Cruising the Mississippi River with American Cruise Lines is an extraordinary journey through history. From Colonial pioneers to entrepreneurs, much of America’s story has been forged – or fought – along its length. The Mississippi River is navigable from New Orleans, Louisiana to the Twin Cities of Minnesota, and forms a maritime corridor through the U.S. heartland. American Cruise Lines’ modern fleet of brand new contemporary riverboats and traditional paddlewheelers go even further, with cruises exploring the Ohio, Tennessee and Cumberland Rivers, each offering its own unique view of the American South and Midwest.
From Mark Twain’s hometown of Hannibal, MO to exploring Civil War history in Vicksburg; experiencing the heart of American music in Memphis and Nashville while enjoying the exciting flavors of creole cuisine, the Mississippi River is a premier cruising destination. Explore it today aboard the most modern fleet of small ships.
New Orleans, LA to New Orleans, LA
Visit Oak Alley Plantation, Houmas House, and Natchez, and more as you enjoy this round-trip river cruise from New Orleans.
Memphis, TN to New Orleans, LA
Be treated to southern hospitality and vibrant onboard entertainment on your riverboat adventure between New Orleans and Memphis. Listen to the sounds of Graceland and learn about Civil War history in Vicksburg. Experience the culture of Louisiana, Tennessee, and Mississippi.
St. Louis, MO/Alton, IL to St. Paul, MN
Surround yourself with the river landscapes that inspired Mark Twain - from St. Louis to Hannibal to St. Paul. Explore the scenic bluffs, gardens, and homes that define the region.
New Orleans, LA to St. Paul, MN
The ultimate Missisippi cruise - traversing the entire length of the river - stopping at all of the most iconic ports in the region, including New Orleans, Memphis, Hannibal, Winona, and more.
New Orleans, LA to New Orleans, LA
Experience 'The Big Easy' like never before. From there, make your way to classic southern spots such as Houmas House, Oak Alley, and Baton Rouge.
New Orleans, LA to St. Louis, MO
Begin in the French Quarter of New Orleans and continue to Baton Rouge and Natchez. Explore the "Gateway to the West" via St. Louis, rock 'n' roll to Graceland, view Civil War landmarks, and stroll through the museums and art galleries of Paducah.
St. Paul, MN to New Orleans, LA
Witness the dramatic landscapes of the Upper Mississippi River and treat yourself to Blues and BBQ. Guests can choose their perfect itinerary whether aboard an American riverboat or authentic paddlewheeler.
Pittsburgh, PA to St. Louis, MO
Journey through America's Heartland via the Ohio River. Sip Mint Juleps in Kentucky, sight see in "Steel City" Pittsburgh, and enjoy a glass of sweet tea on your private balcony.
Memphis, TN to Nashville, TN
Tap your feet aboard American Jazz and sail through the musical meccas of the country. Our soulful Memphis to Nashville river cruise combines history, music, and vibrant culture.
Chattanooga, TN to Nashville, TN
Cruise the Tennessee Valley aboard our newest modern riverboat. You'll make stops in Nashville, TN, Chattanooga, TN, Paducah, KY, and more. This journey includes the sounds of iconic music, the sights of Civil War history, and the smells of whiskey and bourbon.
Pittsburgh, PA to St. Louis, MO
Experience two of America’s greatest rivers on this 11-day adventure through the heartland. Enjoy the idyllic countryside of the Ohio River and the wonder of the mighty Mississippi that inspired Mark Twain.
*Offer valid on New Bookings only
“This is the way to see America. A wonderful experience!”
– Donna F. - Bradenton, FL
“The overall cleanliness of the ship was very welcome and impressive. The single thing we enjoyed the most was the quality of the food and the service that came with it. The cuisine was perfectly tailored to exhibit the Southern experience.”
– Robert J. - New Port Richey, FL
“The total crew was excellent. We could not have had a more enjoyable and memorable experience. Starting and ending each day on our balcony enjoying the River was wonderful. Also didn't listen to or care about the daily news dribble. Our expectations were exceeded. Could not expect more than that. We will be back.”
– Robert C. - Ocala, FL
“Being a history buff, I enjoyed learning about the history and lore of the Mississippi river and especially enjoyed Vicksburg and the military park tour.”
– Marcel L. - Southington, CT
“We enjoyed everything! It was all new to us and exceeded our expectations. The views, the side trips, the wonderful music, the great staff and crew, the incredible food—what’s not to love? Stay the course. You’ve got this. We will be back for sure, and you’ve set the bar very, very high with this first cruise. It was truly a wonderful time for us.”
– Thomas H. - Whitehouse, OH
“This cruise was my retirement gift to myself. The crew put chocolates in my room and a nice card congratulating me. I was surprised how wonderful everything was. This was the best trip I have ever been on. Thank you.”
– Bonnie P. - Wyandotte, MI
“Everything was wonderful. I cannot remember having such a great time. The entire staff was great and so accommodating. I loved this trip. I have been on cruises on big ships and there is no comparison. It was so much nicer on a smaller boat. We had the chance to meet and probably had a meal, a drink or excursion with almost everyone on board.”
– Cindy E. - Frederick, MD
“I really appreciated how organized everything is. The flow of the tours, motor coach pick up and return, meal time and cocktail hour. The staff worked well to make the passengers not have to worry about anything except enjoying the experience. Loved all of the food. Wonderful selections at each meal!”
– Melanie S. - Salem, OR
“The entire cruise was excellent: the accommodations, food, service and the scenery was spectacular! Loved the excursions and learned so much about small towns we had never visited before. Absolutely loved having McAvoy Layne on the cruise as Mark Twain. He was excellent and made the cruise even more special with his performance! Also loved the way he stayed in character even at dinner.”
– Thomas S. - Tarzana, CA
“I enjoyed the luxury of being on the boat, watching the world go by quietly, and being pampered at every turn. I loved being able to pick and choose whatever I wished to do. Cruising the rivers was a complete joy. Our entertainment was exceptionally superb, as well. It was educational, historical, and entertaining!”
– Audrey I. - Inverness, IL
“I loved the fact that there many things to do on the cruise, but absolutely no pressure to do any of them. We spent most of our time on our balcony, reading and watching the world go by. We had breakfast on the balcony every day and it was absolutely fantastic. The food was amazing, the service was incredible, and we are telling everyone about the wonderful time we had.”
– Richard M. - Savage, MN
“I enjoyed the simple pleasure of cruising down the Mississippi. Just a big thank you for a wonderful cruise - the dream of a lifetime for me.”
– Georgene S. - Saint Louis, MO
“A big thank you to American Cruise Line for making my father’s lifelong dream of sailing the Mississippi come true. He is 82 and had the time of his life!”
– William P. - Santa Clara, CA
“Enjoyed cruising the Mississippi at a slow pace with beautiful views of the river; it all was so peaceful. It was so nice each day to be greeted by the staff with friendly smiles and willingness to be of help. The entertainment was some of the best ever of any cruise we've been on.”
– Ernest S. - Orting, WA
“Loved everything, but especially the friendliness of the staff, the small ship atmosphere, and the feeling of traveling with ‘family’.”
– Jeanne D. - San Clemente, CA
“I loved the small intimate atmosphere of the cruise. The relaxation of river cruising was amazing. Sitting on top of the boat at sunset, all by ourselves, was heaven on earth.”
– Susan C. - Davis, CA
“The boat was lovely and just the right size. The staff was excellent, pleasant and accommodating. The food was outstanding and the alcohol was plentiful and of high quality. The Riverlorians were knowledgeable charming. The entertainment was also great and the onboard activities were varied and enjoyable.”
– Heather O. - Green Valley, AZ
As you cruise the legendary Mississippi River, our dedicated crew will treat you with gracious hospitality and the utmost care. Enjoy the intimacy and comfort of small-ship cruising, where our crew will quickly learn your name and preferences as you travel with us. Our onboard experts don’t just lecture, they spend time with guests aboard and on shore, giving real insight and depth to each destination visited. Many even dine with our guests.
From New Orleans, LA to St. Paul, MN, enjoy well-customized excursions, led by engaging local guides who live and work in these great port cities of America’s Heartland. Get a backstage pass to Elvis’ Graceland and the legendary Sun Studio in Memphis. Explore the boyhood town of Mark Twain in Hannibal and be treated to a live show at the Grand Old Opry in Nashville.
Whether on board a modern riverboat or newly refurbished paddlewheeler, American Cruise Lines is proud to offer the largest staterooms in the industry, with full-size bathrooms, and private balconies offering the perfect vantage point from which to admire the scenic rolling river views. Guests can also look forward to discovering spacious lounges and quiet nooks to gather with fellow travelers.
Travel to the birthplace of jazz, blues, and rock–n-roll as our talented onboard musicians entertain you with songs born along the river. Dine on the finest Cajun and Creole and mouth-watering Memphis BBQ prepared by our team of master chefs. Enjoy a complimentary cocktail hour every evening, a time when you can share the day’s adventures with like-minded travelers, while enjoying a refreshing mint julip.
