Cruise vacations come in all varieties, but river cruising remains one of the most popular ways to vacation for those looking for unparalleled relaxation, high-end cuisine, luxury amenities, and onboard enrichment. When most think of a river cruise, they picture a longship floating down one of Europe’s famous strips of water like the Seine or Rhine. What most don’t know is that you don’t have to go far from home for a vacation like that. A luxury Mississippi river cruise offers all the same amenities, enrichment, and fun of a European river cruise without having to fly far from home.
High-end cruise lines like Viking River Cruises curate cruise itineraries along the Mississippi River that steep guests in classic Americana thanks to both the ships themselves and the unique places they call on. American Queen Voyages is another cruise line offering guests a chance to cruise the Mississippi River on classic paddlewheelers. It’s an experience straight from your favorite Mark Twain novel.
What is a Luxury Mississippi River Cruise Like?
If you’re looking for a unique and relaxing way to explore America’s Deep South, a Viking River Cruise along the Mississippi River is an experience you don’t want to miss. Their “Heart of the Delta” itinerary from New Orleans to Memphis is a seven-night journey through the birthplace of the blues, the land of cotton, and a number of other important footnotes in American history. Here’s a rundown of what a weeklong cruise on the Mississippi River would look like for guests.
Day 1: New Orleans
The cruise begins in New Orleans, a city renowned for its lively music scene, delicious cuisine, and vibrant culture. Before embarking on the ship, spend some time exploring the city’s historic French Quarter, strolling through the beautiful Garden District, or sampling some of the world-famous cuisine like gumbo, beignets, and jambalaya. Other places in New Orleans worth a visit are the National WWII Museum, the world-famous Botanical Gardens, and the New Orleans Museum of Art.
Day 2: Oak Alley
The first stop on the cruise is Oak Alley, a beautiful antebellum plantation that dates back to 1837. Take a guided tour of the plantation house, take in the view as you stroll along the tree-lined avenue of 300-year-old oak trees, and learn about the history of slavery in the American South while in this historic port.
Day 3: Baton Rouge
Next up is Baton Rouge, a city with a lot of Cajun flavor. Visit the Louisiana State Capitol, a towering Art Deco building that offers stunning views of the city, or explore the USS Kidd, a World War II-era destroyer that’s now a museum.
Day 4: St. Francisville
St. Francisville is a small town with a long history. Take a tour of the Myrtles Plantation, which is said to be one of the most haunted houses in America, or visit the West Feliciana Historical Society Museum to learn more about the town’s past.
Day 5: Natchez
Natchez is a charming town that’s known for its beautifully preserved antebellum homes. Take a guided tour of some of these historic properties, such as Rosalie Mansion or Longwood, or explore the town’s quaint downtown area.
Day 6: Vicksburg
Vicksburg played a crucial role in the American Civil War, and the town is filled with historic sites related to the conflict. Visit the Vicksburg National Military Park, which includes over 1,300 monuments and markers, or take a tour of the Old Courthouse Museum.
Day 7: Memphis
The final stop on the cruise is Memphis, the birthplace of rock ‘n’ roll and home to some of America’s most iconic landmarks. Visit Graceland, the former home of Elvis Presley, or tour the Memphis Rock ‘n’ Soul Museum to learn about the city’s impressive musical heritage.
All along your journey, the team at Viking provides industry-leading cuisine, amenities, and service. Known as a top brand, a Viking cruise means ships where guests aren’t just a number and itineraries which bring guests a more immersive and enriching experience.
Viking’s Heart of the Delta cruise is a truly unforgettable adventure through the sights and culture of the Deep South. From the historic antebellum plantations to the vibrant cities, this cruise offers so much to those looking for a luxury river cruise experience close to home. Whether you’re a history buff, a foodie, or a music lover, there’s something for everyone when you cruise through America with Viking.
Not sure which luxury Mississippi River cruise is right for you? The professional cruise and travel specialists at Luxury Cruise Connections can help you plan your next cruise vacation from start to finish.
