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• The Riverboat Cruise In North Carolina You Never Knew Existed

Amy is a freelance writer who is always on the go. You can see more of her work at SouthernDeparture.com

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A day out on the water is always a good day. Especially when you can just sit back and relax and enjoy the ride, which is exactly what you can do on a Catawba Queen Riverboat Cruise — one of North Carolina’s best hidden gems and one of the most unique ways to see Lake Norman.

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Have you ever taken a cruise on the Catawba Queen?

This restaurant is another hidden gem in North Carolina.

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Queens Landing is the premier entertainment venue  set alongside beautiful Lake Norman. We are a fun destination, providing sightseeing and dinner cruises, banquet rooms, wedding venues, boat rentals, lakeside patio, live music, weekend concerts and more!

Queens Landing/Lake Cruises, Inc. was established in 1991 and is anchored by its primary attraction: the “Catawba Queen”.    A custom-designed replica of a Mississippi riverboat, the “Catawba Queen” was a “one boat show” offering cruises for sightseeing as well as for lunches and elegant dinner outings. Later, in 1998, a second riverboat, the “Catawba Belle” joined the family. Decorated to Mrs. Jack William’s specifications and taste, the Catawba Belle was graceful and stunning to all who road it until 2005 when it was retired to Arkansas and renamed “Miss Liberty”.    And, in that same year the “Lady of the Lake”, a 90-foot luxury yacht took its place.

The Catawba Queen and Lady of the Lake are the only boats of their kind on Lake Norman that are Coast Guard certified making them sturdy enough to charter even the coastline.

Your outings will be remembered forever when you have it on the water. With our cruise boats, unique property, and fun events we are the ideal venue for a memorable adventure.

Queens Landing 1459 River Hwy Mooresville, NC 28117

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6 Best Lake Norman Dinner Cruises [Don’t Miss These Cruises]

Lake Norman is the largest artificial pond in North Carolina, referred to by the locals as the inland sea. This man-made spectacle has its allure, calling upon global tourists to enjoy the sight.

What’s a better way than to roam through it on a dinner cruise? Yes, there are many evening meal boats for Lake Norman. You can dine with your special ones, friends and family on these inland sea dinner cruises.

The enticing experience of a Lake Norman dinner cruise calls for us to help our audience get on board. We have listed such evening meal yachts with their service phone numbers to aid in picking the right one for you. 

So, let’s dine through Lake Norman on a dinner cruise if you’re also drooling. 

If you’re in Florida don’t forget to catch best Clearwater Dinner Cruises

Table of Contents

#1 Lady of the Lake Norman by Queens Landing

To begin with The Lady of the Lake Norman cruise, it’s a 93 feet luxurious dinner cruise. This evening meal yacht offers a 2-hour dining experience for visitors on board.

Passing through Lake Norman with this deluxe dinner cruise has its charm. In addition to fine dining, this boat has salons on the upper and lower levels for resting.

The evening meal menu on this Lake Norman dinner cruise varies throughout the year. However, some food items remain the same. Notable eatables on this yacht include salmon, salad, surf and turf and lavish desserts. 

The cost of dining varies depending on age, but it does mean that you would share the table. So, additional charges apply if you opt for private seating with a special menu on the deck. 

Check out the Lady of the Lake dinner cruise and book your place now.

Call (704) 663-2628 to check for bookings and information.

Related Post: How Long Does It Take To Cross The Atlantic By Ship

#2 The Catawba Queen

A Mississippi riverboat, the Catawba Queen provides a longing for dinner through Lake Norman. In addition to its luxurious charm, the dining on this cruise is buffet style.

Like the Lady of the Lake, you will share dinner with other dinners. However, you can spend more to book VIP seating.

The special thing about VIP dining on the Catawba Queen is that you will get a diverse food menu.

The diner’s VIP sitting will get special service and a menu option of chocolate-covered strawberries. Be sure to check out the Catawba Queen dinner cruise prices for Lake Norman.

Call (704) 663-2628 to check for bookings.

#3 The Sail Boat Charters of Lake Norman

A United States Coast Guard licensed Captain will sail you through Lake Norman on this dinner cruise. Yes, a US-licensed Captain for a professional dining experience on a yacht. Isn’t that amazing? 

The Sailboat charter dinner yacht is slightly different as you must bring your own food and drinks. You can enjoy your food at your own pace with a pleasing view of Lake Norman underway.

This dinner cruise has a maximum capacity of 6 people per booking. 

Call on (704) 892-0991 to book your sailboat.                               

#4 The Yacht Charters

Sailing on a dinner cruise from Yacht Charters fleet through Lake Norman is an amazing experience.

This dinner cruise is private, offering a full-service crew and a captain on the deck.

In addition to the service, the seating is quite comfortable. However, charges for different types of services might vary. Catawba Avenue in Cornelius, North Carolina, is the docking point for this dinner cruise.

Call now on (704) 301-1062 to book your yacht and inquire for additional information.

#5 The Lake Norman Cruise Carolina Grace

Talking about a dinner cruise for Laking Norman and ignoring the Carolina Grace? How’s that possible? This luxurious dining yacht is the most spacious one on our list. 

The guest capacity of this 100 feet dinner cruise is “120”. The Carolina Grace is open for rental seven days a week. Yes, it’s available to book for a special occasion.

Sailing across inside a Lake Norman dinner cruise at a wedding, corporate environment, or celebration is not a hoax. But you would have to book in advance for such occasions. 

The Carolina Grace Dinner Cruise for Lake Norman offers yoga and fitness classes on board. The docking point of this ship is Kings Point Drive in Cornelius, North Carolina. 

Check out the prices of this Lake Norman Dinner Cruise and book your place for a special occasion. 

Call (704) 451-7433 to book your Carolina Grace dinner cruise.

#6 The Carolina Tikki

This one could be more spacious among all the Lake Norman dinner cruises. The maximum guest capacity of this dining boat is “20.” The Carolina Tikki is a 41 feet evening meal yacht sailing across Lake Norman and is family-owned. 

This dinner cruise provides all-inclusive catering services on the deck. So, you will even get bottled water on board. 

Not being too roomy, it’s optimal for those who don’t want too much crowd around. Hence, you can roam around Lake Norman white dining quite calmly.

·Call (702) 706-8454 to book your Carolina Tiki dinner cruise.

As enjoyable as Lake Norman on a dinner cruise experience can be, there are certain things to remember. These tips will assist you in avoiding unforeseen circumstances that can occur.

Cruise Considerations Before Dining

• Sailing time and boarding timing are always different, no matter which dinner cruise you choose. This difference can be “1 hour” as well. So, always ask before you go on your adventure.
• Ask for dates, timings and schedules even after booking, as they can change depending on conditions.
• Most dinner cruises ask for shared dining, so you’ll have to dine with new faces around. So, going for an upgrade beforehand can aid at an additional cost.
• All the facilities, like restrooms, might be different. In addition to the toilet facility, if a dinner table near the stairs concerns you, ask before booking.
• Once you set sail on the Lake Norman dinner cruise, there is no going back, even if you get seasick. However, seasickness usually occurs in an open ocean, so you don’t have to worry about it on a river.
• You can ask for dress codes and policies. However, thoroughly review your Lake Norman dinner cruise policies beforehand. 
• Bookings can occur quite early in the case of popular times. Try to book 2 weeks in advance.

Final Thoughts

To summarize, riding the waves on a dinner cruise through Lake Norman is a fantastic experience. Share the memorable moments while dining with your loved ones. Dive into the beauty of this inland sea on a dinner cruise.

Do check out lanyards and dining dress codes for different cruises like Royal Caribbean.

We hope this helped you out!

I am Zoe Grace, a passionate enthusiast of cruise ships. With a decade of firsthand experience in the cruising industry, I have developed a deep understanding of the intricacies and wonders that these majestic vessels hold.

Now, I am excited to embark on a new journey as an author, sharing my knowledge and insights with readers who share my fascination for the world of cruising.

Join me as we explore the captivating world of cruise ships together.

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Queens Landing

Queen’s Landing

Queen’s Landing is the premier event and entertainment venue. We offer Lunch/Sightseeing and Dinner Cruises 7 days a week on both the “Catawba Queen” our Mississippi Riverboat replica and “Lady of the Lake” our 90ft luxury yacht. If you are looking for a place to kick back with friends and family check out “The Dock Bar”; Lake Norman’s only floating bar.

The “Melanie L. Williams Amphitheater” sets the stage literally for our summer concert series every Friday and Saturday running May-September.  We also have the “Queen’s Club Banquet Hall” which holds 150 people and “Pirateland Miniature Golf”.

Hungry!? Jack’s Grill offers some of the best menus on Lake Norman from Executive Chef Salvatore Friedel. Weddings, rehearsal dinners, corporate events, birthdays, anniversaries, etc., we do it all, just call us and we’ll accommodate any request that you may have.

Set alongside the beautiful Lake Norman, Queen’s Landing is one of the premier North Carolina attractions for fun family entertainment. Their boat tours, wedding venues and mini-golf are just a few of the reasons to visit them with the whole family.

Queen’s Landing’s two boats, Catawba Queen and Lady of the Lake, are a unique and delightful way to spend a romantic evening or organize a function. They offer lunchtime sightseeing cruises for guests to enjoy the beauty of Lake Norman. Their gourmet-style dinner cruises and buffet dinner cruises are a special way to spend a romantic evening for all kinds of budgets. Alternatively, both boats are available for private charters as a unique venue for any kind of celebration, and to impress your guests. They also offer various options for Christmas parties, New Year’s Eve celebrations and even weddings and wedding receptions.

A picturesque wedding venue, Queen’s Landing offers many different packages for brides, which will take the stress out of organizing and help make it a day to remember. Their wedding venues and banquet rooms offer panoramic views of the majestic Lake Norman, and they provide gourmet food of the highest quality. They offer traditional southern cooking that uses the freshest ingredients, with a modern creative flair. They also offer many extras for weddings, including bar packages, floral design and arrangements, chocolate fountains, DJs and even a limousine service.

Along with the attractions above, you will find a multitude of things to do while visiting Queen’s Landing. These include the Pirate Land mini golf course, Jack’s Lakeside Grill, Melanie L. Williams Amphitheater and the only floating dock bar on Lake Norman. For a day of entertainment for the whole family or a unique venue for your next function, head to Lake Norman and enjoy everything Queen’s Landing has to offer.

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Address: 1459 River Highway, Mooresville, NC 28117

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Phone: 704-663-2628

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Lake norman chartered cruises, the best way to see lake norman in luxury  .

Lake Norman has a few chartered cruises to choose from during your visit so that you can sit back and enjoy your lake day. Whether you are looking for a sunset cruise, a family trip, water-sports excursions, a sightseeing tour, or just a fun day on the lake, Carolina Cruising Charters   has the perfect rental option for you. Party Pontoon   also offers sunset cruises, floating fun or lakeside bar hopping.

Looking to host a private cruise for a large group? Book your event with  Carolina Grace , a 100-foot luxury yacht perfect for any event or celebration. With a heated upper deck, it's perfectly suited for rental year-round.

*Tip : Be sure to plan ahead during peak seasons when reservations get booked quickly.

For more details or booking inquiries, please contact the boat rental companies directly.  Their contact information can be found within the listings below. Visit Lake Norman   does not   have access to any pricing or booking details.

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Dinner Cruise Fun - Queens Landing

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We wanted to visit the lake but not for a boat ride. I wanted to make a stop somewhere on the lake... read more

This was a great event! Dinner was great and the ambiance was wonderful! Definitely something I... read more

Dinner Cruise Fun

Two large yachts are available- each offering lunch & dinner cruises on Lake Norman! Lovely 2 hour dinner cruise offered chicken, prime rib or salmon, with salad, bread & very good cheesecake with a strawberry glaze. Staff worked very well with guests- friendly & liquor was available. Not a fancy ship- but pleasant clean & a relaxing way to spend an evening on the super huge lake!

Really wonderful way to spend an afternoon at LKN. Feed the fishes (actually giant carp) from the dock while to wait to board one of the boats. Grab a cold beverage, stand with the wind in your face...pretend you are somewhere....

We went on the dinner cruise on Lady of the Lake and were extremely disappointed with the quality of the food. The salad dressings are sitting on the table when you get there, the cheese ball is the quality of something bought at Harris Teeter, the prime rib tough and the salmon dry and tasteless. No vegetable served with dinner, just a baked potato with packets of sour cream. Extremely disappointing, but if you're not going for dinner, the cruise is fine! However, don't expect to be able to go outside and views are limited on the inside.

Sightseeing on Lake Norman is an enjoyable family activity on a Sunday afternoon. Cruises are available for sightseeing only or for a lunch cruise. (Dinner cruises are also available.) There are two boats a Mississippi Riverboat replica or a luxury yacht. The cruises are also available for specail events. The 90 minute cruise is an affordable family or group activity, especially if you watch for BOGO offers. The decks are plastic enclosed during cooler weather for passengers comfort. The captain narrrates during the cruise around the lake and provides very detailed information.

We hosted a post wedding cruise around Lake Norman for our friends and family that stuck around before going back north. Its a beautiful little ship and the staff are very friendly. Wish they would have had better seating for the older guests we had with us.

I went with my daughter, her cousin, & her grandmother. We rode the Catawba Queen. The ride was great! The captain was very knowledgeable about the sights and houses along the shores. On the return trip, he offered anyone brave enough to come drive the boat. Since no one moved, I took the girls to see if he was serious & he was. He allowed them to drive the boat for at least a half hour! He continued the tour on his microphone with directions for the girls on which way to go inbetween. This was the small "out & back" tour, so there was only a snack provided. Bring water, food, etc.

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Water Activities in Charlotte

As the temperature heats up in the Queen City, it’s time to cool down.

by Jamie Killian May 26, 2023

#CharlottesGotALot

Anne Springs Close Greenway

Area: Fort Mill

Kayak, paddle board or fish on one of the many lakes and ponds at Anne Springs Close Greenway. Nature trails lead to lovely spots along an active creek bed, making it a great place for little ones to splash and play in the water.

Aquaventure Watercraft Rentals and Boat Club

Area: Mooresville

For an action-packed afternoon on Lake Norman, rent a jet ski or ski boat from Aquaventure Watercraft Rentals and Boat Club. The club has two locations, one in Mooresville and one in Sherrills Ford. The Sherrills Ford location is ideal for a quieter day on the water, while the Mooresville location is great for thrilling water sports. You can also cruise around the lake on a sailboat, pontoon or power boat.

Carolina Harbor Waterpark — Carowinds

Neighborhood: South Charlotte

For a fun-filled day, with or without the kids, Carowinds’ Carolina Harbor Waterpark features aquatic attractions ranging from water slides and wave pools to splash pads and lazy rivers. When you need refreshments, beat the heat with Rita’s Italian Ice as well as several on-site eateries to fill you up so you can keep the fun going.

Catawba River

Area: McAdenville

Head to The Boathouse to rent paddle boards or kayaks and explore South Fork, the Catawba River’s largest tributary. You can also schedule a guided tour of the river that includes some whitewater. If you want to venture out alone, check out the Catawba Riverkeeper swim guide for the safest places to swim.

Catawba River Blueway – Mountain Island Section

Area: Mountain Island

Do you have your own boating equipment? Check out the six miles of waterways that loop around Mountain Island Lake via three launch spots for canoes or kayaks. There’s also a boat launch at Latta Nature Preserve . Need to rent a paddle board or kayak? Check out Mountain Island Lake Paddle Co.

Ebenezer Park

Area: Rock Hill

Lake Wylie is a great place to cool off and Ebenezer Park offers public beach access enclosed by a circular pier. The beach, however, has no lifeguards on duty, so life jackets are recommended. While at the park, check out the fishing piers and walking trails while taking in the sights at one of Charlotte’s man-made lakes.

Great Wolf Lodge

Area: Concord

Located in a unique lodge-style hotel, Great Wolf Lodge has four- and six-story waterslides with splash pools to keep the younger ones busy. Everything is wilderness themed, from the interactive treehouse to the cabin-like rooms, making for a real adventure. Want to stay dry? The Lodge has a slew of non-water activities, including bowling and mini golf.

Lake Norman Scuba

Whether you’re an experienced diver looking for more practice or a novice ready to learn, Lake Norman Scuba is the spot for local scuba diving. Get your diving certification, including pool and open-water sessions, or more experienced divers can take specialty and advanced diving courses.

The Quarry at Carrigan Farms

Formerly a granite quarry, The Quarry at Carrigan Farms is an idyllic natural swimming hole in Mooresville. The 25-foot-deep swimming hole, surrounded by jaw-dropping granite cliffs, is an absolute must for any summer swimming list. For lunch, pack a picnic or order from The Quarry Kitchen which serves sandwiches, salads, burgers and refreshing slushies.

Queens Landing

Relax on Lake Norman with afternoon sightseeing or an evening dinner cruise aboard one of Queens Landing’s charters. The fleet includes a Mississippi riverboat, “Catawba Queen,” and luxury yacht, “Lady of the Lake.” Each dinner cruise serves a three-course, plated dinner. Look out for special events throughout the year such as live music and themed cruises for the holidays.

Ramsey Creek Park

Area: Cornelius

This park covers 46 acres that includes public waterfront beach access on Lake Norman. Lifeguards are on duty and swimming is open from Memorial Day to Labor Day, Saturdays and Sundays from noon to 6 p.m. There are also boat launches, a fishing pier and walking trails for a perfect day on the lake.

Ray’s Splash Planet

Neighborhood: Fourth Ward

Ray’s Splash Planet, an aquatic recreation destination from Mecklenburg County Parks and Recreation department, is a great way to play no matter the weather. This indoor facility features slides, interactive water features and a lazy river.

U.S. National Whitewater Center

Neighborhood: West Charlotte

The U.S. National Whitewater Center has tons of water sports that cover all ages and skill levels. The relaxed environment is perfect for younger participants and first timers, while action seekers can enjoy adventure rafting on fast-paced class III-IV rapids. Located on the Catawba River, this outdoor destination offers scenic flat-water activities as well, such as kayaking and stand-up paddle boarding, on the river’s calm, flowing waters.

Public Pools

Mecklenburg County has several community centers, located throughout the greater Charlotte area, with indoor and outdoor pools. County residents and non-residents can purchase daily passes for the indoor pools at Marion Diehl Recreation Center and Indoor Pool, Mecklenburg County Aquatic Center , Northern Regional Recreation Center and Eastway Regional Recreation Center , as well as the outdoor pools at Cordelia Pool and Double Oaks Family Aquatic Center . Be sure to check online scheduling for pool hours.

Splash Pads

Got a few hours to spare? Have some fun in the sun at one of the city’s splash pads or “spraygrounds.” Charlotte’s Spraygrounds can be found throughout the county and feature unique sprays, nozzles and spouts to keep you cool during hot days. Visit Cordelia Park in Villa Heights (right next to the public pool), Dilworth’s Latta Park , Veterans Park in Plaza Midwood, Nevin Park in North Charlotte, the West Charlotte Recreation Center or take a day in Uptown at the Fish Fountains on The Green or at First Ward Park .

Article originally written by Jamie Killian. Updates by Arielle Patterson in May 2023.

MORE HAPPENINGS

Hold your event on the sparkling waters of Lake Norman at one of the many options at Queen’s Landing. Choose one of the cruise options, the Catawba Queen replica paddleboat or the Lady of the Lake luxury yacht. If you need an indoor space, the Lake View Vista Ballroom offers a 180-degree view of Lake Norman, or Pier 150 is equipped with a dance floor, stages, and indoor/outdoor patio. If you need a large space the Outdoor Amphitheater is equipped with an extra large stage perfect for concerts.

(704) 663-2628

1459 river hwy mooresville, nc 28117, facility details, meeting spaces.

• Meeting spaces with a memorable view of Lake Norman.
• Banquet room with a seating capacity up to 180 people and full catering options.
• Full Audio and Visual capability with dedicated in-house AV specialist.
• On site chef to customize your menu needs. (From $12.50 box lunches to full buffets/ catering)
• Complimentary coffee, tea and water, plus access to a full bar available upon request.
• Team building opportunities feature outdoor spaces, cruises and much more.
• Large capacity outdoor and indoor concert space tor company cookouts.
• Conveniently located just west of 4 miles from Hwy 77 (exit 36) and only 40 minutes from Charlotte Douglas International Airport
• Client meetings are perfect with our dinner cruises and we can always help make it a success.

Capacity: up to 1,000 people (See options below) Spaces: Lake View Vista Ballroom – up to 200 The Catawba Queen Riverboat – up to 125 The Lady of the Lake luxury yacht – up to 125 Pier 150 lakeside venue – up to 200 Outdoor Amphitheater – up to 1,000

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The Best Mississippi River Cruises to Discover America's Heartland

By Jackie Sheckler Finch

The luxury ships and historic tours are nice, yes. But the real star of Mississippi River cruises has always been the river. There’s nothing quite so Americana as getting to know the many personalities of this 2,350-mile stretch, flowing from northern Minnesota’s Lake Itasca through 10 states until it reaches Louisiana , where the Mississippi River Delta gives way to the Gulf of Mexico.

The slow, meandering journeys of Mississippi River cruises have long proven an ideal way to discover the distinct stories of America’s heartland. In the words of Mark Twain (which no Mississippi River story would be complete without), the towns and cities located on the mighty river's shores are “cheering to the spirit” and “reposeful as a dreamland,” with “nothing to hang a fret or a worry upon.”

The challenge modern travelers now face is when, where, and how to go about this iconic American voyage . Below, see our answers to these frequently asked questions, plus our favorite Mississippi River cruises to book in 2024.

Which cruise lines do Mississippi River cruises?

After American Queen Voyages shut down in February, only two Mississippi River cruise lines currently remain in operation.

Celebrating its 50th anniversary, American Cruise Lines (ACL) has a fleet of more than 20 American-built ships sailing across the country and remains family-owned and American-crewed. ACL offers a Mississippi River fleet of three luxurious 180-passenger modern riverboats– American Melody , American Symphony , and American Serenade —plus two classic paddlewheel ships, the 180-passenger American Splendor and the 150-passenger American Heritage.

The new kid on the Mississippi is the Viking Mississippi, a 386-passenger, five-deck vessel that first set sail in September 2022. The cutting-edge cruise is Viking’s first foray in the US, adding to their fleet of more than 90 ocean, river, and expedition vessels navigating the world’s seven continents.

What is the average cost of a Mississippi River cruise?

For an 8- or 9-day cruise, the average cost of a Mississippi River cruise is around $4,000 per person in a stateroom. Although prices might seem high initially, many of these cruises include extras that aren’t always complimentary on ocean cruises such as free WiFi, at least one free shore excursion in every port, paid port taxes and fees, and a pre-cruise hotel stay. Viking offers complimentary beer, wine, and soft drinks with onboard lunch and dinner. Meanwhile, American Cruise Lines offers complimentary beer, wine, cocktails, and soft drinks. Gratuities are also included in American Cruise Lines fares.

What is the best time of year to go on a river cruise?

Spring (late March through mid-June) and autumn (September through November) are the best times of year to go on a river cruise in the US. Spring blossoms add a colorful touch to the shoreline, and you can never go wrong with autumn foliage. The temperatures are mild, if not pleasantly cool, and passengers are eager to welcome a new spring travel season—or to enjoy one last autumn river adventure before winter arrives.

What month is best for a Mississippi River cruise?

If we had to pick just one, September is the best month for a Mississippi River cruise. The weather is usually mild with less likelihood of rain, and autumn colors are beginning to paint the shoreline. Keep in mind, however, that the Mississippi is the fourth largest river in the world—so temperatures any time of year are not going to be the same in warmer Louisiana as they are in cooler Minnesota.

Below, see our favorite Mississippi River cruises to book in 2024, featuring stops in iconic American cities like Nashville , Memphis , and New Orleans .

22-day Mississippi River Odyssey: New Orleans to Red Wing, Minnesota

Enjoy the charms of America’s great river on a journey aboard the Viking Mississippi from New Orleans to Red Wing, departing September 20. Custom built to sail American waters, the vessel features river-facing staterooms with either French or step-out balconies.

Stops include Baton Rouge and St. Francisville in Louisiana; Natchez, Vicksburg, Greenville, and Rosedale in Mississippi; Memphis in Tennessee; Paducah in Kentucky; Cape Girardeau, St. Louis, and Hannibal in Missouri; Burlington, Quad Cities, and Dubuque in Iowa; La Crosse in Wisconsin; and ending in Red Wing, Minnesota.

With so many fascinating shore excursions to choose from, it’s well worth taking time to tour the St. Louis Arch . Opened in 1965, the monument to America’s westward expansion is far more than just a stunning photo by the riverside. Venture underground between the arch legs for a museum. Climb aboard a tram to be transported 630 feet up to the top of America’s tallest monument for some stunning views.

12-day Heart of the Delta: Memphis to New Orleans

The 386-guest Viking Mississippi spans five decks, making it one of the largest passenger vessels on the Mississippi. Inaugurated in 2022, the ship features a modern Scandinavian design with an infinity pool and a two-story Explorers’ Lounge observation area similar to its ocean ships. Directly in front of the Explorer’s Lounge is an expanded outdoor seating area known as The Bow. Three restaurants serve both Southern regional cuisine and international favorites.

The cruise starts in Memphis on November 14 and includes stops in Rosedale, Greenville, Vicksburg, and Natchez in Mississippi as well as St. Francisville, Baton Rouge, and Darrow in Louisiana, ending in New Orleans. The “Mississippi Sings the Blues” shore excursion visits iconic sites along the Mississippi Blues Trail such as historic Dockery Farms, considered the “birthplace of the blues.”

The tour stops in Clarksdale, the fabled “Crossroads” where legend says blues great Robert Johnson reputedly sold his soul to the devil in exchange for his guitar prowess. Stops at the GRAMMY Museum Mississippi and the Delta Blues Museum completes this perfect trip for music lovers.

9-day Music Cities Cruise: Nashville to Memphis

Music is the main focus of this cruise offered by American Cruise Lines, which begins in Nashville on July 9 with an unforgettable visit to the legendary Grand Ole Opry and ends in Memphis, where passengers will enjoy live music on Beale Street and a tour of Elvis Presley’s Graceland . On board the American Splendor, passengers will enjoy spacious cabins and popular rocking chairs. First inaugurated in 2016 and fully redecorated in 2022, this ship offers the nostalgia of a classic paddlewheeler along with the comfort of modern amenities.

While in Nashville, explore the Johnny Cash Museum, then walk upstairs to The Patsy Cline Museum. Nightly entertainment spotlights the musical heritage of this region as the world’s newest paddlewheeler journeys along the river. The itinerary also includes Clarksville and Dover in Tennessee plus Paducah in Kentucky. In Paducah, stroll along the riverfront with more than 50 life-sized panoramic murals depicting Paducah’s past. Stop by Paducah’s National Quilt Museum, the world’s largest museum devoted to quilt and fiber art.

23-day Complete Mississippi River Cruise: New Orleans to St. Paul

Sail 1,393 miles through 10 states on a comprehensive exploration of the mighty Mississippi on the new American Serenade . Inaugurated in 2023, the 91-cabin American Serenade won Best New River Cruise Ship of the Year 2023 by Cruise Critic , the first time an American ship has received this prestigious award.

“With extra-large all-balcony staterooms and suites, trendy interior décor, an innovative hydraulic bow and retractable ramp, and one of the most gorgeous sun decks we’ve seen on a river-going ship, American Serenade sets the bar for domestic US river cruising high,” the award notes.

The epic itinerary beginning July 18, 2024 includes 22 ports of call including Oak Alley, Houmas House, Baton Rouge, and St. Francisville in Louisiana; Natchez, Vicksburg, Greenville, and Tunica in Mississippi; Memphis in Tennessee; Cape Girardeau, St. Louis, and Hannibal in Missouri; Muscatine and Dubuque in Iowa; and Winona, Red Wing, and Saint Paul in Minnesota.

CNT Editors

Blane Bachelor

Kyler Alvord

12-day Mississippi River Gateway Cruise: New Orleans to St. Louis

From the French Quarter in New Orleans to the towering Gateway Arch in St. Louis , this American Heritage cruise lives up to its name. Inaugurated in 2015 and totally redecorated in 2022, the 84-cabin American Heritage is the perfect vessel for this interesting itinerary, its design reminiscent of the days when steamboat paddlewheelers plied the Mississippi in the 1800s.

The 12-day voyage departs from New Orleans on July 2. Ports of call along the way include Baton Rouge in Louisiana; Natchez and Vicksburg in Mississippi; Memphis in Tennessee; and Paducah in Kentucky . An onboard expert shares tales of the importance of steam-driven paddlewheels in establishing riverfront communities along the great Mississippi River.

Step ashore in Natchez and enjoy a cold drink at the Under-the-Hill-Saloon, once one of the rowdiest establishments on the Mississippi River in the 1800s. Legend says that Mark Twain stopped here when he was just another riverman named Samuel Clemens.

9-day Lower Mississippi River Cruise: Memphis to New Orleans

This nine-day American Melody cruise departs Memphis on September 8 and features eight ports of call including Vicksburg and Natchez in Mississippi, and St. Francisville, Baton Rouge, and Houmas House in Louisiana. At Vicksburg Military Park, learn how the 101st Airborne Division got its “Screaming Eagles” nickname, plus the tale of its famous soldier, a young guitar player named Jimi Hendrix. At Houmas House, see the bedroom where Bette Davis stayed to film the 1964 movie Hush, Hush, Sweet Charlotte . Joan Crawford was the intended co-star but Bette and Joan feuded so Joan quit and Olivia de Havilland replaced her.

Launched in 2021, the five-deck American Melody has 91 staterooms, all with private balconies and full-length sliding glass doors. The ship has several spacious lounges, a fitness center, large dining room, café for casual dining, sun deck, library, and an impressive four-story glass atrium in the center of the ship. The ship’s unusual bow opens and lowers a platform for passengers to easily walk ashore.

9-day Upper Mississippi River Cruise: St. Louis to St. Paul

Board the American Symphony cruise ship to visit Mark Twain’s hometown and experience the real-life inspiration behind Life on the Mississippi, the classic memoir chronicling the author's days on the river as a steamboat pilot.

The 91-cabin American Symphony, recently inaugurated in 2022, has 100% private balcony accommodations and a unique bow that opens with a retractable gangway that can be extended for landings virtually anywhere. The ship also features lounges soaring 40 feet above the water with triple the glass of other riverboats for spectacular views. Comfy deck chairs welcome passengers to enjoy the undeveloped countryside, picturesque islands, and fascinating dams and navigation locks.

Departing September 27, this itinerary features seven ports of call including Muscatine and Dubuque in Iowa, and Winona and Red Wing in Minnesota. In Hannibal, visit the actual home—with a whitewashed Tom Sawyer fence—where Samuel Clemens (Mark Twain) grew up. In Dubuque, see the 1989 “Field of Dreams” movie site known for the famous quote, “If you build it, they will come.”

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