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Tennessee River Cruises

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America’s Great River

• Explore St. Louis' arts scene
• Enjoy American music styles
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Heart of the Delta

• Enjoy the music of Memphis
• Get a taste of Cajun cuisine
• Discover Civil War history
• See the historic homes of Natchez

Music Cities Cruise

• Explore Memphis
• Discover Paducah
• Experience Lake Barkley
• Enjoy Nashville

Lower Mississippi River Cruise

• Admire the diversity of New Orleans
• Discover the cultures of the delta
• Learn the history of Vicksburg

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Cumberland & Tennessee Cruises

No exploration of the lower 48 is complete without a trip across the South aboard a USA River Cruise. And a trip across the south wouldn’t be complete without experiencing the Cumberland and Tennessee rivers.

From Memphis to Nashville and points in between, the Volunteer State is a historical and cultural treasure, one best experienced from the water. Of course, a trip to this region means paying homage to the amazing legacy of music that has evolved over time. Just as the rivers flow, so does the music — from Beale Street to Music City!

Visiting Memphis and Nashville with USA River Cruises means a trip filled rhythm, tunes, and dancing! Whether it’s blues or bluegrass, jazz or Joplin, you’ll have a front-row seat to the music of America.

The Cumberland and Tennessee rivers wind a historical path through lands awash in music, world-class cuisine, and a love of all things Southern. The Queen of the Mississippi paddlewheel will entice you to relax while you stare up in awe at rocky outcroppings and national forests as they drift along.

Onboard, you’ll experience the industry’s best customer service from a helpful and hospitable staff who are excited to have you aboard. Plus, the American Cruise Line fleet features the newest and most environmentally friendly small ships in the country.

From your large stateroom, you’ll have a first-class and private space from which to take in the sights. The itinerary also includes daily entertainment brought onboard — musicians, historians, naturalists — just for you!

And the food … oh, the food! Everything from andouille gumbo, po’boys with red beans and rice, and bourbon pecan pie.

Our nine-day Memphis-to-Nashville trip also includes sights and sounds and tastes galore onboard the American Duchess. Be sure to take lots of photos, especially from the observation deck, which offers prime viewing for your river cruising!

The Tennessee Rivers Cruise

Chattanooga, TN to Nashville, TN

• May 17, 2024, May 24, 2024, May 31, 2024 -- 8 more dates available.
• From $5,190
• American Serenade

Music Cities Cruise-American Symphony

Memphis, TN to Nashville, TN

• August 2, 2024, August 9, 2024, August 16, 2024
• From $4,530
• American Symphony
• August 6, 2024, August 13, 2024, August 20, 2024 -- 3 more dates available.
• From $4,125
• American Splendor
• October 29, 2024

Music Cities Cruise-American Splendor

• June 18, 2024, June 25, 2024, July 2, 2024 -- 4 more dates available.

Music Cities Cruise-American Serenade

• October 15, 2024, November 5, 2024
• From $4,840

Music Cities Cruise-American Melody

• September 20, 2024, November 8, 2024
• American Melody
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Star of Knoxville Riverboat - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (2024)

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Public Riverboat Cruises in Knoxville, TN

Experience an unparalleled view of Knoxville during our public cruises! Enjoy a delightful lunch, brunch, or dinner cruise. We offer a range of public cruises for your friends and family on Knoxville’s only luxury yacht! From sunset dinner cruises to sailgates in Big Orange Country, Volunteer Princess Cruises is truly special for any event. Browse through our cruise offerings below to begin your jaunt along Knoxville, Tennessee’s beautiful riverfront!

• Most Popular!

Sunset Dinner Cruise

Searching for a unique date night? Celebrating something special? Or just want a night out on the water? Our Sunset Dinner Cruise is just for you!

Brunch Buffet Cruise

Looking for a new Sunday brunch spot? Join us on the Volunteer Princess and enjoy brunch on the water!

Sailgate Cruise

Tailgate in style aboard the Volunteer Princess, and be a part of the Vol Navy!

Fall Foliage Cruise

Knoxville’s beautiful riverfront comes alive with the colors of fall during this lunch cruise!

Afternoon Sightseeing

Cruise the waters of the Tennessee River in air-conditioned or heated comfort and luxury with our sightseeing tour. Relax in the sun on the front deck or find comfort.

Lunch on the Lake

Whether you’re on vacation, celebrating a special occasion, or just looking for a wonderful meal in a beautiful setting, you’ll thoroughly enjoy your experience on our lunch cruises. Relax in

Sunset Sightseeing

Pints & pizza cruise.

Experience a fun night on the Tennessee River! Grab a slice of pizza and a pint of beer, and enjoy a two-hour cruise around Knoxville!

Italian Night w/ Strolling Violinist

Experience a taste of Italy on our fantastic Italian Night Dinner Cruise. Take a seat at your private table, enjoy a two-hour cruise around Knoxville and indulge in a four-course.

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Tennessee River

Discover some of America’s natural beauty on a Tennessee River cruise. Winding for 886 miles in a U-shape across four states, (Alabama, Tennessee, Kentucky and Mississippi), the river’s name is believed to be a derivation of the 18th-century Cherokee village, Tanasi, which was formed upon its banks. Like its sister rivers the Ohio and the Mississippi, the Tennessee River carries a rich and varied history.

The Tennessee was originally navigated only by flatboats, thanks to a shallow upper course filled with short rapids. During the Civil War, the north-flowing lower section of the river was vital to Union troops who used it to invade the western Confederate region. Cruises often visit important Civil War sites such as Shiloh National Military Park.

These days, the broad, blue river is a key component of one of the world’s greatest irrigation and hydropower systems. It is home to an important series of locks, dams and reservoirs, whose waters typically widen to small, calm lakes just before each of the nine locks.

Boats pass beneath eye-catching bridges like the bright blue John Ross Bridge in Chattanooga, TN, or the "Steamboat Bill" in Decatur, AL, where you’ll also find Wheeler Wildlife Refuge and the North Alabama Birding Trail. You might also cruise through the Tennessee River Gorge, a 27-mile-long river canyon downstream from Chattanooga, flanked by richly colored woods and home to ospreys and bald eagles.

Cruises on the Tennessee River are often part of longer itineraries that also sail the Mississippi or Ohio Rivers. These cruises provide terrific value for your vacation dollar, as accommodations, onboard meals and some excursions are covered in one affordable upfront price.

• ACL: Save up to $1,000 per couple off select cruises. Prices shown reflect discount. Expires May 19. Click here .
• ACL: Receive a free $150 per couple onboard credit on all sailings. Click here .
• ACL: Receive free shore excursions on select cruises. Click here .

Save up to 50% on Tennessee River Cruises!

Discover some of America’s natural beauty on a Tennessee River cruise. The river’s name is believed to be a derivation of the 18th-century Cherokee village, Tanasi, that was formed upon its banks.

See important Civil War sights and other riverside attractions during shore tours that are included in the price of your vacation. And back on board, enjoy upscale accommodations, delicious cuisine, wine and beer with dinner, lively entertainment and intriguing lectures, all covered in the rate. Some cruises that sail the Tennessee River also spend time on the Mississippi River.

• ACL: Save up to $1,000 per couple off select cruises. Prices shown reflect discount. Expires May 19. Click here .
• ACL: Receive a free $150 per couple onboard credit on all sailings. Click here .
• ACL: Receive free shore excursions on select cruises. Click here .

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Tennessee Rivers

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July 26 - August 3, 2024

American Cruise Lines will be our hosts aboard their gorgeous vessel, the American Symphony .

This contemporary riverboat was inaugurated in 2022, and with a capacity of only 180 guests, prepare for an intimate hospitality experience like none other!

The company is American owned and staffed, and the ship itself is built in the USA. Join us for an amazing journey with American Cruise Lines exploring a gorgeous area of our country.

On this cruise through the Tennessee Valley, admire the stunning natural backdrop as we pass through the Appalachian Mountains and the Land Between the Lakes. Experience the rich history and culture of the region on board this spectacular American riverboat.

Renowned musicians will serenade you with a variety of music that was born of the river, as its banks were once home to a booming recording industry and the area was considered “The Hit Recording Capital of the World.”

In Chattanooga, you can explore local attractions such as the famous Walnut Street Pedestrian Bridge and Coolidge Park, accompanied by expert local guides. You will also visit Savannah, the largest town on the Tennessee River.

Along with Civil War history, music-inspired cities, and incredible southern cuisine, you will cruise the Cumberland River through the Tennessee River Gorge and be amazed by the sights and sounds this region has to offer.

Below is a list of pick-up points available on this tour.

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The 10 Best Mother-Daughter Vacations To Take This Summer

Appreciation for our mamas is a core principle of the Southern home. We don’t reserve our thanks for just once in a year (though we do go all out for Mother’s Day gifts and brunches ), and when we’re feeling extra fortunate, we know the best way to show our moms is by scheduling some good old-fashioned quality time together. We’ve long been touting the benefits of taking a yearly mother-daughter trip , and summer might be the perfect time to get started on this worthwhile tradition. Not only will you get to discover a new and wonderful Southern destination (or revisit a forever favorite!) but you’ll get to experience the joy alongside you very first friend in the world. Here are 10 mother-daughter vacations to take this summer.

Beaufort, South Carolina

This coastal Lowcountry escape is ideal for those who have taken the requisite mother-daughter trip to Charleston and are looking for an encore performance. Located about an hour and a half southwest of the Holy City, Beaufort has the same storied streets and historic architecture, but with a laidback small-town feel in place of Charleston’s glitzy hubbub. Book a stay at the enchanting Beaufort Inn , then spend your days biking the shaded trails at Hunting Island State Park, watching the sunset at Waterfront Park, shopping downtown, and dining at restaurants with stunning views of the water.

RT Lodge in Maryville, Tennessee

Relax into a getaway on the secret side of the Great Smoky Mountains with a weekend at RT Lodge , a stylish all-in-one stay that’s the definition of quiet luxury. Tucked into the woods of historic Maryville College and just 30 minutes from Great Smoky Mountains National Park, the lodge allows guests to customize their levels of adventure and pampering. Spend mornings and evenings enjoying a cup of coffee or cocktail on the porch rockers with mom. Days can be whiled away wandering the garden trails, playing lawn games, or even trying your hand at flyfishing. At the end of the day, recount your favorite moments over dinner at the lodge’s onsite restaurant led by chef Trevor Stockton.  

Wilmington, North Carolina

LISA CORSON

This historic river city won out as our top City on the Rise in 2024 , and it makes a lovely destination to visit as a mother-daughter duo. Part of the city’s appeal is its ability to provide multiple vacations in one. Love a beach day? Head to nearby Wrightsville , Kure, or Carolina Beach. Fancy a stroll on the water? Head to the nearly two-mile-long Riverwalk, where you can stop to shop, snap photos, and grab an excellent seafood meal. Don’t leave town without visiting Airlie Gardens , a stunning 67-acre public garden filled with seasonal blooms, scenic walking trails, exciting art installations, and the famous 500-year-old Airlie Oak.

Lower Mississippi River Cruise

Courtesy of American Cruise LInes

Sometimes the best trips are the ones where you never have to lift a finger. Leave planning and plotting to the pros by hopping aboard an American Cruise Line ship headed down the Mississippi River from Memphis to New Orleans. Sit back, relax, and enjoy the scenery as the riverboat brings you through historic Southern towns like Natchez, Mississippi and St. Francisville, Louisiana. In between your explorations, enjoy gourmet meals, daily cocktail hours, and nightly entertainment. This is one trip you and mom will never, ever forget!

Yadkin Valley Wine Country in North Carolina

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If you and mom love to gab over a bottle of red or are forever trading pictures of your new favorite finds at Trader Joe’s, this is the summer getaway for you. Napa Valley may be a bucket list trip, but North Carolina’s wine country is one you can explore now. Encompassing the sweet Southern towns of Mount Airy, Dobson, Pilot Mountain, and Elkin, Yadkin Valley Wine Country (also known as Surry County) is home to dozens of cozy cabins, inns, and boutique hotels where you can book a long-weekend stay. Chart your course and visit as many of the trail’s 18 wineries as you can. A sprawling, picturesque vineyard, nestled in the shadows of the Blue Ridge foothills, is the perfect backdrop for a new favorite memory with mom.

Florida’s 30A Beaches

This magical stretch of sand and surf on the Florida Panhandle runs alongside Scenic Highway 30A and is affectionately known to locals and perennial visitors simply as 30A. Yes, the water is a stunning shade of crystal-clear turquoise and the sand is almost blindingly white, but what really sets this summer hot spot apart are its distinct communities that range from cheery Mayberry-esque Seaside to quirky, down-to-earth Grayton Beac to picturesque Rosemary . Pick a style that suits you and mama best, then take advantage of the proximity and enjoy easy jaunts into neighboring towns for lunch or dinner.

Greenville, South Carolina

Courtesy of VisitGreenvilleSC

There’s nothing not to love about South Carolina’s new standout city. Greenville has been quietly picking up steam over the past decade and today its one of our readers’ favorite places to spend a leisurely weekend. Its prime location (the city is within 3 hours of other major vacation hubs like Atlanta, Charleston, Asheville, and Knoxville) makes it easy for lots of folks to get to, and the city is more than ready to welcome everyone in. Fill your weekend with mom with all the classic activities: biking on the Swamp Rabbit Trail, walking through Falls Park on the Reedy, and checking out the city’s seriously great culinary scene at spots like Gather GVL , a shipping container food hall, and The Anchorage , which received a James Beard nod in 2018

Alexandria, Virginia

Photo by Adedayo "Dayo" Kosoko for Visit Alexandria

Art, history, shopping, dining—this Virginia city has a little bit of everything you could possibly need for a great trip away. Located just across the Potomac River from D.C., you and mom will instantly fall in love with the historic town’s charming cobblestone streets and quaint row houses. Enjoy all the eye candy while you shop at specialty boutiques on King Street; dine at classic restaurants like Hank’s Oyster Bar and Vermillion ; and peruse the artist galleries and workshops inside Torpedo Factory Art Center . Another reason to visit in summer? The town celebrates the season in style with the Portside in Old Town Summer Festival featuring live music, food, crafts, and drinks on the waterfront (June 21-22 in 2024).

San Antonio, Texas

This colorful city in the middle of Texas Hill Country is a joy to explore, with surprises around every corner. There are dozens of great stays to choose from like the Plaza San Antonio Hotel & Spa for a classic hotel; Hotel Havana or Hotel Emma for a boutique feel; or the sprawling La Cantera Resort & Spa for a bit of pampering. Of course, you’ll want to leave plenty of time to walk up and down the famous River Walk (and maybe even take a water taxi ride), but don’t forget to check off other can’t-miss attractions like the San Antonio Museum of Art, the Alamo, and the San Antonio Botanical Garden.

St. Petersburg, Florida

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You’ll be plotting a return trip this coastal Florida city before you even leave. It may even become the location for an annual retreat. Art lovers will jump at an opportunity to see legendary paintings inside the architecturally eye-catching Dali Museum , take a walking tour of the town’s excellent mural collection, and visit the Chihuly Collection of mind-blowing glasswork. When you want to see some natural art, head to St. Pete Beach for brilliant blue water and endless expanses of gorgeous sand. Round out a full day with cocktails and island-inspired seafood at ultra-cool backyard hangout Trophy Fish.  

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Dinner Cruises

In chattanooga, tn, dinner on the tennessee river.

Since 1985, the Southern Belle Riverboat has had a simple mission: to provide a unique and spectacular experience of the beautiful city of Chattanooga. Our dining cruises show off the beauty of both the river and the city, giving you gorgeous views of Chattanooga that you can only experience from the Southern Belle, all while enjoying a fantastic meal! Book your dinner cruise below!

There are a lot of great dining options in Chattanooga, but only one allows you to cruise down the Tennessee River, taking in all the wonderful sights and sounds of our great city!

Please Note:

• Consuming raw or undercooked meats, poultry, seafood, shellfish, eggs or unpasteurized milk may increase your risk of foodborne illness, especially if you have certain medical conditions.
• Our Caesar dressing contains raw eggs. FYI, consumption of raw eggs may increase your risk of food-borne illness.
• All our hamburgers are cooked to the required minimum temperatures. Upon request, we will cook to your specifications. However, consuming raw or undercooked hamburgers may increase your risk of foodborne illness.
• Most Popular
• Users Groups of 75+
• Clock 2 hours

Admiral’s Dinner Cruise

Enjoy a dinner cruise with live entertainment, pilot house tours, and a buffet-style dinner featuring dishes like prime rib, Cajun chicken, cheesecake, and more!

Valentine’s Dinner Cruise

Enjoy hors d’oeuvres on Pier 2 before boarding the Southern Belle for your two-hour cruise with a DJ, pilot house tours, and a toast of Champagne!

Captain’s Dinner Cruise

Enjoy a Captain’s Dinner Cruise on The Southern Belle Riverboat. Cruise on the Tennessee River while you enjoy live entertainment and a buffet-style dinner.

Skipper’s Dinner Cruise

Take a two-hour cruise with pilot house tours, background music, and a one-time-through buffet-style dinner with roast beef, lemon basil chicken, and more!

• Users Groups of 40+

Chef’s Special Dinner Cruise

Join us to see what the chef has created for dinner on the Tennessee River! Call in advance if you must know, or wait for the scrumptious surprise!

Grand Chandelier Dinner and Sunset Cruise

Enjoy a scenic cruise on the Tennessee River and watch the sunset after a buffet-style dinner featuring prime rib, shrimp, and more!

• Clock 2.5 hours

Christmas Carol Dinner Cruise

Enjoy a Christmas Carol cruise with a special appearance from Santa! Live music, pilothouse tours, and a buffet-style dinner make this the perfect night for celebrating the holiday season.

Holiday Dinner Cruise

Relax and enjoy a two-hour cruise on the scenic Tennessee River with music, pilothouse tours, and our buffet-style dinner that features flat iron steak, lemon basil chicken, and more!

• Clock 1 hour

Easter Dinner on the Grand Chandelier Deck

Enjoy live music and dinner on the deck, followed by a one-hour cruise on the scenic Tennessee River aboard the Southern Belle Riverboat with narration by the captain!

Early Bird New Year’s Eve Dinner Cruise

A two-hour cruise on the scenic Tennessee River for those with other evening plans or who don’t wish to be out ’til midnight.

The 7 Best Mississippi River Cruises for 2024

T he more than 2,300-mile Mississippi River invites travelers to discover its multifaceted heritage, with a vast range of deeply rooted culture, music and history. A cruise is a fantastic way to discover many of the riverfront cities on a single trip, from the comfort of your modern riverboat or traditional paddle-wheeler.

The following Mississippi River cruise itineraries can help you choose from cruises of various lengths and options for the Lower and Upper Mississippi. Note that all fares are listed as double occupancy (based on two people per cabin), and that they might not reflect taxes, port fees or gratuities. The itinerary availability listed is also subject to change.

American Cruise Lines

American Cruise Lines operates small ships accommodating between 90 and 180 passengers that are built, flagged and crewed in the U.S. – and it's the only company in the world operating a 100% U.S.-flagged fleet of riverboats and cruise ships. ACL's itineraries traverse waterways across 35 states, with 11 itineraries dedicated to the Mississippi River. Cruisers can choose to sail on modern riverboats with a sleek interior design or while away their time aboard classic paddle-wheelers reminiscent of days gone by.

ACL offers variety as well as versatility: This line boasts both the longest and shortest sailings on this list with cruises ranging from eight to 60 days in length, including The Great United States. This inaugural 60-day voyage spans four major rivers and 20 states, making it the longest U.S. river cruise in history.

Complimentary hotel and transportation packages are available from every departure city before your cruise. You can book certain premium packages for added perks, such as two nights spent next door to Graceland in Memphis – with VIP tickets and a city tour included in the price.

Music Cities Cruise

Length: Eight days

Price: Starts at $3,610 per person

Spend a week getting lost in the sounds of the Memphis blues, rock 'n' roll and country music legends on the seven-night Music Cities Cruise. A hotel stay the night before your sailing is included, but embarking in Memphis means you also have the chance to splurge on a two-night pre-cruise package near Elvis' former home Graceland .

Ports of call include Paducah, Kentucky; Dover, Tennessee; and Clarksville, Tennessee, with an overnight in Nashville and an included excursion to a show at the Grand Ole Opry. Two scenic sailing days feature picturesque views of America's Heartland along the Mississippi, Ohio and Cumberland rivers as well as Lake Barkley.

2024 dates: In 2024, there are two available itineraries in September and November.

Grand Heartland Cruise: St. Paul to New Orleans

Length: 15 days

Price: Starts at $9,455 per person

This 15-day voyage allows you to explore America's rich history in towns along the Upper and Lower Mississippi River. The immersive voyage covers six states and 12 cities including St. Paul, Minnesota ; Dubuque, Iowa; St. Louis, Missouri ; Memphis, Tennessee; Natchez, Mississippi; Baton Rouge, Louisiana ; and more.

Take a step back in time while visiting Mark Twain's boyhood home in Hannibal, exploring stately historic estates in Natchez and Civil War sites in Vicksburg. At the end of a busy day ashore, you'll have plenty to chat about with fellow passengers during the evening cocktail hour.

2024 dates: American Heritage – ACL's traditional paddle-wheeler – and three modern riverboats set off on this journey from August to October in 2024.

Complete Mississippi River Cruise: New Orleans to St. Paul

Length: 22 days

Price: Starts at $14,935 per person

If you want to see the entire Mississippi in one shot, check out this multiweek sailing that begins in New Orleans and ends in St. Paul, Minnesota. Along the way, you'll sail 1,393 miles, visit 10 states and experience a staggering 20 ports of call as you tour Louisiana and then head northbound to Minnesota.

In the South, walk the battlefields of the Civil War and sample delicious Southern barbecue before listening to the rhythms of jazz, the blues and rock 'n' roll. Then, explore the small and larger cities along the upper parts of the river. Remember to take time to gaze out at the picturesque scenery and the rolling farmlands of America's Midwest before disembarking in St. Paul.

2024 dates: Three of ACL's modern riverboats sail this itinerary in May, June and August in 2024.

The Great United States

Length: 60 days

Price: Starts at $51,000

This two-month long journey – the longest domestic itinerary ever created – will check all the boxes for U.S. history and Civil War buffs, music and nature lovers, culinary enthusiasts, and beer and distilled spirits aficionados alike as the ship traverses America's iconic waterways through 20 states and 50 ports of call.

This epic journey showcases the natural beauty and living history of the U.S. from sea to shining sea. The sailing embarks in Portland, Oregon , on the Pacific Coast before traveling east to the Atlantic shore along four major rivers that highlight some of the country's most stunning coastlines. Upon arrival in New York Harbor, guests will have an unforgettable view of one of the most iconic landmarks in the U.S.: the Statue of Liberty .

Passengers can follow in the footsteps of Lewis and Clark along the Snake and Columbia rivers; cruise along Ol' Man River in search of Mark Twain and Elvis; see the vibrant colors of fall during peak season on the Hudson River; and take in the coastal breezes (and fresh seafood) along New England's rocky coastline.

This curated adventure also includes two flights: Jackson, Wyoming , to New Orleans as well as St. Paul to Portland, Maine , plus a land package through Glacier , Yellowstone and Grand Teton national parks. All-inclusive pricing covers the pre-cruise hotel stay, all flights and hotels between cruise segments, an ACL jacket and gear pack, daily excursions, all meals and beverages, gratuities and port charges, entertainment, and Wi-Fi.

2024 dates: The inaugural cruise sets sail on August 16, 2024.

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Viking River Cruises

Viking is no stranger to sailing Europe's rivers; the brand is synonymous with river cruising worldwide aboard its dozens of ships. However, Viking River Cruises is a newcomer to U.S. rivers, with its purpose-built ship: the 386-passenger Viking Mississippi. Looking to carve out its own niche in the American river cruising category, Viking claims it has the region's "first truly modern cruise ship" with its distinct Scandinavian design and expansive top sun deck with an infinity plunge pool.

Viking's mostly all-inclusive fares include a complimentary excursion in each port, destination lectures and performances, beer and wine at meals, free Wi-Fi, specialty coffees and teas, and more. The line offers five itineraries ranging in length from eight to 22 days along the Mighty Mississippi. Pre- and post-cruise extensions can be added to all voyages for an additional expense.

New Orleans & Southern Charms: Round-trip from New Orleans

Price: Starts at $3,999 per person

If you don't know which Viking Mississippi itinerary to choose, start here. A round-trip voyage from New Orleans is convenient for booking flights and offers an excellent opportunity to extend your stay in NOLA. Six guided tours are included across eight days, from the historic estates of Natchez to Vicksburg National Military Park. A stop in St. Francisville gives you the chance to marvel at some of the 140-plus buildings it has on the National Register of Historic Places.

If you extend your stay in New Orleans, plan to sample the local Creole cuisine and take in some of the city's nightly jazz entertainment. In the morning, grab a beignet and a steaming cup of chicory coffee au lait at the original Café du Monde in the French Market.

2024 dates: This itinerary is available on select dates in February, November and December.

Heart of the Delta: New Orleans to Memphis

Length: Nine days

Price: Starts at $4,299 per person

Similar to its round-trip New Orleans Southern Charms itinerary, the Heart of the Delta cruise begins in New Orleans and calls on the same five ports, before sailing through the Lower Mississippi and disembarking in Memphis. Enjoy scenic views of the serpentine river route – perhaps with expert commentary or a local cooking demonstration – and then take time to explore the birthplace of the Memphis blues, which is also a center of civil rights history.

2024 dates: In 2024, this cruise is available in February, March, April, May, June and November.

America's Great River: St. Paul to New Orleans

Price: Starts at $12,999 per person

This Viking voyage sails from St. Paul to New Orleans on a two-week trip that calls on 13 ports with one day of scenic sailing. This itinerary combines the best of Viking's other Mississippi sailings for an all-encompassing Midwestern and Southern experience with 12 guided tours.

Included in the fare is a tour of Graceland; a stroll through small-town Burlington, Iowa, to see Snake Alley, deemed the most crooked street in the world; and a visit to the National Eagle Center of Red Wing, among others. For an additional fee, hop on an airboat ride through the Atchafalaya Swamp in Baton Rouge or tour the Anheuser-Busch Brewery of St. Louis.

2024 dates: Viking has availability for this itinerary in July, September and October.

Want to cruise the Mississippi River? See the top cruises on GoToSea , a service of U.S. News.

FAQ Module : Travel - Top Mississippi River Cruises FAQs

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Gwen Pratesi has been an avid cruiser since her early 20s. She has sailed on nearly every type of cruise ship built, including the newest megaships, paddle-wheelers on America's waterways, and an 18-stateroom river ship on the Mekong River in Vietnam and Cambodia. Most recently, she traveled on a small luxury expedition vessel in Antarctica and crossed the notorious Drake Passage twice. She covers the travel and culinary industries, specializing in cruises, for major publications including U.S. News & World Report.

You might also be interested in:

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Star of Knoxville Weddings

Weddings onboard the “Star of Knoxville” riverboat are a most unique and distinctive choice for your wedding. We can provide complete arrangements for the most intimate of weddings to the most elaborate, accommodating anywhere from 2 to 110 for a ceremony and reception and up to 235 for a reception only. The vessel is equipped with two (2) bars, a dance floor, and band stage. The open air observation deck is ideal for an outdoor setting. Our main interior is fully air conditioned and heated, for a great dining and entertainment experience and is a perfect choice for the most important day of your life. From black tie events to very casual, the atmosphere is right for any occasion. The beautiful Tennessee River proves to be the most romantic, enchanting, and memorable atmosphere in East Tennessee. You and your guests will be mesmerized by scenery and fully entertained during any of our cruises.

Our wedding package below helps take care of many of your wedding needs. We have our own personal chef to take care of all of your catering needs. The only services we do not provide are photography, wedding cakes, and floral. Let our experienced staff help you plan the perfect wedding that your group will long remember. We are also the perfect facility for rehearsal dinners, bridesmaid luncheons, bridal showers, or bachelor/ bachelorette parties.

Star Wedding Package

The Star Wedding Package is our most popular package available for ceremonies and receptions. Let us provide all the following services to help make the most important day in your life stress free!

1 hour dockside for boarding and ceremony

2 hour cruise on the Tennessee River for reception (additional time available)

A captain/crew member to perform the ceremony

DJ for ceremony music and reception entertainment

Use of Bridal Suite for 2 hours before boarding

Access to boat 2 hours for decorating before boarding

Cash bar and bartender

Archway for ceremony

All tables and chairs

Bride and Groom table

Registration table

Dinner Cruise certificate for 2 for Bride and Groom

Bottle of Champagne (non alcoholic available)

Our professional wedding planner services

1 wedding rehearsal

Wedding Photos

FREQUENLY ASKED QUESTIONS…

Decorations.

THE RIVERBOAT COMPANY AND ITS STAFF ARE NOT RESPONSIBLE FOR DECORATING, GIFTS, OR ANY FURTHER SPECIAL ARRANGEMENTS UNLESS PURCHASED THROUGH THE RIVERBOAT COMPANY. PLEASE GIVE US THE NAME OF EACH DECORATOR SO THAT OUR STAFF WILL BE AWARE WHO IS ALLOWED ON THE BOAT EARLY.

ITEMS LEFT BEHIND

YOU ARE RESPONSIBLE FOR ALL MATERIALS THAT ARE BROUGHT ON BOARD. IF ANY ITEMS ARE LEFT AFTER THE EVENT, WE ARE NOT RESPONSIBLE FOR LOST OR DAMAGED ITEMS. THE RIVERBOAT COMPANY STAFF IS NOT RESPONSIBLE FOR COLLECTING ITEMS OR BOXING THEM UP TO BE PICKED UP THE NEXT DAY.

ITEMS NOT ALLOWED

THE RIVERBOAT COMPANY DOES NOT ALLOW CONFETTI OR RICE OF ANY KIND TO BE USED FOR THE CEREMONY OR THE RECEPTION AS IT CAN BE HAZARDOUS TO THE WILDLIFE ON THE RIVER. WE ALSO DO NOT ALLOW OPEN FLAMES ON THE RIVERBOATS AND THUS SUGGEST BRIDES TO USE LED LIGHTS INSTEAD. NO PAPER LANTERNS OR BALLOONS ARE ALLOWED ON THE OUTSIDE PATIO OR RAILINGS OF THE BOAT UNLESS SECURED TO THE BOAT ITSELF. WE DO NOT WANT ANYTHING TO FLY OFF OF THE BOAT INTO THE RIVER.

FOOD & BEVERAGE POLICY

NO FOOD OR DRINK IS ALLOWED TO BE CARRIED ON OR OFF THE RIVERBOAT. WEDDING CAKES AND CUPCAKES ARE THE ONLY EXCEPTION TO THIS POLICY.

BOOKING AND CANCELLATION POLICY

RESERVATIONS ARE ONLY CONFIRMED UPON RECEIPT OF DEPOSIT. DEPOSITS ARE NONREFUNDABLE. IF FOR SOME REASON YOU NEED TO CANCEL, PATRON FORFEITS ENTIRE DEPOSIT IN THE EVENT OF CANCELLATION. FINAL GUARANTEES AND PAYMENT ARE TO BE GIVEN NO LATER THAN 14 DAYS PRIOR TO THE EVENT. NO CANCELLATION FOR INCLEMENT WEATHER UNLESS THE CAPTAIN DETERMINES IT IS UNSAFE TO SAIL.