memphis tn riverboat cruise

Memphis Riverboats, Inc

Review Highlights

“ The tour guide was excellent, and added in other snippets of interest during his narrative when he recognized us. ” in 31 reviews

“ Jordan was our emcee and he was funny, informative, and made the cruise even more enjoyable!! ” in 5 reviews

“ He provided lots of interesting, educational facts about Memphis while also adding in some charm and humor . ” in 7 reviews

Location & Hours

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251 Riverside Dr

Memphis, TN 38103

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About the Business

We offer public sightseeing and dinner & music cruises during our season. Private charter of our boats is available all year long. We also have special dinner cruises on Valentine's Day and July 4th. Hours of Operation Off Season: Random. Please call and leave a message or e-mail us at [email protected] Regular Season: Office hours Monday - Friday 9am-5pm March - April Sightseeing Cruise daily at 2:30pm; Dinner & Music Cruise Saturday at 7:30pm May - August Sightseeing Cruise daily at 2:30pm, 5:00pm on Saturday & Sunday only; Dinner & Music Cruise Thursday - Sunday at 7:30pm September - October Sightseeing Cruise daily at 2:30pm; Dinner & Music Cruise Saturday at 7:30pm November Sightseeing Cruise Saturday & Sunday only 2:30pm …

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216 reviews

1st time in Memphis. We loved the boat ride and the history of the city. Hope to be back soon

So I went on the dinner music cruise with my 13 year old to celebrate mother's day and my birthday... **The two stars is for the band ONLY! They did an amazing job! The food was bad. I mean embarrassingly TERRIBLE! They slapped canned baked beans on a paper plate with EXTRA dry slimyish chicken breast, and generic boxed Mac and cheese, with an extra peppery pulled pork like substance on a Walmart bun.... The "desert" was hospital banana pudding. Nothing tasted good and most of our food ended up in the TRASH. The steamboat is old and rusty. And you're swaying from side to side. It's scary getting on from that super long steep hill. They force you to take pictures (even though EVERYONE has a phone). It is NOT handicap or elderly friendly. I've literally witnessed everyone over 50 struggling to get on. Cocktails are overpriced. Oh, did I mention the food was DISGUSTING! All in all, it definitely was not worth the money and I wouldn't do it again. However, I did enjoy the band and the sunset view.

See all photos from Kiana M. for Memphis Riverboats, Inc

This was only my second time in Memphis, so we wanted to check out some of the local attractions! Having recently done one of these at the Chicago River, it left some things to be desired, mainly there wasn't much to see while on the river. There just hasn't been that much built on the TN side of the river and nothing on the AR side. Despite the lack of views other than the Bass Pro Pyramid lol, the tour guide was a lot of fun and it was enjoyable to hear more about the history of the city. We took our niece and nephew who are 9 and 7, and they may have been just a bit young for this. It ends up being quite a bit of time if you get there early as requested. It would have been good to bring some cards or something to help pass the time as we waited about an hour to leave the dock. They had a good selection of drinks and snacks to keep them occupied though. We appreciated the opportunity to learn, and it was fun when the tour guide also played as DJ with some tunes!

I can smell the muddy Mississippi when I look at my pictures of this cruise. Which I love. We took an afternoon cruise on the Memphis Queen Riverboat. It didn't go far or fast, but it did offer beautiful views of the skyline and bridges. The educational tour was okay. The music was too loud (I feel so OLD saying that). It had lawn chairs and basic tables. It was not comfortable or classy. Not our favorite boat cruise, but it was our first time on the Mississippi.

See all photos from Dawn C. for Memphis Riverboats, Inc

The day/2:30 cruise was a great thing to do with our family while we were in Memphis for about 24 hours. As it was super-hot, the breeze from sailing was awesome. Loved the gentleman who spoke and gave the history of Memphis and the Mississippi. Also informative for our kids to learn. Beers and snacks were super affordable, and the bar staff was friendly.

Rollin... Rollin... Rollin down the river! And that's exactly what we did. Beautiful spring day in late April. Affordable. Lasted 90 minutes. It is good for all ages (we ranged from 10-75 years old.) This is a partially guided tour (he did take a break.) He was comical but informative. You will learn some Memphis history, about some Memphis folks and about modern day Memphis. You will cruise into Arkansas for a few minutes. You are not going to see a whole because across the river is plain land and forestry. It was a nice thing to do as a tourist. There was music so we danced a little. My daughter had the chance to hang out with other kids. At the landing it placed us near a modern playground. Overall the experience for us was well worth it. Heck we don't have riverboats in Rhode Island!

Absolutely amazing! Such a fun experience, the band and musicians were incredible, the music was perfect, the food was good, and the views of the bridges on the river were unmatched. I can't say enough good things, please book a riverboat tour when you're in Memphis!

This was a bucket list item for my wife. The emcee was very knowledgeable and the view was breathtaking. If you need any type of assistance this can be a challenge as the walkway to enter is very steep.

Unbelievable experience out on the river today! Learned about marking twain, the bridges of Memphis, Tom Lee, and took a brief detour into the state of Arkansas. Jordan, our tour guide, felt like a combination of Samuel Clemens and The Rock, regaling us with tall (and true) tales of the Mississippi while also hammer curling a boat anchor and arm wrestling the Eighth Graders in our school group. One pro tip: Do NOT tell Jordan you're a Bears fan. If you do, he will make you curl the boat anchor too, and it is HEAVY. Also, jury's still out on whether the paddle wheel is actually propelling this vessel. After a quick examination, I suspect submersed propellers are doing the real dirty work here. Though, for some purists, this might raise questions about whether our "riverboat" is actually what it claims to be, anyone who actually embarks on this vestige of the river's past will accept that a voyage with Memphis Riverboats is an encounter with the spirit and history of the Mississippi itself. For this reason, and for Jordan's biceps, I give this boat tour five stars.

View from the Mississippi

We took the dinner cruise which was $50 pp. This was an extremely subpar meal served on a paper plate and they ran you through like cattle. The tables and chairs are old and dirty. The band was ok not excellent, but they did a good job. The parking is literally a 10 min walk, which in my opinion is NOT acceptable or safe when you're returning your customers after dark!! My best advice save the money and take the cheaper afternoon cruise if you're just wanting the experience or spend your money elsewhere.

View from the second deck.

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This Seneic Riverboat Cruise In Tennessee Is The Best Way To Start A Summer Day

Chris Dodge

My name is Chris Dodge and I live right here in the great state of Tennessee. My family and I are full adventurers filled with passion to see the amazing things our state has to offer. We are avid hikers and have explored many different places in Tennessee and beyond but we are always thankful to be living in such a glorious state.

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The mighty Mississippi River is one of those iconic landmarks that holds massive historical significance. It is one of the largest rivers in our country and is used as a dividing line for east and west. Being on the east side of the Mississippi, Memphis benefits greatly by being located right along the water. And if you want to fully  experience the waters of this resplendent river, the best way is to hop aboard the Memphis Riverboat Cruise in Tennessee. 

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The Memphis Riverboat Cruise in Tennessee is a great way to start any summer day. Allow the cool breeze from the water take you away as you sightsee and enjoy the history of not only Memphis, but of the mighty and majestic Mississippi River. Make sure to visit the Memphis Riverboat Cruise website to book a tour or for more information. 

Interested in spending some more time in the city? Check out our Memphis day trip that includs attractions, accommodations, and great BBQ!

OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

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• New Orleans, Louisiana to Memphis, Tennessee
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Heart of the Delta

• From $5,999
• 10 Guided Tours
• Dates & Pricing
• New Orleans, Louisiana to Memphis, Tennessee Memphis, Tennessee to New Orleans, Louisiana
• Day 1 New Orleans, Louisiana, United States
• Day 2 New Orleans, Louisiana, United States
• Day 3 New Orleans, Louisiana, United States
• Day 4 Darrow, Louisiana, United States
• Day 5 Baton Rouge, Louisiana, United States
• Day 6 St. Francisville, Louisiana, United States
• Day 7 Natchez, Mississippi, United States
• Day 8 Vicksburg, Mississippi, United States
• Day 9 Greenville, Mississippi, United States
• Day 10 Rosedale, Mississippi, United States
• Day 11 Memphis, Tennessee, United States
• Day 12 Memphis, Tennessee, United States

New Orleans, Louisiana, United States

Often referred to as “The Big Easy,” the city of New Orleans radiates charm and is renowned for its Southern hospitality. Steeped in a proud musical tradition, some of the finest jazz and blues musicians can be seen performing each night at the many historic venues found throughout the city. New Orleans is also home to the oldest continuously operating streetcar line in the world, and its four classic lines offer a convenient way to explore the city’s historic homes, parks and museums, which include the New Orleans Museum of Art and the National WWII Museum.

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Experience the best of New Orleans, from jazz to jambalaya, with local jazz musician Tom Fischer as your guide.

Coastal Wetlands by Pontoon Boat

Experience the beauty and history of the Mississippi River delta wetlands during an immersive pontoon boat ride.

The Battle of New Orleans

Gain insight into the Battle of New Orleans during a visit to the Jean Lafitte National Historical Park & Preserve.

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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.

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• Sunday Blues Lunch

Indulge in a meal while cruising down the Mississippi River. Enjoy the tunes of our Blues Band play while you take in the Memphis Skyline View! We have a cash/credit bar on board for soda and alcohol.

• Marinated Chicken Breast
• Fettuccine Alfredo (no meat)
• House Salad
• Green Beans
• Glazed Carrots
• Dessert (Chef’s Choice)

Parking is not on site.  The closest parking to our boarding location is  ACROSS THE STREET  from 119 N Riverside Drive Memphis, TN 38103. GPS will bring you to the TN Welcome Center but  DO NOT PARK THERE . You will see a “Riverboat Parking Sign” at the entrance of the fenced in lot directly across the street from the Welcome Center. This is a paid parking lot. To park here you will use the instructions on the signs throughout the parking lot to pay on the parking app or you may pay at the kiosk. We do not own this lot.  Once you park you will take the sidewalk South towards the boats. You will pass the River Garden Park on the left before you will be able to physically see the boats on the river. The boats are located at the intersection of Riverside & Monroe. You will see the ramp that goes into the Cobblestone Landing at the top of the hill at Riverside & Monroe where the metal gate is. THIS IS A 8-10 MINUTE WALK. If you have any handicap guests, please drop them off at the boarding location before parking.

You can find more information about the parking here:  http://www.premiumparking.com/p2732 .

Boarding Location

45 S. Riverside Drive Memphis, TN 38103

Boarding Time

Please let us know when booking if you are sitting with another group or party or if you are handicap. We will have reserved seating arrangements.

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• 901.527.2628
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• 45 Riverside Drive Memphis, TN 38103

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