Best Mississippi River Cruises for 2026 and 2027: Your Complete Guide
- Emma Guse
- Sep 5
- 8 min read
Updated: Sep 28
If you’ve ever dreamed of watching the mighty Mississippi roll by from the comfort of a riverboat, you’re not alone. Mississippi River cruises have surged in popularity in recent years, offering an unforgettable way to explore American history, culture, and scenery without ever leaving the country.
But planning a Mississippi cruise isn’t as simple as picking a date and clicking “book.” Prices can surprise people, itineraries vary widely, and the onboard experience is different from European river cruises. This guide will help you cut through the noise.
Together we’ll look at the leading cruise lines, the differences between the Upper and Lower Mississippi, and why working with a trusted travel advisor ensures you get the sailing, stateroom, and value that fit your travel style.
Why Choose a Mississippi River Cruise?
Sailing the Mississippi isn’t just a trip; it’s stepping into the heart of American culture. From Mark Twain’s storytelling to the birth of jazz, the river has always carried more than water. It carries history, music, cuisine, and the soul of the nation.
Onboard, you can expect small-ship intimacy, American crew, and cuisine that reflects the region: think gumbo and beignets in New Orleans or walleye and wild rice in Minnesota. Unlike European itineraries, these cruises feel both familiar and exotic; you’re in the U.S., but you’re experiencing corners of it you may never have explored before.
And here’s something many don’t realize: Mississippi River cruises are often more expensive than European river cruises. Why? Fewer ships, limited capacity, and higher per-passenger operating costs on U.S. waterways. It’s supply and demand. With far fewer berths than Europe’s Rhine or Danube, cabins book quickly and sometimes more than a year in advance.
Upper vs. Lower Mississippi: Which Is Right for You?
The Mississippi River stretches more than 2,300 miles, but cruise lines typically divide it into two major sections. Knowing the difference helps you choose the experience that matches your interests.
Both offer plenty of charm, but they feel distinct. If you imagine yourself wandering cobblestone streets in Natchez with live blues spilling from a doorway, the Lower Mississippi is your pick. If you’d rather watch eagles soar over limestone bluffs and visit Mark Twain’s hometown of Hannibal, the Upper Mississippi will win your heart.
Leading Mississippi River Cruise Lines
A few key players dominate the Mississippi River market. Each offers something different in style, price point, and onboard experience.
American Cruise Lines (ACL)
ACL is currently the largest player, with modern riverboats and a growing fleet of classic paddlewheelers. Their newer ships are sleek and spacious, offering private balconies on nearly every stateroom. ACL emphasizes variety, with itineraries stretching across the entire river and even combining sections for longer Grand Mississippi voyages.
Style: Modern comfort with a touch of Americana
Audience: Couples, retirees, families wanting U.S.-based travel
Perks: Spacious staterooms, daily excursions included, excellent accessibility for mobility needs
Capacity: 150-190 guests
To learn more about American Cruise Lines, take a look at this blog post.
Viking Mississippi
Viking brought its European expertise stateside in 2022 with the Viking Mississippi. This purpose-built ship feels familiar to anyone who has sailed with Viking before: Scandinavian design, streamlined staterooms, and excellent enrichment lectures. It’s adults-only, with an emphasis on culture and learning.
Style: Sleek, modern, understated luxury
Audience: Viking loyalists, adults 55+, culturally curious travelers
Perks: Spacious observation lounges, included tours, no nickel-and-diming
Capacity: 386 guests
American Queen Voyages (AQV)
American Queen Voyages, which once operated several iconic paddlewheel riverboats, ceased operations in February 2024. All future cruises were cancelled, and vessels were either sold or acquired by other operators. Today, American Cruise Lines has acquired four former AQV vessels, though not all are currently active.
American Cruise Lines vs. Viking River Cruises
Popular Itineraries for 2026–2027
Lower Mississippi: New Orleans to Memphis (or reverse)
Duration: 7 nights
Highlights: New Orleans French Quarter, Natchez mansions, Vicksburg battlefields, Memphis blues and barbecue
Why It’s Popular: Perfect mix of music, history, and food; easy flight access into and out of Memphis and New Orleans
Upper Mississippi: St. Louis to St. Paul
Duration: 7 nights
Highlights: Mark Twain’s Hannibal, Red Wing pottery, bald eagle spotting along the river bluffs
Why It’s Popular: Scenic beauty, small-town charm, and a quieter rhythm compared to the lively Lower Mississippi
Grand Mississippi: Minneapolis to New Orleans
Duration: 14–21 nights
Highlights: Combines both Upper and Lower sections for the full Mississippi experience
Why It’s Popular: A true bucket-list journey that lets you follow America’s greatest river from source to sea
What Does a Mississippi River Cruise Cost?
Expect to pay more than you would for a European river cruise. Typical starting prices:
American Cruise Lines: From $4,000–$5,500 per person for 7 nights
Viking Mississippi: From $4,500–$6,000 per person for 7 nights
Grand Mississippi cruises: Often $10,000–$12,000 per person for 14–21 nights
That price tag might feel surprising if you’ve seen European river cruises advertised for less. But remember, when you’re sailing in the United States, operating costs are higher. Crews are paid U.S. wages, safety and labor regulations are more stringent, and food sourcing is often local. Add in the fact that there are only a handful of ships on the Mississippi compared to the hundreds crisscrossing Europe’s rivers, and you start to see why the fares make sense. Limited capacity and strong demand keep pricing higher, especially during peak seasons.
The good news? Most fares include your excursions, Wi-Fi, meals, and regional beer and wine with lunch and dinner. With my help, you’ll also have access to promotions, early-booking discounts, and occasionally additional perks not available if you book on your own.
Frequently Asked Questions About Mississippi River Cruises
Do I need a passport for a Mississippi River cruise?
No passport is required. Because all sailings are entirely U.S.-based, you can leave your passport at home and enjoy the ease of domestic travel. This is one of the biggest advantages over European river cruises: no customs lines, no international flights, just a seamless start to your journey.
How far in advance should I book?
Plan to book 12–18 months ahead, especially if you want a veranda stateroom or plan to sail during peak holiday periods like Thanksgiving or Christmas. With only a handful of ships operating, cabins sell quickly. Booking early also ensures you can take advantage of the best promotions.
Are Mississippi River cruises family-friendly?
Yes, but it depends on the line. American Cruise Lines welcomes families and offers accessible accommodations for multigenerational travel. Viking Mississippi is adults-only, designed for couples and friends who prefer a quiet, cultural atmosphere. For groups traveling with children or grandchildren, ACL tends to be the better fit.
What’s included in the fare?
Your fare typically covers accommodations, meals, Wi-Fi, daily excursions, and regional beer and wine with lunch and dinner. Viking Mississippi includes lectures and cultural enrichment, while American Cruise Lines often features themed cruises with live entertainment. Specialty experiences such as premium tours, private tastings, or pre- and post-cruise extensions come at an additional cost.
Why are Mississippi River cruises more expensive than European ones?
It surprises many travelers, but Mississippi River cruises usually cost more than Rhine or Danube sailings. That’s because there are far fewer ships and cabins in the U.S., operating costs and wages are higher, and demand continues to surge. You’re paying for exclusivity, convenience, and the richness of experiencing America’s river towns without leaving the country.
What about getting to the port?
Many departure cities are surprisingly easy to reach. Ports like New Orleans, Memphis, St. Louis, and St. Paul are central hubs that travelers can often drive to. This makes Mississippi cruises one of the most accessible vacation options for U.S. guests.
Will I get seasick on the Mississippi?
Unlikely. The Mississippi is a calm river compared to the ocean. Ships are stable, and motion is minimal. Most guests never feel more than a gentle drift.
Which cruise line is best for me: Viking or American Cruise Lines?
That depends on your style. Viking Mississippi offers a sleek, modern ship with Scandinavian design and an adults-only, cultural focus. American Cruise Lines provides smaller vessels (some nostalgic paddlewheelers, others modern riverboats) with an emphasis on comfort, accessibility, and themed itineraries. I’ll help you compare both options and match your travel personality to the right ship.
What’s the best time of year to cruise the Mississippi?
Spring and fall are favorites for their scenery and comfortable weather. Summer brings longer days but hotter temperatures, especially in the South. Holiday sailings in November and December add a festive feel, though they often sell out quickly.
Why Work With a Travel Advisor for Your Mississippi Cruise?
Here’s something many travelers don’t realize: the cost of a travel advisor is already built into your cruise fare. If you book direct, you’re paying for a service you’ll never receive. By booking with me, you gain that service at no additional cost.
I provide:
Personalized planning that saves you hours of research
Regular booking experience with lines like Viking and ACL
Timely emails leading up to your cruise so you feel prepared
In-destination support if something changes while you’re traveling
Careful application of every promotion, sometimes with extras you wouldn’t get on your own
My clients often tell me the peace of mind alone is worth it. When you know you have an advocate before, during, and after your cruise, you can simply enjoy the journey.
Ready to Plan Your Mississippi River Cruise?
The Mississippi is more than a river; it’s a story that shaped America. Whether you picture yourself dancing to live jazz in New Orleans, exploring Civil War history in Vicksburg, or sipping coffee while eagles soar overhead in Minnesota, there’s a cruise that can bring it to life.
I’d love to help you plan your 2026 or 2027 Mississippi River cruise. My services are always complimentary, and I’ll make sure you get the right sailing, the right cabin, and the best value available.
Your Next Step
We can hop on a quick call or video chat, and I’ll listen to you and then walk you through:
Which river itinerary fits your style
The differences between the major cruise lines (beyond what’s in the brochures)
How to time your trip for the best value and experience
And once again, my services are 100% complimentary. No fees. No catch. I mean it.
I'd love to talk, so let's take the next step!
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Emma Guse is a River Cruise Specialist with Travelmation, helping solo travelers, couples, families, and groups plan unforgettable river cruises with ease. Known for her down-to-earth style and expert guidance, she handles the details so you can focus on making memories.
Emma's services are 100% complimentary and included in the base rates of every river cruise line. Learn more about Emma HERE or submit an inquiry HERE.
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