American Cruise Lines: Mississippi River Itineraries Departing from New Orleans
American Serenade
A New Way to Experience the Mississippi
When you sail with American Cruise Lines, you’re not stepping onto a nostalgia piece — you’re stepping into a modern, design-forward river vessel crafted for comfort, culture, and storytelling. Their 2026 fleet updates, including American Serenade and American Symphony, feature all-balcony staterooms, a soaring glass atrium, and some of the most spacious cabins in U.S. river cruising.
For travelers who want a luxury experience rooted in heritage — without the crowds — ACL’s departures from New Orleans are a perfect match.
Your Journey Begins in New Orleans
Every voyage begins at the Port of New Orleans, just steps from the French Quarter’s historic streets, river views, and live jazz. This embarkation point creates the perfect opportunity to layer in a stylish pre-cruise stay that feels intentional rather than rushed.
NOI-insider recommendation:
Start with two nights in the city at:
Maison Métier — elegant, intimate, and design-driven, ideal for boutique travelers.
Hotel Saint Vincent — moody, modern, and full of character.
One11 Hotel — sleek and riverfront, with effortless access to the port.
Soak in courtyard cocktails, candlelit dinners, and the hum of the city before transitioning into the calm of the Mississippi.
Featured 2026 Itineraries
Historic Mississippi River Cruise
Round-trip from New Orleans | 8 Days
This is ACL’s signature journey — a curated sweep through the river’s most iconic towns. You’ll explore Oak Alley, Houmas House, St. Francisville, Natchez, and Baton Rouge, with daily guided excursions that bring each destination’s architecture, foodways, and stories to life.
Guests receive:
Complimentary daily excursions at major ports (Oak Alley, Houmas House, Natchez).
Enrichment programs led by historians and regional experts.
Chef-led demos focused on Gulf Coast cuisine.
Evenings with live jazz or Southern musicians in the ship’s lounges.
It’s the perfect blend of luxury and heritage — and the easiest Mississippi River itinerary to pair with a longer New Orleans stay.
Oak Alley Plantation
Lower Mississippi River Cruise
New Orleans → Memphis | 9 Days
This itinerary follows the cultural backbone of the South. You’ll sail from New Orleans to Memphis with stops in Baton Rouge, Natchez, Vicksburg, and Greenville, tracing the roots of jazz, blues, literature, and Southern cuisine.
2026 Highlights:
A new “Taste of the Delta” culinary excursion in Greenville.
Expanded live entertainment with regionally based artists.
A complimentary one-night pre-cruise hotel stay in New Orleans.
NOI Tip: Let us tailor a pre-cruise itinerary that includes dinner reservations, curated sightseeing, and private transfers. It elevates the entire experience.
ACL Lower MS Cruise Highlight Video
Complete Mississippi River Cruise
New Orleans → St. Louis | 23 Days
The 2026 Complete Mississippi itinerary is a deeper, more immersive version of ACL’s most ambitious journey. It adds extended scenic cruising days and stops in creativity-rich cities like Paducah, known for its UNESCO Creative City of Crafts & Folk Art designation.
Expect:
Insights from onboard naturalists and cultural historians.
Rotating menus that reflect each stretch of the river.
Access to ACL’s enhanced “American Experience” lecture series.
This sailing is perfect for travelers who value depth, narrative travel, and slow luxury.
ACL Complete Mississippi River Cruise Route
Life Onboard
ACL’s 2026 fleet emphasizes space, natural light, and elevated comfort.
Design & Atmosphere
All-balcony staterooms (many exceeding 350 sq ft).
Panoramic lounges with wraparound river views.
Quiet, intimate common spaces — ideal for travelers who prefer boutique over mega-ships.
Dining
Menus evolve with the river’s geography:
Gulf seafood in Louisiana
Delta classics in Mississippi
Memphis-inspired BBQ as you approach Tennessee
Desserts are house-made. Wines are American sourced. Service is polished but warm.
Make It a Journey, Not Just a Cruise
Before your sailing:
Stay at Maison Métier or One11 Hotel.
Book dinner at Coquette, Pêche, or MaMou — all chef-driven, local favorites with strong outdoor seating programs.
Visit The Sazerac House, Studio Be, or Preservation Hall for a deeper connection to New Orleans’ culture.
After your return:
Enjoy a late brunch at Commander’s Palace.
Explore the Garden District with a private guide.
End your journey with sunset cocktails at Hot Tin, overlooking the skyline you departed from.
Why Book Through New Orleans Itineraries
As a certified travel advisor for American Cruise Lines, NOI handles every detail before and after your voyage:
Curated boutique hotel stays
Private airport + port transfers
Dining and experience reservations
Custom New Orleans itineraries
Access to advisor-only promotions and perks
Ready to Sail the Mississippi?
Plan your journey. New Orleans Itineraries is an authorized travel advisor for American Cruise Lines. We’ll handle your booking and onboard credits directly.
Houmas House Plantation in Darrow, Louisiana
