riverboat cruise chattanooga

Riverboat Cruises

Chattanooga is a city that prides itself on its river. Only a short trip from downtown, the Tennessee River Gorge is one of the most biologically diverse areas of the country. Over 200 bird species call the gorge home, nesting in the 27,000 acres of virtually undisturbed forest. And one of the best ways to see this wonder of nature is by riverboat. Conveniently, there's plenty of options for rolling on the river. 

For an educational adventure on the Tennessee River, check out Southeastern Adventure Tours . Explore the Tennessee River gorge on an inflatable rafts that are propelled by outboard motors. Take a four hour tour through Tennessee's Grand Canyon, or extend your adventure with camping, guided nature walks, and mineral hunts.

No matter how you choose to navigate a Chattanooga riverboat vacation, chances are you’ll be singing its praises for years to come.

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Chattanooga River Cruises

See downtown chattanooga from a riverboat.

• User All Ages
• Hour Glass 1.5 hours

Sightseeing Cruise

The southern belle riverboat.

See Chattanooga from the beautiful Tennessee River. The best sightseeing tour in all of Chattanooga. All the way to Lookout Mountain, under the bridges.

Sunset Cruise

The best sunset cruise in all of Chattanooga. Since 1985 the Southern Belle Riverboat has had a simple mission: to provide a unique and spectacular experience of the beautiful city of Chattanooga.

See the Sights of the Tennessee River

Chattanooga’s location in the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains along the Tennessee River makes it the perfect setting for a beautiful river cruise .

As one of the most biologically diverse areas in the country, the Tennessee River Gorge is a must-visit destination for out of town guests and locals who want to play tourist for a day. The best way to see the sights of the Tennessee River is on a Chattanooga riverboat cruise !

Cruise on a Luxury Riverboat

Chattanooga riverboats date all the way back to the 1800s when they played a key role in transporting freight and passengers to riverside towns. Today, taking a sunset dinner cruise on a Chattanooga riverboat is like stepping back in time. You’re sure to enjoy the romance and spectacle of these impressive, multi-story riverboats. Sightseeing cruises offer a unique look at downtown Chattanooga, with many opportunities to spot wildlife along the riverbank. Be on the lookout for bird species (over 200 of them!), especially bald eagles.

Reminisce on simpler times as you relax aboard a dinner cruise and take in the amazing views along the river. Multi-course dinners are a wonderful way to celebrate a special occasion or just share a memorable moment with family and loved ones. Book a Chattanooga sunset cruise to watch the sun sink over the water as you admire the scenery. Whether you cruise by day or night, floating along the Tennessee River is an experience you’ll cherish for years to come.

Book your Chattanooga river cruise online today.

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Southern Belle Riverboat Cruise

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Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.

Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as waiting time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.

Southern Belle Riverboat Cruise - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (2024)

 Blue Heaven River Tours Chattanooga

Check out all our 5 Star reviews on TripAdvisor and FaceBook and see why so many of our Guest tell us that this was their favorite thing to do in Chattanooga!

Click the Blue Book Your River Tour Button for all Prices and Tour Times!

Our Private Tour prices are based on per tour, not per person!

                            S wim, Fish, Float, Eat, Drink, Relax and Explore!

Our Private Tours were created as an affordable way to enjoy all the beauty of the Downtown Riverfront, Bluffview Art District, Adventurous rides through the Lock and to explore the gorgeous scenery of what many call the Little Grand Canyon. 

        Why Rent a Boat when you can Charter a Beautiful Cabin Yacht for Less 

No gas or insurance to buy, no crowds, no hassels!

All with the convenince of being located at the Beautiful Downtown Riverfront!  

Seating is limited to 6 passangers or less for a romantic tour for a couple or an adventurous and fun filled day for  family and friends! When you book your Private Tour you pay one price and it covers up to 6 Guest.

       We can be your one stop connection to your Ultimate Lake and River adventure! Check out all our 5 Star Reviews on TripAdvisor and FaceBook to see all the wonderful pictures that show how much fun your day on the water can   be!

Located on the Downtown at 201 Riverfront Pkwy offering tours of Downtown Chattanooga, Lake Chicamaugua, Nickajack Lake and the Tennessee River Gorge!

 Call Capt. Wyn  423-320-3008   

T ake a tour to Downtown and check out all the  Beautiful Architecture of the  Bluffview Art District and the Aquarium!

 The party is on with BlueheavenrivertoursChattanooga.com and I am your designated Captain!

  Wonderful tour of under the three bridges downtown! Learn about the History of Chattanooga!

We love Aniversaries, Birthday Parties, Bridal Showers, Company Outings

and all your  Special Events!

Why Rent a Boat when you can Charter a Beautiful Cabin Yacht for Less!

No Gas or insurance to buy, no crowds, no hassles! 

 (Cabin Yacht Private Tours are perfect for couples

that want that intimate day on  the water or can   seat

up to Six Guest to accomidate your family and Friends.)

            Ask us how to accomidate Larger parties and Groups!

 Ask about adding a Paddle Board to any tour for just $50.00

Check out my Beautiful Cabin by clicking the Links at the bottom of the page! To Learn about Snorkel with the Manatee Tours visit our Florida Loacation by clicking the Link to Homosassa!

Tubing is subject to an extra charge and ranges from $25.00 per person per turn. This is due to wear and tear on the boat, gas and insurance requirements.    

 Tubing is also subject to a 200 lb maximum weight limit!

In the some cases we alow 2 children for $25.00 if they ride together and don't exceed a 200 lb weight limit. 

 Semi Private Tours may be available. Minimum Fee may apply for less then 4 guest

Everyone that visits our boat says that the pictures simply don't do it justice! 

Some of the most common comments are how nice it is to be able to enjoy a climate controlled Cabin Yacht. Other comments are that are location is simply beautiful! We are close to Chattanooga and the Downtown attrations as well as conviently located to all the wonderful restaurants and quiet coves of Lake Chickamauga as well!  When you arrive we will do everything we can to make your River and Lake Adventure the best you have ever had. We can take you from the Rolling Hills and beautiful scenery of the Lake all the way through the Lock to Downtown  & the Tennessee River Gorge!

 Our tour boat is not your average crowded  pontoon boat. It is a beautiful Cabin Yacht with Airconditioned indoor seating that is climate controlled for your comfort and is equipped with a restroom and comfortable seating for your convenience. It not only has wonderful indoor seating with so many glass windows so you can experience a panoramic view of the River and the Lake. It also has wonderful outdoor seating and a second story Flybridge and sundeck that enables you to see all the sights even better!  We look forward to having you aboard to what so many say can be an awesome experience.  We also offer Sunset tours, Fishing tours. Ask about adding a couple of Kayaks and let your family and friends take turns enjoying the full experience of being on the river. Our location and service will have you wanting to keep coming back!

Also check ot the Links below to see my Beautiful Log Cabins! Breathtaking Views!

  My Beautiful 1 Bedroom Log Cabin in the Clouds   https://www.vrbo.com/141929

Also check out the Link to find some of our favorite

Places to Eat / Places to Stay / Things to Do in Chattanooga  

VacationChattanooga.Com

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Explore Chattanooga, TN

Southern belle riverboat.

Welcome to the Pride of The South and one of the Best Chattanooga Attractions - The Southern Belle Riverboat! Take a great Chattanooga Cruise along The Scenic Tennessee River while enjoying one of our fabulous Dinner Cruises, Daily Lunch Cruises, Sightseeing Cruises or our Sunday Brunch Cruise. This is a vacation experience you won't want to miss! The most exciting Chattanooga events are happening at Pier 2 @ The Landing - one of the Best Wedding Sites in Chattanooga, TN. The banquet facilities are perfect for your receptions, next family reunion or any up coming events in Chattanooga, Tennessee.

201 Riverfront Pkwy. Pier 2 Chattanooga , TN 37402

For the most up-to-date hours and information, please contact Southern Belle Riverboat directly.

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Nearby Attractions

Still exploring? Try these popular ideas in and around Chattanooga.

Eat & Drink

Chattanooga Brewing Company

A taproom and brewery located on Chestnut Street in Chattanooga's historic Southside, Chattanooga Brewing Company serves up craft beer and quality food in a casual, comfortable setting inside or out in our german-style beer garden.

Puckett's Chattanooga

A Southern community kitchen with live pickin’ performances, authentic comfort food, barbecue smoked slow ‘n’ low over cherry wood, home-cooked sides, and even a few upscale dishes.

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Craft Beer - Artisan Food - Live Music - Local Art

Wauhatchie Woodlands

​​​​​​​Discover a new kind of vacation rental, the Timberroot Rustic Retreat. Relax, recharge & create lasting memories at Wauhatchie Woodlands in Chattanooga.

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Located on Nickajack Lake in the Tennessee River Gorge.

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Make the most of your trip to Chattanooga at the only riverfront hotel in town!

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A fun way to explore Chattanooga!

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Chattanooga River Cruises and Boat Tours

If you’re planning to spend time in the Chattanooga area, you may be interested in experiencing one of the many river cruises in the area. Chattanooga is the perfect place to enjoy a river cruise or boat tour since the Scenic City is full of natural beauty and impressive architectural creations. Whether you’re interested in sightseeing cruises or fishing expeditions, we have created a list of the best Chattanooga boat tours and river cruises in the area.

The river cruising options below include family friendly experiences, dinner cruises, and full all-inclusive packages. So, no matter what your adventure level is, you’re sure to find a Chattanooga boat tour that’s right for you! If you’re looking for fun things to do in Chattanooga, check out our full list below of the best river cruises and boat tours in Chattanooga, Tennessee.

Best Boat Tours in Chattanooga

Visitors and families in the Chattanooga, Tennessee area often search for fun outdoor attractions to enjoy. From popular spots like Rock City and Ruby Falls to the Chattanooga Zoo, the Scenic City offers all kinds of amazing places to visit.

Those who are looking for more unique opportunities of things to do in Chattanooga can check the local river cruises and boat tours. These are our top picks for the best boat tours in Chattanooga:

Southern Belle Riverboat

If you have ever spent time in downtown Chattanooga, you’ve probably noticed that it’s hard to miss the gigantic Southern Belle Riverboat. Guests can climb aboard the riverboat for amazing views of the beautiful Tennessee River and of the downtown Chattanooga area. The Southern Belle Riverboat is available for private tours and events, including weddings, reunions, and birthday parties. Additionally, the Southern Belle Riverboat offers two different river cruises year-round for guests to enjoy:

• Sightseeing Cruise – The Sightseeing Cruise onboard the Southern Belle Riverboat is a narrated cruise with views of some of the most popular sights in Chattanooga. Guests can enjoy views of popular places like Lookout Mountain and the Tennessee Aquarium.
• Sunset Cruise – The Southern Belle Riverboat’s Sunset Cruise features live music and incredible views of the sunset as guests cruise along the Tennessee River in Chattanooga. This tour is roughly a 1.5-hour cruise.

If you’re visiting Chattanooga during the holidays , the Southern Belle Riverboat often features special holiday themed cruises and dinner cruises with great service. These include unique cruises for Valentine’s Day, Mother’s Day, Father’s Day, Halloween, Thanksgiving, and New Year’s. In addition, if you are planning to enjoy the Chattanooga riverboat with kids, we highly recommend checking out the Christmas and Easter cruises. Guests can enjoy breakfast with Santa, a dinner boat cruise with carolers, or a meal with the Easter Bunny.

River Gorge Excursions

Chattanooga’s River Gorge Explorer is a double-decker pontoon boat tour through the TN River Gorge. The two-hour tour boasts amazing views of the scenic Tennessee River Gorge. In addition to this standard boat tour, River Gorge Excursions also offers a brunch cruise along with private tours for guests.

Furthermore, those interested in helping clean up the river to preserve the natural beauty of Chattanooga should check out River Gorge Excursions for their volunteer opportunities. Finally, if you’re looking for boat rentals in Chattanooga Tennessee, River Gorge Excursions features several pontoon boats for guests to rent and enjoy on the Tennessee River.

American Queen Voyages

If you’re interested in the full cruising experience, American Queen Voyages offers river cruises between Memphis and Chattanooga. These river cruises make several stops along the way at popular places like:

• Cape Girardeau in Missouri
• Decatur in Northern Alabama
• Nashville, TN

Guests onboard the American Queen Voyages can also visit Savannah, Tennessee to tour historical Civil War battlegrounds like Shiloh National Military Park. The American Queen Voyages are all-inclusive with meals, drinks, and transportation all included in your cruise fare.

Additionally, American Queen Voyages adds to their great guest experiences by featuring onboard live entertainment, including really talented musicians. While these river cruises are typically lengthy (a week or longer) in total duration, they are a great option for those visitors who are willing and able to invest the time and money into a truly special experience.

Chattanooga Ducks

The Chattanooga Ducks tour is an eye-opening experience into the history of the city of Chattanooga. It’s also one of the most fun boat tours in Chattanooga! We even added it to our list of the best things to do in Chattanooga with kids. Guests board the Chattanooga Ducks in the heart of Chattanooga and ride along the streets of downtown until the reach the Tennessee River.

Once the boat takes the (super fun) plunge into the water, guests can enjoy even more beautiful views of the city. This narrated boat tour is really entertaining and informative. You’ll learn all about the history behind the Walnut Street Bridge, Maclellan Island, Coolidge Park , and some of the historic homes in the Scenic City. The Chattanooga Ducks’ captains have even been known to let the kids take turns driving the duck boat while in the river.

Scenic City Fishing Charters

For those who are really wanting to get in on the action, Scenic City Fishing offers boat charters for visitors in the Tennessee River Valley. You can book a fishing expedition with one of the many boat crew members who specialize in fishing for catfish, bass, and more.  Scenic City Fishing Charters is a great option for those visitors who are interested in spending time on the Tennessee River in Chattanooga while actively participating in the fun.

Where to Stay before Your River Cruise

If you’re visiting the Chattanooga area from out of town, you may be wondering which hotels are the most conveniently located to the river cruising opportunities in our list. Since many of these Chattanooga boat tours are located in and around downtown area attractions, visitors will have no problem finding suitable accommodations nearby. We have compiled a list of our top picks for the best hotels in Chattanooga. These are our top choices:

• The Edwin Hotel Chattanooga (luxury hotel in great location)
• Doubletree by Hilton Downtown Chattanooga

Not only are the hotels above located near the Tennessee River, but they’re also close to popular entertainment options and restaurants in the Chattanooga area.

Final Thoughts on Chattanooga Boat Tours

If you’re looking for a great guest experience of Chattanooga and its surrounding area, we highly recommend trying one of the river cruises or boat tours in our list above. With spectacular views of downtown Chattanooga, the boat tours offer the perfect way to enjoy the beauty of the river and the historic downtown area. On your next visit to Chattanooga Tennessee, check out one of the exciting boat tours from our list.

Whether you’re looking for a dinner cruise experience or a narrated tour of the Chattanooga area, you can find all sorts of options from our top picks in this post. Maybe you’ll even choose to experience multiple boat tours in Chattanooga. If so, you won’t be disappointed you did!

You may also like our post on the Best Beaches near Chattanooga, TN . In that post, we discuss local lakes with sandy beaches plus the closest ocean beaches to Chattanooga! So, what do you think? What is your favorite boat tour in Chattanooga? Comment below to share it with us!

Shari is an experienced planner and organizer for Disney vacations, cruising, and U.S. travel. Her family vacation information, reviews, and tips provide insight for moms and dads everywhere. You can read more about her story, including her journey through breast cancer, in the about me page.

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• Most Popular

Admiral’s Dinner Cruise

Quick Details

• Clock Duration: 2 hours
• User Ages: 3+

Dinner cruises only available for Private Deck Charters and Private Whole Boat Charters.

For more information please call us at 423.266.4488.

Admiral’s Cruise in Chattanooga

• Two-hour cruise with live music
• Pilot house tours
• Live entertainment
• Our one-time-through buffet-style dinner featuring medium-rare prime rib, Cajun chicken, white rice, baby red potatoes, mixed vegetables, salad, dinner rolls, cheesecake, sweet tea, coffee, and water

Related Cruises

• Users Groups of 75+
• Clock 2 hours

Captain’s Dinner Cruise

Enjoy a Captain’s Dinner Cruise on The Southern Belle Riverboat. Cruise on the Tennessee River while you enjoy live entertainment and a buffet-style dinner.

Skipper’s Dinner Cruise

Take a two-hour cruise with pilot house tours, background music, and a one-time-through buffet-style dinner with roast beef, lemon basil chicken, and more!

THE 10 BEST Chattanooga Boat Rides & Cruises

Boat rides & cruises in chattanooga.

• Fishing Charters & Tours
• Boat Rentals
• Stand-Up Paddleboarding
• Kayaking & Canoeing
• Speed Boats Tours
• Waterskiing & Jetskiing
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Good for Couples
• Good for Kids
• Budget-friendly
• Honeymoon spot
• Good for Big Groups
• Adventurous
• Good for Adrenaline Seekers
• Hidden Gems
• Good for a Rainy Day
• Things to do ranked using Tripadvisor data including reviews, ratings, photos, and popularity.

1. Chattanooga Ducks

2. Scenic City Fishing Charters

3. Chattanooga Guided Adventures

4. Southern Belle Riverboat Cruise

5. Chattanooga Boat Charters

6. River Gorge Excursions

7. Blue Heaven River Tours

8. Erwin Boat Rentals

9. Outshine Adventures

10. Platinum Fishing Guides

11. Kobes Kayak Fishing & Rentals

12. Chattanooga Riverbenders

13. REI Chattanooga

14. Smith Fishing Adventures

15. Scenic City Watersports

16. Chattahookem

17. Carson Craig's Guided Fly Fishing

19. Bass Boat Rentals

20. tennessee river adventure inc..

21. Tommys Boats Rentals

What travelers are saying.

• Southern Belle Riverboat Cruise
• River Gorge Excursions
• Blue Heaven River Tours
• Outshine Adventures
• Chattanooga Ducks
• Erwin Boat Rentals
• Chattanooga Guided Adventures
• Scenic City Fishing Charters

Southern Belle Riverboat

Review Highlights

“ The boat trip was very nice and the weather was great, but the musician, Gary, that played the guitar and sang made the trip amazing. ” in 2 reviews

“ Over Labor Day weekend, I took my Mom on a riverboat cruise on the Southern Belle. ” in 2 reviews

“ Wine, dinner, and live music all while going down the river, definitely a great experience! ” in 10 reviews

Location & Hours

Suggest an edit

151 Riverfront Pkwy

Chattanooga, TN 37402

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Is there a designated smoking section? I want to enjoy the cruise without the smell of smoke.

No smoking on board. No issues with smoke at all.

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• 2 star rating Could’ve been better
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Overall rating

147 reviews

Everything about our sunset cruise was perfect, fed the ducks on the drawbridge walking in, spent plenty of $ at the gift shop that can only be described as A game stuff for sale, found the staff to all be very nice and engaging, enjoyed going out on the cruise with a few rum slushies and pretzel bites, the guitar player at the front of the boat was excellent music for the cruise, the weather and view was perfect, and the folks on the cruise with us were all very nice and worthy of light conversation!!!! Work this trip in and enjoy something different!

Yesterday, 3/21/2024, I booked the 7pm Sunset Cruise. I paid for an upgraded gold package. We came from GA to celebrate my Mom's 65th bday. Upon arrival, I was surprised to find our seating was bumped out of the upgraded window seat, moved to the 3rd level deck, due to a private party on the 1st & 2nd floor. I was told we were called and a voice-mail was left, which definitely didn't happen. The staff was nice & courteous, and although disappointing we accepted the 3rd level seating. Thankfully the weather was nice. Before boarding we wandered the gift shop, bought several items, went to the upper level bar & had a drink. Soon it became clear the 2 lower decks were reserved for some type of field trip. As the hoards of kids packed into the gift shop, I can only guess it was around 300 young teens. It became very clear we were NOT going to have a relaxed sunset cruise & frankly it was disturbing. We went along, tickets already purchased, having driven from GA for my Mom's birthday. At least the hoard would be downstairs, we thought. The loud DJ they had for the event completely drowned out our live musician. It was impossible to use the bathroom. The teens were wild, disruptive, & intimidating. Soon they wanted to explore 3rd deck. That was the end of my patience. Absolutely not acceptable. Top deck had several tables that paid for upgraded seating who got bumped up. We all paid hard earned money for a relaxing evening on a sunset cruise which wasn't provided. While the staff was excellent & full of grace trying to provide an enjoyable evening, the massive group of teens was a nightmare. Moving forward, my suggestion to the establishment would be, if a group of 300 kids rent the 2 levels, they should just rent the whole boat. Don't even accept bookings from additional guests. Charge the fieldtrip for the entire charter. I would have preferred to have been canceled, refunded, & spent money elsewhere. It's, in my opinion, a massive disappointment to have had this experience. Not in anyway what was expected. The ball was dropped yesterday. The entire top deck was cruisers that were bumped out of their premium packages, we all booked expecting relaxation, romance, or quality time with family & friends. It's mindblowing the establishment expected us cruisers to accept being overrun by 300 unruly teens. It's clear Southern Belle only cared about the extra revenue vs the experience of its guests.

Over Labor Day weekend, I took my Mom on a riverboat cruise on the Southern Belle. It was such a delightful experience! Felt like we were in another time, sitting on the deck watching the birds fly over the river as we sipped cocktails and listened to live music. Everyone was friendly. And we got to see a beautiful sunset over the river too! A great, low price for such a high quality life experience.

Sunset from the boat deck

our river view

What a wonderful ride we had yesterday on the Southern Belle! We were lucky enough to get a nice table on the upper deck and therefore shaded from the sun. We went up the gorge and it was beautiful. We were blessed to see six bald eagles on the trip. The captain really makes the ride enjoyable. He has a great personality and shares a lot of history about the river and Tennessee. They need help when it comes to lining up to go on the boat. I think they should organize it so that all the elderly are boarding first. And help making sure the line stays organized. It was a hot mess yesterday. It reminded me of concerts in the 70's with open seating. A little scary. Again, the Captain makes the trip!!

View from the Southern Belle

Food was divided into who had paid and at what level. We paid $75 and did not get fancy charcuterie board and we got plain cheesecake while those paid more got special toppings. Band was ok. Nothing special. Didnt get to see sites of chatt at night Stayed in dining room. This is not worth the money.

Horrible experience, rude staff who seemed upset to be here. I'm still on the boat and due to the horrible food and rude staff and forced 20% tip on already 500% mark up on bottom shelf gas stations nachos I would be having more fun jumping off the boat and walking miles to my car. NEVER AGAIN!

Went Saturday, 5/27/2023 at 5p.m. Beautiful weather and ride. Enjoyed the facts told and the humor during the ride. The young ladies at the check in where very polite and pleasant. When leaving, the dinner/cruise that was waiting to board after we left, over crowded the check in/gift shop area. I think management should utilize the scanners they don't use to help their staff get customers checked in more efficiently. The 2 young ladies were doing a great job and their best with juggling people checking in and those trying to buying tems.

Bar and food are great Shelly is awesome loved this outing lol Shelly did an amazing job serving drinks for us. She went above and beyond anything we could have asked thanks for the great experience.

Food is disgusting and service is extremely poor. Definitely a spot to try in chattanooga, but would not return. Could be much better if more detail was focused on.

Awesome captain, funny and informative. The PA system was shoddy but the captain included the kids in tid bits and even let them honk the horn/blow the whistle. You get a cute mini moon pie upon boarding. The views were great and you don't feel crowded. We also had a drink which was decent. We didn't try any food.

9 other reviews that are not currently recommended

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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.

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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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