In 2025, Viking Mississippi River Cruises promises an exceptional experience that blends adventure, cultural discovery, and relaxation. Whether you are a history buff, a foodie, or simply seeking to explore the scenic beauty of the American heartland, a cruise on the Viking Mississippi is the perfect way to experience the magic of the Mississippi River.
Each cruise promises a blend of luxury, comfort, and enriching activities that showcase the best of this remarkable region.
Join us on this extraordinary voyage and discover the allure of America’s most famous river like never before.
1. Mississippi Delta Explorer
The Mississippi Delta Explorer cruise is perfect for history buffs, culture enthusiasts, and anyone who loves exploring small towns with big stories. This cruise takes you through the heart of the Deep South, where the Mississippi River shaped the region’s history, music, and traditions. Every stop offers a new perspective on American history and culture, from Civil War battlegrounds to the birthplace of the blues.
Duration: 8 days / 7 nights
Starting Price: From $3,499 per person (based on double occupancy)
Itinerary:
Day 1: Depart from New Orleans, Louisiana. Explore the lively French Quarter and indulge in Creole cuisine.
Day 2: Visit Darrow, Louisiana, and tour historic plantations that showcase Southern architecture.
Day 3: Discover St. Francisville and Experience Baton Rouge’s vibrant culture.
Day 4: Explore Natchez, Mississippi, with its antebellum homes and French heritage.
Day 5: Visit Vicksburg to delve into Civil War history with guided tours of battlefields.
Day 6: Enjoy a day in Greenville, Mississippi, known for its rich musical heritage.
Day 7: Scenic Sailing: Lower Mississippi.
Day 8: Arrive in Memphis, Tennessee, where you can visit Graceland and enjoy the city’s famous barbecue before disembarking.
Key Activities and Excursions:
- Tour Elvis Presley’s Graceland in Memphis.
- Visit the Delta Blues Museum in Helena.
- Explore historic battlefields and learn about the Civil War in Vicksburg.
- Enjoy a traditional Southern cooking class in Baton Rouge.
- Attend a jazz performance in New Orleans.
2. New Orleans & Southern Charms
The New Orleans & Southern Charms cruise takes you on a luxurious journey from the lively streets of New Orleans to the enchanting Southern towns along the Mississippi. This itinerary is ideal for travelers seeking a blend of culture, history, and natural beauty.
Duration: 8 days / 7 nights
Starting Price: From $3,499 per person (based on double occupancy)
Itinerary:
Day 1: New Orleans, Louisiana – Begin your journey with a night in the Crescent City, famous for its vibrant music and Creole cuisine.
Day 2: Darrow, Louisiana – Visit Houmas House Plantation and its beautifully landscaped gardens.
Day 3: St. Francisville, Louisiana – Walk through historic plantations and learn about life in the antebellum South.
Day 4: Natchez, Mississippi – Discover the charm of this historic river town with its grand homes and gardens.
Day 5: Vicksburg, Mississippi – Relive the past with Civil War history and engaging museum tours.
Day 6: Baton Rouge, Louisiana – Dive into Louisiana’s capital, exploring the Old State Capitol and museums.
Day 7: New Orleans, Louisiana – Learn more about the eclectic mix of influences that comprise New Orleans’s rich culture.
Day 8: Return to New Orleans for disembarkation.
Key Activities and Excursions:
- Take a guided tour of the French Quarter in New Orleans.
- Explore Oak Alley Plantation’s stunning grounds.
- Learn about Creole culture through cooking demonstrations.
- Visit the National Military Park in Vicksburg.
- Enjoy a private jazz performance onboard.
3. Nashville, Memphis & the Cumberland
This cruise is a dream come true for music lovers, history buffs, and culture enthusiasts. It connects two legendary cities—Nashville and Memphis—while meandering through the scenic Cumberland River. Experience live music, Civil War history, and the Southern charm that makes this region so unique.
Duration: 8 days / 7 nights
Starting Price: From $5,499 per person (based on double occupancy)
Itinerary:
Day 1: Depart from Memphis.
Day 2: Explore Memphis with visits to Graceland and Beale Street’s famous blues clubs.
Day 3: Scenic Sailing: Mississippi River.
Day 4: Continue to Cape Girardeau for a glimpse into its rich riverfront history.
Day 5: Arrive in Paducah, Kentucky, known for its quilting heritage and vibrant arts scene.
Day 6: Sail to Clarksville for a taste of small-town charm and local history.
Day 7: Enjoy a day in Nashville with guided tours of historic homes and music venues.
Day 8: Disembark in Nashville after breakfast.
Key Activities and Amenities On Board:
- Live performances featuring country and blues music.
- Expert-led lectures on Civil War history.
- Regional cuisine is inspired by Tennessee and Kentucky flavors.
- Luxurious staterooms with floor-to-ceiling windows for breathtaking views.
Related: The Best Lower Mississippi River Cruises in 2025
Related: The Best Upper Mississippi River Cruises 2025
4. Heartland of America
The Heartland of America cruise takes you deep into the cultural and historical fabric of the Midwest and Southern United States. This itinerary is perfect for travelers seeking a blend of natural beauty, historic sites, and authentic local experiences.
Duration: 15 days / 14 nights
Starting Price: From $5,499 per person (based on double occupancy)
Itinerary:
Day 1: St. Louis, Missouri – Marvel at the Gateway Arch and dive into the city’s dynamic food scene.
Day 2: Hannibal, Missouri – Immerse yourself in Mark Twain’s boyhood home and literary legacy.
Day 3: Dubuque, Iowa – Tour the National Mississippi River Museum & Aquarium and enjoy the town’s historic charm.
Day 4: Burlington, Iowa – Stroll Snake Alley, often called the “crookedest street in the world.”
Day 5: Quad Cities (Bettendorf and Davenport, Iowa) – Visit iconic landmarks and explore the area’s thriving arts scene.
Day 6: La Crosse, Wisconsin – Discover scenic bluffs and the area’s rich brewing heritage.
Day 7: Red Wing, Minnesota – Explore this picturesque town with its renowned pottery and antique shops.
Day 8: St. Paul, Minnesota – Bid farewell to your fellow guests and journey home.
Key Activities and Amenities On Board:
- Daily cultural enrichment programs with local historians.
- Culinary experiences featuring regional dishes and wines.
- Onboard library with books on Mississippi River history.
- Relaxation areas, including a sun deck and an infinity plunge pool.
5. America’s Great River
The America’s Great River cruise is Viking’s most comprehensive Mississippi itinerary, stretching over 15 days and covering nearly 2,400 miles. From the river’s northernmost reaches in Minnesota to its southern terminus in Louisiana, this cruise offers a unique opportunity to explore the diverse landscapes, cultures, and histories of the Mississippi River region. This epic journey will take you through 10 states, offering a front-row seat to the evolution of America, from its small river towns to bustling cities.
Duration: 15 Days / 14 Nights
Starting Price: From $11,999 per person (based on double occupancy, all-inclusive).
Itinerary:
Day 1: St. Paul, Minnesota – Embarkation and explore the Twin Cities’ rich culture and history.
Day 2: Red Wing, Minnesota – Visit this charming small town known for its historic architecture and Red Wing pottery.
Day 3: La Crosse, Wisconsin – Discover the natural beauty of Wisconsin’s bluffs and quaint riverfront.
Day 4: Dubuque, Iowa – Explore Dubuque’s river history at the National Mississippi River Museum & Aquarium.
Day 5: Quad Cities, Iowa/Illinois – Visit the charming towns along the river and learn about Midwestern life.
Day 6: Burlington, Iowa – Stroll through this historic town with its preserved 19th-century architecture.
Day 7: Hannibal, Missouri – Dive into the world of Mark Twain, whose stories were inspired by this river town.
Day 8: St. Louis, Missouri – Explore the Gateway Arch and the vibrant cultural scene of this historic city.
Day 9: Scenic Sailing: Lower Mississippi– sail the Lower Mississippi.
Day 10: Memphis, Tennessee – Discover the birthplace of blues at Beale Street and visit Graceland.
Day 11: Helena, Arkansas – Learn about the Delta’s Civil War history and cultural importance.
Day 12: Vicksburg, Mississippi – Explore Civil War history and the vibrant downtown area.
Day 13: Natchez, Mississippi – Tour antebellum mansions and learn about this town’s fascinating past.
Day 14: Baton Rouge, Louisiana – Dive into Cajun and Creole culture in Louisiana’s lively capital.
Day 15: New Orleans, Louisiana – Disembark and enjoy the vibrant music, food, and culture of the Big Easy.
Key Activities and Amenities On Board:
- Enjoy onboard lectures about the Mississippi’s history, Mark Twain’s influence, and the Civil War.
- Relax in this outdoor lounge and take in the stunning river views.
- Savor regionally inspired dishes, such as Memphis-style barbecue and Louisiana gumbo.
- Enjoy live music performances, including jazz and blues, reflecting the regions you’re traveling through.
- Daily guided tours, from plantation visits to walking tours of charming river towns.
6. The Big Easy to the Gateway City
For those who want to focus on the lower and middle sections of the Mississippi, The Big Easy to the Gateway City cruise offers a 15-day journey from New Orleans to St. Louis. This itinerary blends the vibrant culture of the South with the historical charm of the Midwest, stopping at iconic cities and hidden gems along the way.
Duration: 15 Days / 14 Nights
Starting Price: From $8,999 per person (based on double occupancy, all-inclusive).
Itinerary:
Day 1: New Orleans, Louisiana – Embarkation and enjoy free time to explore the French Quarter.
Day 2: Darrow, Louisiana – Visit Houmas House Plantation and its beautifully landscaped gardens.
Day 3: Baton Rouge, Louisiana – Explore Louisiana’s capital with its mix of modern attractions and historic sites.
Day 4: Natchez, Mississippi – Tour antebellum mansions and learn about life along the river in the 19th century.
Day 5: Vicksburg, Mississippi – Discover this Civil War battleground and its role in shaping American history.
Day 6: Greenville, Mississippi – Immerse yourself in Delta culture with visits to local museums and art galleries.
Day 7: Scenic Sailing: Lower Mississippi– sail the Lower Mississippi.
Day 8-9: Memphis, Tennessee – Visit Graceland, Sun Studio, and Beale Street for a deep dive into America’s music history.
Day 10: Scenic Sailing: Mississippi River – sail along the Mississippi River.
Day 11: Paducah, Kentucky, United States– Explore downtown Paducah, A UNESCO Creative City.
Day 12: Cape Girardeau, Missouri – Stroll through this charming town with its historic downtown and riverfront murals.
Day 13: St. Louis, Missouri – Explore the Gateway Arch, visit the Missouri History Museum, and enjoy the city’s vibrant food scene.
Day 14: St. Louis, Missouri – A full day to explore more of the city.
Day 15: St. Louis, Missouri – Disembarkation.
Related: The 9 best Mississippi River cruises for seniors
Related: The 10 Best U.S. River Cruises for Seniors
7. Mississippi River Odyssey
The Mississippi River Odyssey is the ultimate river cruise experience, spanning 22 days and covering nearly the entire length of the mighty Mississippi. This journey takes you through 10 states, offering a deep dive into the cultural, historical, and natural diversity of America’s heartland. From the vibrant energy of New Orleans to the peaceful landscapes of the Upper Midwest, this cruise is perfect for travelers who want to immerse themselves in the full spectrum of the Mississippi River’s wonders.
Duration: 22 days.
Starting Price: Prices start at $13,998 per person, based on double occupancy.
Itinerary:
Day 1-2: New Orleans, Louisiana: Explore the vibrant French Quarter, visit historic plantations, and savor Creole and Cajun cuisine.
Day 3: Baton Rouge, Louisiana: Dive into Southern history with stops at antebellum mansions and Civil War landmarks.
Day 4: Natchez, Mississippi: Wander through well-preserved historic homes and learn about the city’s role in cotton commerce.
Day 5: Vicksburg, Mississippi: Visit the Vicksburg National Military Park, a significant Civil War site.
Day 6: Greenville, Mississippi – Immerse yourself in Delta culture with visits to local museums and art galleries.
Day 7: Scenic Sailing: Lower Mississippi– sail the Lower Mississippi.
Day 8-9: Memphis, Tennessee: Experience the birthplace of blues music, tour Graceland, and savor authentic Memphis barbecue.
Day 13-14: St. Louis, Missouri: Marvel at the Gateway Arch and explore this iconic river city.
Day 15: Alton, Illinois: Witness the bucolic landscapes of the Mississippi.
Day 16: Hannibal, Missouri: Step into the world of Mark Twain and explore the town that inspired his famous novels.
Day 17: Burlington, Iowa
Day 19: Dubuque, Iowa: Discover the National Mississippi River Museum and Aquarium and enjoy the scenic “Driftless Area.”
Day 20: La Crosse, Wisconsin.
Day 21: Red Wing, Minnesota.
Day 22: St. Paul, Minnesota: Conclude your journey in this charming city known for its vibrant arts and cultural scene.
8. New Orleans to Memphis
For those who want to explore the southern portion of the Mississippi River, the New Orleans to Memphis cruise is an excellent choice. This 11-day journey focuses on the rich history, music, and culture of the Deep South. From the jazz clubs of New Orleans to the birthplace of Elvis Presley in Memphis, this itinerary celebrates the spirit of the South.
Duration: 11 days.
Starting Price: Prices start at $8,999 per person, based on double occupancy.
Itinerary:
Day 1-2: New Orleans, Louisiana: Tour the French Quarter, enjoy a steamboat ride on the river, and visit the city’s famous cemeteries and gardens.
Day 3: Darrow, Louisiana: Explore the opulent Houmas House Plantation and Gardens.
Day 4: Baton Rouge, Louisiana: Dive into Louisiana’s capital city, with its mix of modern attractions and historic landmarks.
Day 5: St. Francisville, Louisiana: Discover small-town charm and visit antebellum mansions like Rosedown Plantation.
Day 6: Natchez, Mississippi: Learn about the city’s role in the Old South and visit its historic district.
Day 7: Vicksburg, Mississippi: Explore the city’s Civil War history and enjoy its charming downtown.
Day 8: Greenville, Mississippi – Immerse yourself in Delta culture with visits to local museums and art galleries.
Day 9: Scenic Sailing: Lower Mississippi
Day 10-11: Memphis, Tennessee: End your journey with a visit to Graceland, Sun Studio, and Beale Street, the heart of Memphis’ music scene.
Why Choose Viking Mississippi River Cruises?
1. Immersive Itineraries
Viking’s itineraries are thoughtfully designed to provide an in-depth exploration of the Mississippi River and its surrounding regions. Each cruise includes a variety of ports that highlight significant historical sites, vibrant local cultures, and stunning natural landscapes. For example, the Historic Mississippi River: New Orleans, Round Trip cruise allows travelers to explore the French Quarter’s lively atmosphere, visit historic plantations in Baton Rouge, and delve into Civil War history in Vicksburg. The Grand Heartland Cruise aboard the American Serenade showcases picturesque towns like Paducah and Cape Girardeau, offering a glimpse into the heartland’s charm.
2. Luxurious Accommodations
Viking’s Mississippi River vessels are designed with comfort and elegance in mind. The Viking Mississippi features spacious staterooms with private balconies, allowing guests to enjoy breathtaking views of the river from the comfort of their rooms. The ship’s public areas are thoughtfully designed for relaxation and socializing, with lounges and dining venues that reflect Viking’s signature Scandinavian style.
3. Exceptional Dining Experiences
Onboard dining is a highlight of any Viking cruise. Guests can indulge in delicious regional cuisine that showcases local flavors and ingredients. Meals are crafted by expert chefs who prepare dishes inspired by the destinations visited along the river.
4. Inclusive Shore Excursions
One of Viking’s standout features is its commitment to providing enriching shore excursions at every port of call. Each cruise includes at least one complimentary excursion per destination, allowing guests to explore local attractions without additional costs. From guided tours of historic sites to cultural experiences like cooking classes or music performances, these excursions provide a deeper understanding of the regions you visit.
5. Engaging Onboard Activities
Viking offers a variety of onboard activities designed to enhance your journey. Guests can enjoy enrichment lectures that delve into local history and culture, as well as live entertainment featuring regional musicians and performers. The relaxed atmosphere onboard encourages social interaction among guests, making it easy to share experiences and stories with fellow travelers.
6. Outstanding Service
Viking is known for its exceptional service, with a dedicated crew that goes above and beyond to ensure guests have a memorable experience. From friendly waitstaff to knowledgeable guides on excursions, the crew is attentive and ready to assist with any needs or requests you may have during your journey.
Conclusion:
Whether you’re exploring historic cities or enjoying scenic views from your balcony, a Viking cruise promises to create lasting memories as you discover the heart of America on the Mississippi River.