7 Night Cruise sailing from New Orleans roundtrip aboard American Queen.

Lower Mississippi Cruises:
Memory flows deep and sentiment eddies and swirls along the Lower Mississippi River. Once divided by these very waters, when cotton was king and the plantation lifestyle was at its zenith, the North and South were at war, each armed with conflicting visions of what was worth dying for. Look back as each battlefield and grave marker has a story to tell. Then celebrate the living, breathing places where southern culture continues to enjoy a modern-day renaissance.

THEMES:

Louisiana History - February 22
The history of Louisiana is long and rich. Louisiana became a U.S. State on April 30, 1812. With the growth of settlement in the Midwest (formerly the Northwest Territory) and Deep South during the early decades of the 19th century, trade and shipping increased markedly in New Orleans. Join us as we examine the unique history of this Southern state.

Louisiana History & Culture - May 4
The history of Louisiana is long and rich. With the growth of settlement in the Midwest (formerly the Northwest Territory) and Deep South during the early decades of the 19th century, trade and shipping increased markedly in New Orleans. Join us as we examine the history of this Southern state and the culture that has grown from this unique region.

Southern Culture - November 15
Immerse yourself in the literature, music and culture of the South, as well as its traditions, history and cooking. Our Southern Culture Vacations carry you deep into the worlds of William Faulkner, Flannery O'Connor, Tennessee Williams and Harper Lee. You'll visit the towns that inspired literary and musical greatness. Along the way, you'll experience the sounds of the Delta blues and sample plenty of Southern cooking.

Thanksgiving - November 22
Savor the flavors of famed American Chef Regina Charboneau during our Southern-styled Thanksgiving Steamboating Adventure.

DQSC and PSSOA Reunion - December 13
Special activities, treats and surprises abound as we celebrate the Delta Queen Steamboat Company and the Paddlewheel Steamboatin' Society of America.

Day 1: New Orleans, LA
Departure: 7:30 p.m.
Enjoy the sights and sounds of New Orleans today. This afternoon, you will board the American Queen to begin your voyage. Kick off the festivities with a Welcome Aboard Dinner.

Day 2: Oak Alley, LA
Arrival: 8:00 a.m. - Departure: 1:00 p.m.
Located in the Saint James Parish, Oak Alley is a much-photographed plantation that combines architectural splendor and the natural wonder of its 300-year-old oak trees. Spend time strolling beneath the canopy of these trees, and learn about the rich history and culture of this southern estate.

Day 3: St. Francisville, LA
Arrival: 8:00 a.m. - Departure: 1:00 p.m.
This quaint town located on the bluffs of the Mississippi River is your window to the past. With over 140 buildings on the National Register, beautiful plantation homes nestled in the rolling countryside, and bustling Main Street shops, you'll find plenty to keep you on the go in St. Francisville.

Day 4: Natchez, MS
Arrival: 8:00 a.m. - Departure: 5:00 p.m.
Step into the plantation lifestyle of the antebellum south in Natchez, site of numerous restored mansions. Visit historic Jefferson College, or just amble down the Natchez Trace.

Day 5: Vicksburg, MS
Arrival: 8:00 a.m. - Departure: 5:00 p.m.
Discover a unique blend of old and new in Vicksburg, Mississippi. Take in the diversity from Vicksburg National Military Park to the Waterways Experiment Station. Billed as the "Red Carpet City of the South," Southern hospitality is alive and well and awaiting your arrival.

Day 6: Baton Rouge, LA
Arrival: 10:00 a.m. - Departure: 9:00 p.m.
The capital of Louisiana, Baton Rouge is the center of all the great things the state has to offer-visitors delight in the seamless blend of past and present experiencing authentic Louisiana at every turn. With its semi-tropical climate, the outdoors is tempting and the attractions abound. No wonder this is one of the south's fastest growing cities.

Day 7: Houmas House, LA
Arrival: 8:00 a.m. - Departure: 3:00 p.m.
Houmas House Plantation and Gardens is so much more than just a tour of a grand antebellum estate. Experience the southern splendor of "The Sugar Palace" when you step into 16 rooms filled with period antiques and Louisiana artwork.

Day 8: Disembark in New Orleans, LA
Arrival: 8:00 a.m.
Tie up in New Orleans near historic Jackson Square and bid your ship adieu.