Mississippi Paddlewheelers & Onboard Life
Mississippi riverboats are larger and grander than European river ships — modern paddlewheelers and riverboats built for comfort, with wide decks and an all-American style.
What to expect aboard
Spacious balcony cabins
Roomy staterooms, most with private balconies overlooking the passing river.
Southern dining
Regional American and Southern cuisine, from gumbo to pecan pie, often in a single main seating.
Nightly entertainment
Live jazz, Dixieland, Broadway and local musicians — a hallmark of Mississippi cruising.
Included excursions
A shore tour in most ports is part of the fare, with premium options in the music and history towns.
Grand public rooms
Sweeping staircases, forward observation lounges and broad promenade decks.
Easy, all-American ease
English everywhere, U.S. dollars and gentle days — comfortable for first-time and mature travelers.
Cabin choice is mostly about deck and balcony; the newest American Cruise Lines and Viking Mississippi ships offer the largest staterooms on the river.
Fall foliage and spring sailings sell out first — booking early secures the ship, cabin and dates you want.
Match a ship to your trip
Tell us your dates, which stretch of the river and preferred line, and we’ll send up to five free, no-obligation quotes from Mississippi river cruise specialists.
Get up to 5 free Mississippi cruise quotes