Lower Mississippi River Cruise - American Cruise Lines

Cruise Itinerary

Date	Port	Arrive	Depart
9 May 2025	Memphis Tennessee, USA		Hotel
10 May 2025	Memphis Tennessee, USA	Embark
11 May 2025	Terrene Landing, Mississippi, USA	Cleveland Tour
12 May 2025	Vicksburg, Mississippi, USA
13 May 2025	Natchez, Mississippi, USA
14 May 2025	St Francisville, Louisiana, USA
15 May 2025	River Cruising	Mississippi River
16 May 2025	Oak Alley Plantation, Vacherie, Louisiana, USA	Houmas House
17 May 2025	New Orleans, Louisiana, USA	Disembark

7 Night Cruise sailing from Memphis to New Orleans onboard American Serenade. Hotel stay pre-cruise in Memphis.

Detailed Itinerary:

Day 1 - Pre-Cruise
On our Lower Mississippi River cruise itineraries, we offer a Complimentary 1-Night Pre-Cruise Hotel Stay providing you will a seamless way to board the ship and explore the local area.

NOTE: Pre-Cruise Packages and Hotel Stays must be reserved at least 30 days before your cruise date.

Day 2 Memphis, TN
Get ready to feel the vibrant soul of Memphis. This historic gem boasts a skyline that dances along the river, lined by swaying oak trees and historic landmarks. Feel the rhythm of the city through legendary Beale Street, alive with the sounds of blues and jazz. Indulge in mouthwatering BBQ, then unwind at The Guest House, your haven in this dynamic city.

Day 3 Cleveland, MS
Known as the "City of Hospitality," Cleveland, Mississippi, has played a significant role in shaping the cultural landscape of the South. Its history is deeply intertwined with agriculture, particularly cotton farming, reflected in the historic downtown where remnants of the city's cotton trading past still remain.

Cleveland is also celebrated for its contributions to American music. As part of the Mississippi Blues Trail, legendary musicians such as B.B. King, Muddy Waters, and Robert Johnson have left their mark on the region. One of Cleveland's most notable cultural attractions is the GRAMMY® Museum Mississippi which pays tribute to the region's many contributions to American music.

Day 4 Vicksburg, MS
Vicksburg resonates with historical significance, particularly during the Civil War, where its control marked a pivotal moment. Dubbed "The Gibraltar of the West," its fortified link between river and rail was crucial. Explore the National Military Park battlefield with a narrated tour, bringing its significance to life.

President Abraham Lincoln emphasized Vicksburg's importance, declaring it the key to closing the war. This port offers excursions abound, from museum visits guided by experts to solo explorations. Step onto an immense Army Corps of Engineers towboat or amble along the floodwall adorned with captivating murals, each panel narrating Vicksburg's tales with fervor. Engage with the energy of this historic gem, where every corner brims with stories waiting to be uncovered.

Day 5 Natchez, MS
Natchez, nestled along the Lower Mississippi River, is a treasure trove of history and architectural wonders. Founded in 1716, it bears the imprint of its French origins, evident in landmarks like Fort Rosalie, a testament to its colonial past. The town flourished during the antebellum era, with affluent planters erecting grand mansions such as Stanton Hall and Longwood, showcasing their wealth and influence.

Natchez preserves its heritage with hundreds of well-preserved enchanting homes, each telling a unique story. Take a stroll down historic Main Street, lined with charming shops and restaurants housed in restored buildings.

Explore the iconic Natchez Trace Parkway, tracing the footsteps of Native Americans and early settlers. Delve into the rich cultural heritage at the Natchez Museum of African American History and Culture, and the Historic Jefferson College. Natchez invites you to step back in time and immerse yourself in its fascinating history and Southern charm.

Day 6 St. Francisville, LA
St. Francisville, Louisiana, invites you on a journey through time, blending history with mystery and culinary delights. Led by an expert historian, embark on a once-in-a-lifetime exploration of pivotal Battle of Baton Rouge locations and the significance of Vicksburg in the Civil War. Visit Fort Desperate, witness interpretive demonstrations, and hold artifacts from the battles.

Step into the haunting beauty of the Myrtles estate, built in 1796, renowned as one of America's most haunted homes. Marvel at its architectural splendor, adorned with exquisite details and surrounded by ancient live oak trees.

Experience the art of Cochon de Lait cooking, a cherished Louisiana tradition, while learning about its cultural significance. Indulge in a sumptuous spread of pork, Louisiana boudin, and traditional sides, accompanied by captivating stories of Louisiana's rich culinary heritage.

Day 7 River Cruising - Mississippi River
Today is your day to unwind and take it all in. Glide effortlessly along the Mighty Mississippi, surrounded by breathtaking panoramas of cottonwood trees and graceful blue herons.

Engage in captivating enrichment sessions and lively onboard events. Delight in gourmet cuisine and refreshing cocktails. Whether you're lounging in our spacious lounges or basking in the sun on the deck, there's endless fun to be had. As Mark Twain famously said, it's a day with "nothing to hang a worry or a fret upon" – so let go and embrace the adventure!

Day 8 Oak Alley, LA / Houmas House, LA
This iconic Southern estate is renowned for its oak-lined avenue, stretching majestically towards the Mississippi River. Built in the early 19th century, this Greek Revival mansion exudes charm with its grand architecture and lush gardens. Visitors are transported back in time as they explore the meticulously preserved interiors and learn about the land’s history, including its role in the sugar industry.

Houmas House and Gardens offers a glimpse into the opulent lifestyle of Louisiana's plantation owners. Known as the "Crown Jewel of Louisiana's River Road," this magnificent estate features stunning architecture, lush gardens, and luxurious interiors. Visitors can tour the lavishly decorated rooms, stroll through the expansive grounds, and enjoy fine dining at the onsite restaurant. Houmas House invites guests to step into a world of Southern splendor and hospitality.ak trees. Here, you can savor a complimentary taste of one of the best mint juleps in the South.

Day 9 New Orleans, LA
Established in 1718, this jazz-centric city features notable locations such as the French Quarter, with its ornate architecture, and Bourbon Street, famous for its bustling nightlife. Explore the historic St. Louis Cathedral, built in 1794, and Jackson Square, a hub of artistic and cultural activity.

Uncover the city's past at the National WWII Museum, honoring American soldiers' sacrifices during World War II. Wander through the Garden District, known for its elegant mansions and lush gardens.

Indulge in the city's culinary delights, including gumbo, po'boys, and beignets. Enjoy live music at venues like Preservation Hall and Tipitina's, or any sidewalk where jazz, blues, and funk fill the air.

American Cruise Lines is pleased to announce American Serenade, one of the newest ships in our revolutionary American riverboat series. The overture to American Serenade’s cruise season will begin on the legendary Mississippi River in 2023.

Like her sister ship American Symphony, the 175-passenger American Serenade introduces an updated modern interior design, integrating an elegant and refined aesthetic with our tradition for the spacious comfort found aboard all of our ships. Drawing inspiration from the geography across America, the new interior design highlights natural textural elements and serene color palettes.

American Serenade also showcases panoramic views throughout, including an impressive four-story glass atrium in the center of the ship. Ranging from 250 to 650 square feet, all of the spacious staterooms offer full-size bathrooms, roomy closets, and private balconies where you can enjoy daily breakfast room service. The new ship also features an on board fitness center and many spacious lounges where you can relax after the day’s adventures.

American Cruise Lines is the leader in small ship cruising! Carrying up to 180 maximum depending on the vessel, all of the small ships are able to easily navigate America's smooth, inland waterways and dock in the heart of each charming port. From Maine to Florida, the itineraries are designed to allow passengers to experience intimately each area's local culture, fascinating history and natural splendor.

Unsurpassed personal attention and intimate ambience make American Cruise Lines the leader in small ship cruising. The all-American crew is friendly, polite and eager to pamper you. Highly skilled chefs treat passengers to delectable feasts, masterfully prepared with the utmost in care and quality, highlighting the flavors of the local regions.

Refreshingly casual, flexible and unregimented - American Cruise Lines provides an intimate ambience conducive to camaraderie. Curl up with a book in the library, chat with new friends in one of the lounges, or watch the passing scenery from one of the open observation decks.

Each night, passengers relive the day's adventures over complimentary cocktails and hors d'oeuvres before dinner.