7 Nights Lower Mississippi River Cruise | Memphis to New Orleans, and reverse

Type of Vessel

The American River Cruise revolution continues with American Harmony, the second in American Cruise Lines' highly anticipated series of contemporary riverboats. These, the first modern riverboats ever in the United States, have introduced many pioneering innovations to America's waters. With a capacity of just 190 guests, American Harmony has the modern amenities and contemporary styling that today's traveler has come to expect. Featured are expansive lounges with large glass windows, offering astounding views. This new ship also features a five-story, glass-enclosed atrium with a large domed skylight, which serves as the central gathering point for the entire ship.

Itinerary

Day 1 | Memphis, Tennessee: Welcome to Memphis! Home to Blues, BBQ, Beale Street, and of course, the King of Rock 'n Roll - Elvis Presley. This amazing city is the perfect place to begin your Mississippi River Voyage. Come a day or two early and immerse yourself in sights, sounds, and tastes of this exciting destination.
No trip to Memphis is complete without a trip to the home of the "King of Rock n' Roll," Elvis Presley. The full Graceland experience will take you from Elvis' humble beginnings through his rise to super stardom. See where Elvis lived, relaxed, and spent time with his family and friends. Explore the famous "Jungle Room" where the star recorded one of his final albums. Visit the many onsite museums where you can view Elvis' many jumpsuits and gold records, as well his collection of automobiles and custom jets.
Relax and let your guide show you the highlights of this fascinating City on the Bluff. Memphis is located on the Mississippi River at the northern end of the Mississippi Delta where the Blues was born, with a history linked to cotton and music. On this narrated excursion, view Mud Island, a Mississippi River Educational Park; Cotton Row, where 60% of the nation's cotton was once traded; National Civil Rights Museum, where Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. was assassinated; and The Pinch District, Memphis' first neighborhood which was a melting pot of immigrants, mostly Irish immigrants who came to America to escape the Potato Famine.

Day 2 | Day of River Cruising: Bask in the warmth of the Mississippi River sun as you cruise from Memphis to Vicksburg. Relax in one of the many spacious lounges or enjoy a gentle breeze on the sun deck.

Day 3 | Vicksburg, Mississippi: The city of Vicksburg served as a pivotal turning point during the American Civil War. Come with as your informative historian leads us through the National Military Park, commemorating the campaign, siege, and defense of Vicksburg. The expert guides and park rangers will take you to battlefields, the U.S.S. Cairo gunboat, and the most significant historic places.
The night before your visit, your onboard Civil War historian gives a captivating lecture detailing all you are about to witness at Vicksburg National Military Park. After a hearty southern-inspired breakfast, you will be greeted by your private guide who will stay with you throughout the day to answer questions and provide additional information. Upon arrival at the park, rangers who are well-versed in Civil War history guide you on a customized experience that's specific to the interests of the group. Your guides will take you through the restored ironclad gunboat, U.S.S Cairo, the battlefield where the Siege of Vicksburg took place, and the over 1,300 monuments dedicated to the brave souls who lost their lives.
Visit Anchuca, Vicksburg's first columned mansion and one of its oldest antebellum homes. Led by a long time Vicksburg resident, explore its historic neighborhood, showcasing nearly two centuries of unique American architecture and more than a dozen antebellum buildings. Learn the history of the many ethnic groups who settled here in the early 1800's, as well as the ongoing preservation efforts in the area. After the journey, return to Anchuca and enjoy southern-inspired refreshments.
Led by your local expert guide, this walking journey of Vicksburg brings to life the history of this river city from 1820 to the present. Hear engaging stories of the citizens who once called Vicksburg home. Stroll along its brick streets and admire native flora as well as the variety of architecture styles found among the antebellum homes, churches, and museums. This excursion is only available on Memphis to New Orleans itineraries, not on the reverse.

Day 4 | Natchez, Mississippi: Settled in 1716, Natchez is rich in history and southern hospitality. Enjoy a guided exploration of this fascinating city which has retained its antebellum charm since its surrender during the Civil War. Visit Frogmore, a historic cotton plantation still in use today, or attend a special piano concert in the J. N. Stone antebellum music room.
Longwood is just one of the elegant historic houses that graces the historic district of Natchez. This octagonal house epitomizes the rise and fall of the South. As the Civil War began, the workmen stopped construction and the house was never completed. View the finished first floor with original family furnishings and the upper five stories that are still a work in progress.
The onboard experts tell many stories about southern life on a plantation; today you will learn what life was really like. The insightful local guide will accompany you from the ship to the cotton and will be your escort as you explore the 1,800-acre Frogmore cotton plantation. In intimate groups, the plantation owners Lynette and Buddy Tanner will delve into plantation life, including the housing, music, and relationships between the owners and workers. You will have the opportunity to pick cotton directly from the field, participate in a live gospel performance, and witness the progress in cotton technology from Eli Whitney's original gin to their modern 900 bales-per-day computerized plantation.
Upon arrival, you will be greeted by the fourth-generation owner, Joseph Stone, whose family has owned the home for over 135 years. Mr. Stone will guide you on a personal journey of his unique antebellum-style home and explain the many different purposes it has served over the years. Here, you can explore his eclectic collection of period-specific artwork and one-of-a-kind antiques. The afternoon concludes in the music hall with refreshments as Mr. Stone performs an exclusive classical piano concert.
Explore downtown Natchez on your own. Take time for shopping and strolling through town. The shuttle will make regularly scheduled stops at Rosalie House, the Natchez Visitors Center, and the downtown shopping district.

Day 5 | Saint Francisville, Louisiana: This southern town charms with simple pleasures and unique treasures. Located on the bluffs of the Mississippi River, Saint Francisville has been called, "One of the 200 most beautiful small towns in America." Take a stroll through its historic center where two centuries of architecture and lifestyle are on display. Enjoy visits to restored antebellum mansions including Rosedown.
The affluent ambiance of the Rosedown Plantation is evident the minute you step on the property. As you walk towards the Main House down the flowered path lined with towering oaks, you will be greeted by the lively resident expert, Tammie Miller. On the excursion, Tammie delves deep into the family history of Daniel and Martha Turnbull and how their experiences helped shape the Main House into a home. At the conclusion of your excursion, time is set aside to explore the grounds on your own or relax in a rocking chair on the front porch with cold refreshments and some of Tammie's freshly made cookies.

Day 6 | Baton Rouge, Louisiana: Baton Rouge features all the history and wonder you would expect in a state capital, but with an added down-home flavor that makes it truly unique. The local expert guides will take you on a journey of the cities' most famous attractions including the Old and New State Capitols and the interactive Louisiana State Museum.
Explore the diverse natural beauty and rich ecological systems of America's largest and most complex wetland. Cruise through the open waters of the Atchafalaya Basin as native guides discuss the abundant plant and wildlife indigenous to the area. Learn about the locals living on houseboats and how they have protected this land over the years. After the basin boat ride, travel a short distance to Pat's Fisherman's Wharf overlooking the waters of the Atchafalaya and enjoy a luncheon featuring southern favorites.
Known as the "Pirate of the Pacific," the USS Kidd is a memorial to the men and women who served in the American armed forces. Step back in time on this amazing experience as you witness original artifacts and aircraft from World War II.
The vibrant history of Louisiana is evident throughout the state's capital. After breakfast, you will be greeted at the ship by Philippa Blair and her visitor center representatives as they welcome you to Baton Rouge with vibrant Mardi Gras beads. Your first stop is the Louisiana Old State Capitol where you will experience a one-of-a-kind interactive film, made with the help of Disney, bringing you face-to-face with the ghost of the castle, Sarah Morgan. Afterward, Baton Rouge native, Ira Bobin, will serve as your guide and will bring you to the Louisiana State Museum, a completely interactive museum with three floors of displays detailing each region of Louisiana.

Day 7 | Oak Alley, Louisiana: Once serving as an antebellum sugar cane plantation, Oak Alley Plantation is rightfully named after its most distinguishing feature, a canopy of 300-year-old oak trees that form a quarter-mile path leading to the Mississippi River. Restored to its 19th-century grandeur, this classic Greek Revival-style antebellum mansion is simply breathtaking.
The famous ancient oaks bordering your path to the mansion are your first sight upon stepping ashore. The perfectly aligned 300-year-old trees form a canopy which set a particularly grand entrance for your arrival. Southern belles enjoying the shade of the leafy canopy greet your on arrival and are the guides for the day. In small groups, they bring you through the antebellum plantation's many stately guestrooms and show you why it has earned the name "Grande Dame of The Great River Road." After the Oak Alley Plantation excursion, join for a special gathering with mint juleps on the west lawn before a visit to their popular gift shop which is known for its world-famous pralines.

Day 8 | New Orleans, Louisiana: End your journey in the vibrant city of New Orleans, also known as the Big Easy, where art and culture abound. The open-air artist colony proudly displays local works on the iron fence in Jackson Square, while the city's 45 museums carefully preserve its rich history. Stay an extra day or even a few nights to enjoy the famed French Quarter.
New Orleans is a city full of history, intrigue, and colorful characters. Begin your journey through the "Big Easy" with a private guide, who will give you a local's look at the area's most famous attractions. Explore the most popular areas including the French Quarter, the colorful garden district, and the famous stately mansions which still remain in period form. There will be plenty of time for you to enjoy the local flavors, like chicory coffee, sweet beignets, and famous New Orleans Jazz music. This excursion is only offered on cruises ending in New Orleans.

Guest Services

The all-American crew from American Cruise Lines simply provides you with the best possible cruise experience by offering an unsurpassed level of attention. Whether onboard or ashore, each member of the crew will work with you to help accommodate your specific interests, tastes, and needs. Attentive and personalized service is the hallmark of American Cruise Lines.

Food and Dining

Meals are served in the spacious dining salon, which accommodates all passengers at one seating. The day's menu is announced well in advance, and consists of fresh meats and seafood, as well as in-season fruits and vegetables. Special menus are available to passengers on restricted diets. Most special dietary needs can be accommodated, though advance notice. All meals are prepared to order. Coffee, non-alcoholic beverages, and snacks are available 24 hours a day.

Onboard Activities/Events

Let American Cruise Lines guide you through the origins and rich traditions of music on America's legendary rivers and waterways. These shores are home to many celebrated styles of music including Country, Jazz, Blues, and Rock n' Roll. Onboard and ashore, enjoy music inspired by each unique region and learn its impact on the development of American music. Also enjoy daily entertainments from historians, naturalists, and local experts that join every cruise. Daily lectures ranging from history to culture to cuisines.

Shore Excursions

From the sounds of the best jazz and blues in the country to the delicious cuisine of the region and the beautiful landscapes along the way, the eight day cruise along the Lower Mississippi River is a delight for the senses. Shore Excursions include Deluxe Graceland Signature Experience, Vicksburg National Military Park, J.N. Stone House Experience and Concert, USS Kidd and the Frogmore Plantation.

Staterooms or Cabins

Grand Suites | Measuring over 800 square feet and offers 270 degrees of panoramic views through floor-to-ceiling glass windows. Sliding glass doors lead out to a wrap-around balcony complete with a private dining area, the perfect place to enjoy breakfast room service or watch the sun set. Each features a separate bedroom and living area, ideal for gathering with family and friends after an invigorating day of exploration.
Owner's Suites | Offers the finest accommodations with unsurpassed views of the passing scenery. A spectacular 645 square feet of space is your private sanctuary to spread out and make yourself at home. This spacious suite features a full-size bathroom, as well as a separate bedroom and living area. Floor-to-ceiling sliding glass doors let light pour in and allow private panoramic views from every vantage point. An expansive private balcony is a perfect place to savor a calm afternoon or to enjoy breakfast as the sun rises over the riverbank.
Veranda Suites | With a generous 405 square feet of relaxing space, each suite includes a private walk-out balcony to enjoy the panoramic views. Considered one of the finest staterooms on any cruise ship, guests will enjoy full-size bathrooms and large living area with sliding glass door.
AAM Staterooms | Located on the fourth deck, these spacious staterooms feature commanding views of the passing river landscapes. At 350 square feet, there is plenty of room to enjoy the tasteful comfort of your surroundings. These staterooms have all the comforts of a fine hotel and feature floor-to-ceiling sliding glass doors with a private balcony to offer panoramic views from every angle.
AAC Staterooms | Conveniently located on the third deck and offer all of the comforts of a fine hotel. Complete with a private balcony and floor-to-ceiling sliding glass doors, these staterooms provide spectacular views of the Mississippi River and the surrounding landscape. At 316 square feet, these staterooms also offer a sitting area, desk and full-size bathrooms.
AAL Staterooms | Located on the second deck and offer a luxurious 300 square feet of living space. Each stateroom is equipped with plush seating, full-size bathroom, and a private balcony with large sliding glass doors that offer great views of the Mississippi scenery. These staterooms are the epitome of comfort and relaxation.
AAR Staterooms | Located on the main deck offering complete comfort with approximately 275 square feet of living space. Enjoy a full-size bathroom, large picture window, and door leading out to a furnished private balcony. These staterooms also feature a large sitting area, ideal for getting together with friends.
Single Staterooms | Perfect for the solo traveler, offering all of the amenities you expect from a fine hotel. At 250 square feet, these staterooms have spacious bathrooms and large sliding glass doors that lead to a private balcony.