Traveling the Lower Mississippi with American Cruise Lines is an experience like no other. Our carefully selected onboard experts bring the history and culture of this region to life with award-winning enrichment programs.
Enjoy customized excursions from iconic ports in Oak Alley and Natchez where you gain an insiders’ perspective of classic antebellum homes and renowned plantations. Delve deep into the history of the Civil War in Vicksburg as an American Cruise Line historian leads you through the National Military Park commemorating the campaign, siege, and defense of this city.
As music is synonymous with the Mississippi River, our highly acclaimed onboard performers will entertain you throughout the voyage. In the evenings, relax in comfort on your private balcony as you take in the spectacular rolling river views.
Coming in August 2019 - American Harmony, the second in our series of new modern riverboats. Click here to learn how this new ship will revolutionize U.S. river cruising.
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From New Orleans to Memphis, delight in the area’s rich history and culture as you listen to the finest musicians and dine on delectable, regionally-inspired cuisine.
Reverse itineraries available. Please contact your Cruise Specialist for more information. Excursions subject to change.
Our Lower Mississippi Itinerary offers two Pre-Cruise Package options, providing you with a seamless way to board the ship and explore the local area.
2- Night Graceland Premium Pre-Cruise Package
Any trip to Memphis is not complete without visiting Graceland to explore the home of the King. This unique pre-cruise experience at Elvis’ home includes a 2-night stay at the Graceland Guest House with Ultimate VIP Pass & Tour. You’ll tour the museum dedicated to Elvis’ career, his famous car collection, his custom jets, and of course, his mansion, with an expert guide. On the morning of the cruise we will meet you in the lobby of the hotel to bring you to the ship for an easy boarding process. There is limited availability for this package, so please inquire when making your cruise reservation.
1-Night Complimentary Pre-Cruise Package
Arrive the day before your scheduled cruise date and American Cruise Lines will handle the rest. Enjoy a 1-night premium hotel stay in the heart of downtown, within walking distance to shops, theatres, and restaurants, where you can explore the city at your leisure. On the morning of the cruise, meet in the hotel lobby after breakfast and we will transport you to the ship to begin your cruise. All luggage will be brought directly from the hotel and placed in your stateroom aboard the ship.
Call 1-800-460-4518 to speak with a Cruise Specialist about our Pre-Cruise Packages. Pre-Cruise Packages must be reserved at least 30 days before your cruise date.
Welcome to Memphis! Home to Blues, BBQ, Beale Street, and of course, the King of Rock 'n Roll - Elvis Presley. This amazing city is the perfect place to begin your Mississippi River Voyage. Come a day or two early and immerse yourself in sights, sounds, and tastes of this exciting destination.
No trip to Memphis is complete without a trip to the home of the “King of Rock n’ Roll,” Elvis Presley. The full Graceland experience will take you from Elvis’ humble beginnings through his rise to super stardom. See where Elvis lived, relaxed, and spent time with his family and friends. Explore the famous “Jungle Room” where the star recorded one of his final albums. Visit the many onsite museums where you can view Elvis' many jumpsuits and gold records, as well his collection of automobiles and custom jets.
This is a Signature shore excursion and should be reserved in advance. Please call (800) 460-4518 for information.
For cruises starting in Memphis, this tour is only offered as part of the 2-day Pre-Cruise Package.
Relax and let your guide show you the highlights of this fascinating City on the Bluff. Memphis is located on the Mississippi River at the northern end of the Mississippi Delta where the Blues was born, with a history linked to cotton and music. On this narrated excursion, view Mud Island, a Mississippi River Educational Park; Cotton Row, where 60% of the nation’s cotton was once traded; National Civil Rights Museum, where Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. was assassinated; and The Pinch District, Memphis' first neighborhood which was a melting pot of immigrants, mostly Irish immigrants who came to America to escape the Potato Famine.
For cruises starting in Memphis, this tour is only offered as part of the 2-day Pre-Cruise Package.
Bask in the warmth of the Mississippi River sun as we cruise from Memphis to Vicksburg. Relax in one of the many spacious lounges or enjoy a gentle breeze on the sun deck.
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, commemorating the campaign, siege, and defense of Vicksburg. Our expert guides and park rangers will take you to battlefields, the U.S.S. Cairo gunboat, and the most significant historic places.
The night before our visit, our onboard Civil War historian gives a captivating lecture detailing all you are about to witness 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 information. Upon arrival at the park, rangers who are well-versed in Civil War history guide you on a customized tour that’s 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.
Visit Anchuca, Vicksburg's first columned mansion and one of its oldest antebellum homes. Led by a long time Vicksburg resident, explore its historic neighborhood, showcasing nearly two centuries of unique American architecture and more than a dozen antebellum buildings. Learn the history of the many ethnic groups who settled here in the early 1800's, as well as the ongoing preservation efforts in the area. After the tour, return to Anchuca and enjoy southern-inspired refreshments.
Please Note: This excursion is only available on Memphis to New Orleans itineraries, not on the reverse.
Led by our local expert guide, this walking tour of Vicksburg brings to life the history of this river city from 1820 to the present. Hear engaging stories of the citizens who once called Vicksburg home. Stroll along its brick streets and admire native flora as well as the variety of architecture styles found among the antebellum homes, churches, and museums.
Please Note: This excursion is only available on Memphis to New Orleans itineraries, not on the reverse.
Settled in 1716, Natchez is rich in history and southern hospitality. Enjoy a guided exploration of this fascinating city which has retained its antebellum charm since its surrender during the Civil War. Visit Frogmore, a historic cotton plantation still in use today, or attend a special piano concert in the J. N. Stone antebellum music room.
Longwood is just one of the elegant historic houses that graces the historic district of Natchez. This octagonal house epitomizes the rise and fall of the South. As the Civil War began, the workmen stopped construction and the house was never completed. View the finished first floor with original family furnishings and the upper five stories that are still a work in progress.
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 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.
Upon arrival, you will be greeted by the 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 refreshments as Mr. Stone performs an exclusive classical piano concert.
Explore downtown Natchez on your own. Take time for shopping and strolling through town. The shuttle will make regularly scheduled stops at Rosalie House, the Natchez Visitors Center, and the downtown shopping district.
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 where two centuries of architecture and lifestyle are on display. Enjoy visits to restored antebellum mansions including Rosedown.
The affluent ambiance of the Rosedown Plantation is evident the minute you step on the property. As you walk towards the Main House down the flowered path lined with towering oaks, you will be greeted by our lively resident expert, Tammie Miller. On the tour, 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.
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 and New State Capitols and the interactive Louisiana State Museum.
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 ride, travel a short distance to Pat’s Fisherman’s Wharf overlooking the waters of the Atchafalaya and enjoy a luncheon featuring southern favorites.
This is a Signature shore excursion and should be reserved in advance. Please call (800) 460-4518 for information.
Known as the “Pirate of the Pacific,” this Fletcher-class destroyer is a memorial to the men and women who 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.
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, bringing 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 region of Louisiana.
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 antebellum mansion is simply breathtaking.
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 its world-famous pralines.
End your journey in the vibrant city of New Orleans, also known as the Big Easy, where art and culture abound. The open-air artist colony proudly displays local works on the iron fence in Jackson Square, while the city’s 45 museums carefully preserve its rich history. Stay an extra day or even a few nights to enjoy the famed French Quarter.
New Orleans is a city full of history, intrigue, and colorful characters. Begin your journey through the “Big Easy” with a private tour guide, who will give you a local’s look at 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.
Please Note: This tour is only offered on cruises ending in New Orleans, LA
From the sounds of the best jazz and blues in the country to the delicious cuisine of the region and the beautiful landscapes along the way, our 8-day cruise along the Lower Mississippi River is a delight for the senses.
The journey along the Lower Mississippi takes you to historic sites that were critical to the development of our great country. Iconic places you will visit include:
Aboard one of our modern riverboats, there are many options for spectacular viewing.
We carefully select onboard experts and performers to host enrichment programs that bring the local history, nature, and culture of the Mississippi River to life.*
*Entertainment times, days, and performers are subject to change.
Our team of master chefs takes great pride in offering you a customized menu, featuring premium locally sourced and regionally inspired cuisine.
Sample Dinner Menu
Guest Favorites Include:
The American River Cruise revolution continues with American Harmony, the newest ship in American Cruise Lines’ highly anticipated series of contemporary riverboats. These, the first modern riverboats ever in the U.S., have introduced many pioneering innovations to America’s waters.
American Harmony will continue American Cruise Lines’ decade's long tradition for innovation in river cruising. With a capacity of just 190 guests, this new ship has the modern design features and contemporary styling that today’s traveler has come to expect.
Featured will be lounges soaring 40 feet above the water as well as triple the glass of other riverboats, offering astounding views. The new riverboat will also feature the Atrium, a four-story glass-enclosed area with a large domed skylight, which will serve as the central gathering point for the entire ship.
Our new suite design will allow for unprecedented comfort while traveling, beginning with the new Grand Suites featuring 800 square feet of private space. These spacious suites include two glass walls and a wraparound private balcony. Complimentary room service during select mealtimes is available for every stateroom, but the Grand Suites offer ample space to host small cocktail parties or private dinner events.
Experience the American Harmony for yourself this summer on the Mississippi River.
The luxurious Grand Suite measures over 800 sq. ft. and offers 270◦ of panoramic views through floor-to-ceiling glass windows. Sliding glass doors lead out to a wrap-around balcony complete with a private dining area, the perfect place to enjoy breakfast room service or watch the sun set. Each Grand Suite features a separate bedroom and living area, ideal for gathering with family and friends after an invigorating day of exploration.
Each Owner’s Suite offers the finest accommodations with unsurpassed views of the passing scenery. A spectacular 645 sq. ft. of space is your private sanctuary to spread out and make yourself at home. This spacious suite features a full-size bathroom, as well as a separate bedroom and living area. Floor-to-ceiling sliding glass doors let light pour in and allow private panoramic views from every vantage point. An expansive private balcony is a perfect place to savor a calm afternoon or to enjoy breakfast as the sun rises over the riverbank.
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-size bathrooms and large living area with sliding glass door.
Located on the fourth deck, these spacious staterooms feature commanding views of the passing river landscapes. At 350 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 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 full-size bathrooms.
AAL staterooms can be found on the second deck and offer a luxurious 300 sq. ft. of living space. Each room is equipped with plush seating, full-size 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 staterooms on the main deck offer complete comfort with approximately 275 sq. ft. of living space. Enjoy a full-size bathroom, large picture window, and door leading out to a furnished private balcony. These staterooms also feature a large sitting area, ideal for getting together with friends.
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.
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, and complimentary room service. Experience breathtaking scenery from the privacy of your stateroom as the Queen of the Mississippi makes its way down the legendary river.
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 full-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.
Located on the top deck, these spacious staterooms feature scenic views of the passing landscape. At 328 . 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.
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 staterooms can be found on the third deck of the Queen of the Mississippi. Enjoy a luxurious 304 . 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 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.
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.
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.
A comfortable getaway, our Single staterooms offer individuals a spacious room with convenient amenities. At 203 . ft., all have interior entrances and large viewing windows where the sights of the Mississippi can be enjoyed.
Launched in 2016, America is one of the finest paddlewheeler 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.
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 full-size bathroom.
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 full-size bathrooms and are the epitome of comfort and relaxation.
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 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 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 complete with an outdoor seating area.
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.
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.
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.
Celebrate the holidays on our Spirit of the Season Cruises which sail from late November into the New Year. Aboard our ship decked out in festive décor, travel to some of the most fascinating destinations in the country as you are treated to the best in holiday-inspired cuisine, music, and onboard and onshore enrichment.
Celebrate Thanksgiving with American Cruise Lines 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 spirit of the season in 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 a local food bank. Last year, we raised over $13,000 to help alleviate hunger.
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. Led by our expert historians, visit sites such as Vicksburg Military Park where you will gain 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.
Explore the Bayou and Mississippi Delta from Memphis to New Orleans on our 8-day Lower Mississippi cruise. Venturing to the cradle of the deep South, explore historic sites including Oak Alley Plantation and the Civil War battlefields at Vicksburg. Savor authentic Cajun cuisine, and listen to our talented onboard entertainers perform music of the region. Eagle Society members will receive a behind-the-scenes tour of the famous J.N. Stone House and also enjoy a reception featuring select hors-d'oeuvres and refreshments.
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 to New Orleans, one of the country's most famous culinary capitals, and Memphis, long renowned for having some of the best BBQ in the States.
During the cruise, you will watch 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.
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 American music. On this theme cruise, enjoy special onboard performances, guided shore excursions to influential destinations, and exclusive behind-the-scenes tours. 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.
* Prices displayed are per person based on double occupancy.
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