Mentioning the Mississippi River calls to mind scenes of stately old steamboats drifting along the river. The area is not all about history and very old boats. The Lower Mississippi River is a storied area with a lot to offer, and many elegant new ships offer cruises to the area.
River cruises can generally be through the whole length of the river, part of the river, or a part of the river with linking cruises on other rivers. The river has many cities, towns, and historic sites to visit, sample, and embody the South. There are plenty of excellent cruises to choose from, but we wanted to mention six of the best, all lovely ships with excellent facilities and amenities.
In this article, we’ll explore the Best Lower Mississippi River Cruises, highlighting their itineraries, pricing, and what makes each one a must-do for travelers in 2025.
1. Mississippi Explorer Cruise by American Serenade
The Mississippi Explorer Cruise aboard the American Serenade is an 11-night journey that takes passengers deep into the history and culture of the Lower Mississippi River. Operated by American Cruise Lines, the American Serenade is a modern riverboat offering spacious staterooms, private balconies, and a relaxed yet luxurious atmosphere.
Duration: 11 nights / 12 days
Starting Price: From $8,495 per person (prices vary based on cabin type and season)
Itinerary:
Day 1: Departure from New Orleans, Louisiana (Explore the French Quarter and St. Louis Cathedral)
Day 2: Oak Alley, Louisiana (Tour the famous Oak Alley Plantation with its iconic oak-lined pathway)
Day 3: Baton Rouge, Louisiana (Visit the Louisiana State Capitol and USS Kidd)
Day 4: Natchez, Mississippi (Explore Longwood Mansion and downtown’s historic district)
Day 5: Vicksburg, Mississippi (Tour the Vicksburg National Military Park and learn about the Civil War siege)
Day 6: Greenville, Mississippi (Discover Winterville Mounds and local museums)
Day 7: Scenic Cruising along the Mississippi River
Day 8: Helena, Arkansas (Visit the Delta Cultural Center and explore Civil War history)
Day 9: Memphis, Tennessee (Tour Graceland, home of Elvis Presley)
Day 10: Memphis, Tennessee (Explore the National Civil Rights Museum and Beale Street)
Day 11: Scenic cruising / Leisure day onboard
Day 12: Disembark in Memphis, Tennessee
Highlights:
- The American Serenade is a modern riverboat offering spacious staterooms with private balconies, elegant dining, and plenty of common areas to relax and enjoy the views of the river.
- One of the highlights of this cruise is the visit to Oak Alley Plantation, where passengers can explore the beautifully preserved antebellum estate and learn about the history of the South.
- Stops in Vicksburg and Helena allow travelers to delve into pivotal moments of the Civil War, with guided tours of battlefields and military parks.
2. Mississippi Delta Explorer by Viking Mississippi
The Mississippi Delta Explorer cruise aboard the Viking Mississippi offers a shorter, equally immersive experience of the Lower Mississippi. The Viking Mississippi is a state-of-the-art riverboat that provides passengers with spacious staterooms, fine dining, and a range of onboard amenities.
Duration: 7 nights / 8 days
Starting Price: From $5,399 per person (prices vary based on cabin type and season)
Itinerary:
Day 1: Departure from Memphis, Tennessee (Explore Graceland and Beale Street)
Day 2: Helena, Arkansas (Visit the Delta Cultural Center and enjoy local blues performances)
Day 3: Vicksburg, Mississippi (Tour the Vicksburg National Military Park and Old Courthouse Museum)
Day 4: Natchez, Mississippi (Explore Stanton Hall and take a guided tour of the Natchez Historic District)
Day 5: Baton Rouge, Louisiana (Visit the Louisiana State Capitol and USS Kidd)
Day 6: St. Francisville, Louisiana (Tour Rosedown Plantation and walk through the historic district)
Day 7: New Orleans, Louisiana (Enjoy a guided tour of the French Quarter and visit the National WWII Museum)
Day 8: Disembark in New Orleans, Louisiana
Highlights:
- The Viking Mississippi is a new, state-of-the-art riverboat that blends Scandinavian design with Southern charm. Passengers can enjoy spacious staterooms with verandas, top-tier dining, and a serene onboard atmosphere.
- The cruise includes visits to some of the South’s most iconic plantations, such as Rosedown and Stanton Hall, offering a glimpse into the antebellum architecture and Southern history.
- As you sail through the South, you’ll be treated to regional culinary delights, including Creole and Cajun dishes that reflect the diverse cultural influences of the Lower Mississippi.
Related: Top 10 Reasons To Take A Mississippi River Cruise for your next river cruise
3. Lower Mississippi by American Symphony
Operated by American Cruise Lines, the American Symphony is a modern riverboat designed for luxury and comfort, offering spacious staterooms, private balconies, and gourmet dining. This cruise is ideal for travelers who want to experience the history, culture, and scenic beauty of the Lower Mississippi while enjoying world-class service.
Duration: 7 nights / 8 days
Starting Price: From $4,595 per person (prices vary depending on the season and cabin type)
Itinerary:
Day 1: Departure from New Orleans, Louisiana (Enjoy a guided tour of the French Quarter and visit the National WWII Museum)
Day 2: Oak Alley, Louisiana (Explore the iconic Oak Alley Plantation with its historic mansion and famous oak trees)
Day 3: Baton Rouge, Louisiana (Visit the Louisiana State Capitol, USS Kidd, and enjoy local Cajun cuisine)
Day 4: Natchez, Mississippi (Tour Longwood Mansion and explore the historic downtown area)
Day 5: Vicksburg, Mississippi (Discover the Vicksburg National Military Park and learn about the pivotal Civil War battle)
Day 6: Greenville, Mississippi (Explore the Greenville History Museum and Winterville Mounds)
Day 7: Scenic cruising along the Mississippi River
Day 8: Disembark in Memphis, Tennessee (End the journey with a visit to Graceland and explore Beale Street)
Highlights:
- The American Symphony offers a modern and luxurious riverboat experience with all-suite accommodations, private balconies, and spacious lounges for panoramic views of the river.
- A visit to Oak Alley Plantation is a highlight of the trip, where passengers can tour the beautifully preserved antebellum mansion and learn about the history of the South.
- Stops in Vicksburg and Natchez provide an in-depth look at the Civil War, with guided tours through battlefields, military parks, and historic homes.
4. Lower Mississippi River Cruise by American Melody
For those seeking an extended river cruise, the Lower Mississippi River Cruise aboard the American Melody offers an 8-night journey through the heart of the Southern United States.
Duration: 8 nights / 9 days
Starting Price: From $5,095 per person (prices vary depending on the season and cabin type)
Itinerary:
Day 1: Departure from New Orleans, Louisiana (Explore the French Quarter, sample Creole cuisine, and visit the Garden District)
Day 2: Houmas House, Louisiana (Tour the stunning Houmas House Plantation and Gardens)
Day 3: Baton Rouge, Louisiana (Visit the Old State Capitol and Louisiana Art & Science Museum)
Day 4: St. Francisville, Louisiana (Explore the town’s historic district and visit Rosedown Plantation)
Day 5: Natchez, Mississippi (Tour Rosalie Mansion and take a guided tour of the Natchez Trace)
Day 6: Vicksburg, Mississippi (Visit the Vicksburg National Military Park and Old Courthouse Museum)
Day 7: Helena, Arkansas (Learn about the Delta Blues and Civil War history at the Delta Cultural Center)
Day 8: Memphis, Tennessee (Tour Graceland, visit the National Civil Rights Museum, and explore Beale Street)
Day 9: Disembark in Memphis, Tennessee
Highlights:
- The American Melody offers the latest in riverboat design, with modern amenities, spacious staterooms, and floor-to-ceiling windows that provide stunning views of the river and surrounding landscapes.
- Stops at Houmas House, Rosedown, and Rosalie Mansion provide a glimpse into the grandeur of the Old South, with guided tours that dive into the architecture, gardens, and history of these historic estates.
- In Vicksburg and Helena, passengers can explore key Civil War sites and learn about the region’s deep connection to blues music, with visits to museums and cultural centers.
Related: The Best Upper Mississippi River Cruises 2025
5. New Orleans & Southern Charms by Viking Mississippi
Operated by Viking River Cruises, this cruise offers the perfect mix of luxury, cultural enrichment, and scenic cruising. The Viking Mississippi is a state-of-the-art riverboat, known for its spacious staterooms, elegant Scandinavian design, and outstanding service.
Duration: 7 nights / 8 days
Starting Price: From $4,999 per person (prices vary depending on cabin type and season)
Itinerary:
Day 1: Departure from New Orleans, Louisiana (Explore the French Quarter, sample Creole cuisine, and visit the National WWII Museum)
Day 2: Darrow, Louisiana (Tour the stunning Houmas House Plantation and its beautiful gardens)
Day 3: Baton Rouge, Louisiana (Visit the Louisiana State Capitol, Old Governor’s Mansion, and USS Kidd)
Day 4: St. Francisville, Louisiana (Explore the historic Rosedown Plantation and walk through the charming town)
Day 5: Natchez, Mississippi (Tour Stanton Hall and learn about the town’s antebellum history)
Day 6: Vicksburg, Mississippi (Visit Vicksburg National Military Park and explore the Old Courthouse Museum)
Day 7: Scenic cruising along the Mississippi River
Day 8: Return to New Orleans, Louisiana (Disembark and enjoy a final day exploring the city)
Highlights:
- The Viking Mississippi offers a refined riverboat experience, blending the best of modern Scandinavian design with Southern charm. Passengers enjoy spacious staterooms, all with private verandas, as well as gourmet dining and enriching onboard lectures.
- Guests will visit some of the South’s most famous plantations, including Houmas House and Rosedown, offering a glimpse into the region’s antebellum past.
- In Vicksburg, passengers can explore the famous Civil War battlefield and learn about the Siege of Vicksburg, a pivotal moment in American history.
6. Lower Mississippi River Cruise by American Heritage
If you are seeking a slightly longer and more in-depth experience, the Lower Mississippi River Cruise aboard the American Heritage through the heart of the South. Operated by American Cruise Lines, the American Heritage is a charming paddlewheeler that combines modern comforts with classic riverboat hospitality.
Duration: 8 nights / 9 days
Starting Price: From $5,095 per person (prices vary depending on cabin type and season)
Itinerary:
Day 1: Departure from New Orleans, Louisiana (Enjoy a guided tour of the French Quarter and visit Jackson Square)
Day 2: Houmas House, Louisiana (Tour the grand Houmas House Plantation and explore its lush gardens)
Day 3: Baton Rouge, Louisiana (Visit the Old State Capitol, Louisiana State Museum, and USS Kidd)
Day 4: St. Francisville, Louisiana (Explore the historic Rosedown Plantation and enjoy a guided tour of the town’s historic district)
Day 5: Natchez, Mississippi (Visit Longwood Mansion, the largest octagonal house in America, and stroll through the Natchez Historic District)
Day 6: Vicksburg, Mississippi (Tour the Vicksburg National Military Park and learn about the town’s role in the Civil War)
Day 7: Helena, Arkansas (Discover Delta blues history at the Delta Cultural Center)
Day 8: Memphis, Tennessee (Visit Graceland, explore Beale Street, and tour the National Civil Rights Museum)
Day 9: Disembark in Memphis, Tennessee
Highlights:
- The American Heritage is a traditional paddle-wheeler, offering a nostalgic yet luxurious way to cruise the Mississippi. With spacious staterooms, fine dining, and live entertainment, passengers can enjoy the charm of a bygone era while exploring the modern South.
- The cruise includes visits to some of the most iconic Southern plantations, including Houmas House and Rosedown, where passengers can explore the history of the antebellum South and its architecture.
- Stops in Vicksburg and Helena provide an in-depth look at the Civil War, with guided tours of battlefields and historical museums that bring this pivotal period of American history to life.