Highlights of the Mississippi Cruise

Day 1 – New Orleans, LA

Prior to embarking, enjoy an included over-night stay in New Orleans (for bookings made at least 30 days in advance). On the morning of the cruise, meet in the hotel lobby and enjoy transportation to the ship to begin your cruise from Memphis. All luggage will be brought directly from the hotel and placed in your stateroom aboard the ship.

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.

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

This iconic Southern estate is renowned for its oak-lined avenue, stretching majestically towards the Mississippi River. Built in the early 19th century, this Greek Revival mansion exudes charm with its grand architecture and lush gardens. Be transported back in time as you explore the meticulously preserved interiors and learn about the land’s history, including its role in the sugar industry. Enjoy an afternoon narrated boat ride through the Manchac Swamp, a privately owned wildlife refuge. Relax on a covered, comfortable boat with plenty of room to move and clear views from every seat. Swamp wildlife—especially the “jumping gators”—often come within a few feet, responding to the captain’s call. Keep an eye out for nutria, ibis, turtles, herons, raccoons, egrets, and more.

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.

Enjoy the choice between the following complimentary excursions, Louisiana Art & Science Museum, The Battles of Baton Rouge, Baton Rouge City Exploration and the Capitol Park Museum Exploration.

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 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.

Enjoy the choice between the following complimentary excursions, Vicksburg National Military Park, Natchez Landmark Exploration and the Natchez Local Loop.

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.

Enjoy the choice between the The Myrtles and the St. Francisville Local Loop complimentary excursions.

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.

All aboard the St. Francisville Local Loop, the convenient shuttle making stops at the Town Hall, Grace Church and Cemetery, West Feliciana Museum, Away Down South Gift Shop, Sage Hill/Post Office, Audubon Market, Elliot’s Pharmacy and Patrick’s Jewelry.

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 that doesn't just claim jazz; it lives it. After eight days of cruising along the historic Mississippi River, our journey has concluded, but you will be left 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.