusive "Direct to the Wilderness" rail service to those properties. The line's wide selection of cruisetours includes independent adventures and off-the-beaten-path destinations, like Wrangell-St. Elias National Park & Preserve, the largest national park in the U.S. For travelers seeking the highest level of service and the most time on land, the Connoisseur cruisetour is a good option, including up to 10 nights ashore following the seven-day Voyage of the Glaciers cruise. The Connoisseur trip is hosted by a tour director and includes select sightseeing outings and most meals in the fare.

Princess' special programming, North to Alaska, offers guests unique insights into the history and culture of the region with visits from local Alaskans, photography sessions, demonstrations on lumberjacking and excursions like Cook My Catch, where guests will go fishing (with a guide), then bring their fish back for chefs to prepare for dinner at one of the designated Princess lodges.

There are two new Princess cruisetours to consider for 2024. The 15-night National Parks Tour includes a seven-day cruise, visits to five national parks, scenic rail travel and a total of eight evenings across four Princess wilderness lodges. Meanwhile, the Katmai National Park Tour is a nine-day adventure that takes guests to the famed Brooks Falls in Katmai National Park & Preserve to see bears feasting on wild salmon in Alaska's wilderness.

Insider tip: While visiting Denali National Park, be sure to check out the Princess Treehouse at the Mt. McKinley Princess Wilderness Lodge. Built by Pete Nelson of Animal Planet's "Treehouse Masters," the treehouse offers a different perspective of Denali and features "Sappy Hour" and other fun activities.  

Best for Families: Norwegian Cruise Line and Royal Caribbean International

Norwegian cruise line.

Courtesy of Norwegian Cruise Line

Alaska cruise ships: Norwegian Encore , Norwegian Bliss , Norwegian Jewel , Norwegian Sun , Norwegian Spirit Departure cities (cruises and cruisetours): Seattle ; Vancouver, British Columbia; Seward, Alaska Starting from: $349 per person for seven-night sailing between Seward and Vancouver (itineraries visit Hubbard Glacier and Skagway, or Glacier Bay, Skagway and Juneau). Available on Norwegian Jewel in April, May and June 2024.

Norwegian Cruise Line has one of the longest seasons in Alaska, extending from April through October. The line operates two of its larger ships in Alaska: Norwegian Bliss and Norwegian Encore. These ships feature a plethora of onboard activities to keep kids and adults entertained, like racetracks, laser tag, mini-golf, complimentary kids and teen clubs, video arcades, themed parties, live performances and more. Families will also enjoy entertainment by Nickelodeon, character breakfasts, salmon bakes and sessions with a park ranger who comes on board to narrate the Glacier Bay passage. You'll find many spacious room options on board perfectly suited to larger families – especially in The Haven, the line's exclusive ship-within-a-ship concept. In addition, Norwegian Cruise Line offers select cruise deals where third and fourth guests sail free .

There are two new Alaska shore excursions for 2024: the Mendenhall Glacier Canoe Paddle & Trek and the Fly-In Norris Glacier Hike and Packraft. The first outing takes place in Juneau , where you'll paddle a 12-person canoe across Mendenhall Lake to reach the towering glacier. Prepare to be surrounded by the spectacular setting of Tongass National Park, a 400-foot waterfall and an Arctic tern nesting ground. The second excursion, also in Juneau, takes participants on a flight into the Alaska wilderness via floatplane; you'll then paddle across a pristine glacial lake and hike the surface of Norris Glacier. Unforgettable sights along the way include densely forested mountains; the mouth of the Taku Inlet, a waterway that offers access to Juneau Icefield; and plenty of wildlife, including sea lions and bald eagles.

Also new for 2024 is the option to take the Denali Talkeetna Explorer tour after your cruise. (This cruisetour previously only took place prior to the voyage.) The 13-day sea and land package, Denali Talkeetna Explorer – Northbound Cruisetour, is available on three dates in 2024 in combination with a Norwegian Jewel sailing. The package includes a seven-night cruise; a total of six nights in Fairbanks, Denali and Talkeetna; a stop at the Trans-Alaska Oil Pipeline; a riverboat cruise in Fairbanks; a visit to an Iditarod dog musher's kennel; a deluxe glass-domed Alaska Railroad journey between Fairbanks and Denali; and more. You'll also have free time to book optional shore excursions like whitewater rafting, park tours, helicopter flightseeing and other outdoor adventures.

Insider tip: If you're sailing on Norwegian Bliss or Norwegian Encore, be sure to grab a front-row seat in the Observation Lounge when sailing in Glacier Bay Park & Preserve. This expansive space on Deck 15 at the bow of the ship offers breathtaking panoramic views from the comfort of inside the ship. 

Royal Caribbean International

Alaska cruise ships: Radiance of the Seas , Quantum of the Seas , Brilliance of the Seas , Ovation of the Seas Departure cities (cruises and cruisetours): Seward, Alaska; Vancouver, British Columbia; Seattle Starting from: $439 per person for seven-night cruise on Radiance of the Seas, Seward to Vancouver on May 24, 2024

Royal Caribbean International offers seven-night cruise-only Alaska options (some featuring the Inside Passage) and extended cruisetours (lasting nine to 13 days) with land portions before or after the voyage. Cruisetours may visit Denali National Park & Preserve, among other highlights. The line also offers select "kids sail free" itineraries, which will appeal to families.

If you want nonstop entertainment while on board, choose one of Royal Caribbean International 's two larger Quantum Class vessels: Quantum of the Seas or Ovation of the Seas. Both megaships accommodate approximately 4,900 passengers. If you prefer a smaller ship, consider booking one of the Radiance Class vessels, which hold a maximum of around 2,500 guests.

Quantum Class ships have multiple outdoor attractions that provide panoramic views of the scenery. For example, the surf simulator, FlowRider, affords views of magnificent snow-capped mountains and glaciers all around the ship. If you're adept at rock climbing, this is another chance for optimal scenic viewing – at 40 feet above the deck. Additional entertainment includes free-fall skydiving at RipCord by iFly, outdoor movie nights, live performances and musical entertainment, bumper cars, an escape room, a sports court and indoor pools for those cool Alaska summer days.

Insider tip: For more awe-inspiring vistas, take a ride on North Star. Exclusive to Royal Caribbean (on Quantum and Ovation of the Seas), the glass-enclosed capsule rises 300 feet above sea level while suspended over the ocean.

Read: The Most Affordable Alaska Cruises

Celebrity Cruises

Courtesy of Celebrity Cruises

Alaska cruise ships: Celebrity Summit , Celebrity Edge , Celebrity Solstice Departure cities (cruises and cruisetours): Seward, Alaska; Vancouver, British Columbia; Seattle Starting from: $397 per person for seven-night voyage on Celebrity Summit, Seward to Vancouver on May 17, 2024

Adventure-seeking couples will have many options to choose from during Celebrity Cruises ' 2024 Alaska season. The line's six- and seven-night cruise-only itineraries include up-close views of the Dawes Glacier in the Endicott Arm Fjord and the Hubbard Glacier, the world's longest tidewater glacier at 76 miles long. For an in-depth exploration of Alaska's interior, Celebrity's cruisetours extend the trip to a maximum of 13 nights and feature small-town destinations like Talkeetna, Alaska – the quirky village that inspired the 1990s television show "Northern Exposure." There are also themed tours centered on wildlife viewing and national parks, as well as culinary tours highlighting the flavors of Alaska.

Couples will also find plenty of adult-focused activities and entertainment on board, no matter which vessel they choose. Each ship offers a spa, multiple bars and lounges, and an excellent selection of complimentary and specialty restaurants. Celebrity's three Alaska-bound ships carry between 2,158 guests (Celebrity Summit) and 2,908 passengers (Celebrity Edge). Celebrity Edge, the newest of the ships, offers immersive entertainment and especially beautiful public spaces – like Grand Plaza, a three-story venue at the heart of the vessel.

For extra privacy during your couples' vacation, consider splurging on a suite or villa in The Retreat. This all-inclusive space features luxurious accommodations; a private lounge; a sundeck (unavailable on Celebrity Solstice); and a private restaurant, Luminae at The Retreat. The swanky culinary venue serves dishes curated by renowned French chef Daniel Boulud. In addition, you'll have a team of attendants, butlers and concierges to indulge every whim.

Insider tip: Book your Alaska cruise on Celebrity Edge. The outward-facing design of the ship and expansive outdoor spaces, including the Magic Carpet, offer guests excellent viewing opportunities of Alaska's vast landscapes, calving glaciers and wildlife, including humpback whales in the Inside Passage and around Juneau and Sitka.

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Best Luxury: Regent Seven Seas Cruises and Silversea Cruises

Regent seven seas cruises.

Alaska cruise ships: Seven Seas Explorer Departure cities: Vancouver, British Columbia; Seward, Alaska Starting from: $4,699 per person (all-inclusive) for seven-night cruise, Vancouver to Seward on May 1, 2024

Regent's Seven Seas Explorer will spend the 2024 season in Alaska, with the first sailing embarking from Vancouver, British Columbia, on May 1, 2024. The line offers 20 seven-night voyages and two 14-night sailings between May and September. The 746-passenger ship provides an in-depth exploration of Alaska's wilderness, thanks to the vessel's smaller size and all-balcony suites. Regent Seven Seas Cruises ' all-inclusive fares include free unlimited shore excursions (though select tours come with a fee); complimentary fine wines and spirits; dining at specialty restaurants; 24-hour room service; unlimited Wi-Fi access; prepaid gratuities; free valet laundry service; and more. Depending on the suite category, guests may also receive a pre- and post-cruise hotel stay with their voyage.

Complimentary shore excursions are available in a number of Alaska ports. In Ketchikan, sign up for the Tongass Rainforest Expedition, the Great Alaska Lumberjack Show or the Alaskan Lodge Adventure & Seafest. (Note: Some excursions in Ketchikan, such as the Alaska Fishing & Wilderness Dining option, come with an additional fee.) In Juneau, guests can take the complimentary hiking adventure through the Mendenhall Glacier National Recreation Area, home to black bears, mountain goats and other wildlife. Cruisers can also dine on wild Alaska salmon grilled over a fire at the Gold Creek Salmon Bake.

Insider tip: Take advantage of the complimentary shore excursions during your cruise. These are tours you'd normally have to pay for on a ship that's not all-inclusive – and that can add up quickly.

Silversea Cruises

Courtesy of Silversea Cruises

Alaska cruise ships: Silver Nova , Silver Muse , Silver Shadow Departure cities: Seward, Alaska; Vancouver, British Columbia Starting from: $3,450 per person for seven-night cruise, Vancouver to Seward on Silver Muse on Aug. 1, 2024

Debuted in August 2023, Silversea's latest addition, Silver Nova, is the newest luxury vessel sailing Alaska for the 2024 season. Silver Nova features an asymmetrical design and advanced technologies that make it Silversea Cruises ' most environmentally friendly vessel yet. With just 728 guests, spacious suites (some affording 270-degree views) and outdoor spaces showcasing The Great Land's pristine wilderness, Silver Nova is an excellent luxury option for an Alaska adventure. Silversea offers seven-night itineraries on its three Alaska ships, plus longer voyages on Silver Muse and Silver Shadow.

Silversea's all-inclusive fares include pre- and post-cruise hotel stays; complimentary nonalcoholic and alcoholic beverages; in-room minibars; gourmet dining; all gratuities; at least one excursion per port; butler service in every suite; and other upscale amenities. Complimentary Alaska excursions include a scenic railway tour aboard the White Pass and Yukon Railway in Skagway, the Sea Otter & Wildlife Quest in Sitka Sound and more. You can also visit the Iditarod dogs' summer camp in Juneau. For an additional cost, Silversea offers more exclusive experiences, like a helicopter ride to Mendenhall Glacier followed by a dogsledding adventure with a team of Alaskan huskies in Juneau, or a remote fly-fishing trip in Sitka.

Insider tip: Spend some time on Deck 10; you'll enjoy unobstructed views of the spectacular scenery from the comfort of the heated pool, thanks to the asymmetrical design of the pool deck.

UnCruise Adventures

Alaska cruise ships: Wilderness Discoverer, Wilderness Legacy, Safari Endeavor, Safari Explorer, Safari Quest Departure cities: Ketchikan, Juneau, Whittier, Dutch Harbor and Sitka, Alaska; Seattle Starting from: $3,600 per person for seven-night cruise, Juneau to Ketchikan (or reverse itinerary) on Wilderness Discoverer; various dates between April and September 2024

UnCruise's expedition-style small ships call on ports and remote areas in Alaska that larger ships can't access, taking guests to locales that the line coins, "UnAlaska." The five ships operating in The Great Land accommodate between 22 passengers (Safari Quest) and 86 guests (Wilderness Legacy), and there are seven-, 12- and 14-night itineraries to choose from. You can also book optional land tours, including a Denali & Talkeetna Wilderness Rail Adventure. Expedition teams take guests on kayaking, skiffing, paddleboarding, bushwhacking, waterfall walks and hiking excursions close to the glaciers and visit secluded areas and waterway passages known for optimal wildlife viewing.

Cruise fares include group transfers to and from the ship; all meals; premium wine, beer and liquor; all nonalcoholic beverages; daily activities; wellness amenities; onboard heritage and expedition guides; and access to guest experts. You'll need to disconnect from your devices in remote areas, as there is no Wi-Fi access on UnCruise vessels.

For a once-in-a-lifetime trip, book the 14-night Alaska's Fjords & Glaciers Bay Adventure Cruise on Wilderness Discoverer, a 76-passenger ship. This voyage includes birding in the South Marble Islands, where you'll see puffins, cormorants, oystercatchers and other bird species. You can also search for brown bears in Corner Bay, bushwhack in old-growth forests, visit the town of Haines to sample local brews and spirits, and more.

UnCruise has introduced a few new cruises for 2024 with a renewed focus on The Great Land. One of these is the Kids in Nature, Wild Woolly & Wow with Glacier Bay cruise. The seven-night, family-focused voyage departs round-trip from Juneau aboard Wilderness Legacy and is available on three dates between June and July. One highlight of the voyage is exploring off-the-grid in Glacier Bay National Park & Preserve's "Outback."

A second new option is the seven-night Prince William Sound Explorer with Cordova cruise. This adventure visits dozens of glaciers; the small fishing village of Cordova; the Harriman and College glacial fjords; the islands of Knight and Montague; and multiple places where you can see orcas, humpback whales, sea otters, seals, sea lions, puffins and other wildlife. The itinerary is offered round-trip from Whittier, Alaska, on Safari Explorer throughout the summer.

Insider tip: Depending on your itinerary, you may be able to hop in a skiff directly off the ship to watch bears along the shore hunt for salmon just 100 feet away. This is an Alaska experience you can only have when sailing on a small ship.

Read: The Top Cruises on Small Ships

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, traditional masted sailing ships, river ships in Europe and a small luxury expedition vessel in Antarctica. She has cruised to Alaska and visited The Great Land in the summer, fall and winter, and journeyed to remote areas by bush plane above the Arctic Circle. Pratesi covers the travel and culinary industries for major publications, including U.S. News & World Report.

You might also be interested in:

• Alaska Cruise Packing List
• The Top Things to Do in Alaska
• The Top Northern Lights Alaska Cruises
• The Top Antarctica Cruises
• The Best Cruise Insurance Plans

Vacation Ideas for Every Traveler

Tags: Travel , Cruises

World's Best Places To Visit

• # 1 South Island, New Zealand
• # 4 Bora Bora

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240,000 acres of the Upper Mississippi have been unspoiled for 100 years. But concerns mount.

MINNESOTA CITY, Minn. - Sabrina Chandler spent her childhood and most of her working life on the other end of the Mississippi River . 

Growing up on the Gulf Coast near New Orleans, she had to work to see the river, because levees wall it in on its path to the ocean, where the oil and gas industry also has an outsized presence. People fear it because it's unknown to them. 

Now the manager of the Upper Mississippi River National Wildlife and Fish Refuge , Chandler recounted those days as she drove to one of her favorite places. She pulled up to Verchota Landing, where the river opened up in front of her, expansive and calm. She pointed to a pile of felled trees — a beaver’s calling card — then to an arc of pelicans flying overhead, and later to a muskrat that poked its head above water before disappearing again under the surface. 

"There’s not really a bad view anywhere,” she said. 

The Upper Mississippi River National Wildlife and Fish Refuge protects more than 240,000 acres of floodplain along the river from Wabasha, Minnesota, to Rock Island, Illinois, including much of Wisconsin's geographically unique Driftless Region . It’s one of 571 such refuges across the U.S., which garner less love from the public than the country’s national parks but have an equally important mission. The refuge system is the only system of lands managed first and foremost for wildlife conservation.

This year, the upper Mississippi refuge will celebrate its 100th anniversary. Dozens of events this summer are aimed at urging people to get out and explore its beauty — and also at helping them realize what could have happened to the land had it gone unprotected.

Much of the rest of the Mississippi River floodplain has been developed to serve human needs. Levees in Iowa and Illinois restrain the river as it courses through high-production farmland, and farther south, it’s lined by fossil fuel and petrochemical plants. 

It was the specter of such development more than a century ago that led one impassioned fisherman, Will Dilg — a Chicagoan who co-founded the Izaak Walton League — on a crusade at breakneck speed to protect the stretch of river he loved most.

On June 7, 1924, he got his wish: the creation of a refuge on the upper Mississippi, which to this day provides hundreds of miles of river habitat to fish and wildlife and gives people the opportunity to enjoy it for free. 

But the refuge faces new threats. Habitat degradation, made worse by climate change, is threatening this protected place as the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, which is tasked with taking care of it, has fewer resources to do so. That means the next 100 years of the refuge’s lifetime will be critical.

“We’re thankful for conservation advocates like Will Dilg, who were just stubborn enough to make it happen,” Chandler said. “We are hoping for a new generation of those kinds of folks.” 

Dilg makes a stand to stop the ‘drainage crime of the century’

In July 1923, subscribers to the monthly magazine of the newly formed Izaak Walton League found a fiery plea from Dilg in its pages. 

“The drainage crime of a century is about to be committed and you can stop it,” he wrote. “Will you do it?” 

Dilg was talking about a plan to drain Winneshiek Bottoms, a tranquil river side channel on the Wisconsin-Iowa border. It was part of a larger push by developers who were frustrated by farmland near the river getting flooded, and who proposed building levees to hold the river in.

Dilg had every reason to ignore the plight of the Mississippi: His young son had drowned in it during a family vacation to a houseboat near Winona. Instead, he sang the upper river’s praises as paradise on earth for animals, birds, and most importantly, fish and the fishers who loved to catch them. 

He implored the League’s members, already tens of thousands strong, to write to then-President Warren G. Harding to stop the drainage of Winneshiek Bottoms and ask Congress to purchase the land along the river from Wabasha to Rock Island so that it could become “forever a National Preserve.” 

“‘Let George do it’ won’t do this time,” Dilg wrote, referring to the idea of foisting responsibility for solving a problem onto someone else. “You have got to do it yourself OR IT WON’T BE DONE.” 

Dilg meant business, and his words galvanized an impressive cadre of sportsmen across the country, as well as the General Federation of Women’s Clubs . Eleven months later, Congress passed the Upper Mississippi River Wild Life and Fish Refuge Act, which authorized the acquisition of land for the refuge.

Steve Marking, a river historian and guest performer for American Cruise Lines on its Mississippi River cruises, said Dilg’s name should be remembered along with other great environmental conservationists like John Muir and Aldo Leopold. 

“He sold our modern conservation movement to the American public,” said Marking, who this year debuted “A Visit from Will Dilg,” a documentary and live performance about Dilg’s work that he scripted, filmed and starred in. “Nobody else did that kind of sales job and got them to buy it.” 

Dilg’s leadership style was divisive, and a few years later, he was ousted from his role as president of the Izaak Walton League. But the legacy he left with the creation of the refuge and the love he inspired for the lands it protects remain. 

Refuge protections allow a century of connection to the river 

For Marking, the refuge was the playground he grew up on, one he was taught to cherish by his father, who worked for the Fish and Wildlife Service.

After leaving for college and a singing career out east, he’d take a canoe out on the water each time he returned, noticing how quickly his stress melted away. 

“So many people I know moved away for a decade, two, three, and always find their way back to the Mississippi River,” Marking said. “It’s in your blood."

He’s not alone. 

Barry Allen, senior regional director for Ducks Unlimited in southwest Wisconsin, hunted on the refuge with his father near their home in Wabasha all through high school. His favorite part is searching through bays and backwaters for groups of birds, often a wide variety of species, undiscovered by other hunters. 

Allen said it’s “unbelievable” how many duck hunters use the refuge. On last year’s opening weekend, he arrived at his previously scouted spot at 2 a.m. to find the parking lot completely full. 

“Having access to a place like the river and the (refuge) has shaped me, and I know it’s shaped … hundreds of thousands of people,” he said.

Although it’s difficult to say exactly what this corridor of the river might have looked like had it been leveed off for farmland, it’s fairly certain that access — for both people and wildlife — would be restricted.

Today, the refuge is designated as a Wetland of International Importance and a Globally Important Bird Area . Such large tracts of relatively undisturbed habitat are increasingly hard to find, to the detriment of birds that need them, said Nat Miller, senior director of conservation for the National Audubon Society’s Great Lakes and Upper Mississippi Flyway regions.

Cutting off the river from its natural floodplain and constraining its flow through a narrower levee also make it rise higher and flow faster during floods , which can cause worse flooding downstream. For a long time, the answer to that was to build levees with higher walls , although some communities are now pursuing levee setbacks to make room for the river instead. 

Communities along the refuge don’t have those decisions to make. And they have the luxury of being able to launch a boat or take a walk directly by the water. 

It’s something that Brenda Kelly, Mississippi River wildlife biologist for the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources, takes full advantage of. 

She takes her hunting dogs, Harper and Reno (both named after places on the river near De Soto, where she lives), swimming in the Mississippi often. She fishes, kayaks, hunts and hikes. She also leads a paddling field trip annually to entice people to the area who may have never explored it before. 

Once people know about it, “They’ll be sure to be right back,” Kelly said. 

And that’s important, she believes, even on a river like the Mississippi, which is so massive that people might think it simply takes care of itself. 

“The answer is, no, it doesn’t,” she said. “It needs the refuge. It needs those protections in place.”

A shrinking refuge staff tackles urgent challenges 

The effects of degrading habitat and climate change are showing themselves on the refuge, and funding to address them hasn’t kept up. 

Dying floodplain forests have become one of the refuge staff’s chief concerns these days, Chandler said. More severe and longer-lasting flooding, caused by a warmer, wetter atmosphere as well as land use changes that make water run off the landscape faster, is killing off trees that would otherwise perform important ecological functions. 

The trees on the refuge are managed by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, which owns more than a third of refuge lands that it acquired for the creation of the locks and dams nearly a century ago. The Corps, the Fish and Wildlife Service and an Audubon forest ecologist work together to take care of the trees and control the new problems that can arise when they die off, such as the spread of invasive reed canary grass . 

The river’s backwater channels, a favored spot for many fish species, are also getting shallower as sediment from upstream washes downriver and settles. That’s also causing problems in the main channel, where the Corps must dredge large amounts of sand to allow shipping traffic to pass through, but in the backwaters, it’s hurting vegetation growth and driving out fish. 

Kelly worries about an influx of road salt , the presence of PFAS — the so-called “forever chemicals” that threaten human health — in the water, and the possibility that a train on one of the railroad lines on the refuge could accidentally dump its contents during migration season. 

“As great as this resource is, it’s not like we marked it with the refuge” and shielded it forever, she said. 

The urgency to fix these problems comes at a time when the national wildlife refuge system is seeing budget cuts and staffing shortfalls. The system has lost over 800 permanent positions since the 2011 budget year, according to the National Wildlife Refuge Association , and a 2019 High Country News story reported the system’s budget had decreased nearly 18% since 2010 when accounting for inflation. 

Chandler said on the upper Mississippi refuge, she’s lost about a third of her staff since she took over as manager. 

“There are a lot of things where we just have to say, ‘You know what, this is not a priority,’ and we have to let those things go,” she said.

Inspiring the next generation of refuge protectors 

Still, there are opportunities ahead that could lighten the load. The refuge received $10 million from the Inflation Reduction Act for projects to build up resiliency to the impacts of climate change and restore its ecosystems, such as a large project aimed at replenishing floodplain forests along the upper river. 

Chandler said she’s also focused on acquiring more land for the refuge from willing private sellers, particularly to fill in gaps where a private parcel might be sandwiched in between refuge properties. In the last 10 years, close to 8,000 acres have been donated to, or acquired by, the refuge, she said. 

The staff also relies more heavily today on the work of volunteers who are passionate about the refuge – something that could get easier as its 100th anniversary has prompted interest in new chapters of the Izaak Walton League.

During the premiere performances of Marking’s “A Visit from Will Dilg” in La Crosse earlier this year, more than 50 people said they’d be interested in forming a chapter to tackle environmental challenges they’re concerned about, said Jodi Labs, the League’s national president, who’s based in Wisconsin. 

That investment in the future resonates with Brian Vigue, freshwater policy director for Audubon Great Lakes. A member of the Oneida Nation, Vigue sees parallels between the creation of the refuge and the Seventh Generation principle that many tribes hold, in which today’s choices should be made to benefit those who will live seven generations later, and that today’s people should live in the world as if they are borrowing it from future generations. 

Though the refuge isn’t quite seven generations old, “can you imagine if somebody hadn’t had the foresight to plan ahead?” Vigue said. “Who knows what we would have there right now.” 

What’s there now is beauty that astounds him. On a fall trip up the Great River Road with his wife, they stopped in the refuge, admiring the colors and the ducks that still hung around before flying south. They climbed a bluff to look down at the Mississippi, a view that “puts you in your place,” he said, thinking about how long the river has wound its way through this part of the world. 

Like Kelly, Vigue has been struck by the thought that the river is so big that it feels impossible that humans would have any impact on it. But its struggles have proven that untrue. 

That makes the rallying effort behind the creation of the refuge — long before communication through social media — all the more remarkable.

“If people look at how that actually all took place, it really could be a great template for modern conservation advocacy,” Labs said. “Just think what we could accomplish today.”

This story is a product of the Mississippi River Basin Ag & Water Desk , an independent reporting network based at the University of Missouri in partnership with Report for America , with major funding from the Walton Family Foundation. The Izaak Walton League, Ducks Unlimited and Audubon Society, all sources in this story, also receive Walton funding.

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.

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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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The Viking Tonle

The Viking Tonle , named after the Khmer word for "fresh water," was designed to navigate the Mekong River. This ship blends understated elegance with the clean, Scandinavian design principles for which Viking is known. Explore one of the world's most scenic regions in comfort, with outdoor verandas, hotel-style beds and light-filled public areas offering panoramic views.

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Hover and click on the deck plan to explore the ship. 0), attr: { 'href': pdfurl }" class="ignore" target="_blank">see a pdf version of the deck plan., ship features.

• 40 comfortable outside staterooms (26 French Balcony Staterooms, 12 Veranda Staterooms, 2 Explorer Suites)
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Explorer Suite (ES)

• Stateroom size: 735 sq ft (includes private veranda)
• River-view suite with spacious, separate sitting room & floor-to-ceiling sliding glass door opening to a large veranda off the living room
• Queen-size Viking Explorer Bed (optional twin-bed configuration) with luxury linens & pillows
• Additional flat-screen TV in sitting room
• 110/220 volt outlets & USB ports
• Large private bathroom with spacious glass-enclosed shower, bathtub & anti-fog mirror
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Veranda Stateroom (A)

• Stateroom size: 305 sq ft (includes private veranda)
• River-view stateroom with French balcony (floor-to-ceiling sliding glass door) & private veranda
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French Balcony Stateroom (B, C)

• Stateroom size: 305 sq ft
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Magnificent Mekong

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Ship Highlights

Designed to navigate the Mekong River, hosting just 80 guests, Viking Saigon offers understated elegance and has been built to reflect the clean, Scandinavian design principles for which Viking is known. Explore one of the world’s most scenic regions in comfort with outdoor verandas, hotel-style beds and public areas bathed in light, offering panoramic views of your surroundings.

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This 15-day cruisetour from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City (or the reverse) follows the Mekong River into the heart of Cambodia and Vietnam, a rich tapestry of ancient Khmer architecture, lush riverside vistas and colorful floating markets and vibrant cities.

The Viking Experience

Journey through the world’s most exciting river destinations on one of our elegant, award-winning ships. Learn more about the culturally immersive experiences that await you at every bend. (2018)

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