viking mississippi river cruises 2022

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Viking Mississippi River Cruises Are Finally Becoming a Reality

After years of speculation, and many conversations between Viking cruise line executives and officials in small Mississippi river towns, it’s really going to happen. The versatile cruise line has announced the long-awaited launch of Mississippi River cruises in 2022.

According to Viking, they plan to debut their first, purpose-built Mississippi river ship in August 2022.

Viking Mississippi River Cruise Destinations

Viking will offer cruises on both the Upper and Lower Mississippi river. Departures from New Orleans, Louisiana and St. Paul, Minnesota include seven- to 14-night cruises.

Cruising the entire length, from St. Paul to New Orleans (or vice versa) will cover a distance of nearly 2,300 miles and travel through seven states along the way. Ports of call on the scheduled itineraries include:

• Louisiana – New Orleans, Baton Rouge, Darrow, and St. Francisville
• Mississippi –  Natchez and Vicksburg
• Tennessee – Memphis
• Missouri – Hannibal, St. Louis
• Iowa – Burlington, Dubuque and Davenport
• Wisconsin – La Crosse)
• Minnesota – Red Wing and St. Paul

At a time where many of us are at home, looking for inspiration to travel in the future, I am pleased to introduce a new, modern way to explore this great river. We invented the concept of modern river cruising when we got our start 23 years ago—first on the rivers of Russia and then in Europe. Since then, many people have come to appreciate the unique exploration that comes with river cruising—but currently there are very few options to do so on American rivers,” said Torstein Hagen, Chairman of Viking. 

Viking Mississippi River Ship

The new Viking Mississippi,  currently under construction in Louisiana, will accommodate 386 guests with 193 outside staterooms. Continuing the Scandinavian minimalist design from their ocean and river ships, but with a nod to the obvious Mississippi River boat history. Though there’s no paddle-wheel, the ship will stand five-decks high and every stateroom will have access to fresh air, either with a French Balcony or veranda.

With all outside staterooms, there’s a choice of seven room categories that range in size from 268 sq. ft, to a whopping 1,024 sq. ft. The categories include Veranda, French Balcony, Deluxe Veranda, Penthouse Veranda, Penthouse Jr. Suite, Terrace Suite and Explorer Suite.

In addition to all staterooms featuring either a private veranda or French balcony, there will also be a king-size beds, luxury linen, flat-screen interactive TV, mini-bar, large glass-enclosed shower, heated bathroom floor. Guests can also order 24-hour room service.

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What you’ll find on board Viking Mississippi

Viking Mississippi have the cruise line’s familiar Explorers’ Lounge near the bow of the ship. The two-story Explorers’ Lounge will have floor-to-ceiling windows that open to the front area of the ship aptly named, The Bow. Here you’ll find outdoor seating, similar to the bow space where you can sit and relax on Viking’s Europe river ships. 

The top deck will have the River Café featuring American classic cuisine and Viking’s own Mamsen’s restaurant with Norwegian specialties. Back by popular demand from their ocean and river ships, on the top deck will also be casual dining at Aquavit Terrace, for al fresco dining.

At the aft of the ship you’ll find the Sun Terrace and Viking’s signature Infinity Plunge Pool. And keeping with “old” ship tradition, there will be a wrap-around promenade on Deck 1. Also on Deck 1 is The Living Room where guests can meet up, or continue into The Library for a relaxing read.

Main dining will also be on Deck 1 at The Restaurant with of course regional cuisine and classic favorites that feature locally sourced ingredients. 

Environment features include solar panels, plenty of floor-to-ceiling windows for as much natural light as possible. There’s also an energy-efficient hybrid propulsion system that makes Viking Mississippi the most environmentally “green” passenger ship on the Mississippi River.

Activities on board and ashore

Enrichment opportunities on board Viking Mississippi include musical performances typical of the region and guest lecturers covering the history, architecture, culture and other interesting topics for the areas in which the ship is traveling. 

For guests who prefer a little more active shore excursions, there will be guided kayaking in the Louisiana Bayou, a visit to a working farm, or experience Cajun culture during a private excursion to the Rural Life Museum of Louisiana State University.

What’s included on your Mississippi River cruise

Every Mississippi River cruise fare includes one complimentary shore excursion in each port of call, all onboard meals, and all port charges and government taxes.

Guests also receive complimentary beer and wine with lunch and dinner, one complimentary specialty dining experience, self-service launderettes, 24-hour room service and free Wi-Fi.

Viking Mississippi Inaugural Voyages for 2022 and 2023

Here’s the list of itineraries that are now open for reservations. Most cruises are seven-night northbound, southbound or 14-night round-trip from New Orleans. But it’s the nearly full-length river cruise that really gets my attention. Once your river ship journeys north of Memphis, you’re in Huck Finn and Tom Sawyer territory. Not to mention the dairyland of Wisconsin. 

• America’s Heartland (8 days from St. Louis, MO to St. Paul, MN) Cruise the Upper Mississippi and experience something totally different from the southern half of the Mississippi. Between St. Louis and St. Paul, past locks and dams, American history turns toward the early expansion to the west and the belief in Manifest Destiny.
• Heart of the Delta (8 days from New Orleans to Memphis)   Journey the Lower Mississippi and see first-hand remnants of the old south in architecture, music and culture.
• Southern Celebration (8 days round-trip between New Orleans to Vicksburg, MS) Again on the Lower Mississippi, there’s time to visit several historic homes in Louisiana and Mississippi. Civil War history abounds especially when spending the day in Vicksburg. 
• America’s Great River (15 days from New Orleans to St. Paul)  Going as far north as Viking Mississippi can go, you’ll cruise nearly the entire length of the Mississippi River. From the sleepy Gulf Coast, past forest and farmland until the metropolitan cities of St. Paul and Minneapolis, this is a very special  itinerary. 

What’s next for Viking

This past January 2020, Viking introduced the construction of the 378-passenger Viking Octantis scheduled to launch in January 2022. The new  Viking Expeditions , will offer voyages to Antarctica and then up to North America’s Great Lakes.

Viking Polaris , the second expedition ship, will debut in August 2022. Itineraries will include Antarctica and the Arctic. 

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Hi Judith, Thank you for reading my article. As far as I know, they still plan on cruising. You should contact your travel agent or Viking for up-to-date information.

I hope you can get a definitive answer. The weather is so unpredictable. River cruises in Europe are turning into bus tours lately because of a drought. Thanks, too, for taking the time to write.

Is Viking cruising on the Mississippi in Oct. 2022? My concern is the flooding.

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Updated on August 7, 2022 by Sherry Laskin

Viking Mississippi River Cruise Reviews

1 - 10 of 34 Viking Mississippi River Cruise Reviews

Sail Date: March 2024

Review for a North America River Cruise on Viking Mississippi

The ship was beautiful the food was excellent and service was great. Bartenders very personable and knowledgeable. The bad was the excursions. Getting from the hotel to the ship involved waiting at a lunch place for 3 hours and getting from the ship to the Memphis hotel took a 5 hour bus ride and a 1 hour wait on line to check into hotel. They should have handed out the keys on the bus as you came ... Read More

Sail Date: February 2024

Cabin Type: Deluxe Veranda Stateroom

I paid for two lower level cabins. We traveled as two single women celebrating the end of a tough work year. Each was about $7,000. The ship is new and is beautiful. The living room (central event and sitting area) is very nice. The couches are really low on the ship and many elderly people couldn't get up without a lot of effort however. The bar is laid out nicely and is a friendly place to go. ... Read More

Sail Date: December 2023

Interest in the Lower Mississippi and in the excursions especially Memphis. Boat was only 15 months old and it was very nice; Service was overall very good, especially the wait staff. However the food was a major disappointment. There was not much variety and oftentimes it was not hot when served. Stop in Greenville, MS was a real highlight of the trip. The food and music was excellent. I ... Read More

Sail Date: November 2023

We just returned from a 7 day cruise down the Mississippi from Memphis to New Orleans. We had waited a full year after maiden voyage to allow Viking to work out any kinks in the cruising process involving a brand new vessel. We were also hoping that the record low Mississippi River levels would not be a factor again this year after the severe drought from last year (lightning doesn't strike twice, ... Read More

Cabin Type: Penthouse Veranda Stateroom

We had booked a cruise from the north to the south of France for May 2020 which, of course, was cancelled due to Covid. Viking offered a 20% bonus to leave the money with them and so we later applied the credit to the Mississippi cruise. Why? This is an area of the USA that we have never explored and as a professional photographer I thought I could capture images of places that are not well ... Read More

Sail Date: October 2023

A personable food service crew, with some amusing stars in the upstair buffet. The food was not a enjoyable as what we ate on the Viking Sky last year, but our fellow passengers seemed to be satisfied. We ate all but two of our meals upstairs as the main dining room was too noisy for enjoyable dining. Some steaks and the salmon were quite good and the hamburgers at lunch were the best cruise ... Read More

Went on Viking Mississippi recently. At 56 yo, we were the youngest travelers which did not surprise me. The ship was beautiful and the food was excellent. Service in the restaurant was hit or miss. A couple nights it was very slow waiting for our food but we had great views of the river and plenty of wine so hard to complain. The cappuccino machines malfunctioned frequently but made wonderful ... Read More

Sail Date: September 2023

We wanted to cruise in the U S and had cruise credits from a previously booked Viking cruise to utilize. From the onset the Viking support was a disaster. Upon arrival at the airport we were not greeted by a Viking representative and had no idea where we were to go, a problem also experienced by a number of fellow passengers. To make a long story short, we did not check luggage and therefore did ... Read More

Sail Date: August 2023

Spouse and I are frequent Viking cruisers. I chose this Upper Mississippi River cruise over American Queen because 1)I did not want to cruise on a paddleboat, and 2) from experience, I knew what I'd get with Viking whereas American Queen was an unknown factor in my mind. I cruised the Mississippi River with daughter. We were in awe at the River's beauty. Weather was perfect; mid 80s with low ... Read More

Response from VikingS, Community Team

Thank you for providing us with a detailed account of your recent voyage, ratazak. Your feedback is highly valued as it helps us gain insights into how we can enhance our services to deliver... Read more

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Viking Bets on the Future With New Cruise Ship Set to Sail the Mississippi River by 2022 (Video)

Paul Brady is the news director at Travel + Leisure and the brand's expert on cruise travel. He has been covering the travel industry for more than 15 years for outlets including Condé Nast Traveler , Skift , and The Huffington Post .

It may be a dark time for the cruise industry, as many ships have returned to port and passengers shuffle plans as a result of the coronavirus pandemic . But today, at least one line is thinking ahead to a brighter future.

Viking just announced details of the purpose-built, 386-passenger cruise ship it will bring to the Mississippi River by 2022. The new ship, aptly named Viking Mississippi, will sail between New Orleans and St. Paul, Minnesota, with the inaugural trips slated for August.

“At a time where many of us are at home, looking for inspiration to travel in the future, I am pleased to introduce a new, modern way to explore this great river,” said Viking chairman Torstein Hagen in a statement. “Our guests are curious travelers, and they continue to tell us that the Mississippi is the river they most want to sail with us. The Mississippi River is closer to home for many of our guests, and no other waterway has played such an important role in America’s history, commerce and culture,” Hagen added.

On board the vessel, guests will find cool, contemporary Scandinavian-inspired design, as is typical of Viking ships. A variety of larger gathering spaces — the Explorer’s Lounge, the River Cafe, a Sun Terrace — will provide panoramic views of riverside scenery. All guest rooms will also have good views, and many will come with private verandas for personal outdoor space. (Some categories have French balconies, which provide fresh air but not outdoor seating.)

The ship will also have an “infinity plunge pool” on board, Viking says, plus a “360-Degree Promenade Deck,” which will encircle the entirety of the ship.

As for what to see and do, Viking has announced several eight-day itineraries that focus on northern or southern portions of the river. Trips between St. Louis and St. Paul include tours and guest lectures on board that discuss Mark Twain and westward expansion; sailings from Memphis to New Orleans have a focus on French and Acadian cultures as well as the civil rights movement and jazz. Viking will also host 15-day, full-river sailings.

For now, bookings are only available to past Viking guests, with broader availability coming in April.

It’s not the only commitment Viking has made to expanding its fleet. Earlier this year, the company detailed plans to launch expedition-style cruises, announcing two new ships also slated for 2022 debuts. As Travel + Leisure reported in January , “Both vessels will be small enough to make their way through narrow waterways like the St. Lawrence River in Canada but large enough to handle the open seas. Eventually, they’ll offer sailings through Norway’s Svalbard archipelago, along the coast of Brazil, and island hopping around the Caribbean.”

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Today Viking made the highly anticipated announcement that it will further expand its destination-focused travel experiences with the launch of new Mississippi River cruises, honoring a commitment Viking Chairman Torstein Hagen made to loyal past guests to launch the Mississippi product by early April.

The company’s first custom vessel, Viking Mississippi , will debut in August 2022 and will sail voyages on the Lower and Upper Mississippi, between New Orleans and St. Paul. Viking’s arrival will bring modern river cruising to the Mississippi and will represent a major commitment to tourism and economic development in many communities along the river.

Currently scheduled ports of call on Viking’s new Mississippi River Cruises to comprise seven U.S. states: Louisiana (Baton Rouge, Darrow, New Orleans, and St. Francisville); Mississippi (Natchez and Vicksburg); Tennessee (Memphis); Missouri (Hannibal, St. Louis); Iowa (Burlington, Dubuque, and Davenport); Wisconsin (La Crosse and Red Wing); and Minnesota (St. Paul). Starting today, inaugural sailings of Viking Mississippi ’s 2022-2023 season are now available to Viking past guests only. Bookings will open to the general public on April 15, 2020.

 “At a time where many of us are at home, looking for inspiration to travel in the future , I am pleased to introduce a new, modern way to explore this great river. We invented the concept of modern river cruising when we got our start 23 years ago—first on the rivers of Russia and then in Europe . Since then, many people have come to appreciate the unique exploration that comes with river cruising—but currently there are very few options to do so on American rivers,” said Torstein Hagen, Chairman of Viking. “Our guests are curious travelers, and they continue to tell us that the Mississippi is the river they most want to sail with us. The Mississippi River is closer to home for many of our guests, and no other waterway has played such an important role in America’s history, commerce and culture.”

Today’s announcement is the most recent milestone as Viking continues to expand its fleet and destination-focused travel offerings . In January 2020 the company unveiled Viking Expeditions , with the first 378-guest purpose-built expedition ship,  Viking Octantis , launching in January 2022 on voyages to Antarctica and then North America’s Great Lakes. A second expedition vessel,  Viking Polaris , will debut in August 2022, sailing to Antarctica and the Arctic. In the last eight years alone, Viking has introduced more than 60 new river cruise ships and six ocean cruise ships to become the largest small ship cruise line with a current fleet of 79 river and ocean vessels around the world.

• Viking Mississippi

Hosting 386 guests in 193 all outside staterooms, the new state-of-the-art  Viking Mississippi  is inspired by Viking’s award-winning river and ocean ships and will feature clean Scandinavian design, as well as public spaces that are familiar to guests but that have been reimagined for Mississippi River voyages.

Purpose-built for the Mississippi and currently under construction in Louisiana, the five-deck ship’s cutting-edge design, expansive windows, and comfortable amenities will make it the largest and most modern cruise ship in the region. Highlights of the new ship include:

All Outside Staterooms

Guests can choose from an unparalleled seven spacious stateroom categories that range from 268 sq. ft to 1,024 sq. ft: Veranda, French Balcony, Deluxe Veranda, Penthouse Veranda, Penthouse Jr. Suite, Terrace Suite, and Explorer Suite. All staterooms feature a private veranda or French balcony, king-size bed with luxury linens, large flat-screen interactive TV, mini-bar, large glass-enclosed shower, heated bathroom floor, and 24-hour room service.

Viking Suites

Viking Mississippi  will have some of the largest true suites on the river , with every suite featuring two rooms and a full-size veranda off the spacious sitting room. Guests in Penthouse Jr. Suites (400 sq. ft.) and Terrace Suites (425 sq. ft.) receive early stateroom access; expanded double-sink bathroom; mini-bar with alcoholic beverages, soft drinks, water and snacks replenished daily; welcome champagne; and laundry, pressing and shoe shine services. Guests in the expansive Explorer Suites (657 sq. ft. to 1,024 sq. ft) also receive a wraparound veranda and complimentary Silver Spirits Beverage Package .

Explorers’ Lounge & The Bow

Familiar to Viking’s ocean guests as one of the most popular onboard public spaces,  Viking Mississippi  will also feature an Explorers’ Lounge near the bow of the ship . The sun-filled, two-story Explorers’ Lounge has floor-to-ceiling windows that open to The Bow, a unique outdoor seating area at the front of the ship where guests can relax and enjoy ever-changing riverside views.

From American classics to Mamsen’s® Norwegian specialties, this indoor/outdoor dining venue on the top deck will offer alternative restaurant dining in a casual al fresco setting.

Aquavit Terrace

A public space beloved by many of Viking’s ocean and river guests,  Viking Mississippi  will also feature a revolutionary Aquavit Terrace on the top deck, providing a casual dining space ideal for an American barbecue experience. Combined with the River Café, the Aquavit Terrace will provide the most al fresco dining on the Mississippi.

Sun Terrace with Infinity Plunge Pool

Similar to Viking’s ocean ships,  Viking Mississippi  will have a glass-backed pool experience at the aft, allowing guests to take a dip while fully surrounded by their destination.

The Living Room

Clean Scandinavian design paired with American influences, the Living Room on Deck 1 is designed for socializing, relaxing and entertainment. Nearby, the quiet corner of The Library, is a perfect place to discover a new book.

The Restaurant

This main dining venue on Deck 1 will serve daily-changing menus featuring delicious regional cuisine and always available classics prepared with fresh, local ingredients.

Full 360-Degree Promenade Deck

Guests can stroll the entire ship outside on Deck 1, stretching their legs while viewing scenic landscape and regional wildlife.

Enrichment On Board and On Shore

Connecting guests to their destinations through authentic experiences is central to Viking creating “the thinking person’s cruise.” A focus on cultural enrichment onboard Viking Mississippi  means that guests will enjoy Destination Performances that represent the most iconic music of the region—as well as Guest Lecturers that shed light on the region’s art, architecture, history, culture, the natural world and more.

And only The Viking Way® of exploration provides guests with itineraries that feature Privileged Access®, Local Life and Working World experiences, opening doors to places otherwise difficult to visit. On Viking’s Mississippi River itineraries, guests may choose to take a guided kayaking trip in the Louisiana bayou; visit a working farm in Quad Cities, or immerse themselves in Cajun culture during a Privileged Access excursion to the Rural Life Museum of Louisiana State University.

Sustainable Features

Solar panels, LED lighting, floor-to-ceiling windows that maximize natural light and an energy-efficient hybrid propulsion system will make  Viking Mississippi  the most environmentally friendly passenger ship on the Mississippi River .

Viking Inclusive Value

Every Mississippi River cruise fare includes everything guests need, with no surprises or hidden fees. Cruise fares include one complimentary shore excursion in each port of call, all onboard meals, and all port charges and government taxes. Guests also enjoy many complimentary amenities as part of their fare, including beer and wine with lunch and dinner service, lectures, alternative dining at no extra charge, self-service launderettes, 24-hour room service, and free Wi-Fi.

Photo Gallery:

2022-2023 Viking Mississippi Inaugural Voyages

• America’s Heartland  (8 days; St. Louis to St. Paul)— From pristine farms nestled in rolling terrain to steep bluff rising from tributaries dotted with wooded islands, the Upper Mississippi offers a rich tapestry of beauty upon every turn of the river . This journey introduces you to the unforgettable experience of the locks and dams that control the flow of the heartland rivers . Hear stories of settlers migrating west; learn about Lewis & Clark, Mark Twain, John Deere, and the Amish and Norwegian migrations; experience the regional music like polka and Norwegian folk; and taste regional cuisine showcasing local beer, produce and Wisconsin cheese.
• Heart of the Delta  (8 days; New Orleans to Memphis)— This journey on the Lower Mississippi is infused with American history , culture, and heritage. Tour the area where the migrating French and Acadians settled; immerse yourself in the culture and lessons from the American Civil Rights Movement; discover the music of the South—jazz, blues and gospel; and experience the life and food culture of the south, from Cajun and Creole to the famed “dry” Memphis BBQ.
• Southern Celebration  (8 days; New Orleans–Vicksburg–New Orleans)— On this exploration of the Lower Mississippi, visit the historic homes of Louisiana and Mississippi; learn about Civil War history, touring sites like Vicksburg National Military Park; and discover the excitement and unique flavors of New Orleans and Baton Rouge.
• America’s Great River  (15 days; New Orleans to St. Paul)— Experience nearly the entire length of the Mississippi River on this incredible journey from the Gulf of Mexico to the northernmost reaches of the U.S. Relax and enjoy the variety of scenery, foliage, and wildlife on this leisurely voyage. Enjoy the southern charm and beautifully preserved homes in Natchez; retrace the steps of Civil Rights leaders in Memphis; ascend the Gateway Arch in St. Louis; and visit “The Norwegian Valley” in La Crosse.

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Viking announces Mississippi River Cruises and new ship for 2022

Viking has announced the launch of Mississippi River Cruises and released details of its new custom-built vessel for the US, launching in August 2022.

Viking Mississippi will sail voyages on the Lower and Upper Mississippi, between New Orleans and St. Paul.

Currently, scheduled ports of call on Viking’s new Mississippi River Cruises include Louisiana (Baton Rouge, Darrow, New Orleans and St. Francisville); Mississippi (Natchez and Vicksburg); Tennessee (Memphis); Missouri (Hannibal, St. Louis); Iowa (Burlington, Dubuque and Davenport); Wisconsin (La Crosse); and Minnesota (Red Wing, St. Paul).

Hosting 386 guests in 193 all outside staterooms, Viking Mississippi is inspired by Viking’s river and ocean ships and will feature the line’s staple Scandinavian design, as well as public spaces that are familiar to guests, including the Explorer’s Lounge, River Café and Aquavit Terrace.

Guests can choose from seven spacious stateroom categories onboard that range from 268 sq ft to 1,024 sq ft: Veranda, French Balcony, Deluxe Veranda, Penthouse Veranda, Penthouse Jr. Suite, Terrace Suite and Explorer Suite.

All staterooms will feature a private veranda or French balcony, king-size bed with luxury linens, large flat-screen interactive TV, mini-bar, large glass-enclosed shower, heated bathroom floor and 24-hour room service.

The purpose-built, five-deck ship is currently under construction in Louisiana.

In a statement, chairman of Viking Torstein Hagen said: “At a time where many of us are at home, looking for inspiration to travel in the future, I am pleased to introduce a new, modern way to explore this great river.

“We invented the concept of modern river cruising when we got our start 23 years ago – first on the rivers of Russia and then in Europe.

“Since then, many people have come to appreciate the unique exploration that comes with river cruising—but currently there are very few options to do so on American rivers.

“Our guests are curious travellers, and they continue to tell us that the Mississippi is the river they most want to sail with us. No other waterway has played such an important role in America’s history, commerce and culture.”

Cruise fares will include one complimentary shore excursion in each port of call, all onboard meals, and all port charges and government taxes.

Guests will also enjoy many complimentary amenities as part of their fare, including beer and wine with lunch and dinner service, lectures, alternative dining at no extra charge, self-service launderettes, 24-hour room service and free wifi.

Viking also announced that it would be extending its pause in operations until July, along with many other cruise lines. 

To watch the full video with Viking chairman Torstein Hagen, visit VikingTV .

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Sail 'right in the heart of the US' on Viking's new Mississippi River cruise ship

Viking has brought American travelers to destinations around the world on its cruises, but until now has not had a river ship based in North America.

The company operates close to 100 river and ocean vessels, and 82% of its guests come from America, Torstein Hagen, Chairman of Viking, told USA TODAY.

"But we had one white spot on our map, and it said 'USA,'" Hagen said.

That was part of the motivation for the company to design its first vessel purpose-built for the Mississippi River, aptly named Viking Mississippi. The five-deck ship welcomed its first guests in Saint Paul, Minnesota, on Sept. 3.

The ship will sail itineraries on the Upper and Lower Mississippi River between St. Paul and New Orleans, where Hagen said Viking saw an opportunity to sail a modern ship in the company's style "right in the heart of the U.S., where all our guests come from in the first place."

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"It's a wonderful country you have, and I'm proud that we can play our role in it," he added. 

Here's what guests can expect from Viking Mississippi.

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What can guests expect from the Viking Mississippi?

The Viking Mississippi will sail itineraries on the Upper and Lower Mississippi River between St. Paul and New Orleans.

The ship has 193 staterooms, all of which are outside, and can accommodate up to 386 passengers, according to a news release . Across seven cabin categories, rooms range from 268 to more than 1,000 square feet, and each has a French balcony or private veranda, heated bathroom floor and king-size bed.

The ship boasts a 360-degree promenade deck that wraps around the ship, along with a sun terrace that has a glass-backed infinity pool and a library curated by Heywood Hill, a bookstore in London.

Dining options include The Restaurant, the ship's primary eatery featuring classic dishes and regional offerings on rotating menus, and the indoor-outdoor River Café, which serves both American food such as Southern barbecue, and Norwegian cuisine from Mamsen's, a flagship Viking's offering that has a separate counter within the café.

As part of their cruises, guests can also take in lectures on topics such as the history, architecture and art of the region, and attend performances of local music, from Delta blues to New Orleans jazz.

How much does the Viking Mississippi cost?

Available rooms on a Jan. 7 round-trip cruise from New Orleans, with stops in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, and Natchez, Mississippi, among others, start at $3,999 per person based on double occupancy, according to Viking's website .

The fare includes port taxes and fees, a shore excursion at each port, complimentary Wi-Fi, all meals, wine, beer and soft drinks with lunch and dinner, and more.

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What else do travelers need to know?

The Viking Mississippi has nine accessible staterooms. Viking asks guests with disabilities to travel with "an able-bodied companion who can assist them as the staff is not permitted to lift guests or push wheelchairs," according to its website .

Passengers who use wheelchairs must bring their own – with the exception of emergencies – and fill out an accessibility form at least 30 days before their trip. They can request a copy of the form by calling 1-877-668-4546.

StarTribune

Viking cruising into st. paul for mississippi river tours in 2022.

Images of the Minnesota State Capitol, Como Conservatory and the Landmark Center flash across the promotional clip as a woman's voice with a British accent describes the final stop on Viking's soon-to-debut Mississippi River cruise: a city "known for its great museums, iconic Cathedral and beautiful period architecture."

The international luxury cruise line is already advertising St. Paul and other cities along the river for its slate of new tours scheduled to launch in August 2022.

"This is a big deal for St. Paul," said Terry Mattson, president and CEO of the city's convention and visitors bureau.

Switzerland-based Viking announced in 2020 that it was building a custom 386-guest vessel to sail the Mississippi, the latest river in the company's exotic lineup, which includes the Danube, the Seine and the Nile. The St. Paul City Council on Wednesday approved a contract allowing ships to dock at Lambert's Landing, a riverfront park near downtown that was once among the busiest steamboat ports in the United States.

Viking's longest Mississippi River option — a 15-day cruise between St. Paul and New Orleans — already has sold out for 2022. Tickets for 2023-24 cruises still are available for $11,300 or more. Travelers also can book eight-day cruises from St. Louis to St. Paul with fares starting at $4,400.

In the early days of the COVID-19 pandemic, the cruise industry shut down after several viral outbreaks occurred amid the close quarters of its vessels. The Centers for Disease Control last week said large vessels could start simulated voyages in U.S. waters with the goal of resuming operations in midsummer.

But Mattson said he expects built-up wanderlust, plus Viking's loyal following, will win over tourists eager to explore America's heartland.

"There's no question these will sell out," he said.

St. Paul's agreement with Viking has been years in the making, a small component of a sweeping plan drafted in 2013 aiming to re-envision the city's long-ignored riverfront.

Mary deLaittre, executive director of the Great River Passage Conservancy charged with leading those efforts, said the nonprofit is in the early stages of plans to build a 1.5-mile promenade connecting such St. Paul institutions as the Science Museum and the Union Depot to the water's edge.

"Imagine you get off the cruise ship and enter this new gateway to St. Paul," deLaittre said. The Great River Passage Conservancy is in the process of picking a team to help design the project and a funding strategy, she added.

Viking must pay for increased costs or improvements to the port required to dock its vessels, according to its contract with the city. The cruise line has exclusive permission to use St. Paul's docking facilities through 2026, with an option to renew the agreement through 2029.

The Mississippi River cruises also will visit Red Wing, Minn., where guests can boat across Lake Pepin and visit Wabasha's National Eagle Center. Other stops on the itinerary, which advertises opportunities to explore small-town America, U.S. history and the river's natural features, include Dubuque, Iowa; St. Louis, Memphis and Vicksburg, Miss.

Viking, which also will make its Great Lakes debut in 2022, will start or finish its Mississippi River tours in St. Paul. That means more traffic for Twin Cities attractions and hotels from guests staying over before or after their voyages.

"Everybody in the world knows the Mississippi River, even if they don't know St. Paul," deLaittre said. "This is a great opportunity for us."

Katie Galioto • 612-673-4478

Katie Galioto is a reporter covering St. Paul City Hall for the Star Tribune. She previously covered the Duluth/Superior region while based in the paper’s bureau Up North.

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• St. Paul, Minnesota to New Orleans, Louisiana

America’s Great River

• From £9,595
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America’s Great River Map

Span the length of the Mississippi

History and culture unfold as you traverse the Mississippi on this enriching voyage. Enjoy relaxing scenic sailing and unparalleled bird-watching as the landscape changes between the bluffs of the North and the bayous of the South. Learn about the American civil rights movement and the Civil War. Along the way, tap your feet to the rhythm of American folk, soul and jazz music—and taste a delicious array of regional cuisine.

ONBOARD GRATUITIES INCLUDED

Viking Inclusive Value

All you need included, with no surprises or hidden fees

To learn more about each port of call and our included as well as optional excursions, click on the individual days below.

Itinerary and shore excursions are subject to change and may vary by departure.

More features, services and excursions included

Return flights from London and selected regional airports

One complimentary shore excursion in every port of call

Free Wi-Fi (connection speed may vary)

Beer, wine & soft drinks with onboard lunch & dinner

24-hour specialty coffees, teas  & bottled water

Port taxes & fees

Ground transfers with Viking Air purchase

Visits to UNESCO Sites

Enrichment lectures & Destination Performances

Onboard gratuities

Your Stateroom Includes:

River-view stateroom

Bottled water replenished daily

110/220 volt outlets

Queen-size Viking Explorer Bed (optional twin-bed configuration) with luxury linens & pillows

Private bathroom with shower, heated floor & anti-fog mirror

Premium Freyja® toiletries

Plush robes & slippers (upon request)

40" or 42" flat-screen Sony® TV with infotainment system featuring Movies On Demand, plus CNBC, CNN, FOX & more

Telephone, safe, refrigerator

Individual climate control

*All amenities on board Viking Longships; amenities vary on other ships.

Pre & Post Cruise Extensions

More days means more to discover, with extension packages you can add before or after your Viking cruise or cruisetour. Enjoy additional days to explore your embarkation or disembarkation city, or see a new destination altogether with a choice of exciting cities. Pre & Post Cruise Extensions vary by itinerary and are subject to change.

Pre: Cultural Capitals—Minneapolis & St. Paul

From £499 | 2 Nights

Pre: Twin Cities Discovery

From £199 | 1 Nights

Post: Best of the Bayou: Acadian Lafayette

From £799 | 2 Nights

Post: The Best of “The Big Easy”

From £699 | 2 Nights

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Viking Mississippi

Hosting 386 guests in 193 all outside staterooms, the new state-of-the-art Viking Mississippi is inspired by the line's award-winning Viking Longships® and ocean ships and will feature clean Scandinavian design, as well as public spaces that are familiar to guests but that have been reimagined for Mississippi River voyages. Purpose-built for the Mississippi, the ship’s cutting-edge design, expansive windows and comfortable amenities will make it the first truly modern cruise ship in the region.

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Viking Mississippi

Hosting 386 guests in 193 all outside staterooms, the new state-of-the-art Viking Mississippi is inspired by our award-winning Viking Longships® and ocean ships and features clean Scandinavian design, as well as public spaces that are familiar to guests but that have been reimagined for Mississippi River voyages. Purpose-built for the Mississippi, the ship’s cutting-edge design, expansive windows and comfortable amenities make it the first truly modern cruise ship in the region.

• Only 386 guests
• Length: 450 feet
• Beam: 75 feet
• Class: river ship
• Year built: 2022

Interactive Deck Plan

Hover and click on the deck plan to explore the ship. 0), attr: { 'href': pdfurl }" class="ignore" target="_blank">see a pdf version of the deck plan., ship features.

• 193 comfortable all outside staterooms (128 Veranda & Deluxe Veranda Staterooms, 8 French Balcony Staterooms, 24 Penthouse Veranda Staterooms, 16 Penthouse Junior Suites, 7 Terrace Suites, 10 Explorer Suites)
• All suites feature two full-size rooms with large veranda
• Sun Terrace with Infinity Plunge Pool
• Stroll the full 360-degree promenade deck for views of scenic landscapes and regional wildlife
• The Bow, a quiet sitting area at the front of the ship
• Aquavit Terrace, a revolutionary indoor/outdoor viewing area for al fresco dining or an American barbecue experience
• The Explorers' Lounge and Bar with two-story panoramic views of the Mississippi
• River Café, a new way to dine featuring American classics
• Elevators throughout the ship
• Free Wi-Fi (connection speed may vary)
• Self-service launderettes and laundry service
• Intelligent energy-efficient propulsion systems produce less vibrations for a smoother ride
• 42" flat-screen LCD TV with intuitive remote & complimentary Movies On Demand

Stateroom Features

The purpose-built Viking Mississippi offers a wide variety of staterooms for your selection. From Veranda Staterooms to the abundance of extra perks and amenities in our spacious Explorer Suites, there is no finer way to travel. And whichever stateroom you choose, you will find it beautifully designed in the understated elegance for which Viking is known.

Explorer Suite (ES)

• Stateroom size: 657–1,024 sq ft (includes private veranda)
• River-view suite with private wraparound balcony, private veranda and well-appointed living room & dining area
• Wheelchair Accessible (#300 only)
• King-size Viking Explorer Bed (optional twin-bed configuration) with luxury linens & pillows
• Additional 42" flat-screen interactive LCD TVs in sitting area
• 110/120 volt US-standard outlets & USB ports
• Large private bathroom with spacious glass-enclosed shower, bathtub, double-sink vanity, heated floor, anti-fog mirror & hair dryer
• Premium Freyja® toiletries
• Plush robes & slippers
• Telephone, safe, refrigerator
• Individual climate control
• Purified water refilled daily
• Welcome bottle of champagne
• Mini-bar with alcoholic beverages, soft drinks, water & snacks (replenished once daily)
• Traditional Norwegian Marius-weave blanket
• Personal coffee machine with premium coffee & tea selections
• Stateroom steward & twice-daily housekeeping
• Complimentary laundry & shoe shine services
• Silver Spirits beverage package included
• Under-bed suitcase storage space
• Roomy wardrobe with wooden hangers

Terrace Suite (TS)

• Stateroom size: 425 sq ft (includes private veranda)
• River-view suite with floor-to-ceiling sliding glass door opening to an extensive veranda
• Large private bathroom with spacious glass-enclosed shower, double-sink vanity, heated floor, anti-fog mirror & hair dryer

Penthouse Junior Suite (PS)

• Stateroom size: 400 sq ft (includes private veranda)
• River-view suite with floor-to-ceiling sliding glass door opening to a full-size veranda
• Additional 42" flat-screen interactive LCD TVs in living area

Penthouse Veranda Stateroom (PV)

• Stateroom size: 336 sq ft (includes private veranda)
• River-view stateroom with floor-to-ceiling sliding glass door opening to full-size veranda
• Private bathroom with spacious glass-enclosed shower, heated floor, anti-fog mirror & hair dryer
• Complimentary pressing & shoe shine services

Deluxe Veranda Stateroom (DV)

• Stateroom size: 268 sq ft (includes private veranda)
• Mini-bar with soft drinks, water & snacks (replenished once daily)

French Balcony Stateroom (FB)

• Stateroom size: 301 sq ft
• River-view stateroom with French balcony (floor-to-ceiling sliding glass door)
• Wheelchair Accessible
• Private bathroom with accessible shower, heated floor, anti-fog mirror & hair dryer

Veranda Stateroom (V)

• Mini-bar with soft drinks, water & snacks

Itineraries This Ship Sails

NEW! Mississippi Delta Explorer

• PRICE & BUILD

America’s Heartland

New Orleans & Southern Charms

America’s Great River

NEW! Upper Mississippi Explorer

Grand Mississippi Voyage

NEW! The Big Easy to the Gateway City

NEW! Mississippi River Odyssey

Heart of the Delta

Ship Highlights

Hosting 386 guests in 193 all outside staterooms, the new state-of-the-art Viking Mississippi is inspired by our award-winning Viking Longships® and ocean ships feature clean Scandinavian design, as well as public spaces that are familiar to guests but that have been reimagined for Mississippi River voyages. Purpose-built for the Mississippi, the ship's cutting-edge design, expansive windows and comfortable amenities make it the first truly modern cruise ship in the region.

Ship Videos

Inspired by our award-winning river and ocean ships, this state-of-the-art vessel features clean, Scandinavian design and public spaces that are familiar to our guests but have been reimagined for Mississippi River voyages. (2022)

Introducing Viking Mississippi

Welcome to four destination-focused, culturally enriching journeys along the Mississippi River—designed for curious, experienced travelers seeking an in-depth look at the history and heritage of America’s heartland and the soul of the South.

Viking Mississippi Float Out

February 2022. The 386-guest Viking Mississippi ® was “floated out” in Louisiana, marking a major construction milestone and the first time the ship has touched water. Set to debut in summer 2022, the Viking Mississippi will sail Viking’s highly anticipated voyages on the Lower and Upper Mississippi River, between New Orleans and St. Paul.

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5-Day River Sale

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Viking was founded in 1997 with the vision that travel could be more destination focused and culturally immersive.

The company expanded into the American market in 2000, establishing a sales and marketing office in Los Angeles, California. Since then, Viking has grown to a fleet of more than 90 vessels, offering river, ocean and expedition voyages on all seven continents. Viking provides destination-focused itineraries for curious travelers, with each journey including a shore excursion in every port and an onboard and onshore enrichment program that provides deep immersion in the destination through performances of music and art, cooking demonstrations, informative port talks and carefully selected guest lecturers.

With more than 450 awards to its name, Viking is a leader in the industry and was rated #1 for Rivers, #1 for Oceans (for ships sized 500 to 2,500 berths) and #1 for Expeditions by Condé Nast Traveler in the 2023 Readers’ Choice Awards. This is the first time a travel company has been voted #1 in all three categories simultaneously.

Europe River Ships and Itineraries

Sailing Europe’s storied rivers, the award-winning fleet of identical Viking Longships® offer a variety of stateroom categories and true two-room suites with full-size verandas. Onboard amenities include a restaurant, bar and lounge, library and expansive sun deck. The ships feature al fresco dining on the revolutionary indoor/outdoor Aquavit Terrace, elegant Scandinavian design and environmentally considerate features, such as solar panels, an onboard organic herb garden and energy-efficient hybrid engines for a remarkably smooth ride.

Europe river voyages range from 8 to 23 days, with itineraries featuring Europe’s Rhine, Main, Danube, Seine, Rhône, Douro, Moselle, Elbe, Dordogne, Garonne and Gironde Rivers.

Viking also offers voyages on Egypt’s Nile River and Southeast Asia’s Mekong River.

Mississippi River Ship and Itineraries

Viking launched destination-focused travel experiences on the Mississippi River in 2022, with sailings ranging from 8 to 15 days between New Orleans, Louisiana and St. Paul, Minnesota.

Viking’s arrival brings modern river voyages to the Mississippi and represents a major commitment to tourism and economic development in many communities along the river. Currently scheduled ports of call on Viking’s new Mississippi River itineraries comprise seven U.S. states: Louisiana (Baton Rouge, Darrow, New Orleans and St. Francisville); Mississippi (Natchez and Vicksburg); Tennessee (Memphis); Missouri (Hannibal, St. Louis); Iowa (Burlington, Dubuque and Quad Cities); Wisconsin (La Crosse); and Minnesota (Red Wing, St. Paul).

The Viking Mississippi hosts 386 guests and features some of the largest staterooms across the cruise industry, where each guest has a sweeping view of the river and landscape beyond.

Ocean Ships and Itineraries

In 2015, Viking introduced its first ocean ship with the naming of the 930-guest all-veranda Viking Star . One year later, Viking launched its second ocean ship, the Viking Sea , which was joined by sister ship the Viking Sky in 2017, the Viking Orion in 2018, the Viking Jupiter in 2019 and the Viking Venus in 2021. Identical sister ships the Viking Mars and the Viking Neptune joined the fleet in 2022; the Viking Saturn joined in 2023.

The company’s award-winning ships are engineered at a size that allows direct access into most ports, so guests can easily and efficiently embark and disembark—allowing for more time in port. Viking’s ocean fleet features modern Scandinavian design with elegant touches, intimate spaces and attention to detail. Each ship boasts a private veranda in every stateroom, a choice of restaurants offering a variety of fine dining options, the most al fresco dining at sea, an infinity pool, a Nordic-inspired spa, the two-deck Explorers’ Lounge with panoramic views, thoughtfully curated book collections throughout the ship and more.

Ocean itineraries are designed to maximize the amount of time travelers spend in their destination. These enriching itineraries include base and combination voyages around the world—with particular focus in Scandinavia and Northern Europe, the Mediterranean, the Caribbean, Australia and New Zealand, Asia, Alaska, North and South America and Africa.

Viking’s ocean ships have been designed to be environmentally considerate, with energy-efficient hull, propeller and rudder arrangements and engines with heat recovery systems. This allows ships to reach the best Energy Efficiency Design Index (EEDI)* in its class, exceeding the current International Maritime Organization (IMO) requirements by approximately 205 percent and will exceed the 2025 EEDI requirements by almost 20 percent. Additionally, Viking ships are the first newbuilds in the world with a closed-loop exhaust cleaning system designed so that pollutants can be removed and disposed of safely.

Expedition Ships and Itineraries

In 2022, Viking launched expedition voyages with the arrival, the 378-guest Polar Class Viking Octantis and Viking Polaris . Both ships sail expedition voyages in Antarctica, the Arctic and North America’s Great Lakes.

Designed by the same experienced nautical architects and engineers that designed Viking’s Longships and ocean ships, the ships are optimally sized and built for expeditions, at an ideal size for safety, comfort and onboard amenities in remote destinations. An integrated bow creates a longer waterline for the ships; state-of-the-art fin stabilizers allow the ships to glide over the waves for the calmest possible journey; ice-strengthened Polar Class hulls provide the safest way to explore; and U-tank stabilizers significantly decrease rolling by up to 50 percent when the ships are stationary. The ships feature the company’s signature Scandinavian design, with public areas that are favorites on Viking’s ocean ships, as well as new spaces created specifically for expeditions.

Viking has also created the world’s leading scientific enrichment environment in an expedition setting. Exclusive partnerships with the Scott Polar Research Institute at Cambridge University and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA)—as well as other prestigious scientific institutions—match leading researchers and educators with each expedition.

Viking’s new expedition vessels have set a new standard for responsible travel, with an energy-efficient design that exceeds the current EEDI* requirements by nearly 38 percent—more than any other expedition ship. In addition to an integrated bow, engines with heat recovery systems and Azipod® Electric Propulsion, the Viking Octantis and the Viking Polaris have received one of the industry’s first SILENT-E notations—the highest-level certification for quiet ship propulsion, minimizing underwater noise pollution.

*Since January 1, 2013, the Energy Efficiency Design Index (EEDI) was made mandatory for new ships, requiring a minimum energy efficiency level per capacity mile. This was the first legally binding climate change treaty to be adopted since the Kyoto Protocol.

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IPO watch: Cruise line operator Viking to go public as it looks to cash in on baby boomer buzz

V iking Holdings ( VIK ) is expected to price its IPO next week and begin to trade. The ocean and river cruise company is planning to sell 44M shares priced between $21 and $25 per share in the initial public offering, which would raise just over $1B at the mid-point of the range and value the company at around $10B.

The company disclosed in an SEC filing that in 2023 it reported a loss of $1.85B on $4.7B in revenue as cruise operating expenses increased by 33% to $2.85B. Adjusted EBITDA loss widened to $1.09B from $367M in 2022 and the adjusted EBITDA margin expanded to 35.5% from 18.4% the year prior. As of December 31, Viking ( VIK ) had $1.3B in cash, $11.4B in total liabilities, and free cash flow of -$673 for the preceding 12-month period. Viking ( VIK ) started in 1997 with just 4 river cruise ships but has expanded to 84 ships in operation with 650K passengers in 2023.

The IPO is generating some positive buzz from investors due to the niche aspect of the company's business. Notably, Viking ( VIK ) caters to older cruise line customers looking for a quieter, high-end experience. Viking cruises do not allow children under 18 and have no casinos. Instead of promoting a party atmosphere, Viking proclaims to be a global leader in experiential travel by exploring all seven continents, all five oceans, and more than 20 iconic rivers. Crucially, Viking said its single-brand focus has helped with customer retention.

"We also leverage our strong brand loyalty for future product launches, with over 60% of bookings for each of the inaugural seasons for Viking Ocean, Viking Expedition and Viking Mississippi made by past guests. Our guests know they can expect a consistent, excellent experience on each voyage they take with us, which has allowed us to expand our travel platform successfully with new destinations and experiences. Our repeat guest percentage has steadily increased over time from 27% for the 2015 season to 51% for the 2023 season."

In Viking's F-1 SEC filing, the company also noted that demographics are working in its favor.

"The U.S. population aged 55 years and older comprises 30% of the total population, has the largest spending power of any demographic based on annual expenditures and holds over 70% of U.S. wealth as measured by the U.S. Federal Reserve. The U.S. population aged 55 years and older is also the fastest growing segment of the population, with expected growth from 98 million people in 2020 to 110 million people in 2030, according to the Congressional Budget Office."

The cruise line sector in general has struggled in its post-pandemic recovery, with only Royal Caribbean ( RCL ) breaking away to show investors a strong return.

In general, strong revenue growth and positive booking trends have not been enough to allay fears of high debt loads and elevated interest rates. However, Royal Caribbean's conference call update on the exceptional demand during the Wave Season could serve as a rising tide for its peers Carnival ( CCL ), Norwegian Cruise Line ( NCLH ), and Lindblad Expeditions ( LIND ).

More on Viking Holdings 

• FOMC Meeting, Jobs Report, And Apple Earnings Headline Big Week
• Viking Holdings Hopes To Cruise To A Successful U.S. IPO
• IPO Roundup: UL Solutions, PACS Group, and more
• Financial information for Viking Holdings Ltd

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Mississippi River Cruises

Stretching for 2,350 miles down the United States, from Minnesota's Lake Itasca to the Gulf of Mexico, our new cruises on the "Mighty Mississippi" offer a different type of cross-country journey for the curious explorer—one that allows you to be immersed in American history and culture.

Step on board the newest and most modern ship on the Mississippi with all outside staterooms, private verandas, spacious public areas and our signature, clean Scandinavian design, reimagined for the Mississippi River.

NEW! Mississippi Delta Explorer

• Request a Quote

America’s Heartland

New Orleans & Southern Charms

America’s Great River

NEW! Upper Mississippi Explorer

Grand Mississippi Voyage

NEW! The Big Easy to the Gateway City

NEW! Mississippi River Odyssey

Heart of the Delta

Highlights of mississippi river cruises.

A Mississippi River cruise offers the rare opportunity to sail through America's heartland on the world’s #1 river cruise line. Explore picturesque towns and boom cities; take in views of pastoral farms and towering bluffs; and immerse yourself in the region's rich history and culture with an included excursion in every port. Here are a few highlights Viking reveals to you:

• Festive French Quarter and Creole cuisine in New Orleans
• Cajun heritage in Baton Rouge
• Civil War history at Vicksburg National Military Park
• Memphis BBQ, Graceland and appreciation of the Delta Blues
• Steamboat sailings with diverse wildlife sightings
• Mark Twain's boyhood home and America’s literary history
• Up close look at America’s national symbol, the bald eagle
• Gateway Arch in St. Louis and the pioneering spirit of the Midwest
• Norwegian cultural experience at Vesterheim
• Intricate locks and dams of the Upper Mississippi

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• Scandinavia
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5-Day River Sale

• Free Silver Spirits Beverage Package on select 2025 & 2026 river voyages
• Use offer code SW4