portland oregon riverboat cruises

(503) 902-5161

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Willamette river, portland, oregon, click below to see our excursions, our excursions.

Choose One of Our Package Tours

Willamette Falls

Join us on an exciting cruise to visit the largest waterfall in the Northwestern United States!

Downtown Bridges

Ride with us and learn the fascinating history of the magnificent bridges of Portland!

Sunset and City Lights

Join us on a sunset cruise down the Willamette and watch the city light up the evening!

Nature Tour

Our morning cruise coffee cruise. Eagles, Sea Lions, Salmon, Beavers, Deer and more!

Custom Tours

Come celebrate with us on a custom cruise of your creation!

Starting at $199 for the first hour.

Purchase the perfect gift: a Portland River Tours gift card with a value of your choosing!

Cruise in Comfort Rain or Shine!

Each tour is a private tour. Our tours are great for individuals and small groups of 6 or fewer passengers. We tour on the lower section of the beautiful Willamette River in the city of Portland, Oregon.​

We have same day and last minute tours available!

We are always on the water! Rain or shine. Our boat is covered, heated, and we have heated blankets. 

What to Bring

Sunglasses Sunscreen Hat A warm jacket Food, wine, and beer!

Enjoy Your Cruise!

Last Minute Tours

Is it a beautiful day?   

Do you want to get out on the water today?  

Have some extra time before your flight home?    

Text Captain Charles for immediate availability touring options

503-902-5161

Passenger Pickup Locations

If you need help locating the pickup points or have any questions prior to your tour, feel free to call or text us at 503-902-5161.

Willamette Park On the boat dock. Park entrance is near 6500 S. Macadam Ave.  Portland Oregon 97219 Click to open in Google Maps

Downtown Portland Downtown on the waterfront dock in front of King Tide Fish and Shell restauran t. 1510 S Harbor Way, Portland, OR 97201   Click to open in Google Maps  

Book a Custom Tour

Private, customizable local boat tours f rom $199 for the first hour for 1-4 passengers. Discounts for larger groups and longer river tours.

We have same-day and last-minute tours available! We are always on the water, rain or shine! Our boat is fully covered.

Please call or text for a quick quote!

Felicia Rahm

AMAZING EXPERIENCE! Professional, knowledgeable and absolutely stunning scenery!

Portland River Tours is a great option for spending time enjoying the beauty and sights along the Willamette! We enjoyed a wonderful time, the boat is very comfortable and Captain Charles did a great job navigating plus kept us entertained with local knowledge and stories.

Meet Your Captain

Captain Charles Arnell

2-Hour Scenic River Boat Tour on the Willamette River

• Life Jackets
• Heated blankets
• All cruises are BYOB. Food and drinks and alcohol are allowed
• 6500 S Macadam Ave, Portland, OR 97239, USA
• Not wheelchair accessible
• Stroller accessible
• Service animals allowed
• Near public transportation
• Confirmation will be received at time of booking
• Most travelers can participate
• This experience requires good weather. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund
• This is a private tour/activity. Only your group will participate
• For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours in advance of the start date of the experience.
• Oregon Museum of Science and Industry
• Steel Bridge
• Hawthorne Bridge

Similar experiences

• You'll get picked up See departure details
• Pass by Portland Hawthorne Bridge Steel Bridge Tilikum Crossing Elk Rock Island Oregon City George Rogers Park Willamette Park Willamette Falls Clackamas River Oaks Bottom Wildlife Refuge Milwaukie Oregon Museum of Science and Industry Clackamette Park USS Blueback Submarine Tom McCall Waterfront Park
• You'll return to the starting point

More to explore in Portland

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 wait time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.

2-Hour Scenic River Boat Tour on the Willamette River provided by Portland River Tours

JOB FAIR — JOIN OUR CREW: SATURDAY, MARCH 26 TH 10AM — 3PM. CLICK HERE TO LEARN MORE

Willamette Jetboat Excursions offers guests from all over the world a fun filled family adventure on Portland’s waterfront!

Portland’s Ultimate River Experience

In 1997, Willamette Jetboat Excursions was launched as the first company offering jetboat tours on the Willamette River. Twenty-five years later, we are under new ownership and still proud to be Portland’s ultimate river experience.

The experience

Each fully narrated excursion is a memory in the making as guests take in the sights and sounds of historic bridges, shipyards, architecture and urban wildlife while gliding inches above the Willamette River.

The jetboats

Did you know that we build our own jetboats? We do! We’re more than just operators, we’re builders! Decades of experience and technology allow us to create each multi-passenger jetboat with the ability to glide inches above the water; giving you the most safe and exciting experience on the Willamette River.

BOOKING EXCURSIONS FOR 2023! SELECT DATE FOR PRICING OPTIONS.

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Bigfoot adventure cruise.

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Portland Spirit

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Brunch Cruise Offered Year-Round

Youth (1-12) From $39.50 Infants (0-1) $10

Prices may change based on demand and do not include tax, fees or optional upgrades. Proceed to booking to view the current rate — book early for the best price. Group discounts available for 10+ persons; please contact 503-224-3900 or [email protected].

Please note: Brunch times vary for holiday cruises, including Easter, Mother’s Day and Father’s Day. In July – August, we feature two brunches at 10:00 am and 2:30 pm. In December, brunch cruises are at 2:00 pm on Saturdays & Sundays.

• Wheelchair Accessible
• Vegan & GF by Request
• Non-Smoking Vessel

Wheelchairs are able to come aboard the enclosed lower deck — please notify us when booking. Stairs are required to venture to the upper/outer decks.

Portland is known for its love of brunch — elevate your brunch experience with a cruise on the Willamette River! Enjoy a 2-hour cruise, buffet brunch featuring locally-sourced breakfast and lunch items prepared fresh on board. You’ll also enjoy Champagne and mimosas, live piano music, ever changing views and narration of the sights on the outer decks.

What's Included

Upgrade Options

Add to cart during checkout – Subject to availability

Additional Add-ons

• Seafood Plate Appetizer – $30
• Cheese Sampler Appetizer – $30
• Mediterranean Plate Appetizer – $30
• Shrimp Cocktail Appetizer – $12
• Dessert Upgrade – $7 per person
• Window Table – $15 per person
• Boarding Photo – $15

Departure Information

Offered:  Sundays* Boarding:  11 am*  Cruising:  11:30 am – 1:30 pm*

* Brunch times vary for holiday cruises, including Easter, Mother’s Day and Father’s Day. In July – August, we feature two brunches at 10:00 am and 2:30 pm. In December, brunch cruises are at 2:00 pm on Saturdays & Sundays.

Departure Point: We have two docks: Salmon Springs in downtown Portland and Caruthers Landing in SE Portland. Most cruises will board the Portland Spirit at Salmon Springs Dock, but the vessel and boarding location is subject to change. Departure points are indicated during checkout or refer to your booking confirmation. If you have a question regarding your boarding location, please call our office during regular business hours.

Salmon Springs Dock: 1010 SW Naito Pkwy, Portland, OR 97204 Caruthers Dock: 110 SE Caruthers St. Portland OR 97214

Return Details:  Returns to original departure point.

No cancellations, unless refundable ticket option is purchased at time of booking. Vessel and boarding location are subject to change.

Explore Other Cruises

Portland sightseeing, specifications:.

Length 150 feet Beam 32 feet Draft 7.6 feet Displacement 360 tons Cruising Speed 8 knots Top Speed 13 knots Engines (2) Caterpillar Model C-18, Diesel

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Portland Oregon Cruise Port: Tips, Attractions and Weather

Portland, Oregon, is a major riverboat cruise port because it is the starting point for many cruises up the Columbia and Snake rivers.

Red Lion Hotel on the River, which is north of the city, and Tom McCall Waterfront Park in the city are common embarkation points for many of these river cruises.

Cruise lines that use Portland as an embarkation point include American Cruise Lines, Lindblad Expeditions, UnCruise Adventures and American Queen Steamboat Company.

Attractions and Shore Excursions

Portland is so big that it has many points of interest for anyone who spends a few extra days there before taking a riverboat cruise.

Red Lion Hotel on the River is on Hayden Island in the middle of the Columbia River. It doesn’t have easy access to walking attractions. So anyone who stays at that hotel before a cruise will need to take a taxi or excursion bus to get to nearby attractions and shore excursions.

But Tom McCall Waterfront Park is in the city and on a narrow and lengthy park that lies along the Columbia River. One of its main attractions is the Waterfront Park Trail for anyone with a little extra time and energy on their hands.

Pioneer Courthouse Square at 701 SW 6th Avenue is another seven tenths of a mile from the waterfront park, but this time it is southwest of the park. Pioneer is an open-space urban park with shops, restaurants and more than 300 annual events.

Lan Su Chinese Garden , 239 NW Everett St., is seven tenths of a mile northwest of the waterfront park. It is a walled Chinese garden that encloses a full city block by Chinatown. General admission tickets are $12.95.

Washington Park , 4033 SW Canyon Road, has several major attractions including the Portland Japanese Garden, the International Rose Test Garden, Hoyt Arboretum and the Portland Children’s Museum.

Summer is clearly the best time to take a riverboat cruise out of Portland.

Average daytime temperatures in July and August are about 81 degrees Fahrenheit, according to the U.S. National Weather Service. Nighttime temperatures drop into the upper 50s.

Summer also is the dry season for Portland. The city averages less than one inch of rain in July and August and only about four days with rain each month.

September also has a good combination of warm temperatures and low risk of rain along with changing tree colors. May is cooler than September and has a higher risk of rain.

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7 best US river cruises

Whether you're fascinated by American history, culture and cuisine, or you've enjoyed river cruising in Europe but are now looking to explore closer to home, U.S. river cruises are an easy and enjoyable vacation option.

Choose from two main waterways for your U.S. river cruise: the Mississippi River — which flows through nine states from St. Paul, Minnesota, to New Orleans — or the Columbia and Snake rivers in Oregon and Washington. Some cruise lines also venture onto three smaller, lesser-known rivers: the Ohio, the Cumberland and the Tennessee. You can also explore New York's Hudson River on a fall foliage cruise.

For cruise news, reviews and tips, sign up for TPG's cruise newsletter .

Your choice of cruise line is equally limited. Just two companies offer multiple itineraries on U.S. rivers. American Cruise Line sails all the waterways mentioned above, while Viking offers itineraries solely on the Mississippi. Additionally, Lindblad Expeditions has introduced a food-and-wine-centric river cruise on the Columbia and Snake rivers.

Read on for our picks of the seven best U.S. river cruises. They range from seven to 15 nights and visit destinations in 16 states; itineraries take you through the colonial-heritage-rich Northeast, America's agricultural heartland and the pioneer routes of the Pacific Northwest.

American Cruise Lines' 8-night Music Cities Cruise

From Memphis blues and Elvis Presley's "Blue Suede Shoes" to Kentucky bluegrass and New Orleans jazz, American Cruise Lines' eight-night Music Cities Cruise sails you through a chronology of the U.S. music scene. You'll traverse three rivers (the Mississippi, Ohio and Cumberland) en route from Memphis to Nashville, or vice versa.

In Tennessee's two famous music cities, you'll have a chance to visit Elvis Presley's Graceland, stroll blues club-lined Beale Street and check out the Grand Ole Opry. You'll also visit Paducah, Kentucky, and Dover and Clarksville in Tennessee, where experiences include whiskey and bourbon tasting, tours of landmark art murals and, of course, Civil War history.

While cruising, you'll enjoy nightly entertainment that celebrates the region's musical heritage. American Cruise Lines offers this itinerary on four ships from April to October 2024, 2025 and 2026. Three of the ships — American Melody, American Symphony and American Serenade — are 180-passenger modern river ships launched in 2021, 2022 and 2023, respectively. The fourth, American Splendor, is a 180-passenger paddlewheeler that debuted in 2016.

Related: Booking your first river cruise? Here's what you need to know

Viking's 14-night America's Great River Cruise

Want the total Mississippi experience? You can cruise the entire length of this mighty river as you visit 14 cities in seven U.S. states on Viking's two-week sailing.

Available three times a year (in July, September and October), the America's Great River cruise begins in Minnesota (either St. Paul or Red Wing) and concludes in New Orleans, allowing you to experience an intricate tapestry of American history and culture.

There's eagle spotting in Red Wing and agricultural innovation in Quad Cities, Iowa. You'll enjoy Mark Twain lore in Hannibal, Missouri, and architectural landmarks, such as the soaring Gateway Arch, in St. Louis. As you cruise the lower Mississippi, you'll delve into civil rights history in Memphis; Civil War battles and historic architecture in Mississippi's Vicksburg and Natchez; Cajun and Creole music in Baton Rouge; and the legendary culinary treats and jazz of New Orleans.

All sailings are aboard the 386-passenger Viking Mississippi. Launched in 2022, it's currently the largest river ship in the U.S. and features three restaurants and an aft infinity pool.

American Cruise Lines' 8-Night Columbia & Snake River Cruise

If your vacation preferences favor mountain landscapes, wine tasting and pioneer lore, consider American Cruise Lines' eight-night Columbia & Snake River Cruise . You'll explore the Pacific Northwest from Portland, Oregon, to Clarkstown, Washington (or vice versa).

On the Pacific end of your voyage, you'll visit Astoria, Oregon — the oldest American settlement west of the Rocky Mountains. This coastal city at the mouth of the Columbia River is known for its Victorian homes, wineries, brew pubs, and Lewis and Clark heritage. Next, from Kalama, Washington, you can join an excursion to visit the remnants of the area around Mount St. Helens, which suffered a devastating eruption in 1980.

In The Dalles, you can enjoy a sommelier-led tasting of Columbia Valley wines, visit Multnomah Falls or get adventurous on a river kayak tour. During a call on Richland, Washington, you can admire the scenic beauty around the confluence of the Columbia and Snake rivers at Sacajawea State Park. More wine tasting or outdoor adventure awaits on the way to Clarkstown.

American Cruise Line offers this itinerary on five ships from April to October 2024, 2025 and 2026. Three of the ships (American Song, American Jazz and American Harmony) are 180-passenger modern river ships launched from 2018 to 2020. American Pride is a 150-passenger paddlewheeler launched in 2012, and American West is a 110-passenger veteran paddlewheeler launched in 1995.

Related: Best river cruise lines around the world

Viking's 7-night New Orleans & Southern Charms

If you've never visited New Orleans, or it's been a while, take a Mississippi River cruise that sails round-trip from the Big Easy. They offer time before or after the cruise to enjoy the city's food, music and iconic architecture — plus the ease of a round-trip flight booking. Viking's seven-night New Orleans & Southern Charms itinerary focuses solely on ports in Louisiana and Mississippi, with an emphasis on historic architecture, Cajun culture and Civil War landmarks.

From Darrow, Louisiana, you'll stroll beneath canopies of towering live oak trees to visit historic mansions or glide through the bayou. More historic architecture, along with bird-watching, awaits in St. Francisville, Louisiana, and Natchez, Mississippi. Vicksburg, Mississippi, is home to one of the Civil War's most famous battlefields. Baton Rouge, Louisiana's capital, has something to satisfy every interest, from Cajun cuisine to tours of the restored World War II-era USS Kidd.

The cruise, which is available in November and December 2024 and January, November and December 2025, ends with a full day of exploration back in New Orleans before one last night aboard the 386-passenger Viking Mississippi.

American Cruise Lines' 7-night Hudson River Fall Foliage Cruise

Not only is the autumnal landscape in New York's Hudson Valley visually captivating, but the small cities and towns that line the river's shores are filled with fascinating early American history dating back more than 400 years.

Cruise the Hudson round-trip from New York City on American Cruise Lines' seven-night Hudson River Fall Foliage Cruise . You'll visit Catskill, home to the Hudson River School Art Trail and the Olana Historic Site, or explore more actively at the Hudson River Skywalk and Kaaterskill Falls. In Albany, founded in 1609, you can tour the newly renovated New York State Capitol building, built in the late 1800s; you can also visit the New York State Museum, which dates to 1836. Feel like apple-picking? That's an option here, too.

Next, during a call at Kingston/Hyde Park, you can tour the Franklin D. Roosevelt National Historic Site, home to the 32nd U.S. president's library and museum. You can also head to the Vanderbilt Mansion National Historic Site, featuring an American Beaux-Arts mansion completed in 1899. The United States Military Academy at West Point, founded in 1802, is also on the itinerary, as is Sleepy Hollow. The Sleepy Hollow legend comes to life during a tour of the local cemetery where author Washington Irving is buried. Back in the Big Apple on day seven, you'll have time to explore before saying farewell to your ship.

Sailings are available from late September to early November 2024, 2025 and 2026. Sailings are onboard either the 100-passenger American Eagle, American Liberty, American Glory or American Legend (all built in 2023 or 2024), or the older 90-passenger American Star and American Independence, launched in 2007 and 2010, respectively.

Related: River cruise packing list: What to pack when traveling by riverboat

Lindblad Expeditions' 7-night Columbia & Snake Rivers: Food, Wine and History Cruise

Nature-focused cruise line Lindblad Expeditions has partnered with Food & Wine magazine to offer a new seven-night Columbia & Snake Rivers: Food, Wine and History cruise on multiple dates in April, September and October 2024; there are also sailings in March, April, September and October 2025. The voyages will sail between Portland, Oregon, and Clarkston, Washington.

Complementing the itinerary will be gourmet Pacific Northwest cuisine and more than 40 regional wines curated by an onboard culinary team. All ingredients will be sourced from within 250 miles of the ship's route. A naturalist, historian and geologist will be on hand to guide you on excursions by foot, kayak, Zodiac and jet boat.

Off-ship experiences include sampling local beer and oysters in Astoria, Oregon; visiting Multnomah Falls or hiking Beacon Rock; and having a private vineyard visit and downtown wine walk in Walla Walla, Washington.

These sailings occur on two identical Lindblad ships: the 62-passenger National Geographic Sea Lion and National Geographic Sea Bird.

American Cruise Line's 15-night Grand Ohio River Cruise

Did you know that you can cruise from Pittsburgh to St. Louis? If exploring the central U.S. — Pennsylvania, Ohio, West Virginia, Kentucky, Indiana, Illinois and Missouri — without driving is appealing, consider the 15-night Grand Ohio River Cruise offered by American Cruise Lines. You'll enjoy regionally inspired dining and eclectic landmarks along the Ohio and Mississippi rivers as you sail.

Over two weeks, you'll visit Native American burial grounds and archeological sites in West Virginia and learn about the underground railroad in Ohio. You can taste bourbon and explore the Louisville Slugger Museum & Factory or the Kentucky Derby Museum & Horse Park in Louisville. Take time to appreciate American artistry at the National Quilt Museum in Paducah, Kentucky. Rest up from your portside adventures during five days of scenic river cruising.

This itinerary is available from June to August 2024, 2025 and 2026 on the 180-passenger modern river ship American Melody and the 150-passenger paddlewheeler American Heritage.

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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.

FAQ Module : Travel - Top Mississippi River Cruises FAQs

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.

You might also be interested in:

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Where to Book Booze Cruises of All Kinds in D.C.

Seasonal offerings on the Potomac include tailgating excursions to Nats Park, sunset Champagne on the dock, and everything in between

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This spring, D.C. docks are home to a surge of drinking vessels designed for every occasion, vibe, and price point. A returning line of retro motor boats are apparently the ticket to getting engaged, with seven proposals out on the water last year. Want to watch dolphins give birth on the Chesapeake this summer? One hotel offers an excursion for that. And a fancy sailboat manned by a fine-dining chef pairs tasting menus with French wines.

Soak up monumental views along the Potomac River, drink in tow, with this running list of bookable boats.

Sea Suite Cruises

Co-founders and Arlington natives Jack Walten and Jack Maher’s first BYOB paddle pub debuted in 2018. Six years later, their supersized fleet is made up of 13 boats bobbing around Mid-Atlantic waterways (in D.C., Baltimore, Annapolis, and Richmond), plus floating tiki bars. And a landlocked bar born in Clarendon is the muse for one of their hottest new bookings this season:

Whitlow’s on Water

Now the largest boat in Sea Suite Cruises’ fleet, the 48-passenger tiki tour is the product of a fun new partnership with Whitlow’s owner Jon Williams. His iconic Clarendon dive moved to Shaw, but its original tiki rooftop on Wilson is reincarnated as a floating bar. “Whitlow’s on Water has taken the [Potomac] by storm,” says Sea Suite’s Jack Walten, noting it’s pretty much sold out almost every Saturday through the summer. Diehard Whitlow’s regulars, which includes the “Jacks,” have a familiar face on board: a former bartender from its Clarendon days handles the liquid lineup. Standard mixed drinks join beers, wines, High Noon seltzers, orange crushes, and rum punches. There’s also a selection of pub grub (sandwiches, wings, etc.) sourced from Whitlow’s.

Two TVs air “whatever people want to watch,” he says, which has included everything from March Madness to the Bachelorette (bachelorette parties are popular bookings, after all). As are corporate teams, birthdays, Whitlow’s fans, and even 50-year wedding anniversaries. Individual tickets are also available, to “mix and mingle like you would in a normal bar,” he says. Sea Suite caters to Washington Nationals fans with a traffic-free cruise from Georgetown to the Yards Marina, docking just in time to walk over for the first pitch. “Tailgating on a tiki boat, it doesn’t get better than that,” he says.

Price: Ticket tiers start at $24 and up for daily options that include individual or group sightseeing tours, tiki taxis, private charters, or “Nats Sailgate” ( book online).

Where: Pick-ups and drop-offs in Georgetown in front of Fiola Mare ( 3100 K Street NW ) and Yards Marina by District Winery (1492 4th Street SE )

Retro Boat Rentals

Vintage runabout boats from Sinatra’s time were retro-fitted with electric motors, so having a romantic or intimate conversation is highly possible. It’s no wonder there were multiple (seven) proposals out on the water last year, reports Sea Suite. Each four-top fiberglass beauty sports a different color and name (Gladys, Bonnie, and Violet).

Price: $175-$225 for 1.5-hour tours; BYO drinks and food

Where: Wharf to the Washington Channel

Potomac Tiki Club

D.C.’s “first tiki cruise” lets patrons buy booze on board, or opt for an $8 corkage fee for wine and Champagne. BYO food or purchase small snacks.

Price: $45-$60 for parties of 8 to 18 out of Georgetown. A smaller thatched-roof sibling out of Navy Yard fits six and runs $350-$425. Both last 1.45 hours.

Paddle Club Cruises

Sea Suite Cruises’ fleet that started it all is a pontoon pedal boat outfitted with 10 cycle stations (or just let the motor power the party). BYOB (just no hard liquor) or purchase on-board beverages like canned Cutwater ($4-$8.50).

Price: $35-$55 for groups of 8 to 16 for 1.45-hour tours

Where: Docks from the Wharf, Navy Yard, and Georgetown

Sea Table DC Aboard Cru Classé

Chef and sommelier Troy Knapp makes Michelin-level menus on his luxury sailboat Cru Classé. Back at the Wharf for its third year , the detail-oriented captain brings fine-dining to the dock with artfully plated courses, decadent floral arrangements, seafaring table settings, and French wines he pours himself. Knapp also mans other Wharf vessels for parties of six or more, partnering with Nautiste to offer dining excursions with his catering company Curated.

Choose from three different experiences this season (book via TOCK ):

• Cruise Experience (April through October): Set sail for up to three hours while enjoying four to six courses comprised of ingredients from local farms and fishermen. Complemented by prestigious wine pairings. Starting at $430 per guest
• Dockside Experience (April, May, September, and October): Savor four to six courses with sommelier-selected wines while docked at the Wharf’s marina for up to two hours. Starting at $180 per guest
• Oyster Sails (June, July, and August): Enjoy local bivalves, freshly shucked by an oyster expert on board, alongside specialty accompaniments. Paired with Champagne or prestige white wine. Starting at $225 per guest

Where: Docks at the Wharf ( 650 Wharf Street SW )

Pendry on the Potomac

The most baller option of the bunch by far, the Wharf’s luxe Pendry hotel offers guests a captain-chartered Aviara cruise that’s available to the public for the first time. Parked in its own slip right out front of the Southwest Waterfront hotel, onboard food and beverage offerings include Champagne and caviar service supplied by Pendry’s culinary team. Bar selections, beer or wine, and appetizers can be customized, depending on the parties’ preference. Excursions near and far include round trips to Nationals home games and an all-day adventure to the Chesapeake Bay to spot marine life. As it turns out, dolphins use the Potomac and Bay as a nursery to birth their calves — a rare event that happens from mid-June to mid-August when the water is warmest. Kicking it up at full speed (35-40 knots), hat-holding patrons will jet downstream through Old Town, Fort Washington, and Mt. Vernon and (hopefully) see the annual occurrence.

Price: $3,600 (3 hours); $4,600 (4 hours); $6,000 (6 hours); $7,800 (7 hours) for up to six; reserve here .

Where: Outside of the Pendry ( 655 Water Street SW ) at the Wharf Marina

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