Historic Mississippi River Cruise | American Cruise Lines

 


 

New Orleans, LA to New Orleans, LA

8 Days / 7 Nights

Starting and concluding in the lively city of New Orleans, this remarkable journey honors the festive culture and deep roots of a region where music speaks universally, and history is evident at every twist and turn of the river. Experience comfort aboard our latest ships as you explore captivating port cities, including Natchez, showcasing a distinct mix of African, British, and French influences, as well as Baton Rouge, the heart and core of Louisiana.

Indulge in genuine Cajun and Creole dishes, reflecting the diverse backgrounds of the residents. Visit grand homes and significant sites filled with stories, guided by experts who offer a behind-the-scenes look.

While cruising, enjoy the attentive service of our crew or unwind in your spacious cabin, soaking in the serene river scenery. This is a coordinated senior group trip, not a custom planned trip, meaning you are embarking on a river cruise with other likeminded travelers. 

 

Sailings:

Start Date: Oct 10, 2025
 
Start Date: Nov 11, 2025
 
Start Date: Nov 16, 2025
 

Itinerary:

Day 1 - New Orleans, LA

Welcome to New Orleans, this lively city is the starting point for your historic river journey. Upon landing at Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport you will check into your hotel and prepare for an enchanting exploration of this city. Wander down avenues shaded by trees, enjoy a carriage tour through the French Quarter, ride a streetcar to the beautiful Garden District, or explore the famous National World War II Museum.

This trip includes a hotel stay, ensuring a smooth transition to boarding the ship and exploring the surrounding area. On the cruise's morning, gather in the hotel lobby, and we will take you to the ship to start your cruise. All your bags will be transferred directly from the hotel and placed in your cabin aboard the ship, making the beginning of your river experience seamless and worry-free.

Day 2 - Cruising the Historic Mississippi River

Board your ship and receive a warm greeting at the Welcome Reception, allowing you to meet fellow travelers and enjoy the scenic views as you spend the afternoon cruising along the majestic Mississippi, a river woven into the fabric of American history and culture. Delight in the entertainment provided by onboard performers, who will bring to life the music that originated from the river itself, encapsulating the soul and spirit of the regions it touches.

 

Day 3 - Oak Alley, LA / Houmas House, LA

As your river journey continues, two standout landmarks in Louisiana await: Oak Alley and Houmas House.

Oak Alley is celebrated for its striking avenue of centuries-old oak trees leading to a majestic historical home, offering a window into the grandeur and complexity of the South's past. This remarkable site serves as a living museum of the area's architectural and agricultural heritage. With an emphasis on its time as a sugar plantation, you will walk under its iconic alley, explore the exhibits, interact with staff, and leave with a richer, more powerful understanding of this plantation's complex history. For the full Southern experience, don't forget to enjoy a complimentary mint julep. 

Houmas House, known as "The Sugar Palace," is where you will step into 16 rooms filled with rare period antiques and Louisiana artwork. Explore the mansion, which has been restored to the antebellum era, reflecting the opulence and wealth that this sugarcane farm boasted during the 1800s. Learn about plantation life and the 250-year history of the manor, including its architectural evolution to become a grand estate. 

Cajun Culinary Lagniappe Experience 

Be entertained with Cajun folktales while getting step-by-step coaching from a local Cajun jambalaya cook. After dining, enjoy shopping in the Cajun Village, a unique location with specialty crafts and Louisiana items. In case you have a craving for a cup of café au lait and beignets, you can swing by the Coffee House for complimentary beignets.

 

Visiting these locations offers a journey through the architectural splendor and layered history of Louisiana's river road estates, painting a vivid portrait of the bygone era that sculpted this distinctive region.

 

Day 4 - Explore Baton Rouge, LA

As the capital of Louisiana, you will wander through the famous downtown districts, taking in the flourishing art, architecture, and natural beauty along the way. You will also have time to visit several local attractions that are of interest to you, such as…

Louisiana's Old Governor's Mansion - a stunning example of the Georgian architectural style. Once the home of Louisiana's governors, this historic site offers a glimpse into the state's political history and showcases beautifully preserved interiors. 

Louisiana's New Governor's Mansion - an impressive structure with elegant grounds. Take a guided tour to learn about its modern design and the significant events that have taken place within its walls since its opening in 1963. 

Louisiana State Capitol and Arsenal - the tallest capitol building in the United States. Explore its grand hallways, art collections, and panoramic views from the observation deck. Adjacent to the capital, the historic Arsenal provides insight into the military history of the region. 

LSU Museum of Art - where you can admire a diverse collection of American art. The museum often hosts special exhibitions, so be sure to check what's on display during your visit. 

Louisiana Art & Science Museum -  Explore interactive exhibits, stunning art collections, and an impressive planetarium that will ignite your imagination and curiosity.

 

Day 5 - Explore Natchez, MS/ Vicksburg, MS

In Natchez, elegant residences gleam like gems on elevated land overlooking the river, with roots tracing back to a 1716 French stronghold. The town's grand 19th-century homes, spared by the Civil War, preserve a rich collection of pre-war architecture. Each building tells a unique story, creating a downtown that embodies Southern charm and hospitality. You can tour historic townhouses, explore a working cotton estate, and enjoy the scenic river views from the bluff. 

Meanwhile, Vicksburg, known as “The Gibraltar of the West,” played a pivotal role in the Civil War, a story vividly recounted at the Vicksburg National Military Park. You will have access to guided tours at the park that detail the military strategies and human stories that shaped this critical battle. 

Day 6 - Explore St. Francisville, LA

St. Francisville, a storied cotton port has the best view from the high banks over the river. This picturesque town traces its origins to the early 19th century, a time when it flourished under Spanish rule in West Florida before American settlers claimed it, weaving it into the fabric of the United States.

St. Francisville invites you to wander through its history, whether you prefer to venture alone or join one of many engaging guided tours. Explore the Historic District, where grand mansions stand as testaments to the town's past wealth and elegance, surrounded by eclectic boutique stores. The landscape shifts from towering cottonwoods to majestic oaks, their limbs draped in the ethereal beauty of Spanish moss, creating a scene that captures the essence of the South's timeless allure.

Day 7 - Explore New Orleans 

Welcome to New Orleans as the amazing trip comes to a close, today you will have the chance to wander through the French Quarter,  savor some beignets at Café du Monde, and indulge in a bowl of gumbo or a po'boy sandwich.  Don't forget to explore the fascinating exhibits at The National WWII Museum, where history comes alive in the heart of this vibrant city.

Day 8 - Depart New Orleans, return home 

Did you have a good time? After eight days of cruising along the historic Mississippi River, your journey has concluded. Filled with lasting memories and a new appreciation for the river's history. Today, as you disembark for the last time you coordinated group transportation will take you to  Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport to safely return home. 

What's included in this trip pricing: 

  • Daily Enrichment Program
  • At Least One Shore Excursion Every Day
  • Evening Entertainment
  • Cocktail Hours, Wine, and Beer
  • WiFi Internet
  • All Gourmet Meals
  • Gratuities, Port Charges, and Other Fees included in your trip pricing 
  • Hotel stay costs included in your trip pricing
  • All Scheduled airport transfers (airport to pre-river cruise hotel, pre-river cruise hotel to dock, back to airport to return home) 
 
 
 

What's not included in this trip pricing: 

  • Flights
 
 

Available Packages

Standard water view room (no balcony)
Available until July 1, 2025

Starting At: $3,990.00
Deposit: $500.00 per room

Book now

The Standard Waterview staterooms aboard the American Heritage paddlewheeler offer a spacious 290 square feet of comfort and elegance. Guests can choose between a king-size bed or two twin beds, ensuring a restful night's sleep. Large picture windows provide expansive water views, allowing natural light to fill the room and offering a continuous connection to the scenic river landscapes.​ No balcony.

 

 

Standard Balcony
Available until July 1, 2025

Starting At: $4,565.00
Deposit: $500.00 per room

Book now
​The Standard Balcony staterooms aboard the American Heritage paddlewheeler offer a spacious 304 square feet of elegantly designed interior space. Each room features large floor-to-ceiling glass doors that open onto a private balcony equipped with a table and chairs. The staterooms are furnished with a king-size bed, which can be reconfigured into two twin beds to accommodate different sleeping preferences. This state room comes with a full bathroom with a generous shower, premium toiletries, a hairdryer, and plush towels, and ample storage solutions including a wardrobe, full-size dresser, under-bed storage, and desk drawers. This stateroom is located on the 2nd Deck.
 

Premium Balcony
Available until July 1, 2025

Starting At: $5,330.00
Deposit: $500.00 per room

Book now
The Premium Balcony staterooms aboard the American Heritage paddlewheeler offer a spacious 328 square feet of elegantly designed interior space. Featuring large floor-to-ceiling glass doors that open onto a private balcony equipped with a table and chairs, providing guests with a personal outdoor retreat to enjoy the passing river scenery. This stateroom is furnished with a king-size bed, which can be reconfigured into two twin beds to accommodate different sleeping preferences. A full bathroom includes a generous shower, premium toiletries, a hairdryer, and plush towels, ensuring a comfortable and refreshing experience. Ample storage solutions are available, including a wardrobe, full-size dresser, under-bed storage, and desk drawers, allowing guests to organize their belongings conveniently. This stateroom offers individual climate control, a flat-screen TV, USB charging ports, and complimentary Wi-Fi. Located on the 5th deck. 
 
 

Extra Options

Flight Booking Service
Available until July 11, 2025

$495.00

Our Air Travel Service provided in partnership with our preferred river cruise provider, American Cruise Lines can make your river cruise even smoother by researching and booking your round-trip flight on your behalf for the most convenient travel experience possible.

If you choose to hire the Air Travel Service  team to handle your flights,  one of our Travel experts will contact you approximately 90 days prior to your departure to confirm your air travel plans. 

$495 research & booking fee. 

Our Air Travel Service provides you with:

  • One flat rate price for your air travel
  • Convenient arrival and departure times
  • Economy-class seats with upgrade options (at an additional cost)
 

Air Travel and cruise itinerary bookings are subject to American Cruise Lines’ Passenger Cancellation Terms.

Cancellation Protection Plan
Available until July 11, 2025

$0.00

The Bespoke Bookings Co. team and our partners American Cruise Lines, Inc. wants you to have the best cruise ever. The Cancel For Any Reason Protection Plan can provide you with peace of mind, because, unfortunately, the unexpected  can happen.

This Plan is not insurance.  A Cancellation Administrative Charge of $250 per person is deducted from any money-back refund or issuance of Cruise Credits. This Plan offers the opportunity to receive a money-back refund or the issuance of Cruise Credits from American Cruise Lines beyond the standard cancellation terms. 

Plan pricing is determined by your cruise fare, airfare and pre-cruise package options selected.

 You can also read the protection plan summary and important information and terms to learn more.

Optional Travel Insurance
Available until July 1, 2025

$0.00

pricing depends on policy and coverage selection

Travel of any kind is an important investment and there are options available to ensure that your investment is protected. If you've already decided to purchase the Cruise Cancellation Plan, then that is great! But gentle reminder that the ACL Cancellation Plan is not travel insurance—it simply waives cancellation fees and assists in obtaining a refund for the cruise fare.

To ensure complete protection of your trip—including flights, baggage, medical emergencies, and unexpected travel disruptions—it is always recommended to purchase travel insurance. Here’s why:

What the Cancellation Plan Covers (And What It Doesn’t)

✔ Cruise fare refund if they cancel (up to 24 hours before departure).
❌ No protection for flights – If your flight gets delayed or canceled, without insurance you will be responsible for rebooking and additional costs.
❌ No emergency medical coverage – If you fall ill or get injured before or during your trip, medical expenses aren't covered under the Cancellation Plan.
❌ No coverage for lost/delayed baggage – If your luggage is lost or delayed, you will need to cover replacement costs out of pocket if you do not have travel insurance coverage. 
❌ No reimbursement for trip interruptions – If you need to cut your trip short due to a personal emergency or bad weather, without dedicated travel insurance you won't be refunded for missed experiences.

How Travel Insurance Complements The Cancellation Plan

With Travel Insurance, you have true peace of mind knowing that everything is covered—not just the cruise fare.

✔ Flight Protection: If your  flight is delayed or canceled, travel insurance can aid to cover rebooking costs and provides compensation for extended delays.
✔ Trip Interruption & Delay Coverage: If bad weather, a medical emergency, or unforeseen circumstances cause you to miss the cruise departure or shorten your trip, travel insurance can reimburse non-refundable expenses.
✔ Emergency Medical Coverage: If you experience a health issue during the cruise, travel insurance can potentially cover medical treatment, hospital stays, and even emergency evacuation if necessary.
✔ Baggage Protection: If your luggage is lost, stolen, or delayed, with travel insurance you will potentially be reimbursed for essentials and replacement costs.
✔ 24/7 Travel Assistance: If you need help rebooking flights, making alternate travel plans, or navigating medical care.

By adding Travel Insurance, you will have full financial protection for your entire trip—not just the cruise. This ensures that if anything goes wrong (flight issues, health concerns, or unexpected cancellations), you won’t be left covering costly expenses out of pocket.

Our preferred travel insurance provider is Faye and they understand the importance of prompt assistance during travel disruptions. Their goal is to process claims within 48 hours of receiving all necessary information.

Reimbursement Methods:

  • Faye Wallet: Approved funds can be sent to your Faye Wallet, a digital card within the companies app, which can be connected to Google Pay or Apple Pay for immediate use. ​

  • Bank Transfer: Alternatively, funds can be transferred directly to your bank account, if you'd prefer. (standard processing times apply)