Cruise Ship
United States | American Cruise Lines - Queen of the Mississippi
Departure Dates:
April - December, ask for details.
Ports of Call:
New Orleans, Louisiana; Oak Alley, Louisiana; Natchez, Mississippi; Vicksburg, Mississippi; Saint Franksville, Louisiana; Baton Rouge, Louisiana; Houmas House, Louisiana
General Info:
Board one of the brand new riverboats, as you celebrate the music, history, and culture of the Lower Mississippi. Your journey begins and ends in New Orleans, a melting pot of French, African, and American culture. Here you can enjoy exclusive access to its vibrant music scene and the best in Cajun and Creole cuisine. On your curated excursion of area plantations such as the Oak Alley, Frogmore, and Rosedown, hear stories about southern life from a team of passionate experts who we have assembled to show you each place in detail. Explore historic towns and beautiful gardens along the way and be treated to an exclusive American Cruise Lines classical piano concert at the famous J.N. Stone House. In Vicksburg, the expert guides show you the battlefields, the USS Cairo, and the most significant historic sites throughout the city.
TYPE OF VESSEL
Built in 2015, Queen of the Mississippi offers an authentic paddle wheeler experience with all the comforts of home. Guests can enjoy large staterooms with private balconies, hotel-style bathrooms, and complimentary room service. Experience breathtaking scenery from the privacy of your stateroom as the Queen of the Mississippi makes its way down the legendary river.
ITINERARY
Day 1 | New Orleans, Louisiana: Welcome to New Orleans. This vibrant city, also known as the Big Easy, is the perfect destination to begin your Mississippi River voyage. Arrive the day before your cruise and explore the most popular attractions and cultural highlights of New Orleans at your leisure. With complimentary transportation to the ship, making your trip is as worry-free as possible.
Day 2 | Oak Alley, Louisiana: Once serving as an antebellum sugar cane plantation, Oak Alley Plantation is rightfully named after its most distinguishing feature, a canopy of 300-year-old oak trees that form a quarter-mile path leading to the Mississippi River. Restored to its 19th-century grandeur, this classic Greek Revival-style antebellum mansion is simply breathtaking.
The famous ancient oaks bordering your path to the mansion are your first sight upon stepping ashore. The perfectly aligned 300-year-old trees form a canopy which set a particularly grand entrance for your arrival. Southern belles enjoying the shade of the leafy canopy greet you on arrival and are the guides for the day. In small groups, they bring you through the antebellum plantation's many stately guestrooms and show you why it has earned the name "Grande Dame of The Great River Road." After the Oak Alley Plantation excursion, join for a special gathering with mint juleps on the west lawn before a visit to their popular gift shop which is known for its world-famous pralines.
Day 3 | Natchez, Mississippi: Settled in 1716, Natchez is rich in history and southern hospitality. Enjoy a guided exploration of this fascinating city which has retained its antebellum charm since its surrender during the Civil War. Visit Frogmore, a historic cotton plantation still in use today, or attend a special piano concert in the J. N. Stone music room.
Explore downtown Natchez on your own. Take time for shopping and strolling through town. The shuttle will make regularly scheduled stops at Rosalie House, the Natchez Visitors Center, and the downtown shopping district.
Longwood is just one of the elegant historic houses that graces the historic district of Natchez. This octagonal house epitomizes the rise and fall of the South. As the Civil War began, the workmen stopped construction and the house was never completed. View the finished first floor with original family furnishings and the upper five stories that are still a work in progress.
Upon arrival, you will be greeted by the fourth-generation owner, Joseph Stone, whose family has owned the home for over 135 years. Mr. Stone will guide you on a personal journey of his unique antebellum-style home and explain the many different purposes it has served over the years. Here, you can explore his eclectic collection of period-specific artwork and one-of-a-kind antiques. The afternoon concludes in the music hall with refreshments as Mr. Stone performs an exclusive classical piano concert.
The onboard experts tell many stories about southern life on a plantation; today you will learn what life was really like. The insightful local guide will accompany you from the ship to the cotton and will be your escort as you explore the 1,800-acre Frogmore cotton plantation. In intimate groups, the plantation owners Lynette and Buddy Tanner will delve into plantation life, including the housing, music, and relationships between the owners and workers. You will have the opportunity to pick cotton directly from the field, participate in a live gospel performance, and witness the progress in cotton technology from Eli Whitney's original gin to their modern 900 bales-per-day computerized plantation.
Day 4 | Vicksburg, Mississippi: The city of Vicksburg served as a pivotal turning point during the American Civil War. Come with as your informative historian leads us through the National Military Park, commemorating the campaign, siege, and defense of Vicksburg. The expert guides and park rangers will take you to battlefields, the U.S.S. Cairo gunboat, and the most significant historic places.
The night before your visit, your onboard Civil War historian gives a captivating lecture detailing all you are about to witness at Vicksburg National Military Park. After a hearty southern-inspired breakfast, you will be greeted by your private guide who will stay with you throughout the day to answer questions and provide additional information. Upon arrival at the park, rangers who are well-versed in Civil War history guide you on a customized experience that's specific to the interests of the group. Your guides will take you through the restored ironclad gunboat, U.S.S Cairo, the battlefield where the Siege of Vicksburg took place, and the over 1,300 monuments dedicated to the brave souls who lost their lives.
Day 5 | Saint Francisville, Louisiana: Established in 1809 and overlooking the Mississippi River, Saint Francisville is a quaint southern town that offers a glimpse into history. One of the largest shipping ports on the Mississippi prior to the Civil War, Saint Francisville is a small town with grand appeal. Experience this town's rich history as you explore historic plantations, including the famous Rosedown Plantation.
The affluent ambiance of the Rosedown Plantation is evident the minute you step on the property. As you walk towards the Main House down the flowered path lined with towering oaks, you will be greeted by the lively resident expert, Tammie Miller. On the excursion, Tammie delves deep into the family history of Daniel and Martha Turnbull and how their experiences helped shape the Main House into a home. At the conclusion of your excursion, time is set aside to explore the grounds on your own or relax in a rocking chair on the front porch with cold refreshments and some of Tammie's freshly made cookies.
Day 6 | Baton Rouge, Louisiana: Baton Rouge features all the history and wonder you would expect in a state capital, but with an added down-home flavor that makes it truly unique. The local expert guides will take you on a journey of the cities' most famous attractions including the Old and New State Capitols and the interactive Louisiana State Museum.
Explore the diverse natural beauty and rich ecological systems of America's largest and most complex wetland. Cruise through the open waters of the Atchafalaya Basin as native guides discuss the abundant plant and wildlife indigenous to the area. Learn about the locals living on houseboats and how they have protected this land over the years. After the basin boat ride, travel a short distance to Pat's Fisherman's Wharf overlooking the waters of the Atchafalaya and enjoy a luncheon featuring southern favorites.
. Known as the "Pirate of the Pacific," the USS Kidd is a memorial to the men and women who served in the American armed forces. Step back in time on this amazing experience as you witness original artifacts and aircraft from World War II.
The vibrant history of Louisiana is evident throughout the state's capital. After breakfast, you will be greeted at the ship by Philippa Blair and her visitor center representatives as they welcome you to Baton Rouge with vibrant Mardi Gras beads. Your first stop is the Louisiana Old State Capitol where you will experience a one-of-a-kind interactive film, made with the help of Disney, bringing you face-to-face with the ghost of the castle, Sarah Morgan. Afterward, Baton Rouge native, Ira Bobin, will serve as your guide and will bring you to the Louisiana State Museum, a completely interactive museum with three floors of displays detailing each region of Louisiana.
Day 7 | Houmas House, Louisiana: Become acquainted with Houmas House, its history and the 38 acres of gardens, ponds, and majestic live oak trees. Enjoy the southern splendor of "The Sugar Palace," as you explore its 16 rooms filled with period antiques and Louisiana artwork.
The stately grandeur of Houmas House is complemented by the flair of the guide, Ms. Judy Davis, who has a personality as magnificent as the mansion itself. As you arrive, you will be greeted on the riverbank to begin the private excursion through the gardens to the 16-guestroom plantation home. Once inside, the velvet ropes are removed and permission is granted to use the home's furniture for a truly authentic experience. During this experience, she brings stories of the homes many inhabitants to life through the unique collection of Louisiana art. After, you have time to wind through the gardens on your own. Later, Ms. Davis joins you on board for an entertaining evening of humor and songs of the South.
Day 8 | New Orleans, Louisiana: Welcome back to New Orleans, the birthplace of Jazz. Culture and art abound around every corner of this unique city. The open-air artist colony proudly displays local works on the iron fence in Jackson Square, while the city's 45 museums carefully preserve its rich history. Stay an extra day or even a few nights to enjoy the famed French Quarter.
New Orleans is a city full of history, intrigue, and colorful characters. Begin your journey through the "Big Easy" with a private guide, who will give you a local's look at the area's most famous attractions. Explore the most popular areas including the French Quarter, the colorful garden district, and the famous stately mansions which still remain in period form. There will be plenty of time for you to enjoy the local flavors, like chicory coffee, sweet beignets, and famous New Orleans Jazz music. This excursion is only offered on cruises ending in New Orleans.
GUEST SERVICES
The all-American crew from American Cruise Lines simply provides you with the best possible cruise experience by offering an unsurpassed level of attention. Whether onboard or ashore, each member of the crew will work with you to help accommodate your specific interests, tastes, and needs. Attentive and personalized service is the hallmark of American Cruise Lines.
FOOD AND DINING
Meals are served in the spacious dining salon, which accommodates all passengers at one seating. The day's menu is announced well in advance, and consists of fresh meats and seafood, as well as in-season fruits and vegetables. Special menus are available to passengers on restricted diets. Most special dietary needs can be accommodated, though advance notice. All meals are prepared to order. Coffee, non-alcoholic beverages, and snacks are available 24 hours a day.
ONBOARD ACTIVITIES/EVENTS
Let American Cruise Lines guide you through the origins and rich traditions of music on America's legendary rivers and waterways. These shores are home to many celebrated styles of music including Country, Jazz, Blues, and Rock n' Roll. Onboard and ashore, enjoy music inspired by each unique region and learn its impact on the development of American music. Also enjoy daily entertainments from historians, naturalists, and local experts that join every cruise. Daily lectures ranging from history to culture to cuisines.
SHORE EXCURSIONS
This 8-day New Orleans roundtrip cruise is a journey that celebrates the unique culture and history of the region. Listen to finest musicians, savor authentic Cajun and Creole cuisine, and travel to some of our country's most iconic landmarks. Shore Excursion include J.N. Stone House and Concert Experience, Signature Atchafalaya Basin Exploration, Houmas House and Plantation and Vicksburg National Military Park.
STATEROOMS OR CABINS
Owner's Suites | At a generous up to 445 square feet, these suites offer the finest accommodations with unsurpassed views of the Mississippi River. With a spacious seating area and full-size bathrooms, each suite is a private sanctuary where you can unwind after a day of exploration in the tasteful comfort of your surroundings. Each of these suites features large sliding glass doors leading out to a private balcony, where you can enjoy the ever-changing scenery. Every modern amenity is at your fingertips, along with a desk, and spacious seating area. AAM Staterooms | Located on the top deck, these spacious staterooms feature scenic views of the passing landscape. At 328 square feet, you will enjoy all of the modern comforts that are expected of a premium hotel. These staterooms also offer full-size bathrooms and a walk-out private balcony where the grandness of the Mississippi can be appreciated. AAC Staterooms | Conveniently located on the fourth deck and at 304 square feet offer all of the comforts of a fine hotel. Complete with a private balcony and floor-to-ceiling sliding glass doors, these staterooms provide spectacular panoramic views of the Mississippi River and the surrounding landscape. AAL Staterooms and AAR Staterooms | Enjoy a luxurious 304 square feet of living space that is equipped with plush seating, a full-size bathroom, and a private balcony with large sliding glass doors that offer great views of the Mississippi scenery. A Staterooms | These 290 square feet staterooms offer exceptional comfort and a relaxing living area. Featuring a large opening picture window, all are equipped with modern amenities, full-size bathrooms, and closet space. Single (Private Balcony) Staterooms | Perfect for the solo traveler, offering all of the amenities you expect from a fine hotel. At 230 square feet, these staterooms have spacious bathrooms and large sliding glass doors that lead to a private balcony. Single Staterooms | A comfortable getaway, offering individuals a spacious room with convenient amenities. At 203 square feet, all have interior entrances and large viewing windows where the sights of the Mississippi can be enjoyed.
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