ms kenora cruise ship

Take in a tour while visiting the City of Kenora. Fill your day with time on the lake or around town.

You do not want to miss getting out on Lake of the Woods. Book a cruise or with a guide.

Green Adventures and Lake of the Woods Marina and Service Centre Ltd.

Green Adventures  and  Lake of the Woods Marina and Service Centre Ltd.  offers daily scenic lake tours and shuttle service to Coney Island, leaving from the Kenora Harbourfront.

The one-hour scenic lake tours run on the following schedule at the cost of $25 per person: 

• 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
• 2:30 to 3:30 p.m.

The Coney Island shuttle runs on the following schedule at the cost of $10 for a return trip:

• 10 to 11 a.m.
• 1 to 2 p.m.
• 4 to 6 p.m. 

A 1.5 – 2.25 hour cruise on beautiful Lake of the Woods on the City's primary cruise ship, MS Kenora . This cruise ship is docked right on the shoreline at Kenora's Winkler Harbourfront. The tours provide patrons with a scenic tour of the lake and even pass through the Devil's Gap. The ship features 190 passenger capacity and a fully licensed restaurant on board.

Grace Anne II yacht

The beautiful Grace Anne II yacht sails Lake of the Woods for 1-5 night cruises. Boat available for charter. Lodge services include wilderness excursions, fishing, golf packages, water sports and sport shooting.

Enjoy an intimate outdoors experience on the water with one of Kenora area guided tour companies.

• Legacy Tours
• Blue Horizon Tours
• Blue Heron Lake Tours
• Brent Kruger Pontoon Tours
• Lake of the Woods Docking

Float plane tours

You can set flight with River Air Ltd. to get a sense of vast enormity of Lake of the Woods and all of its 14,542 islands. This bird's eye view allows visitors and locals to experience the lake in a new and exciting light.

Heritage townscape murals walking tours

With 18 Townscape Murals, tour around the City of Kenora taking the artwork in like a city-wide outdoor art gallery. Learn the heritage of Kenora as depicted by local artists. You can pick up a map at the  Lake of the Woods Discovery Centre .

Cemetery walking tours

Historical daytime and lantern lit night tours are offered. All tours are walking and wheel accessible. Sturdy footwear is recommended. Bring rain gear should it look like rain. For more information, contact local historian Braden Murray at The Muse .

Mather Walls House tours

Located at 1116 Ottawa Street, Keewatin

Mather Walls House is a Queen Anne style Victorian house which has been featured in an episode of Creepy Canada due to the resident ghost which inhabits the home. Today the house is preserved by the Ontario Heritage Foundation and operated by the Lake of the Woods Historical Society. During the summer months of July and August you can have a cup of tea, lunch is served or take a guided tour. Throughout the year there are other holiday teas. Every October local High School Students transform the house into a haunted house. you can visit and tour the spooky house during 2 evenings. You may even meet the real ghosts in the house!

Lake of the Woods Museum tour

Self-guided tours.

The Lake of the Woods Museum Mobile Tour will assist you on your self-guided tour through the museum. The Mobile Tour is an audio-visual tour of the museum presented on an iPad. The Mobile Tour provides background information about the museum and its collection, and then, case-by-case, exhibit-by-exhibit, describes what you are seeing and provides an overview of the area's history. The Mobile Tour includes video clips, archival photographs and stories by community members. The Mobile Tour is meant to provide you with information about the artifacts and photographs in the museum so that you might have a better understanding and deeper appreciation for those who have preceded us.

Visitors should allow themselves approximately 45 minutes to complete a self-guided tour with the printed Exhibit Guide. The Mobile Tour provides 5 ½ hours of content so you may want to plan to visit more than once!

Guided Tours

Guided tours are available for groups with pre-booking. Group rates are available.

Lake of the Woods Brewery tour

Stop by the Lake of the Woods Brewery to learn how craft beer is made. Your tour starts on the second floor of the 105 year old firehall that houses Lake of the Woods Brewing Company's brewery and taproom. You will learn a little bit about the history of the building and the history of the original Lake of the Woods Brewery that operated in Kenora from 1898 to 1954 while enjoying a pint of craft beer. Your guide will then take you into the Brewery where you will learn how we make our beer and the unique processes used. There are usually a few brewers around and they often join in on the conversation.

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M.S. Kenora Lake Navigation

Our daily cruise starts from Kenora’s scenic waterfront which takes you past Coney Island’s beautiful public beach, then heads south on a spectacular circle route of the northern section of famed Lake of the Woods (14,500 islands, 65,000 miles of shoreline). We’ll take you through picturesque channels and bays to luxurious private summer homes, and peaceful, unspoiled, wilderness areas. Watch for resident bald eagles and other wildlife that regularly come into view. The ship is both heated and air conditioned to ensure comfort in any weather. You’ll return through mystical “Devil’s Gap” to complete this 2 or 2 1/2 hour on the water experience. And water is what Sunset Country is all about.

Small wonder then, the M.S. Kenora Cruise is the leading attraction for visitors to the Lake of the Woods region

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M S Kenora Cruise Boat

Ratings and reviews, location and contact.

The boat tour is very interesting giving a good account of the surrounding home and 'cottages'. The food is fine. If you can take the dinner tour and see the sun setting.

Nice boat ride around lake of the woods. Telling you the history of the area. Well worth the trip. Can be pricey for a large family.

Best tour ever ... 3 hr tour we went on the evening cruise, had a amazing buffet on board... The food was magnificent, the staff are very accommodating to everyone's needs, the view on the tour was spectacular .... And the captain. Was very knowledgeable...... A truly must do when you visit kenora... More

This afternoon I was informed about about a 8 person group that embarked on the MSKenora. 2 passes included free passes issued in 2012. After embarking ,the 2 free passes were pronounced not valid. After questioning the validity of the two passes the captain,who was... called said "no ...new tickets were necessary " The captain who obvious is not a business person was quick to threaten eviction off the boat with help of the OPP Two members of the group were well respected Kenora business persons. Both of which have achieved success by proper treatment of the customer. From one Kenora business owner to another, your business success is all about keeping the customer happy. Our company employs anywhere up to 15 captains. We do 8 million of sales and this guy would be gone at the next opportunity. Apologies are in order. Bart More

We booked a dinner cruise on a Sunday evening, which we thought would solve our dining problem for that night after travelling from Thunder Bay. HOW MISTAKEN we were. The host at our B & B called to confirm for us when we arrived only... to find out that the dinner cruise that night had been cancelled. We were NOT out any money fortunately. That made us search around town for dining opportunities which are scarce in Kenora on a Sunday. However, we did really want to see the Lake of the Woods, so we decided to take the lunch cruise the next day. Although it was called a lunch cruise it did not start until later 1.30 I believe which was too late for us to eat. So we decided to have lunch and then go on the cruise. I therefore cannot fairly comment on the restaurant because we did not eat on board. When we booked the cruise, we mentioned the fact that the previous evening's dinner cruise had been cancelled without advising us - they did have our e-mail - they did not show any concern at all. It was an attitude of "tough luck". They did ask if we had paid - we had not. The cruise itself was all right, and we did enjoy it - I would class that as average. I would not deter anyone from taking the cruise, but I would caution anyone booking in advance that there is no certainty that you will go - they seem to cancel without any hesitation. More

Just a wonderful afternoon cruise. Good wine,great view and terrific narration by Captain. Tells much about the area, history, famous cottagers past and present. Boarding was efficient and timely. Great entertainment all around.

The boat needs a major facelift. The buffet food was average. It's great to see the lovely Lake of the Woods anytime. If the interior was nicer looking it would be easier to relax as the tour of the lake takes a good two hours!

Took my girl for her first tour of the Lake of the Woods. She was really impressed. The crew were wonderful. The captain made sure to point out the wild life and had great stories about the history of the lake. This was my third... cruise with Captain Luby’s ship. Its a great way to pass a couple of hours on the lake. More

Very nice ride around north end of Lake of the woods.A real treat to see the area via boat cruise. We didn,t take dinner option but it looked good.

I like this boat, they serve food, not a huge menu for sure, drinks if you like. They take you on some of the nicest cruises that can be had in a large boat on Lake of the Woods. The negative is the washroom facilities,... the time I was on the floor was wet, but wet from what? Kind of turned me off. More

The MS Cruises whether lunch, dinner or the moonlighter (aka booze cruise to the townies) is amazing. Great view of the lake, good dinner or lots of fun on the late night moonlighter. Worth it!

A cruise on Lake of the Woods with the Ms Kenora is a definite must when in Kenora. Although a cruise on the lake is enjoyable at anytime, a sunset cruise is especially something that will leave you in awe with a smile that lasts... for days. More

With a beautiful cruise around the lake of the woods what could be better. be sure to bring your camera for some beautiful scenic sights. The meals are nice and with pleasant company and views it makes for a wonderful day trip

First time on the boat in over 40 years - it didn't disappoint! We sat on the upper/outside level and enjoyed the cruise with my 2 older sisters. My only complaint is that there isn't much protection from the sun on the upper/outside level. There... is limited seating under the canopies, so bring a hat. It was quite breezy on a beautiful, sunny afternoon, so my sister had to hold onto her hat. The cruise is about 2 hours which was plenty long. They do serve food - which we regretted not parttaking of once we saw the delicious food being eaten around us! I noticed french fries and loaded nachos! Bought a canned soda that cost $2.50 (cheaper than some places). The little interaction we had with the crew was all pleasant. More

What a great evening cruising with a nice meal good company. The cruise came with an interesting commentry on the various islands. One included a young man who bought 2 islands side by side. When he asked for his future wife's hand hiis mother in... law said she was coming on their honey moon to his island. So to overcome this he built two cottages one for her on the small island hers being basic and one for himself and his wife. The mother in law had to cross a bridge to get to her island and was informed she had to ask to come off. Not sure how long she stayed there. So lots of wild life including eagles. Certainly worth the trip and a nice way to end a day More

M S KENORA CRUISE BOAT - Restaurant Reviews, Photos & Phone Number - Tripadvisor

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Thunder Bay

Tour the Lake of the Woods, the second largest inland lake in Ontario, and see some of its 14,000+ islands. The MS Kenora cruise ship is fully licensed, serves food and accommodates up to 200 passengers and crew.

PO Box 741, Kenora, Ontario

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build a perfect weekend getaway in kenora

A trip to Kenora - even if just for a weekend - is a great way to relax and enjoy yourself. Take your family or go with a group of friends - there is a lot to see and do. Here is a sample itinerary to give you some ideas.

Day 1 (Evening):  We're assuming you are coming from Winnipeg or somewhere relatively close by and that you have decided to drive out on Friday evening. Key things to do would be to book your Hotel, Motel, or Bed and Breakfast Accommodations in Kenora .  After you arrive, get your stuff into your room you are ready to go out for a bite to eat - there are many great restaurants and dining establishments in Kenora to choose from. After a good dinner, you can return to your hotel, motel, or B&B and relax for the rest of the evening. Alternative activity: Hire a guide and go fishing!

Day 2 (Morning): Start your day off with a little exercise and go for a hike on one of the many urban hiking trails located in Kenora. Tunnel Island, Mink Bay, or a little further afield, the Vernon Nature Trails are all good choices. You will get to walk through a forested area, see some water close up, and generally have a great time. If you don't want to venture through the woods, then take a walk along the streets and check out Kenora's Heritage Townscape Murals .  Additional insight into Kenora's history can be found at the "murmur" locations throughout town. Once you find one of these, there will be a phone number available to call that will provide information on the historic significance of the building or spot you are at.  This activity should take up the morning and we are sure after all that walking you will be ready to go for lunch.

Day 2 (Afternoon): Transportation is your theme for Saturday afternoon. After a good lunch head to the Harbourfront dock and catch the 1:30 cruise on the MS Kenora Cruise Ship . You'll get a guided tour of the  incredible Lake of the Woods - see bald eagle nests, white pelicans, and million-dollar cottages on the lake. This is a two-hour cruise that is a "must-do" for anyone who visits Kenora. After you step off the cruise you have some time before supper to continue your discovery of Kenora's transportation history.

You have two choices here - you can either visit the Lake of the Woods Railroad Museum located near Norman Park or take a 45-minute ride on a venerable Canadian bush plane. To book a flightseeing trip, just turn right after stepping off of the MS Kenora cruise and head straight to the 2nd Street docks - you can't miss it - the dock has 3-7 bush planes moored there at any one time. After your trip to the Railroad Museum or ride on the bush plane you will be ready for supper and a cold beverage. For the rest of the evening, we suggest you relax and explore downtown, maybe go bowling or take in a movie.

Day 3 (Morning): We know it will be a warm sunny day on Sunday (we arrange for this - just for the tourists) so we suggest you make Sunday morning your water sports time. Try renting a kayak or canoe, go swimming at Coney Island Beach or other local beaches (Kenora has 5 in total), go boating, even scuba diving, and enjoy the recreational opportunities Lake of the Woods offers. We suggest a beachside or lakeside lunch/picnic is the right meal choice - try a barbecue - you'll love it.

Day 3 (Afternoon): Okay, we know you have to get home by 8:00 PM because you have to go to work on Monday morning, but we want to mention a few other local attractions that you really should see. There is Canada's neatest little museum - the Muse  - easily one of the finest small museums in Canada. Another interesting piece of Kenora's history is the Mather-Walls House in Keewatin. Both attractions offer the visiting tourist an informative tour so if you can see them both in the time you have available, we encourage you to do so.

On your way back home make sure you make a quick stop at McLeod Park to see Kenora's mascot, Husky the Muskie! This 35-foot tall statue of the Lake of the Woods' most famous fish is a definite roadside attraction you won't want to miss.

Well there you have it, a weekend in Kenora is a great choice for you, your family and friends. You can obtain more information about visiting Kenora from the folks who run Tourism Kenora or you can call them direct at 1-800-535-4549.

Order your free Sunset Country Travel Guide & Map for more vacation ideas.

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Gerry is Executive Director of Ontario's Sunset Country Travel Association and is an avid fisherman and nature photographer. Gerry has been writing about Sunset Country's varied travel experiences for over 20 years and lives these experiences year-round in Kenora, Ontario.

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M.S. Kenora Cruise Boat

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

M.S. Kenora Cruise Boat - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (2024)

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Former name: Avalon Scenery

Cruise line HTL Cruises (River Cruises)

MS Leonora last position

MS Leonora last location was at North Sea (coordinates 51.81955 N / 4.87368 E) cruising en route to HARDINXVELD. The AIS position was reported 1 year ago.

Specifications of MS Leonora

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MS Leonora Review

Review of ms leonora.

MS Leonora (fka Avalon Scenery) ship cruises on Rhone and Saone Rivers departing from Cote dAzur , Arles and Chalon-sur-Saone . There are also combined itineraries with a second ship departing from  Paris France .

Note: In 2017, the vessel Avalon Scenery (previously chartered by Avalon Waterways from "Blue Ships 1 Renditefonds GmbH & Co KG Hamburg ") was sold to "HTL Cruises" (travel company based in Arnhem Holland ). The new shipowner renamed "Avalon Scenery" to "MS Leonora". The fleetmate and sistership Avalon Creativity was renamed Monarch Princess .

Only 138 passengers can be accommodated on board in an elegantly designed setting. The ship offers deluxe suites, most of which with French balconies and floor-to-ceiling glass doors. Avalon Scenery has a total number of 70 cabins (of which 2 Avalon Suite, 57 French Balcony, 11 with non-opening windows) in 5 grades. Scenery's cabin types selection features mostly "French Balcony" staterooms, including the two signature Avalon Suite accommodations (also with French Balcony, plus a seating area).

Cabins Types, Sizes, Categories (high to low) 

• Amenities in all types of staterooms - 2 twin beds converting to queen-sized, 3-door closets with shelves, private bathroom (glass-door shower, hairdryer, bathrobes, slippers), sofa, coffee table, flat TV, vanity/writing desk, private French balcony (floor-to-ceiling sliding door), individual climate control, phone, minibar, safe, deluxe pillow menu, complimentary bottled water. Cabin occupancy - 2 guests in a room.
• Suites - (x4, JR), size 258 ft2 / 24 m2)
• Deluxe Staterooms (category, number) - P (x24), A (x18), B (x12), E (11) - size 172 ft2 / 16 m2).

Shipboard facilities

MS Leonora ship (Avalon Scenery) has 1 bar, 3 lounges, free Wi-Fi access, complimentary Internet Corner, Sky Deck (Sun Deck with Sky Bistro and whirlpool), hair salon, Fitness Center, 1 elevator.

The riverboat offers 5-star service, gourmet dining (with chef-inspired recipes and complimentary wines), Bar Lounge (observation, with an outside viewing deck), Club Lounge, Library (Internet Corner), Atrium Lobby, Hair Salon, Gym, Sun Deck (Sky Lounge and Bistro, Whirlpool, shaded seating, deck games area). Ship's restaurants are named Scenery (dining room) and Sky Bistro (al-fresco).

MS Leonora cruise deals are inclusive of Wi-Fi Internet, room-service, all land tours and excursions (by certified local tour guides), motorcoach transfers, live evening entertainment (local performers), daily enrichment lectures, Scenery cruise ship tour ("behind-the-scenes"), food and wine tastings, 24-hour premium coffee/tea/hot chocolate, replenished daily bottled water.

River Cruise Itineraries

Follows the list of Avalon Scenery itineraries that the ship used to operate for Avalon Waterways:

• (7-nights cruising) "Burgundy and Provence" are 11-days river cruises from Paris to Cote d’Azur (Southbound, code WCL), and the reverse from Cote d’Azur to Paris (Northbound, code WLC). Itineraries include TGV train (high-speed train) travel Paris-Dijon, the embarkation on the Scenery ship in Chalon (transfer from Beaune) or Arles (transfer from Cote d’Azur), and also Burgundy wine cruise tours included in the Avalon Waterways tickets prices.
• (Two ships, 14-nights cruising) "Grand France" are 16-days Seine, Saone and Rhone river cruises from Paris to Cote d’Azur (Southbound, code WPL), and the reverse from Cote d’Azur to Paris (Northbound, code WLP). These are back-to-back river cruise deals  combining the Scenery's Saone and Rhone cruise with the "Paris to Normandy's Landing Beaches" itinerary route operated by the new Avalon Tapestry 2 ship. These Avalon Waterways deals offer embarkation and disembarkation in Paris, Chalon and Arles, with included TGV train travel Paris-Dijon or the reverse Dijon-Paris.

MS Leonora - user reviews and comments

Ms leonora wiki.

MS Avalon Scenery is in the same vessel class with the Avalon ships Affinity ,  Creativity , Felicity (Monarch Countess) and Luminary (Monarch Duchess) . The 2008-built Scenery was the oldest vessel in the Avalon Waterways fleet.

Each of these ships is equipped with two Caterpillar Marine diesel engines (type "C32 ACERT", total power output 1420 kW / 1930 HP). The propulsion system is diesel-electric, with an azimuth thruster and an SDS ("Silent Drive System" separating the ship's engines from passenger staterooms).

Note: You can see CruiseMapper's list of all river cruise ships and riverboats in the "itinerary" section of our  River Cruises hub. All companies and their fleets are listed there.

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The Best Mississippi River Cruises to Discover America's Heartland

By Jackie Sheckler Finch

The luxury ships and historic tours are nice, yes. But the real star of Mississippi River cruises has always been the river. There’s nothing quite so Americana as getting to know the many personalities of this 2,350-mile stretch, flowing from northern Minnesota’s Lake Itasca through 10 states until it reaches Louisiana , where the Mississippi River Delta gives way to the Gulf of Mexico.

The slow, meandering journeys of Mississippi River cruises have long proven an ideal way to discover the distinct stories of America’s heartland. In the words of Mark Twain (which no Mississippi River story would be complete without), the towns and cities located on the mighty river's shores are “cheering to the spirit” and “reposeful as a dreamland,” with “nothing to hang a fret or a worry upon.”

The challenge modern travelers now face is when, where, and how to go about this iconic American voyage . Below, see our answers to these frequently asked questions, plus our favorite Mississippi River cruises to book in 2024.

Which cruise lines do Mississippi River cruises?

After American Queen Voyages shut down in February, only two Mississippi River cruise lines currently remain in operation.

Celebrating its 50th anniversary, American Cruise Lines (ACL) has a fleet of more than 20 American-built ships sailing across the country and remains family-owned and American-crewed. ACL offers a Mississippi River fleet of three luxurious 180-passenger modern riverboats– American Melody , American Symphony , and American Serenade —plus two classic paddlewheel ships, the 180-passenger American Splendor and the 150-passenger American Heritage.

The new kid on the Mississippi is the Viking Mississippi, a 386-passenger, five-deck vessel that first set sail in September 2022. The cutting-edge cruise is Viking’s first foray in the US, adding to their fleet of more than 90 ocean, river, and expedition vessels navigating the world’s seven continents.

What is the average cost of a Mississippi River cruise?

For an 8- or 9-day cruise, the average cost of a Mississippi River cruise is around $4,000 per person in a stateroom. Although prices might seem high initially, many of these cruises include extras that aren’t always complimentary on ocean cruises such as free WiFi, at least one free shore excursion in every port, paid port taxes and fees, and a pre-cruise hotel stay. Viking offers complimentary beer, wine, and soft drinks with onboard lunch and dinner. Meanwhile, American Cruise Lines offers complimentary beer, wine, cocktails, and soft drinks. Gratuities are also included in American Cruise Lines fares.

What is the best time of year to go on a river cruise?

Spring (late March through mid-June) and autumn (September through November) are the best times of year to go on a river cruise in the US. Spring blossoms add a colorful touch to the shoreline, and you can never go wrong with autumn foliage. The temperatures are mild, if not pleasantly cool, and passengers are eager to welcome a new spring travel season—or to enjoy one last autumn river adventure before winter arrives.

What month is best for a Mississippi River cruise?

If we had to pick just one, September is the best month for a Mississippi River cruise. The weather is usually mild with less likelihood of rain, and autumn colors are beginning to paint the shoreline. Keep in mind, however, that the Mississippi is the fourth largest river in the world—so temperatures any time of year are not going to be the same in warmer Louisiana as they are in cooler Minnesota.

Below, see our favorite Mississippi River cruises to book in 2024, featuring stops in iconic American cities like Nashville , Memphis , and New Orleans .

22-day Mississippi River Odyssey: New Orleans to Red Wing, Minnesota

Enjoy the charms of America’s great river on a journey aboard the Viking Mississippi from New Orleans to Red Wing, departing September 20. Custom built to sail American waters, the vessel features river-facing staterooms with either French or step-out balconies.

Stops include Baton Rouge and St. Francisville in Louisiana; Natchez, Vicksburg, Greenville, and Rosedale in Mississippi; Memphis in Tennessee; Paducah in Kentucky; Cape Girardeau, St. Louis, and Hannibal in Missouri; Burlington, Quad Cities, and Dubuque in Iowa; La Crosse in Wisconsin; and ending in Red Wing, Minnesota.

With so many fascinating shore excursions to choose from, it’s well worth taking time to tour the St. Louis Arch . Opened in 1965, the monument to America’s westward expansion is far more than just a stunning photo by the riverside. Venture underground between the arch legs for a museum. Climb aboard a tram to be transported 630 feet up to the top of America’s tallest monument for some stunning views.

12-day Heart of the Delta: Memphis to New Orleans

The 386-guest Viking Mississippi spans five decks, making it one of the largest passenger vessels on the Mississippi. Inaugurated in 2022, the ship features a modern Scandinavian design with an infinity pool and a two-story Explorers’ Lounge observation area similar to its ocean ships. Directly in front of the Explorer’s Lounge is an expanded outdoor seating area known as The Bow. Three restaurants serve both Southern regional cuisine and international favorites.

The cruise starts in Memphis on November 14 and includes stops in Rosedale, Greenville, Vicksburg, and Natchez in Mississippi as well as St. Francisville, Baton Rouge, and Darrow in Louisiana, ending in New Orleans. The “Mississippi Sings the Blues” shore excursion visits iconic sites along the Mississippi Blues Trail such as historic Dockery Farms, considered the “birthplace of the blues.”

The tour stops in Clarksdale, the fabled “Crossroads” where legend says blues great Robert Johnson reputedly sold his soul to the devil in exchange for his guitar prowess. Stops at the GRAMMY Museum Mississippi and the Delta Blues Museum completes this perfect trip for music lovers.

9-day Music Cities Cruise: Nashville to Memphis

Music is the main focus of this cruise offered by American Cruise Lines, which begins in Nashville on July 9 with an unforgettable visit to the legendary Grand Ole Opry and ends in Memphis, where passengers will enjoy live music on Beale Street and a tour of Elvis Presley’s Graceland . On board the American Splendor, passengers will enjoy spacious cabins and popular rocking chairs. First inaugurated in 2016 and fully redecorated in 2022, this ship offers the nostalgia of a classic paddlewheeler along with the comfort of modern amenities.

While in Nashville, explore the Johnny Cash Museum, then walk upstairs to The Patsy Cline Museum. Nightly entertainment spotlights the musical heritage of this region as the world’s newest paddlewheeler journeys along the river. The itinerary also includes Clarksville and Dover in Tennessee plus Paducah in Kentucky. In Paducah, stroll along the riverfront with more than 50 life-sized panoramic murals depicting Paducah’s past. Stop by Paducah’s National Quilt Museum, the world’s largest museum devoted to quilt and fiber art.

23-day Complete Mississippi River Cruise: New Orleans to St. Paul

Sail 1,393 miles through 10 states on a comprehensive exploration of the mighty Mississippi on the new American Serenade . Inaugurated in 2023, the 91-cabin American Serenade won Best New River Cruise Ship of the Year 2023 by Cruise Critic , the first time an American ship has received this prestigious award.

“With extra-large all-balcony staterooms and suites, trendy interior décor, an innovative hydraulic bow and retractable ramp, and one of the most gorgeous sun decks we’ve seen on a river-going ship, American Serenade sets the bar for domestic US river cruising high,” the award notes.

The epic itinerary beginning July 18, 2024 includes 22 ports of call including Oak Alley, Houmas House, Baton Rouge, and St. Francisville in Louisiana; Natchez, Vicksburg, Greenville, and Tunica in Mississippi; Memphis in Tennessee; Cape Girardeau, St. Louis, and Hannibal in Missouri; Muscatine and Dubuque in Iowa; and Winona, Red Wing, and Saint Paul in Minnesota.

Zahra Hankir

Levi Mandel

Hannah Towey

Charlie Hobbs

12-day Mississippi River Gateway Cruise: New Orleans to St. Louis

From the French Quarter in New Orleans to the towering Gateway Arch in St. Louis , this American Heritage cruise lives up to its name. Inaugurated in 2015 and totally redecorated in 2022, the 84-cabin American Heritage is the perfect vessel for this interesting itinerary, its design reminiscent of the days when steamboat paddlewheelers plied the Mississippi in the 1800s.

The 12-day voyage departs from New Orleans on July 2. Ports of call along the way include Baton Rouge in Louisiana; Natchez and Vicksburg in Mississippi; Memphis in Tennessee; and Paducah in Kentucky . An onboard expert shares tales of the importance of steam-driven paddlewheels in establishing riverfront communities along the great Mississippi River.

Step ashore in Natchez and enjoy a cold drink at the Under-the-Hill-Saloon, once one of the rowdiest establishments on the Mississippi River in the 1800s. Legend says that Mark Twain stopped here when he was just another riverman named Samuel Clemens.

9-day Lower Mississippi River Cruise: Memphis to New Orleans

This nine-day American Melody cruise departs Memphis on September 8 and features eight ports of call including Vicksburg and Natchez in Mississippi, and St. Francisville, Baton Rouge, and Houmas House in Louisiana. At Vicksburg Military Park, learn how the 101st Airborne Division got its “Screaming Eagles” nickname, plus the tale of its famous soldier, a young guitar player named Jimi Hendrix. At Houmas House, see the bedroom where Bette Davis stayed to film the 1964 movie Hush, Hush, Sweet Charlotte . Joan Crawford was the intended co-star but Bette and Joan feuded so Joan quit and Olivia de Havilland replaced her.

Launched in 2021, the five-deck American Melody has 91 staterooms, all with private balconies and full-length sliding glass doors. The ship has several spacious lounges, a fitness center, large dining room, café for casual dining, sun deck, library, and an impressive four-story glass atrium in the center of the ship. The ship’s unusual bow opens and lowers a platform for passengers to easily walk ashore.

9-day Upper Mississippi River Cruise: St. Louis to St. Paul

Board the American Symphony cruise ship to visit Mark Twain’s hometown and experience the real-life inspiration behind Life on the Mississippi, the classic memoir chronicling the author's days on the river as a steamboat pilot.

The 91-cabin American Symphony, recently inaugurated in 2022, has 100% private balcony accommodations and a unique bow that opens with a retractable gangway that can be extended for landings virtually anywhere. The ship also features lounges soaring 40 feet above the water with triple the glass of other riverboats for spectacular views. Comfy deck chairs welcome passengers to enjoy the undeveloped countryside, picturesque islands, and fascinating dams and navigation locks.

Departing September 27, this itinerary features seven ports of call including Muscatine and Dubuque in Iowa, and Winona and Red Wing in Minnesota. In Hannibal, visit the actual home—with a whitewashed Tom Sawyer fence—where Samuel Clemens (Mark Twain) grew up. In Dubuque, see the 1989 “Field of Dreams” movie site known for the famous quote, “If you build it, they will come.”

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