Mississippi River Cruises From New Orleans

Julie Green

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Close your eyes and imagine yourself cruising up the mighty Mississippi River. Picture the idyllic towns that dot its banks as your senses are filled with the breezes of this majestic river. Now open your eyes and start planning! A Mississippi River cruise that originates in New Orleans will leave you simply awestruck!

The rich, cultural history of New Orleans is well known. So why begin your Mississippi cruise anywhere else? Cruise lines have itineraries originating from the port of New Orleans, so plan to extend your trip at the beginning or end to really experience all New Orleans has to offer.

New Orleans Tourist Activities
Fun Times in New Orleans, La.

When deciding which cruise to book, you should consider the following:

Trip Duration

Whether you are looking for a leisurely afternoon or evening trip, or would like to get away for several days, there is a Louisiana Mississippi River cruise with you in mind.

A number of two and three-hour cruise options are available on fabulous paddle-wheel boats. Several of these include lunch or dinner. Enjoy the New Orleans skyline as you meander around the port and relax.

For those looking to the Mississippi for some much needed vacation time, five to twelve-day cruises are available. Aboard magnificent paddle-wheelers, guests enjoy some of the largest ship accommodations around. Well-appointed staterooms with private baths will make for an inviting stay. Many staterooms have private balconies for your enjoyment as you enjoy the sights and sounds of the grand Mississippi.

Theme

New Orleans Jazz Cruise On The Mississippi River
New Orleans Jazz Cruise

Many Mississippi River cruises focus on a particular theme. For music lovers, the Jazz sounds of New Orleans follow you up the river. Experience this beloved music genre as talented performers treat you to slow, soothing rhythms, or heat it up with lively toe-tapping tunes. Guests not only enjoy the sounds of this traditional music, but learn the history of it through lectures and shore excursions as well. Show off your dancing skills while you are at it.

Not that into Jazz? Do not abandon the idea of a Mississippi River cruise just yet. Most music cruises are not limited to just one genre. Many cruises provide rhythm and blues, big band and rock and roll entertainment. Even country music fans will delight as the boat docks in Memphis, Tennessee. Whatever your favorite, music cruises are sure to please.

USS Kidd And Veterans Memorial Museum
USS Kidd And Veterans Memorial Museum

History buffs will be in their glory as they board the authentic paddle-wheel boats and set off on a terrific, educational journey. Immerse yourself in Civil War history when visiting Vicksburg, Mississippi. Learn what plantation life was really about with stops at well-known sites like Oak Alley and St. Francisville, Louisiana and Natchez, Mississippi. Visit Louisiana’s state capital, Baton Rouge, and spend the day touring a number of military museums, such as the USS Kidd or the Veterans Memorial Museum. Marvel at the current Louisiana State Capitol Building, the tallest in the nation, and its surrounding gardens. Stop at the original capitol building and take in its 160-year-old history.

Oak Alley Plantation
Oak Alley Plantation

Fall foliage, Mardi Gras and holiday-themed cruises are some of the other exciting vacations that await you.

Cuisine

River Boat Dining On The Mississippi Cruise
Dining on the river boat…

Of course, no discussion of a Mississippi River cruise would be complete without mentioning the outstanding cuisine available. Dive into Cajun cooking at its finest, or tickle your palette with the best of down-home cooking that is uniquely southern. Experienced chefs aboard the Mississippi River cruises provide you not only with the best in American fare, but tempt your taste buds with other meal selections. They also aim to please with special treats at afternoon teas held in the lounges located on board.

There are many cruise lines in New Orleans waiting to reserve your Mississippi River trip. Choose your cruise and enjoy!

ABOUT JULIE


My name is Julie Green and I am the head writer, content contributor, and chief, cook, and bottle washer too! My goal is to provide you information about the Mississippi River.

It’s a wonderful place that I call home. I’d like to think I know a thing or two about this area!! Please stop by often and pay us a visit.

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