Days 1 - 2 Memphis, Tennessee

After arrival in Memphis, check into your included pre-cruise night stay at Sheraton Memphis Downtown Hotel, and get acquainted with the sights and sounds of this famous city. Spend the night on the town, indulging in hometown cuisine and reveling in the lively entertainment along famous Beale Street. The next day following breakfast, transfer to the American Queen for embarkation and your luxurious voyage down the Mississippi River.

Day 3 Port of the Mississippi Delta / Terrene Landing, MS

As one of the largest costal wetlands in the United States, keep your sights on the scenic delta as you cruise the waters of this remarkable region. Be captivated at unique nature, wildlife and birds along the small river towns that have been the inspiration for authors, musicians and artists for centuries. Delight in the ambience of the ship, savoring tantalizing meals and exciting entertainment.

Day 4 Vicksburg, Mississippi

The site of America's defining war, Vicksburg is a fusion of Southern charm and history, within a modern, progressive city. Founded in 1811 and described by President Lincoln as the key to the South, this vital port city welcomes visitors to discover countless museums, Antebellum mansions and the battles of the city with exciting shore excursions. Travel the front lines of the Civil War, crossing both Union and Confederate lines for close-up experiences at key battlegrounds. Stand in reverence at the Vicksburg National Military Park, home of the ironclad USS Cairo, built for the Union Navy and raised from the depths of the Mississippi River, for a noteworthy adventure.

Day 5 Natchez, Mississippi

The oldest city on the river once inhabited by Natchez Indians and French explorers, marvel at meticulously restored mansions, cultural sites and landmarks, and a thriving entertainment district brimming casual charm and hospitality. Delight in the many shore excursions including the historic Rosalie Mansion, the Union headquarters for Natchez during the Civil War. Learn the life of a one-time slave at the William Johnson House Museum or uncover the story of cotton as you explore authentic slave cabins and cotton fields for a glimpse of plantation life.

Day 6  Baton Rouge, Louisiana

Boasting the tallest capitol building in the United States, awaken in the rich capital city of Louisiana this morning. Disembark for a day of wonderment and fascination on a variety of excursions. Sample authentic gumbo, catch a glimpse of native flora or explore the USS Kidd, a WWII and Korean War centerpiece. Check out countless artifacts, collections and exhibitions at several museums or enjoy the ultimate Cajun experience on an airboat adventure through the swamp, followed by traditional down-home cuisine before a visit to a living history museum.

Day 7 St. Francisville, Louisiana

Savor a delightful breakfast this morning before immersing in the character and Cajun culture of St. Francisville. Established in 1809, experience true Southern comfort under Spanish moss trees, visiting beautiful plantation homes nestled in the rolling countryside, unique shops along Royal Street and the Great Episcopal Church, once damaged by Union gunboats in 1863, and its Civil-War cemetery.

Day 8 Nottoway, Louisiana

Begin your morning with your favorite cup of coffee and hot meal before your final shore excursion. Home to the largest Antebellum mansion, uncover an era of grandeur as you explore this grand American castle, constructed with 365 openings - one for each day of the year, its extraordinary White Ballroom swathed in elaborate gold decor and the beautiful lush grounds adorned with 200-year old oak trees.
This evening, gather for a final farewell featuring tantalizing culinary masterpieces and favorite wines, highlighting the cultures, flavors and traditions of this remarkable Southern region, followed by live entertainment onboard. Make a toast to your fellow sailors for a grand finale to an enchanting Mississippi river voyage.

Day 9 New Orleans, Louisiana

After breakfast onboard, disembark in New Orleans and let the good times roll. Enjoy Creole, jazz and endless festivities for a grand finale to your historic journey or consider adding a post-cruise stay in this vibrant city. With many options in New Orleans, peruse the Journese elite portfolio for the ideal post-cruise resort stay.