Top Mississippi River Cruises and How to Pick the Right One
Mississippi River cruises offer a very different experience from large ocean ships, with slower travel, regionally focused itineraries, and a strong emphasis on history, culture, and scenery. Understanding the main routes, cruise styles, and onboard experiences can help you decide which itinerary and operator fits your travel style and expectations.
Choosing a Mississippi River cruise involves more than picking dates and a cabin. Routes vary dramatically, ships range from paddlewheel inspired vessels to sleek modern riverboats, and inclusions can differ from one company to another. With a little structure, you can narrow the choices to a few itineraries that genuinely match what you want from the trip.
Choosing the Best Mississippi River Cruise
The phrase choosing the best Mississippi River cruise can be misleading, because there is no single cruise that suits every traveler. Instead, it helps to start with geography. Upper Mississippi itineraries typically focus on the stretch between Saint Louis and Saint Paul, highlighting small Midwestern river towns, bluffs, and wildlife. Lower Mississippi cruises usually run between Memphis and New Orleans, emphasizing Civil War history, plantations, and vibrant Southern cities.
Length is another key factor. Shorter journeys of five to eight days work well if you have limited vacation time or want a first taste of river cruising. Longer voyages of ten to fifteen days, sometimes called grand or complete Mississippi itineraries, allow you to see a much larger portion of the river but require more time and budget. When comparing options, note whether the itinerary is one way or round trip, as this affects flights and logistics.
Ship style also shapes your experience. Some vessels are modern riverboats with contemporary decor and larger suites, while others evoke classic paddlewheel design and a more nostalgic atmosphere. Look closely at what is included in the fare: some lines bundle excursions, drinks, and gratuities, whereas others price more items separately. Seasonal timing matters too. Spring and fall often offer comfortable temperatures and colorful scenery, while mid summer can be hotter and more humid, especially in the Deep South.
Top Cruises Along the Mississippi
Many travelers search online for top cruises along the Mississippi, but the options are better understood by thinking in terms of routes and operators. Well known companies offer multiple itineraries that focus on different themes, such as music history, American literature, or Civil War sites. For example, some Lower Mississippi cruises highlight jazz, blues, and the culinary traditions of Louisiana and Mississippi, while Upper Mississippi itineraries may emphasize Mark Twain heritage and small town life.
You will also find differences in pace and excursion style. Certain cruises include guided motorcoach tours in almost every port, often with historical commentary, museum visits, and walking tours. Others build in more free time, letting you explore independently or simply enjoy the river scenery from the sun deck. If you prefer an active holiday, look for options that mention walking distances, fitness facilities on board, or excursions such as cycling where available.
To compare some representative Mississippi River cruise options, it helps to look at a few well known itineraries and how they differ in focus, style, and typical price range.
| Product or Service Name | Provider | Key Features | Cost Estimation |
|---|---|---|---|
| New Orleans to Memphis 8 Day Cruise | American Cruise Lines | Lower Mississippi focus, visits to plantation sites and Civil War locations, small ship riverboat with regional cuisine and guided excursions | Often from about 350 to 650 United States dollars per person per night, depending on season and cabin type |
| New Orleans and Southern Charms 8 Day Cruise | Viking | Modern river vessel, New Orleans round trip, emphasis on food, music, and cultural history with included tours in most ports | Commonly from around 400 to 700 United States dollars per person per night, varying by sailing date and stateroom category |
| Complete Mississippi 15 Day Cruise | American Cruise Lines | Extended voyage from New Orleans to Saint Paul or reverse, covers Upper and Lower Mississippi with many port calls | Frequently ranges from roughly 350 to 600 United States dollars per person per night, with higher total trip cost due to length |
| Mississippi River Day or Evening Cruise | City Experiences in New Orleans | Short sightseeing cruise on a classic style vessel, live music on many sailings, focused on views rather than overnight travel | Day or evening cruises typically from about 40 to 100 United States dollars per person, depending on duration and inclusions |
Prices, rates, or cost estimates mentioned in this article are based on the latest available information but may change over time. Independent research is advised before making financial decisions.
Tips for Selecting Your Ideal River Cruise
Travelers often look for tips for selecting your ideal river cruise because there are many details that influence how comfortable and enjoyable the journey will feel. Start by thinking honestly about your preferred onboard atmosphere. Some ships have a quiet, relaxed environment with lectures and light entertainment, while others lean slightly more toward live music and social activities. Age mix can also vary; many Mississippi cruises attract mature travelers, though certain itineraries and seasons may draw a more varied crowd.
Cabin selection deserves careful attention. On river vessels, square footage is typically smaller than in many land based hotel rooms, so layout and storage matter. Decide whether a simple window cabin suits you, or whether you value a private balcony for constant river views. Higher deck levels often cost more but can offer easier access to lounges and outdoor spaces. If you are sensitive to motion or noise, midship cabins on lower decks can sometimes feel more stable and quieter.
Logistics and policies are just as important as the brochure images. Check embarkation and disembarkation ports and how easy they are to reach by air or rail. Review what is and is not included in the fare, especially drinks packages, specialty dining, and shore excursions, so that you can compare total estimated costs between lines. Examine cancellation terms and any change fees, and consider travel insurance that covers medical needs and trip interruption.
For travelers with mobility considerations, accessibility should be a deciding factor. Look for clear information on elevator access between decks, gangway arrangements in ports, and whether excursions involve stairs or uneven terrain. Dietary needs and medical requirements should be discussed with the cruise line or a travel advisor before booking, so the ship can confirm what is realistically possible on board.
In the end, the right Mississippi River cruise is the one whose itinerary, ship style, inclusions, and pacing align with your interests and comfort level. By focusing on river region, voyage length, onboard atmosphere, and the practical details of cabins, access, and budget, you can move beyond generic rankings and choose a cruise that fits the way you like to travel.
