the mississippi queen riverboat

American Queen

Discover the heritage and culture of America with a cruise onboard the elegant American Queen, an authentic paddlewheel steamboat. Luxurious amenities display the opulence of the American Victorian era while also featuring every modern convenience. Each stateroom features lush bedding and fine linens as well as in-room bottled water and fresh fruit. Onboard cuisine is gourmet and something to satisfy every craving is available 24 hours a day, from grand meals in the Dining Saloon to American favorites in the Front Porch of America. Complimentary wine and beer are available with dinner. There is always something to enjoy onboard during your leisure time. Enjoy a swim or a workout in the pool or athletic club or borrow a book in the Mark Twain Gallery; after a day of exploring, enjoy nightly entertainment that includes everything from showboat style performances to calliope concerts to swing dancing.

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• Mississippi

Why Historic Mississippi Riverboats Continue To Be A Beloved Pastime In The South

Bon voyage!

The Mississippi River has long been a character all its own in the South, brought to life by the words of Southern writers and musicians, as well as through those who have traveled it. The river runs over 2,300 miles and spans 10 states, with a popular stretch running from Memphis to New Orleans. During the early 1800s, steamboats began running up and down the mighty Mississippi, offering a new kind of access to all the towns and ports in between.

The History of Riverboat Cruises on the Mississippi

What started as a shipping venture became a pastime for people to explore the South. The river offered a peek into the culture of the places it flows through. You could explore the roots of jazz, blues, and country, as well as the small towns of the pre- and post-Civil War eras. The many ports-of-call offer the ability to tour and experience a sliver of the South, each with a different view into the area's history. For good or bad, the Mississippi knows the South better than anything else, and the riverboat has always acted as a translator.

Following the first legendary steamboats, such as the Natchez , the industry boomed with thousands of riverboat cruises. Now, you won't find near as many boats floating the Mississippi River, looking like tiered white wedding cakes adorned with red trim.

What Cruise Experiences Are Still Offered Today

The use of the steamboat, which can only run at a speed of around 15 miles-per-hour, has given way for more modern and efficient boat travel. However, there are still day cruises, casino cruises, and even multi-day experience cruises that pay homage to the historic custom.

The tradition continues to survive in the South with a timely point-of-view. American Queen Voyages recently marked its 10th season on the Mississippi River with new experiences (such as events with chef and biscuit queen, Regina Charboneau) on its flagship paddlewheeler, American Queen . Its Lower Mississippi River itineraries have included nine-day journeys that sail between Memphis and New Orleans, with ports-of-call in Vicksburg , Natchez, St. Francisville, Baton Rouge, and more. Additional riverboat options that remain on the Mississippi River include American Cruise Lines and Viking River Cruises , amongst others.

While the historic view of the river might appear differently than a hundred years ago, a ride on a Mississippi riverboat still feels like a step back in time.

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“The American Queen is the largest, most opulent paddlewheel ever built in the entire world, so, you know, we call it a floating time capsule.”

John Waggoner Founder & CEO American Queen Steamboat Company

The largest steamboat ever built, the grand American Queen is a graceful and elegant triumph of American ingenuity. Built in 1995 as the third sister vessel to the Mississippi Queen and Delta Queen , the paddlewheeler is a six-deck recreation of a classic Mississippi riverboat.

She was built by McDermott Shipyard, 90 miles west of New Orleans in Morgan City, Louisiana for the Delta Queen Steamboat Company at a cost of $80 million. The vessel was christened in New Orleans on June 2, 1995 with a four foot tall container of Tabasco sauce instead of the traditional champagne bottle. She is 418 feet long and 89 feet wide and has 222 state rooms for a capacity of 436 guests and a crew of 160. The American Queen Steamboat Company purchased the vessel in April 2011 and continues to offer paddlewheel cruises traversing the Mississippi as well as the Ohio and Tennessee rivers.

The American Queen, with her bright red paddle wheel, towering fluted stacks and abundant fretwork, looks as though she just sailed out of the Victorian era. Glistening mahogany woodwork, flowery carpets, Tiffany glass and antiques enhance her interior spaces. Outside, lacy filigree, a steam-powered calliope and open verandas evoke memories of the stately riverboats that preceded her and inspired her design.

“What we try to do as philosophy is keep things like it was in the 1900s. This is just how it was when Mark Twain was onboard,” says John Waggoner, Founder and CEO of the American Queen Steamboat Company.

As history plays such a large part of the experience, Riverlorians, the resident history and culture experts, are onboard every cruise to impart the legends and lore of the river on which passengers are cruising. Passengers are invited to attend an enlightening lecture, relive a tale from Mark Twain or enjoy a recounting of the Lewis & Clark Expedition.

“We want you to experience the thump-thump-thump-thump-thump of the paddlewheel. We want you to stand on the stern. We want you to get muddy Mississippi water spraying your face, and we want you to sit in a rocking chair, and watch the river go by and relax,” says Waggoner.

This American Queen inspires crowds of onlookers in each port in which she docks. In true royal fashion, she glides gracefully along the river and courteously greets onlookers with the wave of her flags as she passes by.

American Queen Steamboat Company

Cruising The Mighty Mississippi

Cruising the Mighty Mississippi

American Queen Steamboat Company / www.AQSC.comAmerican Queen Steamboat Company / www.AQSC

Cruising on the Upper Mississippi

Last Updated on December 15, 2023

It’s pure Americana…..the sight of a multi-decked Mississippi riverboat gliding seemingly effortlessly along the mighty river, its signature black smokestacks pointing skyward, as its great red paddlewheel slaps the river behind. Cruising the Mississippi River is a dream trip for many, and one that’s often long remembered….. (all photos by Dave G. Houser except as noted)

Estimated reading time: 12 minutes

By Dave G. Houser

There’s no better way to get to know and enjoy a river than to be out on it.

That’s certainly the case for America’s mother of all rivers – the mighty Mississippi. And there’s nothing like cruising it on the Queen of the Mississippi.

I was introduced to the lower reaches of the Big Muddy several years ago during a paddlewheeler voyage from New Orleans to St. Louis . Just last October I experienced the upper section on a cruise from St. Louis to St. Paul.

For me, the upper river proved the most engaging – and I’m not the only writer to make that observation. In fact, here’s what Mark Twain had to say on the subject in the Chicago Tribune, July 9, 1886:

“It is strange how little is written about the upper Mississippi. Surprisingly, the river below St. Louis has been described time and again. But and it is the least interesting part…(with) low shores, the ungainly trees and the democratic buzzards…along the upper Mississippi every hour brings something new. There are crowds of odd islands, bluffs, prairies, hills, woods and villages – everything one could desire to amuse the children.”

Cruising the Mississippi River Aboard the Queen of the Mississippi

My vessel of choice for the 7-day Mississippi River cruise was American Cruise Line ’s Queen of the Mississippi. It’s a gleaming white five-deck 150-passenger replica of a 19 th -century steamboat. They’re the ones that routinely churned up and down the river, transporting both freight and passengers.

ACL proclaims itself an “All-American” line, utilizing American crews and U.S.-built ships. Our was built in 2012 by a company-owned shipyard in Maryland.

Beneath her antique veneer and authentic paddlewheel, the Queen of the Mississippi is a thoroughly modern craft. It also features 78 cabins in seven categories, 65 of which have private balconies.

They range in size from a 600-square-foot owners’ suite to single cabins at 210 square feet.

Standard double cabins measure a commodious 304 square feet – larger than most cruise ship staterooms. Each cabin has a satellite flat-screen TV/DVD, Keurig coffeemaker, wireless Internet access and complimentary Wi-Fi.

Public areas include six lounges, ranging from a cozy library to the spacious Magnolia Lounge. The Magnolia is home to most presentations and entertainment. It’s also where you’ll find a complimentary Happy Hour, a popular ACL tradition offered on all of its vessels.

Up top, there’s a sun deck, exercise equipment and a casual café. The Dining Salon is large enough to accommodate all 150 passengers at a single (open) seating.

A Historic City

Joining me for the voyage was my lady friend and fellow cruising enthusiast, Melinda Renner. She joined me in St. Louis a day prior to departure to give us some time to explore the city’s many attractions.

St. Louis is famous, of course, for its soaring Gateway Arch, symbol of the city’s role as “Gateway to the West.”

The world’s tallest arch rises 630 feet from a 90-acre site (a national park unit formally known as the Jefferson National Expansion Memorial) that was undergoing a massive landscaping project during our visit.

We nonetheless managed to make our way through the confusion to join a “Journey to the Top.” This popular tour shuttles visitors in elevator cars to an observatory atop the Arch. There narrow slit-like windows afford awe-inspiring views over St. Louis and the Mississippi River.

Boarding Our Mississippi Cruise in the Gateway to the West

Next, we walked to the nearby Old Courthouse to have a look at exhibits from the Museum of Westward Expansion. They were temporarily moved there from the Arch during construction. Our visit to the Courthouse (famous as the setting for the Dred Scott case) was enhanced with a performance by a string ensemble from the St. Louis Symphony.

Later in the day, we strolled around Laclede’s Landing . Laclede is a popular, historical riverfront dining and entertainment district. It’s named after one of the French fur traders who founded St. Louis in 1764. An early dinner at Hannegan’s Restaurant & Pub found us making a big mess out of a delectable rack of St. Louis-style barbecued ribs.

Following a smooth and efficient boarding process the next morning, we were underway. We were soon passing through several of the 26 locks we’d encounter on the way to St. Paul and the landmark confluence of the country’s two greatest rivers – the Mississippi and Missouri – near St. Charles, MO, where Meriwether Lewis and William Clark set out on their Pacific Ocean Expedition in 1804. (Speaking of the two explorers, if you’re ever in Great Falls, Montana, don’t miss the extraordinary the Lewis and Clark Interpretive Center ).

A Perfect Mississippi Port-of-Call

Hannibal, MO , forever linked to the Mississippi River as the town that most inspired America’s greatest author and humorist, Mark Twain , proved the perfect first port-of-call on our voyage.

Mark Twain spent his boyhood years in Hannibal. A young rascal then known as Samuel Clemens, his childhood experiences sparked his huge imagination. It lead him to writing some the world’s most widely read novels.

Naturally the town is all about Twain, as you might expect.

On every visitor’s must-see list is the Mark Twain Boyhood Home & Museum , a National Historic Landmark. Also the Becky Thatcher and Huckleberry Finn Houses. They’re all nicely restored and offering a comprehensive, easy to follow interpretation of Clemens’ life.

Where Corn Is King

In Davenport, IA , where corn is king, we thought it appropriate to join a tour to the John Deere Pavilion . It makes perfect sense that one of the world’s major manufacturers of farm machinery is based here in the American heartland.

The Pavilion (located in neighboring Moline, IL) is a massive glass and steel structure. It houses the largest display of John Deere equipment and technology in the world.

There are some fascinating exhibits, many of them offering hands-on experiences.

National Mississippi River Museum & Aquarium

The warm, sunny weather following us upriver on our Mississippi cruise became chilly for our morning arrival in Dubuque, IA. We quickly warmed to the city, however, with its revitalized riverfront that features the huge and handsome National Mississippi River Museum & Aquarium – our objective for an ACL-included self-guided tour.

A Smithsonian affiliate, this sprawling complex has earned praise as the one of the Midwest’s finest museums.

Built on the site of the Dubuque Boat & Boiler Works, operating from 1851 until 1972 as the nation’s largest shipbuilder on inland waters, the museum couldn’t be better. It traces the colorful history of the Golden Age of Steamboating on the Mississippi.

The museum couples seamlessly with the adjacent Aquarium where visitors can get up close and personal with some of the creatures that call the river home – from massive gar and catfish to playful otters.

An All-American City on Our Mississippi River Cruise

La Crosse, WI , got our vote for the most attractive and inviting town or city we visited so far during our voyage Queen of the Mississippi. It’s just plain pretty and possesses the sort of friendly, wholesome all-American atmosphere that makes you feel you’d enjoy living there.

The Queen docks at lovely, leafy Riverside Park – the city’s showpiece riverfront park – a picture-perfect setting on an October morning with the fall colors out in force.

ACL’s staff onboard the Queen included three outstanding and versatile individuals, known as “riverlorians” who served in various capacities as lecturers, guides and entertainers.

Mike Jennings, a veteran riverboat lecturer, delivered daily talks on matters of history, geography and river lore while the dynamic husband and wife duo of Steven Marking and JoAnn Funk anchored the evening entertainment. They also shared their knowledge of the nature and ecology of the upper Mississippi through a number of presentations.

JoAnn – a La Crosse native – led a group of us on a walking tour of the city, taking in the downtown historic district and visiting the International Friendship Gardens , a colorful network of demonstration gardens that celebrates sister-city relationships between La Crosse and several foreign cities.

Later, we joined a bus excursion through the city’s Victorian residential neighborhoods, pausing to tour the 1858 Hixon House – the elegantly furnished home of a one-time lumber baron.

Cruising Into Minnesota

Churning ever northward toward our next destination – Red Wing, MN – the nature of the river changed dramatically, narrowing considerably and flanked by bluffs ablaze in fall foliage.

Nearly everyone emerged on deck for the show and to join Marking and Funk in a game of eagle spotting. The big raptors nest in large numbers along the river in Wisconsin and Minnesota.

Red Wing has to go on record as the quirkiest of ports along the upper river. It’s a wee town of just 16,000 but has a huge reputation for resourcefulness and productivity.

Settled by Scandinavian immigrants in the 1840s, it soon became the primary wheat market in the world – and it was here that puffed wheat cereal was invented.

Boots to Pottery

Red Wing brand shoes and boots have been made there for a century – as were the famous art pottery products of Red Wing Pottery . Showrooms and museums of those two venerable companies highlighted our ACL-included tour.

The Red Wing Store features a real attention-getter with its “World’s Largest Boot” exhibit. The oversized leather work boot measures 20 feet long by 16 feet tall and weighs in at 2,300 pounds.

Collectors of art pottery or glass are quick to recognize the name Red Wing. The company was a prolific producer of art pottery, stoneware and hand-painted dinnerware from the late 1800s until the plant was shuttered in 1967.

Our tour group loved the Pottery Museum with its collection of more than 5,000 pieces ranging from massive stoneware jugs to delicate vases.

Reaching the End of our Mississippi River Cruise in St. Paul

A riverboat cruise is generally a slow-moving event, but it hardly seemed as if a week had passed as Queen of the Mississippi tied up in St. Paul, MN to bring our weeklong cruise to an end.

All in all, the voyage went flawlessly. Meals were tasty, plentiful and well presented and the Queen’s officers and crew were invariably friendly and efficient. As a veteran of more than 40 cruises, I will tell you unequivocally that ACL is among the best in the business of small ship cruising.

Following the customary hugs and farewells, we made a beeline for the St. Paul Farmers’ Market . We’d heard this was the best place to be on a Saturday morning in St. Paul. Founded in 1853 and featuring more than 300 vendors, it’s one of the nation’s oldest and largest public markets. We had a great time there, wandering about and making photos.

Enjoying an Additional Night

Rather than rushing off to the airport, we’d booked a night at the 1910 Saint Paul Hotel .

After a long walk around the city we settled in that afternoon at the castle-like Landmark Center. We watched the St. Paul Civic Symphony Orchestra rehearse a performance of Beethoven’s Ninth Symphony.

That evening, as we sat down for a light dinner at the hotel’s lobby bar, we heard a familiar voice. It belonged to our riverloarian/entertainer (and new favorite songbird) from the Queen, JoAnn Funk. JoAnn made it home to St. Paul just in time for her regular Saturday night gig at the hotel. It was a fitting finale to a wonderful week cruising the Mississippi River.

You may also enjoy: What to Do in Key West / Some of the Best Renaissance Festivals in the US / Weston, Missouri: the Cutest Town Ever

American Cruise Lines www.americancruiselines.com Tel: (800) 460-4518

April 19, 2016 at 2:34 pm

I would like to speak with the person that handles the marketing and advertising. I am the Digital Sales Manager at ABC7/NewsChannel 8

April 20, 2016 at 2:09 pm

I have no idea who that may be Roy. I suggest you call their corporate offices.

March 13, 2021 at 8:28 pm

Please send more info on your riverboat tours. Thank you.

March 15, 2021 at 4:58 pm

Hi Sue, For more info on the cruise you’ll need to contact American Cruise Lines directly. Their contact information is listed at the end of the article.

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Advanced public reservations are taken online. Bookings open four weeks in advanced to cruise date.

La Crosse Queen Cruises

Paddlewheel cruises on the mississippi river.

Now taking reservations for private charters or groups of 30 or more on any public cruise for our 2024 season! Please call for more information. All other public cruise reservations open for booking four weeks prior to each cruise date. New to 2024 season: Captain’s Sunday Brunch Cruise departing at 10:30 a.m. and lasting until 1:00 p.m. Two-and-a-half hours will allow us to “lock thru” Lock & Dam No. 7, conditions permitting!

Individual public reservations will become available in Spring of 2021—Group reservations are now available for 2021.

• Most Popular

Saturday Dinner Cruise

Feast on a delicious chicken and prime rib dinner while relaxing on this Mississippi River tour!

• Clock 6:00 p.m.
• Users All ages
• Hour Glass 2.5 hours

Cruise on the Mighty Mississippi!

• Clock Wednesday's and Friday's at 5:30 p.m. & Saturday's and Sunday's at 3:30 p.m.
• Hour Glass 1.5 hours

Pizza Cruise

Enjoy an afternoon on the Mighty Mississippi River while eating free pizza on this fun boat tour!

• Clock 10:30 a.m.

Captain’s Sunday Brunch

Enjoy a delicious brunch while learning about the Mississippi River on this narrated river tour!

• Clock 11:00 a.m. & 1:30 p.m.

Sightseeing Cruise

Learn all about the historical and present day Mississippi River on this sightseeing cruise!

See the historical sites and local wildlife of the beautiful Upper Mississippi River!

Step back in time when you come aboard our replica paddlewheel river boat!

Choose from our tasty brunch, lunch, pizza, and dinner buffet-style cruises!

Beer, wine, and liquor offered on every cruise.

About La Crosse Queen Cruises

Cruise back in time and explore the Upper Mississippi with us! The La Crosse Queen is a modern-day replica of the grand river boats that plied the Mississippi River in the early 1900s. Cruising out of La Crosse, Wisconsin, she is one of the few authentic Mississippi River paddlewheel river boats still in operation in the United States today. In keeping with early traditions, she was built with sternwheels that are her only means of propulsion. 

The La Crosse Queen has a split sternwheel, and each half is run by a twin diesel engine that powers hydraulic motors, which turn the paddles. The split paddlewheel gives the Queen greater maneuverability and dependability. This is in contrast to most Mississippi River paddlewheelers in operation today that have a “free wheeling” paddlewheel at the stern of the boat for visual effect, but have traditional screw-type engines hidden for their real means of propulsion. 

The La Crosse Queen is U.S. Coast Guard inspected for safety and is licensed to carry up to 149 passengers.

The #1 Outdoor Activity in La Crosse on TripAdvisor

We took this boat cruise on a beautiful Saturday afternoon. The boat was full, but there was plenty of room. Drinks are very reasonable and the staff was knowledgeable and friendly. One big plus was the bathrooms were clean and spacious, something I didn't think I would find on a paddle boat! I would recommend the La Crosse Queen.

We took this cruise with a group and it was a lot of fun! We saw eagles, blue herons, foxes, osprey, along the banks of the Mississippi. We were able to go through the locks, which was lucky since if there is a barge in the area they do not allow this. We are talking about going again in the fall when the leaves are changing and birds are migrating.

We took the Friday night Pizza cruise and enjoyed fantastic views of the Mississippi River. Several people from our group had never been on a river cruise and were amazed. Free Pizza and beer along with cruise for $18.95 is hard to beat! Some questioned the cheap price, but soon found out it was good.

This was an excellent tour. The guide who did the narrative was friendly, fun and knowledgeable about the town and river. We saw bald eagles, a swing bridge, fancy homes, etc. We sat on the top deck which is covered and has open air sides so you get out of the sun and a nice breeze.

Always wanted to take a cruise on the Mississippi and we booked the early afternoon cruise on a weekday. Boarding went smoothly - they take your picture for sale later as a souvenir. Boat was clean and comfy and captain and staff friendly, helpful and knowledgeable. They do have a snack bar and bathrooms on board. Relaxing and enjoyable!

We went on the La Crosse Queen on a beautiful day. Cruising on the river was so cool. The breeze, scenery was awesome. Best place to view everything is on the top deck. The crew were so polite and fun to talk with. If you have questions they answered them. Hats off to the La Crosse Queen.

Wonderful time on a 2-hour Sunday Brunch cruise. The buffet was small but the price was still good. Met wonderful folks inside and outside during the trip. Got to go through a Lock and Dam. The wait staff were very accommodating. Definitely worth every penny for this adventure.

We celebrated our 23rd wedding anniversary on the La Crosse Queen. The dinner exceeded our expectations. The turkey and roast beef were both tender and moist. For being a buffet the food was delicious. The staff was attentive and live music was a surprise. We were fortunate to have wonderful weather and really enjoyed ourselves!

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The 7 best mississippi river cruises for 2024.

Explore the history, culture and cuisine of the U.S. while cruising along the Mighty Mississippi.

The Best Mississippi River Cruises

Courtesy of American Cruise Lines

The more than 2,300-mile Mississippi River invites travelers to discover its multifaceted heritage, with a vast range of deeply rooted culture, music and history. A cruise is a fantastic way to discover many of the riverfront cities on a single trip, from the comfort of your modern riverboat or traditional paddle-wheeler.

The following Mississippi River cruise itineraries can help you choose from cruises of various lengths and options for the Lower and Upper Mississippi. Note that all fares are listed as double occupancy (based on two people per cabin), and that they might not reflect taxes, port fees or gratuities. The itinerary availability listed is also subject to change.

American Cruise Lines

Courtesy of American Cruise Lines | www.AmericanCruiseLines.com

American Cruise Lines operates small ships accommodating between 90 and 180 passengers that are built, flagged and crewed in the U.S. – and it's the only company in the world operating a 100% U.S.-flagged fleet of riverboats and cruise ships. ACL's itineraries traverse waterways across 35 states, with 11 itineraries dedicated to the Mississippi River. Cruisers can choose to sail on modern riverboats with a sleek interior design or while away their time aboard classic paddle-wheelers reminiscent of days gone by.

ACL offers variety as well as versatility: This line boasts both the longest and shortest sailings on this list with cruises ranging from eight to 60 days in length, including The Great United States. This inaugural 60-day voyage spans four major rivers and 20 states, making it the longest U.S. river cruise in history.

Complimentary hotel and transportation packages are available from every departure city before your cruise. You can book certain premium packages for added perks, such as two nights spent next door to Graceland in Memphis – with VIP tickets and a city tour included in the price.

Music Cities Cruise

Length: Eight days Price: Starts at $3,610 per person

Spend a week getting lost in the sounds of the Memphis blues, rock 'n' roll and country music legends on the seven-night Music Cities Cruise. A hotel stay the night before your sailing is included, but embarking in Memphis means you also have the chance to splurge on a two-night pre-cruise package near Elvis' former home Graceland .

Ports of call include Paducah, Kentucky; Dover, Tennessee; and Clarksville, Tennessee, with an overnight in Nashville and an included excursion to a show at the Grand Ole Opry. Two scenic sailing days feature picturesque views of America's Heartland along the Mississippi, Ohio and Cumberland rivers as well as Lake Barkley.

2024 dates: In 2024, there are two available itineraries in September and November.

Grand Heartland Cruise: St. Paul to New Orleans

Length: 15 days Price: Starts at $9,455 per person

This 15-day voyage allows you to explore America's rich history in towns along the Upper and Lower Mississippi River. The immersive voyage covers six states and 12 cities including St. Paul, Minnesota ; Dubuque, Iowa; St. Louis, Missouri ; Memphis, Tennessee; Natchez, Mississippi; Baton Rouge, Louisiana ; and more.

Take a step back in time while visiting Mark Twain's boyhood home in Hannibal, exploring stately historic estates in Natchez and Civil War sites in Vicksburg. At the end of a busy day ashore, you'll have plenty to chat about with fellow passengers during the evening cocktail hour.

2024 dates: American Heritage – ACL's traditional paddle-wheeler – and three modern riverboats set off on this journey from August to October in 2024.

Complete Mississippi River Cruise: New Orleans to St. Paul

Length: 22 days Price: Starts at $14,935 per person

If you want to see the entire Mississippi in one shot, check out this multiweek sailing that begins in New Orleans and ends in St. Paul, Minnesota. Along the way, you'll sail 1,393 miles, visit 10 states and experience a staggering 20 ports of call as you tour Louisiana and then head northbound to Minnesota.

In the South, walk the battlefields of the Civil War and sample delicious Southern barbecue before listening to the rhythms of jazz, the blues and rock 'n' roll. Then, explore the small and larger cities along the upper parts of the river. Remember to take time to gaze out at the picturesque scenery and the rolling farmlands of America's Midwest before disembarking in St. Paul.

2024 dates: Three of ACL's modern riverboats sail this itinerary in May, June and August in 2024.

The Great United States

Length: 60 days Price: Starts at $51,000

This two-month long journey – the longest domestic itinerary ever created – will check all the boxes for U.S. history and Civil War buffs, music and nature lovers, culinary enthusiasts, and beer and distilled spirits aficionados alike as the ship traverses America's iconic waterways through 20 states and 50 ports of call.

This epic journey showcases the natural beauty and living history of the U.S. from sea to shining sea. The sailing embarks in Portland, Oregon , on the Pacific Coast before traveling east to the Atlantic shore along four major rivers that highlight some of the country's most stunning coastlines. Upon arrival in New York Harbor, guests will have an unforgettable view of one of the most iconic landmarks in the U.S.: the Statue of Liberty .

Passengers can follow in the footsteps of Lewis and Clark along the Snake and Columbia rivers; cruise along Ol' Man River in search of Mark Twain and Elvis; see the vibrant colors of fall during peak season on the Hudson River; and take in the coastal breezes (and fresh seafood) along New England's rocky coastline.

This curated adventure also includes two flights: Jackson, Wyoming , to New Orleans as well as St. Paul to Portland, Maine , plus a land package through Glacier , Yellowstone and Grand Teton national parks. All-inclusive pricing covers the pre-cruise hotel stay, all flights and hotels between cruise segments, an ACL jacket and gear pack, daily excursions, all meals and beverages, gratuities and port charges, entertainment, and Wi-Fi.

2024 dates: The inaugural cruise sets sail on August 16, 2024.

Tips on Trips and Expert Picks

Travel tips, vacation ideas and more to make your next vacation stellar.

Viking River Cruises

Courtesy of Viking

Viking is no stranger to sailing Europe's rivers; the brand is synonymous with river cruising worldwide aboard its dozens of ships. However, Viking River Cruises is a newcomer to U.S. rivers, with its purpose-built ship: the 386-passenger Viking Mississippi. Looking to carve out its own niche in the American river cruising category, Viking claims it has the region's "first truly modern cruise ship" with its distinct Scandinavian design and expansive top sun deck with an infinity plunge pool.

Viking's mostly all-inclusive fares include a complimentary excursion in each port, destination lectures and performances, beer and wine at meals, free Wi-Fi, specialty coffees and teas, and more. The line offers five itineraries ranging in length from eight to 22 days along the Mighty Mississippi. Pre- and post-cruise extensions can be added to all voyages for an additional expense.

New Orleans & Southern Charms: Round-trip from New Orleans

Length: Eight days Price: Starts at $3,999 per person

If you don't know which Viking Mississippi itinerary to choose, start here. A round-trip voyage from New Orleans is convenient for booking flights and offers an excellent opportunity to extend your stay in NOLA. Six guided tours are included across eight days, from the historic estates of Natchez to Vicksburg National Military Park. A stop in St. Francisville gives you the chance to marvel at some of the 140-plus buildings it has on the National Register of Historic Places.

If you extend your stay in New Orleans, plan to sample the local Creole cuisine and take in some of the city's nightly jazz entertainment. In the morning, grab a beignet and a steaming cup of chicory coffee au lait at the original Café du Monde in the French Market.

2024 dates: This itinerary is available on select dates in February, November and December.

Heart of the Delta: New Orleans to Memphis

Length: Nine days Price: Starts at $4,299 per person

Similar to its round-trip New Orleans Southern Charms itinerary, the Heart of the Delta cruise begins in New Orleans and calls on the same five ports, before sailing through the Lower Mississippi and disembarking in Memphis. Enjoy scenic views of the serpentine river route – perhaps with expert commentary or a local cooking demonstration – and then take time to explore the birthplace of the Memphis blues, which is also a center of civil rights history.

2024 dates: In 2024, this cruise is available in February, March, April, May, June and November.

America's Great River: St. Paul to New Orleans

Length: 15 days Price: Starts at $12,999 per person

This Viking voyage sails from St. Paul to New Orleans on a two-week trip that calls on 13 ports with one day of scenic sailing. This itinerary combines the best of Viking's other Mississippi sailings for an all-encompassing Midwestern and Southern experience with 12 guided tours.

Included in the fare is a tour of Graceland; a stroll through small-town Burlington, Iowa, to see Snake Alley, deemed the most crooked street in the world; and a visit to the National Eagle Center of Red Wing, among others. For an additional fee, hop on an airboat ride through the Atchafalaya Swamp in Baton Rouge or tour the Anheuser-Busch Brewery of St. Louis.

2024 dates: Viking has availability for this itinerary in July, September and October.

Want to cruise the Mississippi River? See the top cruises on GoToSea , a service of U.S. News.

You may have seen riverboat gambling ships or are at least familiar with riverboat gambling along U.S. waterways. However, while high rolling on the river sounds like an exciting way to spend a night (or two, or more) while on your riverboat cruise, you'll have to jump ship to play the slots, roll the dice, spin the wheel or play a hand of Texas Hold 'em. Gambling on cruise ships sailing on internal waters is prohibited by U.S. law.

Gambling on boats in the U.S. is a complicated matter. While you will find some ships sailing along American waterways that are only set up for gambling, they are not carrying passengers from port to port. Most vessels that feature riverboat gambling are now moored, offering sports betting, table games, entertainment, live music and dancing while tethered to shore.

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Gwen Pratesi has been an avid cruiser since her early 20s. She has sailed on nearly every type of cruise ship built, including the newest megaships, paddle-wheelers on America's waterways, and an 18-stateroom river ship on the Mekong River in Vietnam and Cambodia. Most recently, she traveled on a small luxury expedition vessel in Antarctica and crossed the notorious Drake Passage twice. She covers the travel and culinary industries, specializing in cruises, for major publications including U.S. News & World Report.

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First look: The cool new paddlewheeler that will take you from New Orleans to Memphis

Note: American Queen Voyages ceased operations in February 2024, following financial difficulties stemming from the COVID-19 pandemic. Booked passengers seeking refunds can request them by filling out a form on the dedicated website American Queen Voyages set up to handle claims.

It's been a big week for the comeback of cruising in North America -- and not just because two of the world's biggest big-ship cruise lines, Royal Caribbean and Celebrity Cruises , opened bookings for their first sailings on the continent since the coronavirus pandemic forced the industry to a halt.

This week also saw some of the first sailings by small cruise vessels on U.S. waterways in more than a year, including the first voyage of a new riverboat on the Mississippi River.

The new riverboat, the 245-passenger American Countess, is the latest Mississippi River paddlewheeler from American Queen Steamboat Company -- the company behind the iconic American Queen steamboat. And its arrival is something of a big deal in the world of cruising.

Christened on Sunday in New Orleans , American Countess is the first new cruise vessel of any kind to be christened and go into service in North America since the coronavirus-related cruising shutdown began in early 2020.

TPG is one of just a handful of travel outlets getting exclusive access this week to the first sailing of American Countess — a nonrevenue "preview" cruise from New Orleans to Memphis with company executives, their friends and family, and local dignitaries.

As I'm seeing this week, American Countess offers an alluring mix of both traditional and contemporary riverboat design. From the outside, it resembles a classic paddlewheeler of old -- the sort of thing you'd expect to see on the cover of a Mark Twain novel. But on the inside, it's as modern as any newly built hotel on land, with a stylish, contemporary vibe.

Here's a first look at some of the most notable features of the vessel, which will begin its first sailings with paying passengers on Sunday:

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A classic steamboat exterior

If you've always dreamed of cruising the Mississippi on a riverboat that (on the outside, at least) evokes the golden age of steamboats, American Countess could be your vessel.

The exterior of the four-deck-high paddlewheeler is a red-and-white, gingerbread trim-festooned confection that would look right at home in an 1800s period piece.

Among the old-timey touches that make the exterior of American Countess a delight for the eyes is its classic (and fully functional) giant red paddlewheel, which churns through the water with a mesmerizing, bump-bump-bump-bump rhythm.

The exterior of the American Countess also is embellished with two large white "booms" at its bow that project forward like giant antennae -- a classic touch of riverboats of old. The booms, which swing from side to side, support long mobile walkways known as stages, which in turn swing down onto land to let passengers off onto the shore.

The stages are an old-style way of getting passengers off riverboats that are, notably, not just evocative of a bygone era but also practical for Mississippi River cruising even today. The flexible nature of the stages means American Queen can "dock" just about anywhere it wants along the river. It just needs to find a relatively open area along the shore to tie up.

We saw this sort of flexible docking in action during a stop near White Castle, Louisiana. The American Countess just pulled up the side of the river, in a place where there was no formal dock, to let passengers off.

Modern interiors

Despite its exterior, the inside of American Countess is as stylish and modern as anything you'll find in a just-built city hotel.

The main gathering space on the vessel is the Grand Lobby, a soaring bar and lounge area with a classy, contemporary feel. Running for 80 feet along the port side of American Countess, its standout feature is what is essentially a wall of glass offering lounge-goers stunning panoramic views of the passing scenery. Few American river cruise vessels can boast such a spectacular interior space for river-gazing while underway.

The Grand Lobby is located at the center of American Countess' main public deck, appropriately called the Main Deck, which also is home to an elegant and contemporary dining space. Called the Grand Dining Room, it's where passengers eat most of their meals.

Also located just off the Grand Lobby is a full-blown theater (called, simply, The Theater) and a small lounge called Perks that offers self-serve coffee beverages, tea, cookies and soft-serve ice cream. Both spaces also are designed in a contemporary style.

Passengers can also enjoy a small library, card room, fitness center and a deck-top lounge area.

Contemporary cabins

The American Queen Steamboat Company's best-known vessel, American Queen, is famous for the 19th-century-style opulence of its cabins (think: Victorian-style wooden armoires, four-poster beds and red patterned wallpaper). Staying in a cabin on the vessel is a little like going back in time.

Not so for the American Countess.

Like American Queen Steamboat's last new vessel, American Duchess (unveiled in 2017), American Countess has unmistakably contemporary cabins that match the aforementioned public spaces. You can expect clean-lined sofas and desk areas; queen beds topped with crisp white-on-white duvets; and large, flat-panel televisions mounted on the wall.

Bathrooms in American Countess cabins feature glass-walled showers with sleek chrome Grohe fixtures, white-tile floors and minimalist toilets and sinks. They're also unusually large for cabins on a cruise vessel.

In a "keep-things-simple" strategy that was aimed, in part, at making it easy to sell the ship to groups, the line has essentially just put two types of cabins on the vessel. Most of the rooms are balcony cabins that measure either 192 or 226 square feet. Then there are some windowless "inside" cabins that mostly measure 153 square feet.

That's a notable change from American Queen Steamboat's last vessel, American Duchess, which offers a broader array of cabins including some very large suites.

Overall, the rooms are comfortable and inviting -- and they have a lot of wonderful little modern touches. I'm particularly smitten with the electric outlets that are built right into the side tables on each side of the bed. There are three U.S.-style electric outlets and two USB outlets at the top of each side table, which is a dream for people like me who travel with all sorts of gadgets. Four more outlets and two USB outlets are built into the desk across the room.

Each side of the bed also features a perfectly placed light fixture with both a lamp to provide ambient light and a small spotlight that can be directed any-which-way for reading in bed. The latter allows you to lay in bed reading without wayward light bothering someone who is trying to sleep right next to you.

The cabins do have one noticeable flaw that could leave someone a bit flustered upon arrival, depending on his or her packing habits: There's relatively limited storage space. There is just one modest-sized closet with a single row for hanging clothes, two drawers and nowhere logical to put your shoes.

If you're thinking about booking a trip on American Countess, be strategic about what you pack -- or assume you'll keep some of your clothes and other items in your suitcase, which you can slide under the bed.

Lively entertainment

American Countess is notably smaller and more intimate than American Queen Steamboat's 436-passenger American Queen, which is the world's largest river steamboat. It has just 123 cabins vs. 222 on American Queen. But despite its relatively small size, it offers a lot of entertainment.

A small theater group that includes four performers and a four-person house band sails with American Countess and performs most nights in its theater, with musical medley-type productions that offer everything from classic songs of the South to 1970s music.

In addition, the house band entertains passengers most nights in the Grand Lobby.

The vessel's theater also welcomes special guest performers such as Steve Spracklen, a pianist who often entertains passengers on American Queen Steamboat vessels with ragtime music, weaving in some of the history of the genre as he goes.

Passengers also will find lots of daily activities such as bourbon tastings and talks from the vessel's "riverlorian" -- an onboard river expert who recounts local river lore and history.

On this sailing, well-known Natchez-based chef Regina Charboneau also was on board to host cooking demonstrations.

Comfortable river views

One of the great things about American Countess is that it's filled with spaces that use the main attraction of a Mississippi River cruise -- the river itself -- as a focal point.

In addition to having interior spaces such as the Grand Lobby that are built around panoramic views of the river through huge glass windows, the vessel also offers lots of outdoor areas where you can sit and watch the river roll by.

The bow of the vessel features particularly wonderful outdoor deck spaces that are lined with rocking chairs where passengers can lounge for hours, watching the activity of the river.

There's also a large deck-top lounge area with comfortable outdoor furniture that can be covered or uncovered, depending on the weather.

Included tours

As is typical for all American Queen Steamboat vessels, American Countess offers tours to passengers in every destination it visits.

On this sailing, that included a tour of Nottoway. Due to high water levels on the Mississippi River this week, American Countess wasn't able to tie up right there, but it was able to get close. Passengers were then taken to the site in custom-built American Queen Steamboat motorcoaches.

A signature feature of the line is that its motorcoaches -- each specially designed with extra glass up top for viewing -- follow its vessels up and down the Mississippi and other rivers for daily use during touring.

American Queen Steamboat is particularly known for included-in-the-fare "hop-on, hop-off" tours in the river towns its vessels visit that allow passengers to explore at their own pace while stopping at multiple attractions. For now, as part of the anti-coronavirus measures American Queen Steamboat is implementing, such touring has been scaled back in the interest of safety. But the line is offering alternative included-in-price tours that are more closely managed.

During these new tours, passengers travel together as a group by motorcoach for sightseeing with a more limited number of stops.

American Queen Steamboat executives have said the new touring system is likely just a temporary measure until it implements a new COVID-19 vaccine requirement for passengers in July.

American Countess this year initially will sail week-long voyages between New Orleans and Memphis with stops in places such as Natchez and Vicksburg, Mississippi, and St. Francisville, Louisiana. But the vessel also will operate on the upper part of the Mississippi River and also on the Ohio and Cumberland rivers later in the year.

The itineraries will take the vessel as far north as Red Wing, Minnesota, and as far east as Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, and Chattanooga, Tennessee.

All American Countess itineraries include a pre-cruise overnight stay at a hotel in the departure port.

Bottom line

American Countess is an enticing option for travelers hoping to cruise on the Mississippi River or one of its tributaries. While it has a classic Mississippi paddlewheeler look on its outside -- something that, to many people, just seems right for Mississippi River cruise vessels -- its interior isn't a throwback to the 19th century.

If you cruise on American Countess, you'll find interior public rooms including lounges and dining venues that are as modern and stylish as any new-build boutique hotel, with cabins to match.

Just keep in mind that American Countess, like most river cruise vessels, is a relatively small vessel when compared to the typical ocean cruise ship. You'll find fewer restaurants, lounges and other venues on American Countess than you'll find on the typical ocean ship. You'll also find far fewer crowds. As is typical for small cruise vessels, American Countess has much more of the feel of a boutique hotel than a large resort.

The Points Guy cruise writer Gene Sloan is traveling on American Countess this week as a guest of the cruise line.

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America’s last authentic overnight steamboat

The legendary Delta Queen invites you aboard to experience a nostalgic return to America’s past!

Step aboard this historic vessel and into another century, when steam-powered paddleboats churned up and down the waterways of America. Adorned with teak handrails, Tiffany-style stained glass and crystal chandeliers, the Delta Queen’s grand decor exudes lavish Victorian charm.

The Delta Queen is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. She is also a National Historic Landmark, a member of the National Maritime Hall of Fame, and most recently designated a National Treasure by the National Trust for Historic Preservation.

Once the renovation process is complete, the Delta Queen will return to the waterways of America’s Heartland and Deep South, giving passengers the opportunity to experience the rivers from America’s only authentic 1927 overnight paddlewheel steamboat.

At this time, the historic vessel is securing resources to begin major renovations so she can once again invite passengers to relive the age of Mark Twain and his cast of river characters.

Don’t miss your chance to escape to an era of elegance and grandeur aboard the Delta Queen! Be the first to receive updates about the Delta Queen’s renovations and future sailings by signing up for updates here and following us on Facebook and Twitter .

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Mississippi River cruises take hit as American Queen shuts down

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Memphis has bet big on Mississippi River cruises, but the industry took a hit this week when American Queen Voyages — one of three companies cruising the Mississippi — shut down. 

The company said it couldn’t rebound after the COVID-19 pandemic. 

“The overnight cruise industry was especially affected by changes in travel preferences and, as a result, (American Queen Voyages) has become financially unsustainable,” the company said in a statement. 

Lee Hendrix is no stranger to the instability of the industry. He’s worked as a “riverlorian,” or river historian, on board the American Queen through several ownership changes and bankruptcies. His first stint on board was from the late 1990s to 2008. When the company shuttered in 2008, he left for a job with the Army Corps of Engineers as a way to stay on the river with more job security. 

“It’s a tough business because you’re so dependent on the vagaries of the economy,” he said.

Hendrix returned to the American Queen a couple years ago, after retiring from the Corps. Now, he’s witnessing another bankruptcy that’s left the American Queen sitting empty at a dock.

Even as the dust settles, he’s optimistic there’s still a future for the boat he worked on, which was the company’s namesake.

“We expected that there was going to be some kind of disruption, but we somehow expected the American Queen would survive,” Hendrix said of the boat itself. “That’s sacred ground for me.”

American Queen Voyages — under various names and ownership — has a tumultuous history. There was a bankruptcy in 2001, followed by a stint of sales and closures until 2008, when the fleet went out of commission. In 2011, it returned, even headquartered in Memphis for several years, and ran continually for more than a decade until its parent company, Hornblower Group, filed for bankruptcy this week.

Kevin Kane, president and CEO of Memphis Tourism, said American Queen’s closure was an unexpected hit to local river tourism — the city is expected to lose 10,000 hotel room nights annually because of it — but he’s confident the market is still there.

Ebbs and flows

For two decades, Memphis’ investment in overnight river cruises has been up and down.

Plans to construct Beale Street Landing, the city’s biggest dock, started in the early 2000s and dragged on through three mayoral administrations. In that time, Hurricane Katrina hit, the river’s overnight cruise industry collapsed and the company that built the American Queen went bankrupt in 2001 — not for the last time.

American Queen returned, despite multiple ownership changes and business closures, but shuttered again in 2008 — as did its only competitor — leaving Memphis with a dock under construction but no cruises running on the Mississippi River.

When American Queen returned to the river, again, the company’s decision to headquarter in Memphis in 2011 was a vote of confidence for river tourism. Within the decade, however, American Queen moved its headquarters out of the city.

Then, in 2020, the COVID-19 pandemic halted all travel. 

By the time cruises started up again post-pandemic, cities along the Mississippi River, including Memphis, were betting that the industry would make a comeback. Their confidence was boosted when Viking Cruises launched a Mississippi River itinerary in 2022, bringing a third company to the river.

Memphis Tourism previously estimated cruises have an annual economic impact of $100 million on Memphis and are responsible for 20,000 hotel room nights yearly in the city. American Queen alone was responsible for half of that hotel traffic.

Related: Burgeoning Mississippi riverboat industry grapples with increasing threats of flooding, drought

Overnight cruises on the Mississippi River aren’t cheap. The lowest tickets for a week-long cruise are a few thousand dollars, and Kane said cruising’s affluent customer base brings a lot of money to Memphis .

At one point, Memphis was planning a $35 million expansion of its docks — an indication of the city’s confidence that river cruises were here to stay — but the idea to build an additional dock at Greenbelt Park was scrapped late last year. All that funding will go to Beale Street Landing instead.

However, even with American Queen’s exit, Kane said the city still needs a second dock to accommodate the two remaining cruise companies: Viking and American Cruise Lines.

“We still need expanded docks,” Kane said. “River cruising is still very important to the Memphis hospitality industry.” 

Sinking ship

American Queen Voyages retired the smallest of its three Mississippi River boats in late 2022. Then, last year, it scrapped its trips on the Great Lakes and sold the boats that ran those tours. At the time, the company characterized the decision as a move to refocus on its river cruises.

In late 2022, as American Queen was rolling back its services, Viking was launching its Mississippi River tours, and American Cruise Lines was adding more boats, despite the hits all three companies took when the river dropped to record lows during recent summers . Droughts forced them to change itineraries, offer refunds and, in some cases, cancel tours completely , as river conditions made it challenging — and in some cases, impossible — to travel along the river.

There were other signs of trouble in the months leading up to American Queen’s closure. The company’s president, Cindy D’Aoust, left the company last fall after about a year in the role, according to news reports. A few months later, the company canceled its season-opening tours in February, and several travel agency groups stopped booking trips on the American Queen.

Those troubles came to a boiling point in late February when its parent company, Hornblower, filed for bankruptcy and laid off 500 employees. American Queen has canceled all future cruises and is offering refunds to customers. The company is up for sale, but if there are no buyers, it’ll shut down.

“Whatever happened to them, I can’t explain it,” Kane said. “I don’t think river cruising is on the decline. I’m not the least bit concerned.” 

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With the debut of American Countess sailing voyages along the Mississippi River and Ohio, Tennessee and Cumberland Rivers, American Queen Steamboat Company now boasts four sleek paddlewheelers that transport cruisers to a bygone era of steamship travel.

American Countess, however, features a distinctive design that churns U.S. riverboat travel into the 21st century.

We were onboard for the inaugural cruise from New Orleans to Memphis. The riverboat’s inaugural season sails weekly voyages between these two cities on the Lower Mississippi.

Let’s have a look at what the exciting new American Countess has to offer for cruisers looking for an immersive voyage on the American rivers.

American Countess is a reimagined former casino boat. American Queen Steamboat Company purchased the former Kanesville Queen in 2016 and proceeded to turn it into a beautiful new riverboat, joining three others in the AQSC fleet.

As part of the refurbishment, the boat was cut in half, and a 60-foot section was inserted to add staterooms and greatly expand the public space, most of which is filled by a large theater and the main bar and lounge.

The vessel is 318 feet long and 79 feet width with four decks. American Countess has 123 staterooms and can carry up to 245 people. (The boat is sailing with a reduced capacity of 166, however, to allow for social distancing during the pandemic.)

Public Spaces

The Grand Lobby is the main gathering space on American Countess. This massive lounge features the guest services desk, a small gift shop nook and a long bar. The space is filled with natural light emanating from the nearly floor-to-ceiling windows and is the spot where passengers gather for afternoon cocktails, bourbon tasting sessions and to listen to the ship’s American Countess Show Band (a piano, bass, drums and woodwinds quartet) play at happy hour and late into the night.

Adjacent to the Grand Lobby is the Theater, where guests enjoy morning riverlorian talks, afternoon activities like movies and cookie demonstrations and nightly entertainment, such as variety shows.

The Library is a large sanctuary with wonderful views at the front of the riverboat. The shelves are filled with a variety of books, and the room features chairs and a couch and warm decor. 

The boat also has a Chart Room and Card Room. The Chart Room has documents and maps so you can monitor the route of your voyage, and the Card Room features chess and checkers tables, as well as a large selection of games available to use during your cruise.

American Countess has a small fitness center that has a treadmill, two bikes and an elliptical machine. It was well used during our sailing.

My favorite spaces were outside on the top sun deck and the bow areas of the ship, where you can sit in the classic white rocking chairs and soak in the views as you sail on the river. It was fantastic to sit on the rockers or up top on the lounge chairs to enjoy the fresh air and sunny days of cruising. The ship also carries a fleet of bikes that cruisers can use for on-your-own exploration in the towns.

Accommodations

Staterooms are located on Decks 2 and 3. These cabins are available in four styles, including inside staterooms, balcony cabins and rooms located at the aft of the ship on Deck 3 that overlook the riverboat’s iconic big red paddlewheel. The boat also offers accessible staterooms. 

I stayed in a Deck 2 balcony stateroom , which is a spacious 226 square feet, with a comfy bed and large living room space with a couch. Amenities include a desk with a coffee machine and a mini fridge tucked in beneath and an incredibly spacious bathroom with a walk-in shower and plenty of organization space for toiletries. AQSC provides guests with comfy bathrobes, slippers, a supply of toiletries (soap, body wash, shampoo and conditioners) and stainless steel water bottles (yours to keep). There are water filling stations located throughout the boat.

The balcony cabins on Deck 3 open to the promenade and measure 192 square feet.

The boat’s interior cabins measure about 150 square feet. 

Restaurants

The food is a highlight of a Mississippi River cruise on American Countess, and the boat offers two restaurants. The Grand Dining Room is the large formal eatery, offering breakfast, lunch and dinner. 

This is a large space with gorgeous window views and chandeliers, and the menu offers delicious Southern culinary favorites. There is an a la carte buffet offered at breakfast and lunch, and servers will deliver your choices. 

The second eatery, The River Grill, a more casual cafe situated at the aft of the ship on Deck 2. The restaurant offers breakfasts, lunches and dinners. You can sit inside or on the deck outside right by the red paddlewheel. 

Perks is the riverboat’s cafe and features an ice cream station, popcorn machine and fresh-baked cookies in addition to a selection of coffees and teas.

Entertainment 

The Grand Lobby and Theater on American Countess serve as host venues for a variety of enriching and energetic chats, shows and demonstrations. The American Countess Ensemble performs a range of musical song and dance numbers, including Broadway-inspired shows. Passengers on our voyage gathered after dinner for the Southern Celebration,” “Singing the 70s” and “Guitar Time Machine” productions. 

The entertainment also included the “Rag, Jazz and Razzamatazz” show from veteran steamboat entertainer Steve Spracklen, an amazing ragtime piano man and storyteller.

The American Countess Show Band quartet entertains cruisers nightly in the Grandy Lobby for cocktail hour and with swinging tunes late into the night. 

The Theater is also home to movies, cooking shows and riverlorian talks about the history of the Mississippi River, its towns and steamboating history. One of our favorite activities during our time onboard was the bourbon tasting at the bar in the Grand Lobby.

Itineraries

American Countess’s inaugural season sails weekly trips back and forth between New Orleans and Memphis, with stops at Natchez, Vicksburg and Nottoway Mansion.

The boat also will sail on the Upper Mississippi, with voyages that visit Memphis, St. Louis, towns in Iowa and Wisconsin and all the way up to Red Wing, Minnesota. On the Ohio, Tennessee and Cumberland Rivers, American Countess cruisers will enjoy exploring vibrant cities like Louisville, St. Louis, Nashville, Cincinnati and Pittsburgh.

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StarTribune

Cruise line buys up the mississippi river ships from defunct american queen voyages.

American Cruise Lines has solidified its status as the Mississippi River's — and the country's — busiest river cruise provider with its purchase of all four classic paddlewheeler ships from the now-defunct American Queen Voyages.

Travel Weekly reported that the acquisitions include the 417-passenger mothership American Queen, along with smaller ships American Duchess, American Countess and American Empress. Most of these ships, inspired by 19th-century riverboats, have regularly sailed Mississippi River itineraries, including summer and fall stops in Red Wing and Winona, Minn., and La Crosse, Wis.

American Queen Voyages operated leisure cruises since 2011 on the Mississippi and its tributaries, as well as the Snake and Columbia rivers out West, but owner Hornblower Holdings abruptly shut it down on Feb. 20.

American Cruise Lines did not immediately have details on how the American Queen ships would integrate into its existing fleet of 21 cruise ships in six classes — including four paddlewheelers of its own.

"American Cruise Lines is pleased to be the successful bidder for AQV's river vessels," the company said in a brief statement. "We look forward to announcing additional details after this portion of the Hornblower Holdings bankruptcy process concludes."

We compared and contrasted the ships of American Cruise Lines, American Queen Voyages and a third line on the Mississippi, Viking River Cruises, last summer.

Simon Peter Groebner is Travel editor for the Star Tribune.

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American Queen

Cruise line American Queen Voyages

• New Orleans (Port NOLA Louisiana)
• Memphis TN (Tennessee)

American Queen current position

American Queen current location is at Gulf of Mexico (coordinates 29.94915 N / -90.02503 W) cruising en route to NOTTOWAY. The AIS position was reported 4 minutes ago.

Current itinerary of American Queen

American Queen current cruise is 7 days, one-way from New Orleans to Memphis TN . Prices start from USD 3299 (double occupancy rates). The itinerary starts on 08 Apr, 2024 and ends on 15 Apr, 2024 .

Specifications of American Queen

•   Itineraries
•   Review
•   Wiki

American Queen Itineraries

American queen review, review of american queen.

The 1995-built American Queen cruise ship was initially operated by Delta Queen Steamboat Company (now defunct ). Now operated by AQSC (American Queen Voyages) , the 436-passenger riverboat is similar to fleetmate American Empress , and also to ACL-American Cruise Lines vessels Queen of the Mississippi/now American Heritage and Queen of the West/now American West .

American Queen is the largest steamboat ever built in the world. Before relaunching in April 2012, the ship received a USD 6,5 million renovation to make the Victorian decor. Cabins got new LCDTVs and bedding. A top-deck bar (River Grill) was also added. Today, the steamboat feels much more like a historic boutique hotel than a riverboat.

American Queen cruises the Upper and Lower Mississippi, Ohio and Tennessee rivers with 5- to 14-day itineraries. Departure ports include New Orleans , St Louis MO , Minneapolis-St Paul MN , Memphis TN , Cincinnati OH .

American Queen Steamboat Company cruise deals

Operated with all-inclusive cruise packages, American Queen cruise tour deals are inclusive of:

• all shore excursions (“Steamcoach Tours” by luxury motorcoaches)
• 1-night pre-cruise hotel package
• soft drinks and bottled water (offered throughout the voyage)
• wines and beers (offered at dinner only)
• 24-hour room service (menu has the standard for breakfasts fare, plus sandwiches, burgers, macaroni & cheese, fresh salmon, desserts)
• Wi-Fi Internet
• Pilot House tour (of the ship's Navigation Bridge).
• Smoking inside the cabin and on the balcony is forbidden. The only smoking-allowed area on the ship is the sun deck.

"Commodore Services" is the company's set of exclusive services reserved for American Duchess cruise passengers booking categories LFS-Loft and OS-Owner suites. The list of bonus perks (price-inclusive / complimentary privileges) includes:

• gifts (upon arrival) - fruit basket and a bottle of wine
• suite tour (upon arrival)
• priority boarding and dining arrangements
• reserved balcony seating in "The Auditorium" (boat's theatre/show lounge), with a personal escort to the reserved seats
• private reception party with the ship's Captain and Senior Officers
• personal River Butler
• unpacking, hanging the clothes in the closet, packing, laundry, pressing service, shoeshine (conditioning)
• in-cabin dining - Afternoon Tea service, Breakfast and Dinner service (on the suite's balcony, upon request), pre-dinner canapes, post-dinner sweets).

American Queen - user reviews and comments

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American Queen ship related cruise news

American Queen Steamboat Company (American Queen Voyages/AQV) ceased operations

On February 20, 2024, (at 5 pm Indiana time/12:00 UTC) American Queen Steamboat Company LLC (which operates under the travel brand American...

AQV-American Queen Voyages cancels February sailings due to operational concerns

AQV-American Queen Voyages has announced the cancellation of several sailings scheduled for February. The decision stems from an unforeseen...

AQV-American Queen Voyages cancels Great Lakes cruises, sells Ocean Navigator and Voyager ships

American Queen Voyages (AQV) has unveiled its plans to shift its focus to river cruises, implementing a series of changes and updates that will...

American Queen Voyages/AQV is the first cruise line with fleetwide SpaceX Starlink Internet

AQV-American Queen Voyages announced SpaceX Starlink upgrades to its entire fleet of 7, including the award-winning lines Rivers, Lakes & Oceans...

Viking Octantis is the first cruise ship to arrive in Duluth (Minnesota USA)

A Viking Ocean's cruise ship will be the first to arrive and use the brand new customs facility at the Duluth Entertainment Convention Center today...

American Queen Voyages marks the return of its final Lakes & Oceans ship, Ocean Navigator

AQV-American Queen Voyages marked the return of Ocean Navigator, the final Lakes & Oceans ship to be added back to the fleet, as she welcomed her...

American Queen Voyages 2024 season's new routes & itineraries

AQV-American Queen Voyages released its 2024 season, marking the furthest in advance a cruise season has opened for reservations in the 10-year...

American Queen Steamboat Company (AQSC) rebranded American Queen Voyages (AQV)

AQSC-American Queen Steamboat Company, which is part of Hornblower Group, is now the new brand merging AQSC and VCL-Victory Cruise Lines - American...

AQSC-American Queen Steamboat Company's flagship American Queen returns to service

AQSC-American Queen Steamboat Company announced that its American Queen ship had welcomed her first revenue guests in 18 months on Monday, August 9...

AQSC-American Queen Steamboat Company and VCL-Victory Cruise Lines release 2023 season

In response to demand for the 2022 cruise season, AQSC-American Queen Steamboat Company and VCL-Victory Cruise Lines, Hornblower Family Companies...

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Other American Queen Voyages cruise ships

• American Countess
• American Duchess
• American Empress
• Ocean Discoverer
• Ocean Navigator
• Ocean Victory
• Ocean Voyager

American Queen Wiki

American Queen riverboat was built in the USA and christened in Nashville TN by Godmother Phyllis Dale (owner of Phyllis Dale Travel Agency, Winter Springs Florida). As flag-state , the USA flag requires all officers, crew and hotel staff on the vessel to be American (US citizens).

By design, this USA-based river cruise ship is classified as "paddle-wheeler" (paddle-wheel boat). The vessel is similar to the fleet mate American Empress , and the famous American Cruise Lines ships Queen of the Mississippi/American Heritage and Queen of the West/American West . They all feature a huge, stern-mounted paddle wheel.

American Queen became second in 2012's Great Steamboat Race. The first prize was for the steamboat Belle of Cincinnati. The vessel is acknowledged to be the world's largest steamboat ever built. The ship is 6-decks high and built as a Mississippi riverboat replica vessel for the Delta Queen Steamboat Company (currently non-operational USA cruise line).

Just like the classic USA riverboats from the late 1800s which used to sail on the country's largest rivers (like Mississippi, Ohio, Snake, Columbia), the American Queen steamboat has a huge paddlewheel. It is a feature component of the vessel's main propulsion system. The impressive paddle wheel is driven by a hydraulic motor powered by a steam plant. Besides the paddle wheel, for better maneuverability and during emergencies, the ship uses its two Azimuth thrusters (aka Z-drives). These are modern marine propulsion units (diesel-electric propellers) mounted on either side of the stern paddlewheel. Both Z-drives are fully submerged underwater, and able to rotate at 360 degrees.

Note: You can see the CruiseMapper's list of all river cruise ships and riverboats in the "itinerary" section of our River Cruises hub. All companies and their fleets are listed there.

Just Askin': It's our most popular nickname. Why is Cincinnati called the Queen City?

The Enquirer's  Just Askin' series  aims to answer the questions that no one seems to have an answer for, not even Google .

The City of Seven Hills. Porkopolis. The 'Nati. We know Cincinnati by many names.

But one nickname takes the prize for our most recognizable: The Queen City.

It didn't take Cincinnati long after it was first established as a city to get that moniker. That was more than 200 years ago. Where did the nickname come from?

Why is Cincinnati called the Queen City?

The Queen City label came about more than 200 years ago when Cincinnati was first named in a newspaper as Queen of the West. That was in 1819, the same year when Cincinnati, first founded in 1788 as a settlement, officially incorporated to achieve city status.

Ohio was considered the West back then. After the Revolutionary War, Americans turned west. The Northwest Territory, between Pennsylvania and the Mississippi River, north of the Ohio River, was unsettled frontier.

The earliest reference to the nickname, according to Xavier University, was found in the Inquisitor and Cincinnati Advertiser on May 4, 1819, when Ed. B. Cooke wrote: “The City is, indeed, justly styled the fair Queen of the West: distinguished for order, enterprise, public spirit, and liberality, she stands the wonder of an admiring world.”

It didn't take long for the name to catch on. Within a year, proud citizens were calling it the Queen City or Queen of the West.

The Queen City moniker was repeated in an 1854 poem “Catawba Wine” by Henry Wadsworth Longfellow . The last stanza references Cincinnati.

"And this Song of the Vine,    This greeting of mine,The winds and the birds shall deliver    To the Queen of the West,    In her garlands dressed,On the banks of the Beautiful River."

Do you have a question for Just Askin'? Send it to us at  [email protected] .

The 7 Best Mississippi River Cruises for 2024

T he more than 2,300-mile Mississippi River invites travelers to discover its multifaceted heritage, with a vast range of deeply rooted culture, music and history. A cruise is a fantastic way to discover many of the riverfront cities on a single trip, from the comfort of your modern riverboat or traditional paddle-wheeler.

The following Mississippi River cruise itineraries can help you choose from cruises of various lengths and options for the Lower and Upper Mississippi. Note that all fares are listed as double occupancy (based on two people per cabin), and that they might not reflect taxes, port fees or gratuities. The itinerary availability listed is also subject to change.

American Cruise Lines

American Cruise Lines operates small ships accommodating between 90 and 180 passengers that are built, flagged and crewed in the U.S. – and it's the only company in the world operating a 100% U.S.-flagged fleet of riverboats and cruise ships. ACL's itineraries traverse waterways across 35 states, with 11 itineraries dedicated to the Mississippi River. Cruisers can choose to sail on modern riverboats with a sleek interior design or while away their time aboard classic paddle-wheelers reminiscent of days gone by.

ACL offers variety as well as versatility: This line boasts both the longest and shortest sailings on this list with cruises ranging from eight to 60 days in length, including The Great United States. This inaugural 60-day voyage spans four major rivers and 20 states, making it the longest U.S. river cruise in history.

Complimentary hotel and transportation packages are available from every departure city before your cruise. You can book certain premium packages for added perks, such as two nights spent next door to Graceland in Memphis – with VIP tickets and a city tour included in the price.

Music Cities Cruise

Length: Eight days

Price: Starts at $3,610 per person

Spend a week getting lost in the sounds of the Memphis blues, rock 'n' roll and country music legends on the seven-night Music Cities Cruise. A hotel stay the night before your sailing is included, but embarking in Memphis means you also have the chance to splurge on a two-night pre-cruise package near Elvis' former home Graceland .

Ports of call include Paducah, Kentucky; Dover, Tennessee; and Clarksville, Tennessee, with an overnight in Nashville and an included excursion to a show at the Grand Ole Opry. Two scenic sailing days feature picturesque views of America's Heartland along the Mississippi, Ohio and Cumberland rivers as well as Lake Barkley.

2024 dates: In 2024, there are two available itineraries in September and November.

Grand Heartland Cruise: St. Paul to New Orleans

Length: 15 days

Price: Starts at $9,455 per person

This 15-day voyage allows you to explore America's rich history in towns along the Upper and Lower Mississippi River. The immersive voyage covers six states and 12 cities including St. Paul, Minnesota ; Dubuque, Iowa; St. Louis, Missouri ; Memphis, Tennessee; Natchez, Mississippi; Baton Rouge, Louisiana ; and more.

Take a step back in time while visiting Mark Twain's boyhood home in Hannibal, exploring stately historic estates in Natchez and Civil War sites in Vicksburg. At the end of a busy day ashore, you'll have plenty to chat about with fellow passengers during the evening cocktail hour.

2024 dates: American Heritage – ACL's traditional paddle-wheeler – and three modern riverboats set off on this journey from August to October in 2024.

Complete Mississippi River Cruise: New Orleans to St. Paul

Length: 22 days

Price: Starts at $14,935 per person

If you want to see the entire Mississippi in one shot, check out this multiweek sailing that begins in New Orleans and ends in St. Paul, Minnesota. Along the way, you'll sail 1,393 miles, visit 10 states and experience a staggering 20 ports of call as you tour Louisiana and then head northbound to Minnesota.

In the South, walk the battlefields of the Civil War and sample delicious Southern barbecue before listening to the rhythms of jazz, the blues and rock 'n' roll. Then, explore the small and larger cities along the upper parts of the river. Remember to take time to gaze out at the picturesque scenery and the rolling farmlands of America's Midwest before disembarking in St. Paul.

2024 dates: Three of ACL's modern riverboats sail this itinerary in May, June and August in 2024.

The Great United States

Length: 60 days

Price: Starts at $51,000

This two-month long journey – the longest domestic itinerary ever created – will check all the boxes for U.S. history and Civil War buffs, music and nature lovers, culinary enthusiasts, and beer and distilled spirits aficionados alike as the ship traverses America's iconic waterways through 20 states and 50 ports of call.

This epic journey showcases the natural beauty and living history of the U.S. from sea to shining sea. The sailing embarks in Portland, Oregon , on the Pacific Coast before traveling east to the Atlantic shore along four major rivers that highlight some of the country's most stunning coastlines. Upon arrival in New York Harbor, guests will have an unforgettable view of one of the most iconic landmarks in the U.S.: the Statue of Liberty .

Passengers can follow in the footsteps of Lewis and Clark along the Snake and Columbia rivers; cruise along Ol' Man River in search of Mark Twain and Elvis; see the vibrant colors of fall during peak season on the Hudson River; and take in the coastal breezes (and fresh seafood) along New England's rocky coastline.

This curated adventure also includes two flights: Jackson, Wyoming , to New Orleans as well as St. Paul to Portland, Maine , plus a land package through Glacier , Yellowstone and Grand Teton national parks. All-inclusive pricing covers the pre-cruise hotel stay, all flights and hotels between cruise segments, an ACL jacket and gear pack, daily excursions, all meals and beverages, gratuities and port charges, entertainment, and Wi-Fi.

2024 dates: The inaugural cruise sets sail on August 16, 2024.

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Viking River Cruises

Viking is no stranger to sailing Europe's rivers; the brand is synonymous with river cruising worldwide aboard its dozens of ships. However, Viking River Cruises is a newcomer to U.S. rivers, with its purpose-built ship: the 386-passenger Viking Mississippi. Looking to carve out its own niche in the American river cruising category, Viking claims it has the region's "first truly modern cruise ship" with its distinct Scandinavian design and expansive top sun deck with an infinity plunge pool.

Viking's mostly all-inclusive fares include a complimentary excursion in each port, destination lectures and performances, beer and wine at meals, free Wi-Fi, specialty coffees and teas, and more. The line offers five itineraries ranging in length from eight to 22 days along the Mighty Mississippi. Pre- and post-cruise extensions can be added to all voyages for an additional expense.

New Orleans & Southern Charms: Round-trip from New Orleans

Price: Starts at $3,999 per person

If you don't know which Viking Mississippi itinerary to choose, start here. A round-trip voyage from New Orleans is convenient for booking flights and offers an excellent opportunity to extend your stay in NOLA. Six guided tours are included across eight days, from the historic estates of Natchez to Vicksburg National Military Park. A stop in St. Francisville gives you the chance to marvel at some of the 140-plus buildings it has on the National Register of Historic Places.

If you extend your stay in New Orleans, plan to sample the local Creole cuisine and take in some of the city's nightly jazz entertainment. In the morning, grab a beignet and a steaming cup of chicory coffee au lait at the original Café du Monde in the French Market.

2024 dates: This itinerary is available on select dates in February, November and December.

Heart of the Delta: New Orleans to Memphis

Length: Nine days

Price: Starts at $4,299 per person

Similar to its round-trip New Orleans Southern Charms itinerary, the Heart of the Delta cruise begins in New Orleans and calls on the same five ports, before sailing through the Lower Mississippi and disembarking in Memphis. Enjoy scenic views of the serpentine river route – perhaps with expert commentary or a local cooking demonstration – and then take time to explore the birthplace of the Memphis blues, which is also a center of civil rights history.

2024 dates: In 2024, this cruise is available in February, March, April, May, June and November.

America's Great River: St. Paul to New Orleans

Price: Starts at $12,999 per person

This Viking voyage sails from St. Paul to New Orleans on a two-week trip that calls on 13 ports with one day of scenic sailing. This itinerary combines the best of Viking's other Mississippi sailings for an all-encompassing Midwestern and Southern experience with 12 guided tours.

Included in the fare is a tour of Graceland; a stroll through small-town Burlington, Iowa, to see Snake Alley, deemed the most crooked street in the world; and a visit to the National Eagle Center of Red Wing, among others. For an additional fee, hop on an airboat ride through the Atchafalaya Swamp in Baton Rouge or tour the Anheuser-Busch Brewery of St. Louis.

2024 dates: Viking has availability for this itinerary in July, September and October.

Want to cruise the Mississippi River? See the top cruises on GoToSea , a service of U.S. News.

FAQ Module : Travel - Top Mississippi River Cruises FAQs

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Gwen Pratesi has been an avid cruiser since her early 20s. She has sailed on nearly every type of cruise ship built, including the newest megaships, paddle-wheelers on America's waterways, and an 18-stateroom river ship on the Mekong River in Vietnam and Cambodia. Most recently, she traveled on a small luxury expedition vessel in Antarctica and crossed the notorious Drake Passage twice. She covers the travel and culinary industries, specializing in cruises, for major publications including U.S. News & World Report.

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