At a glance
- Duration:
- 12 Days
- Start/End:
- New Orleans, LA to Memphis, TN or reverse
- From:
- $7,275
- Time of Year:
- March - April; October
Set out on a 12-day voyage along the Lower Mississippi River that brings to life the rich history, culture, cuisine, and soul of the American South, from the festive streets of New Orleans to the musical heartbeat of Memphis.
Your journey begins in New Orleans: spend a night at the elegant Four Seasons New Orleans, giving you time to soak in the magic of the city, stroll through the French Quarter, ride a streetcar through the Garden District, or visit the thought-provoking National WWII Museum. From there, board your riverboat and cruise into a world where history and nature meet. As you glide along the Mississippi, you’ll visit grand plantations and storied towns: wander the oak-lined paths of Oak Alley Plantation and explore the grandeur of Houmas House, a Southern estate once known as the “Sugar Palace.”
In the state capital Baton Rouge, stand before the impressive Louisiana State Capitol, and take in the local culture, from museums to historic architecture to lively neighborhoods, for a window into Louisiana’s layered past. A stop in St. Francisville, Louisiana invites a stroll among moss-draped oaks, charming boutiques, and historic mansions, while in Natchez, Mississippi you’ll step back to antebellum times, exploring elegant homes, quaint streets and landmarks that whisper stories of the region’s prosperous past. In Vicksburg, Mississippi, “The Gibraltar of the West”, history comes alive. With guided tours of the battlefield, museums, and time-worn street murals, you’ll witness powerful chapters from the Civil War era and understand how this river city shaped the nation.
Some days are meant simply to drift, as your ship glides through verdant river landscapes, you’ll find time for quiet reflection amid cypress and cottonwoods, enjoying peaceful decks, onboard enrichment programs, Southern cuisine, and the gentle rhythms of the river. As you pass into the heart of the Delta, a stop in Cleveland, Mississippi offers a deep dive into America’s musical roots at the GRAMMY Museum Mississippi, you’ll trace blues, gospel, country and rock’s lineage across the Delta lands. Finally, your cruise culminates in Memphis, Tennessee, a city steeped in rhythm, soul, and legend. Walk the storied streets of Beale Street, soak in live blues at iconic clubs, savor Memphis BBQ, and step inside the legendary Graceland, the home of rock ’n’ roll royalty, complete with his car collection and personal jets.
By the time your journey ends, you’ll have traveled more than distance: you’ll have journeyed through time, from colonial settlements and plantation grandeur, through war-torn Southern history, to the soulful sounds and cultural heartbeat that continue to shape America’s identity.
Mississippi Explorer Cruise Details
Day-to-Day Itinerary
Day 1: New Orleans, LA
Check in to your room at the Four Seasons Hotel New Orleans and immerse yourself in the magic of this vibrant city, famous for its mouthwatering cuisine, lively music scene, and rich, globally influenced culture. Wander down the picturesque, tree-lined streets, take a charming carriage ride through the historic French Quarter, hop on a streetcar to explore the beautiful Garden District, or discover the fascinating exhibits at the renowned National World War II Museum.
Day 2: Day of River Cruising
Board your ship and set sail, making new friends at the Welcome Reception. Relax as you cruise along the river and enjoy the lively onboard entertainment.
Day 3: Oak Alley, LA
Visit this iconic Southern estate, renowned for its oak-lined avenue, stretching towards the Mighty Mississippi. Built in the early 19th century, this Greek Revival mansion exudes charm with its grand architecture and lush gardens.
Later, come veiller (shoot the breeze) with friendly local storytellers as you cook your own “ti” pot of jambalaya in the old Robert Barn by the Cajun Cottages. Enjoy Cajun folktales and step-by-step guidance from a local cook. After dining, explore the Cajun Village’s specialty shops and Louisiana crafts. If you have an envie for café au lait and beignets, they’ll be served during your visit.
Day 4: Baton Rouge, LA
Renowned for its vibrant Cajun and Creole cuisine, Baton Rouge is a cultural melting pot with a rich history. Founded in 1699 by French explorers, the city’s diverse architecture showcases a blend of historic homes and modern skyscrapers, reflecting its storied past.
The Louisiana State Capitol stands as an architectural masterpiece, towering as the tallest capitol building in the United States. Its striking Art Deco design and commanding presence make it a defining symbol of Louisiana’s political and historical heritage.
Day 5: St. Francisville, LA
This charming town, with roots dating back to the early 19th century, thrived under Spanish rule in West Florida before being claimed by American settlers, becoming a vital part of the United States.
St. Francisville beckons you to explore its rich history, whether you choose to wander on your own or take part in one of the many captivating guided tours. Stroll through the Historic District, where grand mansions stand as enduring symbols of the town’s former wealth and refinement, nestled alongside quirky boutiques. The landscape is a striking blend of towering cottonwoods and magnificent oaks, their branches draped in the timeless beauty of Spanish moss.
Day 6: Natchez, MS
Nestled along the Lower Mississippi River, Natchez is a city steeped in history and architectural grandeur. Founded in 1716, its French origins are still visible in landmarks like Fort Rosalie, which reflect its colonial past. The town prospered through the wealth of affluent planters who constructed grand estates such as Stanton Hall and Longwood, showcasing their power and affluence.
Natchez has preserved its rich heritage, with hundreds of beautifully maintained homes that each tell a story of a bygone era. Take a leisurely walk down historic Main Street, where charming shops and inviting restaurants are housed in meticulously restored buildings, offering a glimpse into the town’s storied past.
Day 7: Vicksburg, MS
Known as “The Gibraltar of the West,” Vicksburg was a key strategic point linking river and rail, playing a crucial role in American history. Discover the importance of this site by exploring the National Military Park battlefield, where a narrated tour brings its pivotal past to life.
This port offers a wealth of excursions, from expert-led museum tours to independent explorations. Step aboard a massive Army Corps of Engineers towboat, or take a stroll along the floodwall, where vibrant murals vividly tell the stories of Vicksburg’s rich history.
Day 8: Day of River Cruising
Today is your chance to relax and soak in the beauty of the journey. Drift along the Mighty Mississippi, with stunning views of cottonwood trees and elegant blue herons gliding by.
Enjoy fascinating enrichment sessions and lively onboard activities. Indulge in exquisite cuisine and refreshing cocktails. Whether you’re relaxing in our expansive lounges or enjoying the sunshine on the deck, there’s no shortage of enjoyment. As Mark Twain wisely said, it’s a day with “nothing to hang a worry or a fret upon” – so sit back, unwind, and embrace the adventure!
Day 9: Cleveland, MS
Cleveland, Mississippi, often referred to as the “City of Hospitality,” has long been a key player in shaping the cultural fabric of the South. The town’s roots in agriculture, especially cotton farming, are still evident in its historic downtown, where traces of its cotton trading heritage remain.
Cleveland is also renowned for its vital role in American music. As part of the Mississippi Blues Trail, the city honors the legacy of legendary musicians like B.B. King, Muddy Waters, and Robert Johnson. One of the town’s crown jewels is the GRAMMY® Museum Mississippi, a vibrant celebration of the region’s deep and lasting impact on American music.
Day 10: Tunica, MS
Nestled in the heart of the Delta, Tunica unfolds as a charming blend of history and character. Its Main Street, steeped in the past, features century-old buildings that stand as quiet witnesses to a bygone era. Take a leisurely stroll through distinctive boutiques and antique shops, where the spirit of the past is ever-present. Admire the fully restored courthouse, a proud symbol of justice, and pay tribute at the Tunica Veterans Memorial in Rivergate Park, honoring the bravery and sacrifice of generations.
Day 11: Memphis, TN
Prepare to embrace the vibrant energy of Memphis, Tennessee. This historic city offers a stunning skyline that stretches along the river, framed by towering oak trees and iconic landmarks that celebrate its rich heritage. Let the sounds of blues and jazz guide you down legendary Beale Street, and step into the world of Elvis Presley at Graceland, where the King of Rock ‘n’ Roll’s legacy comes to life. And of course, no visit is complete without indulging in Memphis’ world-famous BBQ—an unforgettable taste of the city’s soul.
Day 12: Memphis, TN
Savor a final breakfast onboard as you begin your journey home. Take a moment to reflect on the unforgettable experiences and the new friendships you’ve made along the way.
Thank you for choosing to cruise with American Cruise Lines. Sunstone Tours & Cruises hopes your journey was filled with cherished memories that will stay with you. Safe travels, and we look forward to welcoming you back aboard soon!
