At a glance
- Duration:
- 12 Days
- Start/End:
- New Orleans, LA to Memphis, TN or reverse
- From:
- $6,275
- Time of Year:
- March - April; October
On this 12-day Mississippi Explorer Cruise, Set sail on this brand-new itinerary to explore exclusive ports along the Mississippi River.
Your adventure begins in the vibrant city of New Orleans and sails effortlessly to Memphis. In the comfort of our brand-new riverboat, enjoy a leisurely day of cruising as the shores of the Mississippi Delta glide past.
Visit Oak Alley and Houmas House, where grandeur awaits amidst lush gardens and draping oak trees. Led by our engaging guides, explore the historic landmarks of Baton Rouge, Louisiana’s capital city, and learn about the storied past of St. Francisville. In Natchez, Mississippi’s oldest city, explore the city’s meticulously preserved mansions such as Historic Longwood.
Discover Vicksburg, where echoes of the Civil War still resonate amongst the rolling hills and riverfront vistas. Travel to Cleveland, MS, a charming river town, where you can enjoy the world-renowned GRAMMY® Museum. Continue the journey in Tunica, known as the “Gateway to the Blues,” and Memphis, home to Beale Street, Graceland, and the National Civil Rights Museum.
After each exhilarating day, gather in an inviting ship lounge with fellow travelers, or seek solace in your spacious stateroom, the perfect setting to unwind and recharge for the next day’s journey.
Mississippi Explorer Cruise Details
Day-to-Day Itinerary
Day 1: New Orleans, LA
Settle into your room at the Four Seasons Hotel New Orleans and enjoy 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.
Day 2: Day of River Cruising
Board your ship and set sail as you meet new friends at the Welcome Reception, roll along the river, and enjoy the dynamic onboard entertainment.
Day 3: Oak Alley, LA / Houmas House, LA
This iconic Southern estate is 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.
Houmas House and Gardens offers a glimpse into the opulent lifestyle of 19-century Louisiana. Known as the “Crown Jewel of Louisiana’s River Road,” this magnificent estate features stunning architecture, manicured gardens, and luxurious interiors.
Day 4: Baton Rouge, LA
Known for Cajun and Creole cuisine, this capital city is a melting pot of culture. Founded in 1699 by French explorers, its rich past is evident in its diverse architecture, from historic homes to modern skyscrapers.
The Louisiana State Capitol stands as an architectural marvel, boasting the title of the tallest capitol building in the United States. Its distinctive Art Deco style and towering presence make it an iconic landmark of Louisiana’s political and historical significance.
Day 5: St. Francisville, LA
This picturesque town traces its origins to the early 19th century, a time when it flourished under Spanish rule in West Florida before American settlers claimed it, weaving it into the fabric of the United States.
St. Francisville invites you to wander through its history, whether you prefer to venture alone or join one of many engaging guided tours. Explore the Historic District, where grand mansions stand as testaments to the town’s past wealth and elegance, surrounded by eclectic boutique stores. The landscape shifts from towering cottonwoods to spectacular oaks, their limbs draped in the ethereal beauty of Spanish moss.
Day 6: Natchez, MS
Natchez, nestled along the Lower Mississippi River, is full of history and architectural wonders. Founded in 1716, it bears the imprint of its French origins, evident in landmarks like Fort Rosalie, a testament to its colonial past. The town flourished with affluent planters who built grand mansions such as Stanton Hall and Longwood, to showcase their wealth and influence.
Natchez preserves its heritage with hundreds of well-preserved enchanting homes, each telling a unique story. Take a stroll down historic Main Street, lined with charming shops and restaurants housed in restored buildings.
Day 7: Vicksburg, MS
Dubbed “The Gibraltar of the West,” Vicksburg’s fortified link between river and rail was crucial. Explore the National Military Park battlefield with a narrated tour, bringing its significance to life.
This port offers excursions abound, from museum visits guided by experts to solo explorations. Step onto an immense Army Corps of Engineers towboat or amble along the floodwall adorned with captivating murals, each panel narrating Vicksburg’s tales with fervor.
Day 8: Day of River Cruising
Today is your day to unwind and take it all in. Glide effortlessly along the Mighty Mississippi, surrounded by breathtaking panoramas of cottonwood trees and graceful blue herons.
Engage in captivating enrichment sessions and lively onboard events. Delight in gourmet cuisine and refreshing cocktails. Whether you’re lounging in our spacious lounges or basking in the sun on the deck, there’s endless fun to be had. As Mark Twain famously said, it’s a day with “nothing to hang a worry or a fret upon” – so let go and embrace the adventure!
Day 9: Cleveland, MS
Known as the “City of Hospitality,” Cleveland, Mississippi, has played a significant role in shaping the cultural landscape of the South. Its history is deeply intertwined with agriculture, particularly cotton farming, reflected in the historic downtown where remnants of the city’s cotton trading past still remain.
Cleveland is also celebrated for its contributions to American music. As part of the Mississippi Blues Trail, legendary musicians such as B.B. King, Muddy Waters, and Robert Johnson have left their mark on the region. One of Cleveland’s most notable cultural attractions is the GRAMMY® Museum Mississippi which pays tribute to the region’s many contributions to American music.
Day 10: Tunica, MS
In the embrace of the Delta , Tunica, reveals itself as a living testament to history and charm. Its Main Street, frozen in time, boasts buildings that have been engrained in the landscape since the turn of the century, each a stalwart witness to bygone days. Stroll through unique boutiques and antique shops, keeping the past alive. Be captivated by the fully restored courthouse, a symbol of justice, and pay homage at the Tunica Veterans Memorial in Rivergate Park, honoring the valor of generations.
Day 11: Memphis, TN
Get ready to feel the vibrant soul of Memphis, Tennessee. This historic gem boasts a skyline that dances along the river, lined by sprawling oak trees and historic landmarks honoring its storied past. Feel the rhythm of the city through legendary Beale Street, alive with the sounds of blues and jazz. Explore Graceland, the iconic home of Elvis Presley, and immerse yourself in the legacy of the King of Rock ‘n’ Roll. While you’re here, don’t miss out on the mouthwatering BBQ this city is known for.
Day 12: Memphis, TN
Enjoy breakfast onboard the ship as you prepare for your journey home. Reflect upon the memorable experiences and the new friendships forged during your time with us.
Thank you for cruising with us. We hope your voyage was filled with delightful moments that you carry with you. Safe travels home, and we look forward to welcoming you aboard again soon.
