Music Cities Cruise

Pre-Cruise

Enjoy a Complimentary Pre-Cruise Hotel Stay in Nashville, TN, the capital of country music. Come a day early and explore the vibrant downtown, discover its cultural treasures, and savor some of the South’s best culinary delights. Treat yourself to a night at the Grand Ole Opry. 

Pre-Cruise Hotel Stays must be reserved at least 30 days before your cruise date.

Excursions & Entertainment

• 1- Night Complimentary Pre-Cruise Hotel Stay
  1- Night Complimentary Pre-Cruise Hotel Stay

  Enjoy a 1-night stay at the Gaylord Opryland Resort & Convention Center, with breakfast included. Upon arrival, be treated to an evening performance at the Grand Ole Opry. The morning of embarkation, meet in the hotel lobby for transportation to the ship with concierge luggage service provided.

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Day 1 - Nashville, TN

From the legendary Grand Ole Opry to the Country Music Hall of Fame, Nashville is the official headquarters of country music. The lively streets are lined with art galleries and unique shops that welcome you at every turn. Consider touring The Hermitage, the home of President Andrew Jackson; the gardens of Cheekwood where more than 55,000 tulips bloom in the spring, or Gaylord Opryland's nine acres of indoor gardens and waterfalls.

Excursions & Entertainment

• Welcome Aboard
  Welcome Aboard

  As you embark upon your journey, enjoy a Welcome Aboard Reception with cocktails, hors d’oeuvres and entertainment. Meet the crew, your onboard experts, and fellow guests. Learn more about the wonderful adventure ahead of you.

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Day 2 - Clarksville, TN

Discover Clarksville, named for General George Rogers Clark, a frontier fighter, Revolutionary War hero, and brother of William Clark of the Lewis and Clark Expedition. As you explore the city led by our local guides, learn how Clarksville rose as a major tobacco port during the 1800s. Tour the Don F. Pratt Memorial Museum which houses military memorabilia, or Dunbar Cave, one of the largest caves in the county.

Excursions & Entertainment

• Customs House Museum & Cultural Center - Complimentary Excursion
  Customs House Museum & Cultural Center - Complimentary Excursion

  Built in 1898, this building originally housed a U.S. Post Office and Customs House for the flourishing tobacco trade. This architecturally fascinating structure was designed by architect, William Aicken, who was commissioned by President Grover Cleveland. It consists of Italianate ornamentation, a Far East influenced roof, Romanesque arches and Gothic copper eagles perched at the building’s four corners. The museum is among the most photographed buildings in Tennessee. It features rotating shows, fine art galleries and a sculpture garden.

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• Old Glory Distilling Co. Experience
  Old Glory Distilling Co. Experience

  Enjoy a tour and tasting at Old Glory Distilling Co., a small batch artisan distillery with a focus on crafting premium Tennessee Whiskey and Bourbon, as well as a variety of spirits including moonshine, white rum, vodka, and gin. Learn the history of the distillery as well as its operations. Be treated to a rum punch cocktail upon arrival and visit the onsite gift shop where you can indulge in bourbon pecans as you peruse the merchandise.

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• Fort Defiance - Complimentary Excursion
  Fort Defiance - Complimentary Excursion

  Fort Defiance was originally a central hub for trading goods and settlement for both the American Indians and white settlers beginning in the late 18th century. During the Civil War, the Fort became a base for the Confederate Troops. But in 1862, the fort was captured by Union Troops and stayed under their command for the remainder of the war. The grounds have been well maintained and preserved since the war ended, so you will truly take a step back in time.

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Day 3 - Dover, TN

The small town of Dover is a historic treasure as well as a place of scenic beauty. Home to Fort Donelson National Park, the town played a pivot role in the Civil War as the site of a major Union victory. Within Dover is the Cross Creeks National Wildlife Refuge, an over 8,000-acre habitat of waterfowl and plant life, as well as the Land Between Lakes National Recreation Area.

Excursions & Entertainment

• Fort Donelson National Military Park - Complimentary Excursion
  Fort Donelson National Military Park - Complimentary Excursion

  Once the gateway to the Confederate Heartland, the Battle of Fort Donelson became a key victory for Ulysses Grant and Union forces. Enjoy a warm welcome at the visitor’s center by tour guides who are eager to share their knowledge. After a short introductory film, tour the grounds of the fort, surrender site, and National Cemetery while learning about the military strategies employed by each side and how the Union victory impacted the entire Civil War.

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Day 4 - Cruising Lake Barkley and the Cumberland River

Admire the picturesque scenery of America's Heartland, including the Kentucky Lakes and rolling landscape of 170,000 acres of protected forest. Experience a relaxing day cruising Lake Barkley and admire panoramic views of the Cumberland River from the comfort of your private balcony.

Excursions & Entertainment

• A Day of Cruising
  A Day of Cruising

  There are a variety of activities scheduled on board when the ship is underway, which vary depending on the itinerary and scheduled date. Enjoy destination-focused enrichment programs with special guest speakers who present topics related to the region and ports of call, including Art Classes, App-titude Classes (Tech Made Easy), Cooking Demonstrations, Mixology (practice of making great cocktails,) Trivia, Game Shows, and more.

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Day 5 - Paducah, KY

Founded by William Clark (of Lewis and Clark), Paducah is known as a National Heritage Destination with many talented culinary artists, painters, potters, and jewelers creating and displaying their works there. Also known as “Quilt City,” there is plenty to do in Paducah from shopping to visiting one the many fine museums, to participating in a hands-on creative workshop at a local art gallery.

Excursions & Entertainment

• River Discovery Center - Complimentary Excursion
  River Discovery Center - Complimentary Excursion

  Paducah’s location at the confluence of the Ohio and Tennessee Rivers makes it unique. The city is home to some of the nation’s largest barge and towing companies. At the River Discovery Center, learn all about the inland waterways and the impact they have on the daily lives of local residents. You can be a captain and choose your vessel type in the state-of-the-art boat simulator, as well as explore and learn about the history, environments, culture, and economy of these rivers through interactive exhibits.

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• Paducah City Excursion & National Quilt Museum
  Paducah City Excursion & National Quilt Museum

  Let our local guide take you through the quaint city of Paducah. This tour has been carefully divided into three distinct sections to make sure you experience all that Paducah has to offer. First, tour the downtown as our local expert guide points out the areas’ many historical sites. Then, ride along the riverfront where you will witness more than 50 life-sized panoramic murals depicting elements of Paducah’s past. End the tour at the National Quilt Museum, the world's largest museum devoted to quilt and fiber art.

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• Paducah Local Loop - Complimentary Excursion
  Paducah Local Loop - Complimentary Excursion

  Discover downtown Paducah at your own pace. Visit the areas many museums, including the Paducah Railroad Museum, featuring equipment and memorabilia from the romantic past of America’s railroads. Stop at the River Discovery Center, which celebrates Paducah’s maritime legacy, and the National Quilt museum, where you can view exhibits by talented quilters. Explore the Lowertown Arts District & Neighborhood, listed on the National Register of Historic Places, as well as the Civil War Museum & Tilghman House, an 1852 Greek-revival home, which tells the story of Paducah’s influence during the Civil War. Take time for shopping and walking along the riverfront to view the many wall murals which chronicle Paducah’s past.

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Day 6 - Cruising the Mississippi and Ohio River

Enjoy the idyllic countryside of the Ohio River and the wonder of the mighty Mississippi that inspired Mark Twain. The Ohio River was pivotal in the development and exploration of the American West and along the way we highlight much that has defined our American roots from the Civil War to bluegrass music.

Excursions & Entertainment

• A Day of Cruising
  A Day of Cruising

  There are a variety of activities scheduled on board when the ship is underway, which vary depending on the itinerary and scheduled date. Enjoy destination-focused enrichment programs with special guest speakers who present topics related to the region and ports of call, including Art Classes, App-titude Classes (Tech Made Easy), Cooking Demonstrations, Mixology (practice of making great cocktails,) Trivia, Game Shows, and more.

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Day 7 - Memphis, TN

Excitement resonates as you reach America’s third-largest inland port, famous for Blues, BBQ, and Elvis Presley's Graceland. The city has been at the forefront of several American cultural movements such as Civil Rights and Rock ‘n’ Roll. In fact, the city’s Beale Street is often called “America’s Most Iconic Street” due to its significance to our country’s history and contributions to the music industry. 

Excursions & Entertainment

• Rock ‘n’ Soul Museum & Music Hall of Fame
  Rock ‘n’ Soul Museum & Music Hall of Fame

  The Memphis Rock ‘n’ Soul Museum was the first exhibition ever to have been developed by the Smithsonian Institution with another museum. The exhibition tells the story of musical pioneers who overcame racial and socio-economic barriers to create music that would influence American culture and the world. Visit the Memphis Music Hall of Fame. Explore the museum and exhibition which introduces guests to some of the greatest musicians of all time, each who contributed the city’s musical legacy. Enjoy never-before-seen memorabilia, rare video performances and interviews, interactive exhibits, and more.

  Note: This excursion is only available on cruises ending in Memphis, as well as the Complete Mississippi, Grand Heartland, and Mississippi River Gateway cruises.;

   

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• Edge Motor Museum
  Edge Motor Museum

  Visit Edge Motor Museum to discover the stories behind some of the world’s most iconic cars. Each automobile in the museum is selected based on its historical and cultural significance and is either owned by the museum or on-loan from an individual, estate, or organization. Learn about the cultural, economic, political, and technological trends prevalent when they were made, as well as how these cars reflect the eras in which they were designed, built, sold, and driven.
  
  Note: This excursion is only available on cruises ending in Memphis, as well as the Complete Mississippi, Grand Heartland, and Mississippi River Gateway cruises.

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• National Civil Rights Museum
  National Civil Rights Museum

  Established in 1991, the National Civil Rights Museum is located at the former Lorraine Motel, where Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. was assassinated in 1968. The museum’s mission is to share the history of the American Civil Rights Movement, a tumultuous and inspiring period of change. Explore interactive exhibits and historic collections to learn how this significant era continues to shape equality and freedom today.

  Note: This excursion is only available on cruises ending in Memphis, as well as the Complete Mississippi, Grand Heartland, and Mississippi River Gateway cruises.

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• Memphis City Exploration- Complimentary Excursion
  Memphis City Exploration- Complimentary Excursion

  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.

  Note: This excursion is only available on cruises ending in Memphis, as well as the Complete Mississippi, Grand Heartland, and Mississippi River Gateway cruises. For cruises starting in Memphis, this tour is only offered as part of the 2-day Pre-Cruise Package.

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• The Graceland Experience
  The Graceland Experience

  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. 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) 894-8570 for information.

  Note: This excursion is only available on cruises ending in Memphis, as well as the Complete Mississippi, Grand Heartland, and Mississippi River Gateway cruises. For cruises starting in Memphis, this tour is only offered as part of the 2-day Pre-Cruise Package.

   

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• Sun Studio
  Sun Studio

  Explore Sun Studio, well-known in the music industry as the birthplace of rock ‘n’ roll and the most famous recording studio in the world. Founded by rock pioneer Sam Phillips in 1950, this National Historic Landmark is where superstar musicians like Elvis Presley, Jerry Lee Lewis, B.B. King, Johnny Cash, Roy Orbison and countless others started their recording careers.
  
  Note: This excursion is only available on cruises ending in Memphis, as well as the Complete Mississippi, Grand Heartland, and Mississippi River Gateway cruises.

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Day 8 - Memphis, TN

Enjoy breakfast on board the ship, before beginning your journey home. Reflect upon your adventures and the new friends made along the way.

Excursions & Entertainment

• Continue the Journey
  Continue the Journey

  Why not stay an extra night or two to immerse yourself in the spirit of this vibrant city? Ask your onboard Hotel Manager for recommendations on area hotels, attractions, and more.

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