Mississippi River Cruises

New Orleans to Mark Twain country

Cruise the Mississippi River by Small Ship

The Mississippi is America’s river: 2,340 miles of living history, blues music, Civil War battlefields, and Southern cooking that stretches from the Gulf Coast to the heart of the upper Midwest. A small ship cruise is the only way to experience it as it was meant to be seen: from the water, at a pace slow enough to actually feel the river move beneath you.

Itineraries range from focused 7-night voyages through the Mississippi Delta (New Orleans to Memphis, passing Natchez and Vicksburg) to 15-night journeys that carry you from St. Paul down through the Mark Twain towns of Hannibal and Dubuque. For travelers who want it all, a 22-night Complete Mississippi end-to-end voyage covers the full length of the river in one sweeping journey. Ships range from classic paddlewheelers to the modern Viking Mississippi, purpose-built for river cruising.

Whatever draws you to the Mississippi — the food, the music, the history, or simply the romance of the river — there’s a sailing that fits.

Mississippi River Cruises FAQs

What Mississippi River cruises are available?

Itineraries cover the full length of the river, from 7-night Lower Mississippi sailings between New Orleans and Memphis to 15-night voyages spanning New Orleans to St. Paul, and a 22-night end-to-end journey for travelers who want the complete river experience. Departures run spring through late fall.

What cities do Mississippi River cruises visit?

Depending on the itinerary, ports of call include New Orleans, Baton Rouge, Natchez, Vicksburg, Memphis, St. Louis, Hannibal, Dubuque, La Crosse, and St. Paul — a cross-section of American history and culture from the Deep South to the upper Midwest.

What ships cruise the Mississippi River?

Mississippi River sailings operate on classic American paddlewheelers including the American Melody, American Serenade, and American Symphony, as well as the modern Viking Mississippi, a purpose-built river ship with panoramic views and all-inclusive amenities throughout.

When is the best time for a Mississippi River cruise?

Spring and fall are ideal. April through June for mild weather and blooming landscapes, September through November for cooler temperatures and rich fall color along the bluffs. Summer sailings are also available. New Orleans and the Delta can be cruised comfortably into late fall.

How do I book a Mississippi River cruise?

Call 800-578-1479. Our agents will help you match the right itinerary and ship to your travel style, whether you’re after a week in the Delta or the full river from end to end.