Lower Mississippi River Cruise-American Melody

Explore historic and modern river life on this unique exploration of the Lower Mississippi River. Cruising from NOLA to Memphis, or reverse, you’ll catch the heartbeat of the river. Enjoy Cajun cuisine on the Mississippi Delta, and so much more!

Visits include: Memphis, Vicksburg, Natchez, Baton Rouge, Oak Alley, New Orleans

Cruise Details

Clock9 Days & 8 Nights

Double Occupancy from $5,900 pp/do*

Single Occupancyfrom $7,400 pp

CalendarApril 5, 2024 | April 10, 2024 | April 12, 2024 | April 19, 2024 | April 26, 2024 | May 3, 2024
See 12 more available dates
May 17, 2024 | May 24, 2024 | August 16, 2024 | August 23, 2024 | August 30, 2024 | September 6, 2024 | September 13, 2024 | November 15, 2024 | November 22, 2024 | November 26, 2024 | November 29, 2024 | December 19, 2024

Book Now Request More Info

or call 800.578.1479

*Per person/double occupancy. Special single rates apply where listed. Excludes port fees.
Itineraries may operate in reverse.

Your Itinerary

    1 New Orleans, LA
    Settle into your hotel and enjoy a feast for your senses as you explore this magical city, renowned for its delicious cuisine, vibrant music scene, and rich culture with an international flair. Stroll the tree-lined avenues, take a carriage ride through the French Quarter, hop aboard a streetcar to the gorgeous Garden District, or visit the renowned National World War II Museum.

    2Cruising the Mississippi River
    Board your ship and be treated to a Welcome Reception. Get to know your fellow guests and savor the view as you enjoy the afternoon rolling on the mighty Mississippi. Be entertained by onboard performers who will perform the music born of the river.

    3Houmas House, LA
    Step off your ship docked right at Houmas House and explore one of the most elaborately renovated of the grand homes along the river, once a private home and a thriving historical agricultural enterprise. Entertaining and knowledgeable guides will escort you through the magnificently restored home’s unmatched collection of stunning period furnishings and artwork. The ornately landscaped grounds include 38 acres of gardens, fountains, and majestic live oak trees. Later, experience the opulence and natural wonder of the Oak Alley estate with its breathtaking parallel row of 28 ancient and massive live oak trees. Here, you can savor a complimentary taste of one of the best mint juleps in the South.

    4Baton Rouge, LA
    Meaning “red stick,” Baton Rouge’s 1699 French name references an ancient geographical marker and reflects the city’s long history. As Louisiana’s state capital, the city still echoes with tales of the characters who lived here, most notably Governor and Senator Huey P. Long. Learn about his dramatic career at the magnificent 1852 Old State Capitol Museum and visit Long’s 1932 State Capitol building, an architectural marvel of granite and marble.

    5St. Francisville, LA
    As the bow-ramp from the ship opens and stretches to the shore, you will be welcomed into the historic cotton port of St. Francisville. Overlooking the river from atop a high, St. Francisville began as a part of Spanish West Florida in the early 1800s until American settlers overthrew the Spanish governing forces, and the region later became part of the United States. Experience this town’s rich history on your own or with a variety of guided excursions. As you explore, discover the Historic District which boasts magnificent mansions and unique boutique shops and admire cottonwood trees which transition to stately oaks adorned with Spanish moss.

    6Natchez, MS
    In Natchez, grand homes sparkle like jewels, adorning the bluffs that tower above the river. Since 1716, when the French first built a fort here among the Natchez Indians, the town has grown to boast elaborate mansions built by planters in the 1800s to flaunt their wealth. With no Civil War fighting here, Natchez still features hundreds of antebellum homes and buildings. Each of these architectural treasures has its own story to tell, creating a charming downtown that embodies the essence of southern charm and hospitality.

    7Vicksburg, MS
    Vicksburg is a place of drama. During the Civil War, the struggle to control Vicksburg proved to be a major turning point. The well-fortified connection between river and rail transportation was known as “The Gibraltar of the West.” A narrated exploration of the well-preserved National Military Park battlefield enlivens this powerful story and highlights its significance. President Abraham Lincoln summarized Vicksburg’s importance clearly when he said, “Vicksburg is the key. The war can never be brought to a close until that key is in our pocket… They can defy us from Vicksburg… As valuable as New Orleans will be to us, Vicksburg will be more so.”

    8Memphis, TN
    Visit historic Beale Street to hear the beat of ‘Blues City’ or head over to Graceland to pay tribute to the King of Rock and Roll, Elvis Presley!

    9Memphis, TN
    Enjoy breakfast before you head home with a lifetime of memories.

lowermiss_nola-stl_700x700

Cabin Categories

Cabin Single Price Double Price
Grand Suite (Private Balcony)$11,200 pp
Veranda Suite (Private Balcony) $8,145 pp
AAM (Private Balcony)$6,945 pp
AAC (Private Balcony)$6,495 pp
AAR (Private Balcony)$5,900 pp
Single (Private Balcony)$7,400

Ship Read more about the American Melody

*Prices may vary due to seasonality

Onboard Experience

The American Cruise Line fleet of ships are the newest and most environmentally friendly small ships in the US. The cruise line prides itself on their hospitable staff, and that you’ll be graciously received no matter which ship you cruise on. The large staterooms with interior entrances ensure you have a relaxed, private area to watch the river from, or visit any of the many onboard lounges. Daily entertainment will be brought onboard, including musicians, historians and naturalists.

Regionally-Inspired Menus

American Cruise Lines uses fresh, local ingredients to show off the culinary glory of the region you’re cruising in. On the Mississippi River, that could mean Andouille Gumbo, a po’boy with red beans and rice, and bourbon pecan pie. In New England, you could find Littleneck clam ceviche on the menu followed by a spiced apple pudding with maple whipped cream. In the Pacific Northwest, you’ll find fresh fish on the menu, including shrimp bisque or Dungeness Crab cake, and a marionberry cheesecake that’ll make your mouth water! Your ship will provide you with a list of all the locally-sourced ingredients when you unpack.

Eagle Society

Once you’ve cruised aboard any American Cruise Line ship, you are an Eagle Society member. It’s free to be a member, but your loyalty to American Cruise Lines is greatly rewarded. You’ll receive Eagle Society luggage tags, and member-only gifts when you board each cruise. After 3 cruises, you’ll receive complimentary premium shore excursions. After 10 cruises, you’ll get a complimentary 11th cruise. There are special Eagle Society cruise dates every year. Plus all Eagle Society member benefits can be used when booking with USA River Cruises, plus you’ll still be eligible for our loyal customer benefits as well.

Book Today

Lower Mississippi River Cruise-American Melody

Book Now Request More Info

or call 800.578.1479

logo-white