Historic Mississippi River Cruise
New Orleans, LA to New Orleans, LA
Starting and concluding in the lively city of New Orleans, this remarkable journey honors the festive culture and deep roots of a region where music speaks universally, and history is evident at every twist and turn of the river. Experience comfort aboard our latest ships as you explore captivating port cities, including Natchez, showcasing a distinct mix of African, British, and French influences, as well as Baton Rouge, the heart and core of Louisiana.
Indulge in genuine Cajun and Creole dishes, reflecting the diverse backgrounds of the residents. Visit grand homes and significant sites filled with stories, guided by experts who offer a behind-the-scenes look.
While cruising, enjoy the attentive service of our crew or unwind in your spacious cabin, soaking in the serene river scenery.
Dates & Fares
Itinerary
Map & Itinerary Overview
Visit Oak Alley, Houmas House, and Natchez, and more as you enjoy this round-trip river cruise from New Orleans.
Day 1 - New Orleans, LA
Welcome to New Orleans, celebrated globally for its endless nightlife, live music, and distinctive cuisine that mirrors its background as a blend of French, African, and American cultures. This lively city is an ideal starting point for your historic river journey. Check into your hotel and prepare for an enchanting exploration of this city. Wander down avenues shaded by trees, enjoy a carriage tour through the French Quarter, ride a streetcar to the beautiful Garden District, or explore the famous National World War II Museum.
Every Mississippi itinerary includes a Hotel Stay, ensuring a smooth transition to boarding the ship and exploring the surrounding locale. On the cruise's morning, gather in the hotel lobby, and we will take you to the ship to start your cruise. All your bags will be transferred directly from the hotel and placed in your cabin aboard the ship, making the beginning of your river experience seamless and worry-free.
Day 2 - Cruising the Historic Mississippi River
Board your ship and receive a warm greeting at our Welcome Reception. This is the perfect opportunity to meet your fellow travelers and enjoy the scenic views as you spend the afternoon cruising along the majestic Mississippi, a river woven into the fabric of American history and culture. Delight in the entertainment provided by onboard performers, who will bring to life the music that originated from the river itself, encapsulating the soul and spirit of the regions it touches.
Day 3 - Oak Alley, LA / Houmas House, LA
As your river journey continues, two standout landmarks in Louisiana await: Oak Alley and Houmas House.
Oak Alley is celebrated for its striking avenue of centuries-old oak trees leading to a majestic historical home, offering a window into the grandeur and complexity of the South's past. This remarkable site, with its verdant tunnel of oaks and impressive architecture, serves as a living museum to the area's architectural and agricultural heritage.
Houmas House, known as "The Sugar Palace," reveals the opulence spawned by the sugar cane economy in the 19th century. Encircled by exquisite gardens and water features, this estate provides insight into the lavish lifestyles of its previous occupants, along with the stories of those who labored on the grounds.
Visiting these locations offers a journey through the architectural splendor and layered history of Louisiana's river road estates, painting a vivid portrait of the bygone era that sculpted this distinctive region.
Day 4 - Baton Rouge, LA
Named for an ancient landmark, Baton Rouge's French title from 1699 translates to "red stick" and mirrors the city's extensive history. As the capital of Louisiana, it resonates with the stories of notable figures who have left their mark here, especially Governor and Senator Huey P. Long. Delve into his impactful career at the Old State Capitol Museum, built in 1852, and make a stop at Long's 1932 State Capitol building, a striking edifice of granite and marble.
Wander through the famous downtown districts, taking in the flourishing art, architecture, and natural beauty along the way. For those seeking to explore further, consider a narrated boat excursion through a Louisiana swamp, offering a unique glimpse into the area's natural landscape.
Day 5 - Natchez, MS/ Vicksburg, MS
In Natchez, elegant residences gleam like gems on elevated land overlooking the river, with roots tracing back to a 1716 French stronghold. The town's grand 19th-century homes, spared by the Civil War, preserve a rich collection of pre-war architecture. Each building tells a unique story, creating a downtown that embodies southern charm and hospitality. Visitors can tour historic townhouses, explore a working cotton estate, and enjoy the scenic river views from the bluff.
Meanwhile, Vicksburg, known as “The Gibraltar of the West,” played a pivotal role in the Civil War, a story vividly recounted at the Vicksburg National Military Park. The siege and fall of Vicksburg in 1863 marked a strategic Union victory, emphasized by President Lincoln's declaration, “Vicksburg is the key...” Guided tours at the park detail the military strategies and human stories that shaped this critical battle. Exploring Vicksburg provides a profound connection to American history, complemented by the scenic beauty of the Mississippi River.
Day 6 - St. Francisville, LA
St. Francisville, a storied cotton port has the best view from the high banks over the river. This picturesque town traces its origins to the early 19th century, a time when it flourished under Spanish rule in West Florida before American settlers claimed it, weaving it into the fabric of the United States.
St. Francisville invites you to wander through its history, whether you prefer to venture alone or join one of many engaging guided tours. Explore the Historic District, where grand mansions stand as testaments to the town's past wealth and elegance, surrounded by eclectic boutique stores. The landscape shifts from towering cottonwoods to majestic oaks, their limbs draped in the ethereal beauty of Spanish moss, creating a scene that captures the essence of the South's timeless allure.
Day 7 - New Orleans, LA
Welcome to New Orleans, where jazz fills the air, and every street corner has a story to tell. Wander through the French Quarter, where charming balconies and hidden courtyards invite you to sit, sip, and people-watch to your heart’s content. Savor some beignets at Café du Monde and indulge in a bowl of gumbo or a po' boy sandwich, because in New Orleans, there's no such thing as too much good food. And don't forget to explore the fascinating exhibits at The National WWII Museum, where history comes alive in the heart of this vibrant city. From the sounds of jazz to the rich flavors of Creole cuisine, New Orleans promises an unforgettable experience.
Day 8 - New Orleans, LA
Disembark in the city doesn't just claim jazz; it lives it. After eight days of cruising along the historic Mississippi River, our journey has concluded. Filled with lasting memories and a new appreciation for the river's history. As we disembark for the last time, the Mighty Mississippi and the serene landscapes we've encountered offer a quiet goodbye.
Each Mississippi itinerary comes complete with a Hotel Stay, providing you with a seamless way to board the ship and explore the local area.
On the morning of the cruise, meet in the hotel lobby 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.
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.
Enjoy a narrated boat ride in the Manchac Swamp, a privately owned wildlife refuge. Relax in a comfortable, covered boat, with walking room and open viewing from any seat. Swamp creatures are unafraid and responsive to our captain’s voice. In the safety and comfort of the boat, you will be able to get within a few feet of our “jumping gators.” Other animals to be on the lookout for include nutria, ibis, turtles, herons, raccoons, egrets, and more.
Activity Level: Moderate | ADA ACCESSIBLE: No
Come “veiller” (shoot the breeze) with Boudreaux and Thibodeaux as you stir up your very own “ti” (junior) pot of jambalaya in the old Robert Barn by the Cajun Cottages. Be entertained with Cajun folktales while getting step-by-step coaching from a local Cajun jambalaya cook. After dining, enjoy shopping in the Cajun Village, a unique location with specialty crafts and Louisiana items. In case you have the “envie” (craving) for a cup of café au lait and beignets, you can swing by the Coffee House for complimentary beignets.
Activity Level: Moderate / ADA Accessible: Partial
From its canopy of 300-year-old oaks to its vast open spaces, Oak Alley's landscape tells the story of a southern plantation over time. Over 200 years ago, Oak Alley was just a land claim on a map and has since served many purposes, including as a sugar plantation, a rice farm, a chicken farm, a cattle ranch, and a country home. Agricultural tycoons, sugar planters, slaves, immigrant laborers, and real estate speculators have traversed its grounds over time.
Today, Oak Alley is a National Historic Landmark dedicated to preserving and interpreting the history of its inhabitants. With an emphasis on its time as a sugar plantation, visitors are invited to walk under its iconic alley, explore the exhibits, interact with staff, and leave with a richer, more powerful understanding of this plantation's complex history. For the full southern experience, don't forget to take time for a complimentary mint julep.
Activity Level: High | ADA Accessibility: Partial
Admire the southern splendor of “The Sugar Palace,” as you step into 16 rooms filled with rare period antiques and Louisiana artwork. Explore the mansion, which has been restored to the antebellum era, reflecting the opulence and wealth that this sugarcane farm boasted during the 1800s. Learn about plantation life and the 250-year history of the manor, including its architectural evolution to becoming a grand estate.
Activity Level: Moderate | ADA ACCESSIBLE: No
Step beyond the myths of the American South to experience true-life, first-hand compelling accounts of four generations of Créole women, children, and slaves. Experienced guides transport you into the complex, vanishing world of Créole Louisiana at Laura Plantation, a 200+ year-old sugar habitation. A new, permanent exhibit honors the men, women, and children who were enslaved here, including detailed biographies of former slaves who fought for the freedom in the Union Army during the Civil War.
Activity Level: Moderate / ADA Accessible: No
Being your excursion with a narrated city exploration with views of the impressive Governor's Hall and the New State Capitol. Admire the Old Louisiana State Capitol also known as the State House. Enjoy views of Magnolia Mound, a French Creole plantation house built in 1791 and a rare example of the architecture influenced by early settlers from France and the West Indies.
Next you will be driven to the LSU Rural Life Museum; a museum dedicated to the preservation and exhibition of materials from the cultures of 18th and 19th-century rural Louisianans. The museum highlights how the rest of the south lived in comparison to the mansions and plantations visited throughout this itinerary. Experience life in a rural setting in the early lives of Louisiana during the 18th and 19th centuries. You will leave the facility with a better understanding of the differences in the material, social, and economic cultures during this time period, and of today's lifestyles.
Activity Level: Moderate | ADA ACCESSIBLE: Partial
Housed in a historic railroad depot on the banks of the Mississippi River, the Louisiana Art & Science Museum (LASM) offers educational entertainment for visitors of all ages. The art galleries showcase changing fine art exhibitions and selections from a permanent collection. The Ancient Egypt Gallery houses ancient artifacts and a Ptolemaic-era mummy that rests in a re-created rock-cut tomb. The Irene W. Pennington Planetarium features sky shows, large-format films, visual music shows, and galleries devoted to space science.
Activity Level: Low | ADA ACCESSIBLE: Yes
Experience the sights, sounds, and wonders of Baton Rouge, the Capital City of Louisiana. Led by a local expert guide, admire iconic and historical landmarks while exploring many of the well-known downtown neighborhoods on foot. Enjoy fascinating stories of the area’s culture, politics, history, and legends while embracing the rich art, architecture, and nature on the route. Walk past the levee, USS KIDD, Louisiana Art and Science Museum, the Capitol Building, and through Spanish Town.
Activity Level: High | ADA ACCESSIBLE: No
Led by an expert historian, explore locations that were critical to the Battle of Baton Rouge and hear about the history surrounding Vicksburg in the Civil War. Visit the historic Magnolia Cemetery and stand upon the very ground where the most intense fighting of the battle took place. Baton Rouge was the most fought over land in Louisiana’s history and this experience will cover not only the Civil War, but the American Revolution and the Florida Rebellion. Although the landscape of Baton Rouge isn’t the same as it was in the 1780s or 1810s, its history will be brought to life by your guide. Visit the Magnolia Mound Plantation, a Baton Rouge city park. Magnolia Mound, unlike other antebellum house museums along the Lower Mississippi, is not your grand mansion. Rather, it’s a simple structure built during Louisiana’s colonial history, and around the time of its Statehood into the Union.
Activity Level: Moderate / ADA Accessible: Yes
A knowledgeable guide will lead you through the National Military Park which commemorates the campaign, siege, and defense of Vicksburg in 1863. Stop at the impressive Illinois Monument, modeled after the Roman Pantheon. The exploration concludes at the Visitors Center where life-sized exhibits and artifacts from the Siege of Vicksburg are on display.
Activity Level: Low | ADA ACCESSIBLE: Partial
Longwood, the only octagonal mansion in the region, 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 lower level still adorned with original family furnishing and the upper stories and rotunda that are still a work in progress. This truly is a place where time has stood still, preserved for all to experience.
Activity Level: Moderate | ADA Accessibility: Partial
Nineteen historical buildings, dating from 1790’s to 1900, are a restored tribute to Frogmore Cotton Plantation & Gins, a modern 1,800-acre working cotton estate with a computerized farm and gin. Before beginning your exploration, meet the owner who will explain the farming and ginning operations. Participate in picking cotton and removing the seeds and tour a rare, steam engine gin listed on the National Register of Historic Properties.
Be seated in the hand-hewn log cabin and listen to narration and the vocalist’s songs highlighting the history of southern plantations, including the Constitution, Emancipation Proclamation, and accurate statistics of the enslaved and planter families. After an enlightening overview of the historical Frogmore owners, explore the cotton fields and authentic cabins to learn the origin of southern cuisine, the day-to-day operations and how their labor force evolved into sharecropping, a way of life for 100 years. Enjoy a complimentary beverage as you browse an original plantation store.
Activity Level: Moderate | ADA Accessibility: Partial
Explore the Historic Natchez Cemetery. Established in 1822, the occupants of this important cemetery tell tales of the history, grandeur, mystery, and tragedy of Natchez. Surrounded by majestic live oaks and set on the bluffs high above the Mississippi River, the beautiful grounds offer stunning panoramic views. Enjoy a guided walking excursion through the oldest section of the cemetery and hear fascinating stories about the residents buried there.
Activity Level: Moderate | ADA ACCESSIBLE: Partial
Experience a once-in-a-lifetime outdoor adventure at the Double C Ranch, perfect for nature-lovers and wildlife-enthusiasts. Aboard your private sport utility vehicle, guided by a local professional, enjoy breathtaking views as you travel through scenic hardwood forest, cattle fields, farmlands, and pine plantations. Back at the ranch, watch in awe during live tomahawk throwing, bullwhip popping, archery, and lasso throwing demonstrations. After, get some pointers on form and technique and prepare to shine and surprise yourself as you give it a try! Take home a survivor certificate and photos to share.
Activity Level: Moderate | ADA Accessibility: No
This is a Signature shore excursion and should be reserved in advance. Please call (800) 894-8570 for information.
Take a cultural, moving journey through the history of Natchez that goes beyond grand estates and mansions and tells the stories of African Americans, from slavery and the Civil Rights Movement to the present day.
Along this Historic Path to Freedom, you will visit Dunleith Mansion to learn about John Roy Lynch, a child servant who became the first African American to become a member of the U.S. House of Representatives. Your exploration will continue through Natchez, where you will see and learn about places such as "Forks in the Road" and the Rhythm Nightclub Fire site.
Travel to the Zion Station Chapel African Methodist Episcopal Church for a brief introduction by the Pastor and a spiritual musical experience by Natchez noted gospel performers. Learn about The Parchman Ordeal and how it forged the way for economic progress for the African American citizens of Natchez. This well-told, enlightening experience will conclude with a visit to the Natchez Museum of African American Culture, where the exhibits will underscore the importance of the stops made along this exclusive American Cruise Lines experience.
Activity Level: Low | ADA Accessibility: Yes
On your way to Ellicott Hill, view Fort Rosalie, the site of the Natchez Indian Battle. Our local historian/scholar will paint an intriguing picture of the first French settlers arriving in Natchez in 1716, meeting with the indigenous Natchez tribe, forging a friendship soon to be lost, resulting in war and retaliation. Upon arrival at Ellicott Hill, visit the site of where the first American flag was raised over this vast new American territory with a spectacular view of the Mississippi River. Learn about the colonization of Natchez, its history and culture, as well as the history of tamales. The Natchez indigenous tribes are said to have taught the enslaved Africans how to make tamales, and from there the rest is culinary history. Enjoy two Mississippi Hot Tamales, regional beer or lemonade, and explore this historic building which dates back over three centuries. A Major Andrew Ellicott impersonator will bring this experience to life.
Activity Level: Moderate | ADA ACCESSIBLE: No
Join a local guide for a unique and unforgettable experience, combining the history and culture of Natchez, with the opportunity to taste some of the most iconic cocktails of the region. On a guided exploration, admire the architecture and design of two historic mansions. Make a stop at Historic Dunleith, where you will be welcomed with the refreshing taste of hibiscus mimosas, a classic cocktail made with freshly squeezed orange juice, champagne, and a house-made hibiscus syrup. While sipping, learn about Natchez history and admire the beauty of this mansion built in 1856, as well as the stunning grounds.
Continue on to Historic Linden, an early suburban villa, where you will have the chance to try a classic southern cocktail, milk punch. Dating back to the 18th century, this libation is made with brandy, milk, sugar, and nutmeg. Delight in the rich and smooth taste, while learning about the legends of Linden, built in 1790.
Activity Level: Low | ADA: Partial
Board this convenient shuttle, making stops at:
- Fort Rosalie & Trading Post - Fort Rosalie was built by the French in 1716 within the territory of the Natchez Native Indians and it was part of the French colonial empire, becoming the first settlement in present day Natchez, Mississippi. Walk the hallowed grounds of the long-gone fort and enjoy perusing the gift items of the modern trading post.
- Historic Natchez in Photos - Visit the Stratton Chapel Gallery in down¬town Natchez behind First Presbyterian Church. View an outstanding collection of photographs taken from as early as 1860, including family portraits, steamboats, and street scenes.
- Main Street & Franklin Street - Explore the few one-of-a-kind antique shops or just walk among the many beautifully restored historic buildings of this lovely town.
- Historic Natchez Bluffs & Gazebo - Sitting 200 feet above the banks of the Mississippi River, the Gazebo offers the best vantage point from which to take in the river’s natural splendor.
- Rosalie House - Visit Rosalie, an antebellum mansion in downtown Natchez. Excursions begin at the top of every hour. Make sure to wear your lanyard for complimentary entry.
Activity Level: Low | ADA ACCESSIBLE: Yes
Experience a multitude of National treasures, historic sites, and local points of interest from the comfort of your motorcoach. Natchez boasts more National Landmarks than any other town in Mississippi. Begin your exploration at the mighty Natchez Bluffs overlooking the Mississippi River. Your local guide will entertain you with local lore and legends, in addition to historical facts. View historic architectural gems, African American sites, local favorites, and a few quirky place. Complete your experience with a complimentary guided exploration of Historic Rosalie Mansion, so exquisite, she’s known as "Our Lady on The Bluff."
Activity Level: Low | ADA Accessibility: No
Led by an expert historian in a once in a lifetime opportunity, explore locations that were critical to the Battle of Baton Rouge and hear about the history surrounding Vicksburg in the Civil War. You will learn about the culminating battle and Campaign to open the Mississippi River. Visit Fort Desperate, the only location on the battlefield assaulted twice, see an interpretive demonstration, have the opportunity to hold bullets and artillery shells fired during the battles, and have a private guided exploration of the museum
Activity Level: Moderate | ADA ACCESSIBLE: Yes
Enjoy a hands-on experience in the gallery and at several outbuildings, including a home exploration, a cooking demonstration with samples, a blacksmith demonstration, a short exploration of the grounds, and a museum visit.
Explore the unique home where Audubon resided. Audubon Historic Site is located on Oakley Plantation where John James Audubon lived and worked 1821, completing or beginning 32 of his bird paintings while in residence. During this time, he was commissioned to teach illustration to the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. James Pirrie, owners of Oakley. Although his engagement was brief and there is no record of his success in teaching Miss Pirrie, Audubon worked on several of his paintings while in the lush, natural, and peaceful setting of Oakley, filling his sketch pad with notes and drawings for his famous series of bird illustrations.
Activity Level: Moderate | ADA Accessibility: No
Explore and learn about the legacy and lineage of the Turnbull family at Rosedown and Catalpa. On the National Listing of Historic Landmarks, Rosedown is located in one of the most historic corridors of South Louisiana. The presence of the Mississippi River along its shores created rich soil overtime which proved extremely valuable during the cotton boom. As you stroll through this grand estate, local guides will regale you with stories of the families who lived there and plantation life in the 1800s. Enjoy exploring one of the few and largest privately maintained formal gardens of the 19th century.
Visit Catalpa and hear from Mary, a descendant of the original owners. She will host you in her gracious home filled with the treasures of five generations and recount stories of the family and growing up in this beautiful place. Fine portraits, exceptional antiques and beautiful old china, porcelain and silver are original to either Catalpa or Rosedown, home of the owner's grandmother. Conclude your exploration with a special beverage that has been served for years at Catalpa.
Activity Level: Moderate | ADA ACCESSIBLE: No
At first glimpse Myrtles, built in 1796, envelopes one with a complete sense of peace and tranquility. However, it is reputed to be one of the most haunted homes in America. Surrounded by centuries-old live oak trees, the mansion features a 125-foot verandah, exquisite ornamental ironwork, hand-painted stained glass, open-pierced frieze work crown molding, Aubusson tapestry, Baccarat crystal chandelier, Carrara marble mantels, gold-leafed French furnishings and ghosts.
Activity Level: Moderate | ADA Accessibility: Yes
Enjoy a traditional Louisiana Cochon De Lait with local musicians and Bayou Sara setting the atmosphere. Cochon de lait is the art of cooking a pig before an open hardwood fire, a custom which began at least a century ago and has since been popular throughout Cajun country. Be treated to a presentation of the hog along with a verbal history lesson of its significant importance in traditional Louisiana culture. Delight in the flavors of pork, Louisiana boudin, traditional potato salads, seasonal vegetables, as well as bread, crackers, and sauces to accompany dishes.
Activity Level: Low | ADA Accessability: Yes
Get a flavor for this dynamic region aboard this shuttle which runs on a continuous loop. Drop off points include:
- The Double Tree, a few blocks from Bourbon Street and centrally located near a variety of specialty shops, art galleries, and restaurants.
- Jackson Square set in the heart of the French Quarter overlooking the Mississippi River and across the street from the world-famous Café Du Mont.
- The Historic French Market near the New Orleans Jazz Museum and the Louisiana Historical Center.
- The Louis Armstrong Park located in the Tremé neighborhood, the birthplace of many of New Orleans' most famous jazz musicians.
Activity Level: Low | ADA Accessible: Yes
The National WWII Museum illustrates the epic and global scale of the war that changed the world. Exhibits not only highlight the role of world leaders, but also the everyday men and women who found the strength and courage to accomplish the extraordinary. Personal artifacts and multimedia installations give life to the pages of history, offering a visceral understanding of the era's triumphs and tragedies. From the solemnity of the Holocaust Memorial to the valor of D-Day landings, every corner of the museum resonates with heroism and human resilience.
Activiy Level: Moderate | ADA Accessible: Yes
Why not stay an extra night or two to immerse yourself in the spirit of this vibrant city? Ask your onboard Hotel General Manager for recommendations on area hotels, attractions, and more.
