Breakfast, lunch, dinner and restaurants
Mississippi River Cruises
Duration | Priced from |
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8 Nights | $2,199 per person (double occupancy) |
As the largest riverboat in the world, American Queen is the go-to vessel for cruising Old Man River and its tributaries. Modelled on a traditional steamboat propelled by a classic paddlewheel, the 436-passenger ship features broad, shaded decks and interiors rich in filigree, fretwork and antique furniture.
WHEN TO VISIT Sailings on the Lower Mississippi run from October to December and February to mid-June while the Upper Mississippi has a shorter season , typically starting in July and running until October. “Spring and fall are normally mild temperatures and pleasant times to visit,” Holifield says.
Since river ships aren’t buying cucumbers by the cargo container, costs like food and drink (a major component of cruise fares) are higher. Because most river ships are newer (many debuting between 2014 and 2017) than their ocean-going counterparts, they feature all the latest innovations and décor.
Most river cruises are not a good choice for families or for people who enjoy extensive on-board entertainment. The daily costs for these trips generally are higher than for ocean-going cruises , although that is not always the case.
If you’re still worried you’ll be bored on a river cruise , have no fear. River cruises offer the perfect combination of organized activities and free-time, meaning you can make the most of your experience tailoring it to what interests you the most.
Lower Mississippi River Cruises Price Comparisons
American Queen Steamboat Company | American Cruise Lines |
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Per Diem | |
$259.50 per person | $463.78 per person |
What’s Included |
9 Best Cruises for Seniors Regent Seven Seas Cruises . Avalon Waterways. Holland America Line . Silversea Cruises . Oceania Cruises. UnCruise Adventures. Crystal Cruises. Celebrity Cruises .
Viking , on Thursday, officially opened reservations to the public for its new Mississippi River cruises , which will launch in 2022. The company’s first custom vessel, Viking Mississippi , will debut in August 2022 and will sail voyages on the Lower and Upper Mississippi River, between New Orleans and St. Paul.
Jeans and baseball caps are not allowed in the restaurants for dinner . On informal nights, jackets (ties optional) for men are recommended, while women opt for dresses or pantsuits. Tuxedos, dinner jackets or dark suits for men and gowns or cocktail dresses for women are suggested for formal nights.
Sharks are no stranger to freshwater sources like the Mississippi River . In fact, one was located just 4 hours south of the Quad Cities! Believe it or not, sharks are no stranger to the freshwaters of the Mississippi River , even as far north as Illinois!
It’s extremely dangerous to swim in the Mississippi River . The river is huge and the currents are strong, even right at water’s edge (whether or not you’re a great swimmer is irrelevant). Also, remember that the water is totally toxic.
The lower and more central you are in a ship , the less roll and sway you will feel. Even if you choose a balconied stateroom , choose the lowest level and the most midship one you can find. The higher decks and cabins at the very front (forward) or back (aft) of the ship will rock and roll the most.
The extra price for a balcony is worth it if you’ll put it to good use. Your ship design places balcony rooms on higher decks. This means rooms with balconies have better views, especially on river cruises where lower rooms are close to the water line. If you want the extra space offered by a balcony room.
River cruising consists of three main activities: dining, cruising and touring. Cruising from one destination to the next often takes place at night while passengers are sleeping, but sometimes the cruises will also sail during the day, giving passengers an opportunity to relax or enjoy the scenery.