Lower Mississippi River Cruise

Welcome to New Orleans, also known as the Big Easy. This vibrant city is the perfect destination to begin your Mississippi River voyage. Arrive the day before your cruise and American Cruise Lines will handle the rest. With thoughtfully planned excursions encompassing the biggest attractions and cultural highlights of New Orleans, as well as complimentary transportation to the ship, we make sure your tour is as worry-free as possible.

New Orleans City Tour

New Orleans is a city full of history, intrigue, and colorful characters. After a Cajun inspired breakfast, begin your journey through the “Big Easy” with a private tour guide, who will give you a local’s look into the area’s most famous attractions. Explore the most popular areas including the French Quarter, the colorful garden district, and the famous stately mansions which still remain in period form. There will be plenty of time for you to enjoy the local flavors, like chicory coffee, sweet beignets, and famous New Orleans Jazz music.

*Note: This is a Signature Tour and is only offered on cruises ending in New Orleans, LA. Please call (800) 460-4518 for more information.

Day 2
Oak Alley, LA

Once serving as an antebellum sugar cane homestead, Oak Alley Plantation is named after its most distinguishing feature, a row of 300 year old oak trees. This leafy canopy forms a path leading to the Mississippi River. Restored to its 19th century grandeur, this classic Greek Revival-style antebellum mansion is breathtaking.

Oak Alley Plantation Tour - Complimentary Excursion

The famous ancient oaks bordering your path to the mansion are your first sight upon stepping ashore. The perfectly aligned 300 year old trees form a canopy which set a particularly grand entrance for our arrival. Southern belles enjoying the shade of the leafy canopy greet us on arrival and are our guides for the day. In small groups, we bring you through the antebellum plantation’s many stately rooms and show you why it has earned the name “Grande Dame of The Great River Road.” After the tour, join us for a special gathering with mint juleps on the west lawn before a visit to their popular gift shop which is known for their world-famous pralines.

Day 3
Baton Rouge, LA

Baton Rouge features all the history and wonder you would expect in a state capital, but with an added down home flavor that makes it truly unique. Our local expert guides will take you on a tour of the cities' most famous attractions including the Old & New State Capitals and the interactive Louisiana State Museum.

USS Kid

Known as the “Pirate of the Pacific,” this Fletcher-class destroyer is a memorial to the men and women that served in the American armed forces. Step back in time on this amazing tour as you witness original artifacts and aircraft from World War II.

Signature Atchafalaya Basin Tour

Explore the diverse natural beauty and rich ecological systems of America’s largest and most complex wetland. Cruise through the open waters of the Atchafalaya Basin as native guides discuss the abundant plant and wildlife indigenous to the area. Learn about the locals living on houseboats and how they have protected this land over the years. After the basin boat tour, travel a short distance to Pat’s Fisherman’s Wharf for a simple luncheon with southern favorites overlooking the waters of the Atchafalaya.

This is a Signature Shore Tour. Please call (800) 460-4518 for more information.

Historic Baton Rouge Tour - Complimentary Excursion

The vibrant history of Louisiana is evident throughout the state’s capital. After breakfast, you will be greeted at the ship by Philippa Blair and her visitor center representatives as they welcome you to Baton Rouge with vibrant Mardi Gras beads. Your first stop is the Louisiana Old State Capitol where you will experience a one-of-a-kind interactive film, made with the help of Disney, which brings you face-to-face with the ghost of the castle, Sarah Morgan. Afterward, Baton Rouge native, Ira Bobin, will serve as our tour guide and will bring you to the Louisiana State Museum, a completely interactive museum with three floors of displays detailing each different region of Louisiana.

Day 4
St. Francisville, LA

This southern town charms with simple pleasures and unique treasures. Located on the bluffs of the Mississippi River, St. Francisville has been called, “One of the 200 most beautiful small towns in America.” Take a stroll through its historic center with two centuries of architecture and lifestyles on display. Enjoy visits to restored antebellum mansions including Rosedown.

Rosedown Plantation Tour - Complimentary Excursion

The affluent ambiance of the Rosedown Plantation is evident the minute you step on the property. As you walk down the flowered path lined with towering oaks towards the Main House, you will be greeted by our lively resident expert, Tammie Miller. As you tour the home, Tammie delves deep into the family history of Daniel and Martha Turnbull and how their experiences helped shape the Main House into a home. At the conclusion of your tour, time is set aside to explore the grounds on your own or relax in a rocking chair on the front porch with cold refreshments and some of Tammie’s freshly made cookies.

Day 5
Natchez, MS

Celebrating its 300th year, Natchez, is a city full of history and southern hospitality. American Cruise Lines will take you on a guided exploration of this fascinating area with visits to its gardens, historic homes, and museums. While here, we will treat you to a special concert in the music room of the J.N. Stone House.

Historic Natchez Exploration - Complimentary Excursion

On our leisurely Natchez city tour, our expert local guide will build upon the lecture you received the night prior by our onboard historian and provide you with an insider’s perspective into the city’s rich history and the preserved influences of the Native American, European, and African cultures. We will be greeted at the landmark Longwood Plantation home, famously known for remaining incomplete to this day, as the Union workers left the structure unfinished to go fight in the Civil War. After the private tour, we will gather in the ship’s lounge for cocktails as the chefs prepare for a special southern-inspired dinner.

Frogmore Plantation Tour

Our onboard experts tell many stories about southern life on a plantation; today you will learn what life was really like. Our insightful local guide will accompany you from the ship to the cotton gin, and will be your escort as you explore the 1,800-acre cotton plantation. In intimate groups, the plantation owners Lynette and Buddy Tanner will delve into plantation life, including the housing, music, and relationships between the owners and workers. You will have the opportunity to pick cotton directly from the field, participate in a live gospel performance, and witness the progress in cotton technology from Eli Whitney’s original gin to their modern 900 bales-per-day computerized plantation.

J.N. Stone House Tour & Concert

Upon arrival, you will be greeted by fourth-generation owner, Joseph Stone, whose family has owned the home for over 135 years. Mr. Stone will guide you on a personal tour of his unique antebellum-style home and explain the many different purposes it has served over the years. Here, you can explore his eclectic collection of period-specific artwork and one-of-a-kind antiques. The afternoon concludes in the music hall with wine and beverages as Mr. Stone performs an exclusive classical piano concert.

Day 6
Vicksburg, MS

The city of Vicksburg served as a pivotal turning point during the American Civil War. Come with us as our informative historian leads us through the National Military Park which commemorates the campaign, siege, and defense of Vicksburg. Our expert guides and park rangers show you battlefields, the U.S.S. Cairo gunboat, and the most significant historic places.

Vicksburg National Military Park - Complimentary Excursion

As the paddlewheel laps gently against the water and the stars illuminate the night sky, our onboard Civil War historian gives a captivating lecture detailing all you are about to witness the next day at Vicksburg National Military Park. After a hearty southern-inspired breakfast, you will be greeted by our private tour guide who will stay with you throughout the day to answer questions and provide additional knowledge. Upon arrival at the park, rangers who are well-versed in Civil War history guide you on a customized tour that is specific to the interests of the group. Your guides will take you through the restored ironclad gunboat, U.S.S Cairo, the battlefield where the Siege of Vicksburg took place, and the over 1,300 monuments dedicated to the brave souls who lost their lives.

Day 7
Day of River Cruising

Enjoy the warmth of the Mississippi River sun as we cruise from Vicksburg to Memphis. Relax in one of the many spacious lounges or catch gentle breezes on the sun deck.

Day 8
Memphis, TN

Memphis is home to many things; Blues, BBQ, Beale Street, and of course, the King of Rock 'n Roll - Elvis Presley. American Cruise Lines will explore this amazing city on a narrated tour as we visit the many highlights that make Memphis so captivating. You will get to touch, taste and listen your way around Memphis as we celebrate its eclectic history.

Deluxe Graceland Signature Tour

No trip to Memphis is complete without a trip to the home of the “King of Rock n’ Roll,” Elvis Presley. Before venturing just outside of the city to Graceland, our knowledgeable guide takes you on a brief tour of the historic downtown and riverfront area. American Cruise Lines offers the most in-depth experience available at Graceland, allowing you to explore fascinating exhibits such as Elvis’ museum, estate grounds, the jungle and trophy rooms, his gravesite, and much more.

This is a Signature Shore Tour. Please call (800) 460-4518 for more information.

Memphis City Experience - Complimentary Excursion*

The city of Memphis has a deep-rooted history which spans many of the most important aspects of American culture. Your comprehensive tour starts onboard with an authentic Memphis BBQ before your private tour guide meets you at the ship and your journey through Memphis begins. We will visit iconic sites such as the National Civil Rights Museum, St. Judes Children’s Research Hospital, the Peabody Hotel – featuring the legendary Peabody ducks, and world famous Sun Studios – the birthplace of Rock n’ Roll. As you explore the city, the musical notes of up-and-coming artists on Beale Street emanate throughout.

*Note: Only offered on cruises ending in Memphis, TN

Queen of the Mississippi

Built in 2015, Queen of the Mississippi offers an authentic paddlewheeler experience with all the comforts of home. Guests can enjoy large staterooms with private balconies, hotel-style bathrooms, complimentary room service, WiFi, and more. Experience breathtaking scenery from the privacy of your stateroom as the Queen of the Mississippi makes its way down the legendary river.

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Owner's Suite
AAM (Private Balcony)
AAC (Private Balcony)
AAL (Private Balcony)
AAR (Private Balcony)
A
Single (Private Balcony)
Single

Owner's Suite

At a generous up to 445 sq. ft., the Owner’s Suites of Queen of the Mississippi offer the finest accommodations with unsurpassed views of the Mississippi River. With a spacious seating area and hotel-size bathrooms, each suite is a private sanctuary where you can unwind after a day of exploration in the tasteful comfort of your surroundings. Each of these suites features large sliding glass doors leading out to a private balcony, where you can enjoy the ever-changing scenery. Every modern amenity is at your fingertips, along with a desk, and spacious seating area.

AAM (Private Balcony)

Located on the top deck, these spacious staterooms feature scenic views of the passing landscape. At 328 sq. ft., you will enjoy all of the modern comforts that are expected of a premium hotel. These staterooms also offer full-size bathrooms and a walk-out private balcony where the grandness of the Mississippi can be appreciated.

AAC (Private Balcony)

Our AAC staterooms are conveniently located on the fourth deck and at 304 sq. ft. offer all of the comforts of a fine hotel. Complete with a private balcony and floor to ceiling sliding glass doors, these staterooms provide spectacular panoramic views of the Mississippi River and the surrounding landscape.

AAL (Private Balcony)

AAL staterooms can be found on the third deck of the Queen of the Mississippi. Enjoy a luxurious 304 sq. ft. of living space that is equipped with plush seating, a full-size bathroom, and a private balcony with large sliding glass doors that offer great views of the Mississippi scenery.

AAR (Private Balcony)

AAR staterooms can be found on the second deck of the Queen of the Mississippi. Enjoy a luxurious 304 sq. ft. of living space that is equipped with a full-size bathroom, and a large private balcony with sliding glass doors.

A

These 290 sq ft staterooms offer exceptional comfort and a relaxing living area. Featuring a large opening picture window, all are equipped with modern amenities, full-size bathrooms, and closet space.

Single (Private Balcony)

Perfect for the solo traveler, our Single staterooms offer all of the amenities you expect from a fine hotel. At 230 sq. ft., these staterooms have spacious bathrooms and large sliding glass doors that lead to a private balcony.

Single

A comfortable getaway, our Single staterooms offer individuals a spacious room with convenient amenities. At 203 sq. ft., all have interior entrances and large viewing windows where the sights of the Mississippi can be enjoyed.

Queen of the Mississippi Deck Plan

Click to See Floor Plans

America

Launched in 2016, America is one of the finest Mississippi paddlewheelers ever built, introducing features never before seen on the Mississippi. America embodies a casual ambiance and relaxed atmosphere while providing panoramic views of the passing scenery. With only 185 guests, fellow guests will quickly become new friends.

Click a Category

Owner's Suite (Private Balcony)
AAM (Private Balcony)
AAC (Private Balcony)
AAL (Private Balcony)
AAR (Private Balcony)
A
Single (Private Balcony)
Single

Owner's Suite (Private Balcony)

Each Owner’s Suite on America offers the finest accommodations on the Mississippi River with unsurpassed views of the passing scenery. A spectacular up to 445 sq. ft. of space is your private sanctuary to spread out and make yourself at home. Floor to ceiling sliding glass doors lead to an expansive private balcony offering private panoramic views throughout the room. Every modern amenity is at your fingertips, along with a spacious seating area, desk, and hotel-size bathroom.

AAM (Private Balcony)

Located on the top deck, these spacious staterooms feature commanding views of the passing Mississippi landscape. At 328 sq. ft., there is plenty of room to enjoy the tasteful comfort of your surroundings. These staterooms have all the comforts of a fine hotel and feature floor to ceiling sliding glass doors with a private balcony to offer panoramic views of the Mississippi from every angle. These staterooms also offer a sitting area, desk, and hotel-size bathrooms and are the epitome of comfort and relaxation.

AAC (Private Balcony)

AAC staterooms are conveniently located on the fourth deck and at 304 sq.ft offer all of the comforts of a fine hotel. Complete with a private balcony and floor to ceiling sliding glass doors, these staterooms provide spectacular panoramic views of the Mississippi River and the surrounding landscape.

AAL (Private Balcony)

AAL staterooms can be found on the third deck of America. Enjoy a luxurious 304 sq. ft. of living space that is equipped with plush seating, full-size bathrooms, and a private balcony with large sliding glass doors that offer great views of the Mississippi scenery.

AAR (Private Balcony)

AAR staterooms can be found on the second deck of the America. Enjoy a luxurious 304 sq. ft. of living space that is equipped with full-size bathrooms, and a private balcony with sliding glass doors.

A

These 290 sq. ft. staterooms offer exceptional comfort and a relaxing living area. Featuring a large opening picture window, these staterooms are equipped with modern amenities, full-size bathrooms, and closet space.

Single (Private Balcony)

Single

A comfortable getaway, our Single suites offer individuals a spacious room with convenient amenities. At 203 sq. ft., these staterooms have interior entrances and large opening viewing windows where the sights of the Mississippi can be enjoyed.

America Deck Plan

Click to See Floor Plans

Modern Riverboat

With a capacity of 200 guests, the new line of modern riverboats from American Cruise Lines were developed to exceed all guest expectations. Carefully crafted, each state-of-the-art riverboat was designed with our guest's satisfaction and comfort in mind. Our modern fleet will offer elegant décor, panoramic views and the most spacious staterooms complete with private balconies. Discover the future in U.S. riverboat design.

Click a Category

Owner's Suite (Private Balcony)
Veranda Suite (Private Balcony)
AAM (Private Balcony)
AAC (Private Balcony)
AAL (Private Balcony)
AAR (Private Balcony)
Single (Private Balcony)

Owner's Suite (Private Balcony)

Each Owner’s Suite offers the finest accommodations with unsurpassed views of the passing scenery. A spectacular 445 sq. ft. of space is your private sanctuary to spread out and make yourself at home. Floor to ceiling sliding glass doors let light pour in and allow private panoramic views from any point in the room. An expansive private balcony is the perfect place to savor a calm afternoon or to enjoy breakfast as the sun rises over the riverbank. The suite includes a sitting area and hotel size bathroom with every amenity.

Veranda Suite (Private Balcony)

With a generous 405 sq. ft. of relaxing space, each Veranda suite includes a private walk-out balcony to enjoy the panoramic views. Considered one of the finest staterooms on any cruise ship, guests will enjoy full hotel-sized bathrooms and large living area with sliding glass door.

AAM (Private Balcony)

Located on the top deck, these spacious staterooms feature commanding views of the passing river landscapes. At 328 sq. ft., there is plenty of room to enjoy the tasteful comfort of your surroundings. These staterooms have all the comforts of a fine hotel and feature floor to ceiling sliding glass doors with a private balcony to offer panoramic views from every angle.

AAC (Private Balcony)

AAC staterooms are conveniently located on the third deck and offer all of the comforts of a fine hotel. Complete with a private balcony and floor to ceiling sliding glass doors, these staterooms provide spectacular views of the Mississippi River and the surrounding landscape. At 316 sq. ft., these staterooms also offer a sitting area, desk and hotel size bathrooms.

AAL (Private Balcony)

AAL staterooms can be found on the second deck and offer a luxurious 304 sq. ft. of living space. Each room is equipped with plush seating, full-sized bathroom, and a private balcony with large sliding glass doors that offer great views of the Mississippi scenery. These staterooms are the epitome of comfort and relaxation.

AAR (Private Balcony)

AAR staterooms on the main deck offer complete convenience with 304 sq. ft. of living space, hotel-size bathrooms, and a private balcony with sliding glass doors. These staterooms also feature a large sitting area, writing desk and represent complete comfort and relaxation.

Single (Private Balcony)

Perfect for the solo traveler, our Single staterooms offer all of the amenities you expect from a fine hotel. At 250 sq. ft., these staterooms have spacious bathrooms and large sliding glass doors that lead to a private balcony.

Modern Riverboat Deck Plan

Click to See Floor Plans

Lower Mississippi River Civil War Cruise

Delve deep into the history of the Civil War on this special theme cruise which explores battlefields, monuments, and museums that echo the stories of this defining time in American History. Visit historical sites including Vicksburg Military Park, the Louisiana State Museum, and the cities of Charleston and Beaufort, where you will gain better insight into the circumstances that led to war.

Our onboard program is perfectly tailored to the itinerary, emphasizing the personalities and strategies of the Confederate and Union generals as well as the incredible sacrifice made by millions of Americans.

Music Cruise

Delight in the sounds of Jazz and Blues that fill the air as we cruise the Mississippi River and pay tribute to the musicians and the regions that helped influence music in America. On this theme cruise, enjoy special onboard performances, guided shore excursions to influential destinations, and exclusive behind-the-scenes tours of museums and recording studios. Learn about the importance of New Orleans to the birth of Jazz and how Memphis played an instrumental role in the foundation and popularity of Rock n' Roll.

Culinary Cruise

The Culinary Cruise along the Lower Mississippi River cruise is perfect for food lovers who relish the blend of American, French and deep South influences on dishes native to the region. This 8-day cruise travels from New Orleans, one of the country's most famous culinary capitals, to Memphis, long renowned for having some of the best BBQ in the States.

During the cruise, you will see cooking demonstrations, learn new recipes, and get a behind-the-scenes tour of the Louisiana Culinary Institute. Enjoy savory regional dishes including Chicken Gumbo, BBQ Shrimp, Louisiana Jumbo Lump Crab Cakes, and Bourbon Pecan Pie.

Eagle Society Cruise

Explore the Bayou and Mississippi Delta with our Memphis to New Orleans cruise. Traveling into the cradle of the deep South, this cruise features historical sites including Oak Alley Plantation and the Civil War battlefields at Vicksburg, authentic Cajun cuisine, and some of the best Jazz and Blues music you will ever hear. Eagle Society members will receive a behind-the-scenes tour and morning reception featuring select hors d'oeuvres and refreshments at the famous J.N. Stone House.

Thanksgiving Cruise

Celebrate Thanksgiving with American Cruise Lines and join us as we cruise the Lower Mississippi River from Memphis to New Orleans.

Enjoy festive decorations aboard the ship, a holiday inspired cocktail reception, and revel in the holiday spirit of each community we visit along the way. Our culinary team has prepared a traditional Thanksgiving feast with roast turkey, mashed potatoes, cranberry sauce, and stuffing. They have every detail handled precisely for a memorable holiday meal.

American Cruise Lines will continue its annual "Give-Back" program this holiday season. For each ticket sold on our Thanksgiving cruises, we make a donation to the Connecticut Food Bank. Last year we raised over $13,000 to help alleviate hunger.