queen of the mississippi riverboat

• American Cruise Lines

American Heritage (formerly Queen of the Mississippi)

Queen of the Mississippi River Cruises 2024, 2025 - Small Ship, Itineraries, Dates, Prices, Amenities

Sail American Heritage (formerly Queen of the Mississippi) From $CALL per person Built in 2015, American Heritage, formerly Queen of the Mississippi, will receive a total ship redesign in time for the 2022 cruise season.From the staterooms and suites to the lounges and dining rooms, American Heritage...

American Heritage (formerly Queen of the Mississippi) Salling Calendar

American Heritage (formerly Queen of the Mississippi) Destinations

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American Heritage (formerly Queen of the Mississippi) Highlights

• Experience breathtaking scenery from the privacy of your stateroom
• Complimentary room service
• Every modern amenity is at your fingertips, along with a desk, and spacious seating area

American Heritage (formerly Queen of the Mississippi) Quick Facts

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About American Cruise Lines

American Cruise Lines has spearheaded most of the growth in U.S. river cruising with plans to build five modern U.S. river ships in the next few years. American Cruise Lines will have nine U.S. river ships and its coastal cruisers when all ships are completed. Each of the new ships will have a four-story glass atrium and large, windowed lounge areas and will be fully stabilized for smooth sailing. They are being built wider, faster, and quieter than traditional American Cruise Lines paddle wheelers. The larger-than-average staterooms will range from 250-square-foot singles for solo travelers to 900-square-foot grand suites. All staterooms will be outside-facing with private balconies. Their ships cruise to destinations within the United States like the Mississippi River, Columbia River, Alaska, New England, and more.

American Cruise Lines has a new schedule of cruises and departure dates for 2024-2025, with 13 small ships carrying 100 to 200 passengers, including 4 new Modern Riverboats. Since 1973, they have been known for the finest American ships on the river.

American Cruise Lines Itinerary Where does American cruise lines go? All American ships will cruise the country, coast to coast, including the Mississippi River, the Columbia and Snake Rivers, Puget Sound, Alaska, New England, the Hudson River, and the Southeast Coast. Cruises within the United States

American Jazz and American Melody, the 3rd and 4th modern riverboats, debuted in 2020. American Jazz began operating Mississippi cruises in late August, and American Melody was out in late 2021. There is a 3-day cruise from Portland, Oregon, along the breathtaking scenery of the Columbia and Willamette Rivers. Departure dates are available online.

Independence Class of Coastal Ships includes the American Independence, American Spirit, and the American Star. Each offers private balconies, multiple lounges with panoramic views, spacious sun decks, and single seating in the dining room. From small towns to southern ports like Norfolk, Virginia's Chesapeake Bay; Beaufort and Wilmington, North Carolina; and St. Simons Island, Georgia, to name a few.

The American Riverboats include the Serenade, American Symphony, Melody, American Jazz, American Song, and American Harmony. These boats offer one of the largest staterooms in the industry, private balconies with breakfast room service, spacious sun decks, floor-to-ceiling windows with sliding glass doors, and elevator service to all decks. River boat cruises in the USA

A new on-board program is an immersive Art Cruise program on select itineraries across the country. This program features an artist in residence on board who will offer daily classes in watercolor and mixed-media instruction. American Cruise Line will elevate the standard for U.S. riverboat cruising on the new American Harmony, which will offer a glass atrium, several inviting lounges, and the largest staterooms of their fleet.

Mississippi River Cruises Embarking on a Mississippi River cruise with American Cruise Lines promises an exceptional voyage through America's history. The mighty river has witnessed the triumphs and struggles of many Colonial pioneers and entrepreneurs, shaping the country's narrative along its vast length. This maritime corridor extends from New Orleans, Louisiana, to the Twin Cities of Minnesota, offering a unique perspective on America's heartland.

The state-of-the-art river cruise fleet of contemporary riverboats and classic paddlewheelers venture even further, venturing through the Ohio, Tennessee, and Cumberland Rivers. Each route provides a distinctive insight into the American South and Midwest.

Travelers can immerse themselves in the fascinating stories and picturesque towns, from Hannibal, MO, the birthplace of Mark Twain, to Vicksburg, which played a significant role in the Civil War. For music lovers, Memphis and Nashville are must-visit destinations to experience the heart of American music while indulging in delectable Creole cuisine.

A top-rated cruising destination, and American Cruise Lines' modern fleet of small ships provides an unparalleled experience to explore it in style. Join us on this unforgettable journey through America's vibrant history and culture. You also get well-crafter, guided shore excursions to many fascinating destinations, such as New Orleans, Memphis, Martha's Vineyard, Hilton Head Island, and Glacier Bay, to name a few.

Pacific Northwest - Columbia & Snake Rivers Cruise along the Columbia and Snake River Cruises in the Pacific Northwest and enjoy the summer days, warm temperatures, and beautiful skies. River Cruise aboard American modern American Riverboats and classic Paddlewheelers. On your scenic journey to the Mount St. Helens Johnston Ridge Observatory, learn about the eruption, how it affected the landscape and surrounding communities, and how the environment has responded naturally to the disturbance. Explore this fascinating destination, located at the very place where the Lewis and Clark Expedition camped for two nights amidst a thriving community of Native Americans. Northwest Pioneers Cruise from Portland to Clarkston, bear witness to Mount St. Helens and Astoria, and cruise the Columbia River Gorge on American riverboats. National Parks and Legendary Rivers is the first ever land and river cruise package. Enjoy an 8-day river cruise and a 7-day land tour of three National Parks. As you embark on your journey, enjoy a welcome aboard reception with evening cocktail hour, hor d'oeuvres, and entertainment.

New England Cruises The beautiful islands of New England and Maine harbors are picturesque any time of year. Quaint Island villages and small coastal towns such as Nantucket and Martha's Vineyard are at the top of everyone's summer vacation list. Enjoy some of the best lobster and seafood you will ever taste from Maine; see scenic mountains from Arcadia National Park in Bar Harbor, Maine. Treat yourself to a breathtaking fall foliage cruise from New York City and sail on the Hudson River. Florida River Cruise There are two options for cruising Florida's Rivers. The Great Rivers of Florida Cruise starts and ends in Jacksonville and explores charming towns and diverse wildlife in northern Florida. Visit Green Cove Springs, known for its healing mineral springs; travel along the St John's River; journey to the heart of the Ocala National Forest; and see ruins in St Augustine. Florida Gulf Coast and the Keys is roundtrip from St. Petersburg, which is on the west coast of Florida. Journey to Ft. Meyers beach, the culture of Key West, guided tour of Everglades National Park in Marco Island, and a visit to Punta Gorda. Departure Dates are now available for all 2024 river cruise dates. Southeast River Cruise Historic South and the Golden Isles Cruise from Charleston to Jacksonville. Visits to Jekyll Island "Millionaire's Village," Amelia Island, Hilton Head beaches, and Savannah's historic districts.

Special Cruises The Great United States Cruise was announced for 2024. It will be 60 days starting on August 24, 2024, covering 20 states on three ships. Cruising the nation's legendary rivers and coastlines. The Great United States Cruise departs from Portland, Oregon, and Prices start at $51,000 per person, and there is limited availability. Sail aboard the finest American ships with American Cruise Lines.

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Cruising on the Upper Mississippi

Last Updated on December 15, 2023

It’s pure Americana…..the sight of a multi-decked Mississippi riverboat gliding seemingly effortlessly along the mighty river, its signature black smokestacks pointing skyward, as its great red paddlewheel slaps the river behind. Cruising the Mississippi River is a dream trip for many, and one that’s often long remembered….. (all photos by Dave G. Houser except as noted)

Estimated reading time: 12 minutes

By Dave G. Houser

There’s no better way to get to know and enjoy a river than to be out on it.

That’s certainly the case for America’s mother of all rivers – the mighty Mississippi. And there’s nothing like cruising it on the Queen of the Mississippi.

I was introduced to the lower reaches of the Big Muddy several years ago during a paddlewheeler voyage from New Orleans to St. Louis . Just last October I experienced the upper section on a cruise from St. Louis to St. Paul.

For me, the upper river proved the most engaging – and I’m not the only writer to make that observation. In fact, here’s what Mark Twain had to say on the subject in the Chicago Tribune, July 9, 1886:

“It is strange how little is written about the upper Mississippi. Surprisingly, the river below St. Louis has been described time and again. But and it is the least interesting part…(with) low shores, the ungainly trees and the democratic buzzards…along the upper Mississippi every hour brings something new. There are crowds of odd islands, bluffs, prairies, hills, woods and villages – everything one could desire to amuse the children.”

Cruising the Mississippi River Aboard the Queen of the Mississippi

My vessel of choice for the 7-day Mississippi River cruise was American Cruise Line ’s Queen of the Mississippi. It’s a gleaming white five-deck 150-passenger replica of a 19 th -century steamboat. They’re the ones that routinely churned up and down the river, transporting both freight and passengers.

ACL proclaims itself an “All-American” line, utilizing American crews and U.S.-built ships. Our was built in 2012 by a company-owned shipyard in Maryland.

Beneath her antique veneer and authentic paddlewheel, the Queen of the Mississippi is a thoroughly modern craft. It also features 78 cabins in seven categories, 65 of which have private balconies.

They range in size from a 600-square-foot owners’ suite to single cabins at 210 square feet.

Standard double cabins measure a commodious 304 square feet – larger than most cruise ship staterooms. Each cabin has a satellite flat-screen TV/DVD, Keurig coffeemaker, wireless Internet access and complimentary Wi-Fi.

Public areas include six lounges, ranging from a cozy library to the spacious Magnolia Lounge. The Magnolia is home to most presentations and entertainment. It’s also where you’ll find a complimentary Happy Hour, a popular ACL tradition offered on all of its vessels.

Up top, there’s a sun deck, exercise equipment and a casual café. The Dining Salon is large enough to accommodate all 150 passengers at a single (open) seating.

A Historic City

Joining me for the voyage was my lady friend and fellow cruising enthusiast, Melinda Renner. She joined me in St. Louis a day prior to departure to give us some time to explore the city’s many attractions.

St. Louis is famous, of course, for its soaring Gateway Arch, symbol of the city’s role as “Gateway to the West.”

The world’s tallest arch rises 630 feet from a 90-acre site (a national park unit formally known as the Jefferson National Expansion Memorial) that was undergoing a massive landscaping project during our visit.

We nonetheless managed to make our way through the confusion to join a “Journey to the Top.” This popular tour shuttles visitors in elevator cars to an observatory atop the Arch. There narrow slit-like windows afford awe-inspiring views over St. Louis and the Mississippi River.

Boarding Our Mississippi Cruise in the Gateway to the West

Next, we walked to the nearby Old Courthouse to have a look at exhibits from the Museum of Westward Expansion. They were temporarily moved there from the Arch during construction. Our visit to the Courthouse (famous as the setting for the Dred Scott case) was enhanced with a performance by a string ensemble from the St. Louis Symphony.

Later in the day, we strolled around Laclede’s Landing . Laclede is a popular, historical riverfront dining and entertainment district. It’s named after one of the French fur traders who founded St. Louis in 1764. An early dinner at Hannegan’s Restaurant & Pub found us making a big mess out of a delectable rack of St. Louis-style barbecued ribs.

Following a smooth and efficient boarding process the next morning, we were underway. We were soon passing through several of the 26 locks we’d encounter on the way to St. Paul and the landmark confluence of the country’s two greatest rivers – the Mississippi and Missouri – near St. Charles, MO, where Meriwether Lewis and William Clark set out on their Pacific Ocean Expedition in 1804. (Speaking of the two explorers, if you’re ever in Great Falls, Montana, don’t miss the extraordinary the Lewis and Clark Interpretive Center ).

A Perfect Mississippi Port-of-Call

Hannibal, MO , forever linked to the Mississippi River as the town that most inspired America’s greatest author and humorist, Mark Twain , proved the perfect first port-of-call on our voyage.

Mark Twain spent his boyhood years in Hannibal. A young rascal then known as Samuel Clemens, his childhood experiences sparked his huge imagination. It lead him to writing some the world’s most widely read novels.

Naturally the town is all about Twain, as you might expect.

On every visitor’s must-see list is the Mark Twain Boyhood Home & Museum , a National Historic Landmark. Also the Becky Thatcher and Huckleberry Finn Houses. They’re all nicely restored and offering a comprehensive, easy to follow interpretation of Clemens’ life.

Where Corn Is King

In Davenport, IA , where corn is king, we thought it appropriate to join a tour to the John Deere Pavilion . It makes perfect sense that one of the world’s major manufacturers of farm machinery is based here in the American heartland.

The Pavilion (located in neighboring Moline, IL) is a massive glass and steel structure. It houses the largest display of John Deere equipment and technology in the world.

There are some fascinating exhibits, many of them offering hands-on experiences.

National Mississippi River Museum & Aquarium

The warm, sunny weather following us upriver on our Mississippi cruise became chilly for our morning arrival in Dubuque, IA. We quickly warmed to the city, however, with its revitalized riverfront that features the huge and handsome National Mississippi River Museum & Aquarium – our objective for an ACL-included self-guided tour.

A Smithsonian affiliate, this sprawling complex has earned praise as the one of the Midwest’s finest museums.

Built on the site of the Dubuque Boat & Boiler Works, operating from 1851 until 1972 as the nation’s largest shipbuilder on inland waters, the museum couldn’t be better. It traces the colorful history of the Golden Age of Steamboating on the Mississippi.

The museum couples seamlessly with the adjacent Aquarium where visitors can get up close and personal with some of the creatures that call the river home – from massive gar and catfish to playful otters.

An All-American City on Our Mississippi River Cruise

La Crosse, WI , got our vote for the most attractive and inviting town or city we visited so far during our voyage Queen of the Mississippi. It’s just plain pretty and possesses the sort of friendly, wholesome all-American atmosphere that makes you feel you’d enjoy living there.

The Queen docks at lovely, leafy Riverside Park – the city’s showpiece riverfront park – a picture-perfect setting on an October morning with the fall colors out in force.

ACL’s staff onboard the Queen included three outstanding and versatile individuals, known as “riverlorians” who served in various capacities as lecturers, guides and entertainers.

Mike Jennings, a veteran riverboat lecturer, delivered daily talks on matters of history, geography and river lore while the dynamic husband and wife duo of Steven Marking and JoAnn Funk anchored the evening entertainment. They also shared their knowledge of the nature and ecology of the upper Mississippi through a number of presentations.

JoAnn – a La Crosse native – led a group of us on a walking tour of the city, taking in the downtown historic district and visiting the International Friendship Gardens , a colorful network of demonstration gardens that celebrates sister-city relationships between La Crosse and several foreign cities.

Later, we joined a bus excursion through the city’s Victorian residential neighborhoods, pausing to tour the 1858 Hixon House – the elegantly furnished home of a one-time lumber baron.

Cruising Into Minnesota

Churning ever northward toward our next destination – Red Wing, MN – the nature of the river changed dramatically, narrowing considerably and flanked by bluffs ablaze in fall foliage.

Nearly everyone emerged on deck for the show and to join Marking and Funk in a game of eagle spotting. The big raptors nest in large numbers along the river in Wisconsin and Minnesota.

Red Wing has to go on record as the quirkiest of ports along the upper river. It’s a wee town of just 16,000 but has a huge reputation for resourcefulness and productivity.

Settled by Scandinavian immigrants in the 1840s, it soon became the primary wheat market in the world – and it was here that puffed wheat cereal was invented.

Boots to Pottery

Red Wing brand shoes and boots have been made there for a century – as were the famous art pottery products of Red Wing Pottery . Showrooms and museums of those two venerable companies highlighted our ACL-included tour.

The Red Wing Store features a real attention-getter with its “World’s Largest Boot” exhibit. The oversized leather work boot measures 20 feet long by 16 feet tall and weighs in at 2,300 pounds.

Collectors of art pottery or glass are quick to recognize the name Red Wing. The company was a prolific producer of art pottery, stoneware and hand-painted dinnerware from the late 1800s until the plant was shuttered in 1967.

Our tour group loved the Pottery Museum with its collection of more than 5,000 pieces ranging from massive stoneware jugs to delicate vases.

Reaching the End of our Mississippi River Cruise in St. Paul

A riverboat cruise is generally a slow-moving event, but it hardly seemed as if a week had passed as Queen of the Mississippi tied up in St. Paul, MN to bring our weeklong cruise to an end.

All in all, the voyage went flawlessly. Meals were tasty, plentiful and well presented and the Queen’s officers and crew were invariably friendly and efficient. As a veteran of more than 40 cruises, I will tell you unequivocally that ACL is among the best in the business of small ship cruising.

Following the customary hugs and farewells, we made a beeline for the St. Paul Farmers’ Market . We’d heard this was the best place to be on a Saturday morning in St. Paul. Founded in 1853 and featuring more than 300 vendors, it’s one of the nation’s oldest and largest public markets. We had a great time there, wandering about and making photos.

Enjoying an Additional Night

Rather than rushing off to the airport, we’d booked a night at the 1910 Saint Paul Hotel .

After a long walk around the city we settled in that afternoon at the castle-like Landmark Center. We watched the St. Paul Civic Symphony Orchestra rehearse a performance of Beethoven’s Ninth Symphony.

That evening, as we sat down for a light dinner at the hotel’s lobby bar, we heard a familiar voice. It belonged to our riverloarian/entertainer (and new favorite songbird) from the Queen, JoAnn Funk. JoAnn made it home to St. Paul just in time for her regular Saturday night gig at the hotel. It was a fitting finale to a wonderful week cruising the Mississippi River.

You may also enjoy: What to Do in Key West / Some of the Best Renaissance Festivals in the US / Weston, Missouri: the Cutest Town Ever

American Cruise Lines www.americancruiselines.com Tel: (800) 460-4518

April 19, 2016 at 2:34 pm

I would like to speak with the person that handles the marketing and advertising. I am the Digital Sales Manager at ABC7/NewsChannel 8

April 20, 2016 at 2:09 pm

I have no idea who that may be Roy. I suggest you call their corporate offices.

March 13, 2021 at 8:28 pm

Please send more info on your riverboat tours. Thank you.

March 15, 2021 at 4:58 pm

Hi Sue, For more info on the cruise you’ll need to contact American Cruise Lines directly. Their contact information is listed at the end of the article.

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American Heritage

The 150-passenger American Heritage (formerly the Queen of the Mississippi ) offers an authentic paddlewheeler experience with all the comforts of home. Guests enjoy large staterooms with private balconies, hotel-style bathrooms, and complimentary room service. Experience breathtaking scenery from the privacy of your stateroom as the American Heritage makes its way down the legendary river.

Cruising aboard American Heritage , enjoy comfortable lounges and large observation decks that provide the perfect place for guests to relax and enjoy the company of fellow travelers who share their interest in American heritage. Glass enclosed dining salons provide panoramic views of the spectacular scenery you will see on every American Cruise Lines trip.

From the staterooms and suites to the lounges and dining rooms, the American Heritage will be completely made-over with new color palettes, luxurious textiles and linens, new furniture and carpets, and regionally inspired artwork and flourishes. The design pays homage to the Mighty River, highlighting its historical, cultural, musical, and literary inspirations.

American Heritage Highlights

• Many lounges offer an atmosphere for every mood
• Grand dining room accommodates all guests together
• Culinary program featuring locally sourced ingredients
• Breakfast room service
• Afternoon tea service in the Sky Lounge
• Complimentary cocktail hour each evening
• Jazz and evening musical entertainment
• Onboard historians and naturalists
• Mark Twain Library and Chart Room
• Putting green on the top deck
• Open-air exercise area with views of passing scenery
• Laundry facilities
• Complimentary Wi-Fi
• Elevator access to all decks of the ship
• All-American crew

American Heritage Details

Accommodations.

The staterooms aboard American Heritage are the most spacious in the small ship cruising industry. All range between 200 and 450 square feet in size, and feature full-size bathrooms and modern amenities. After an invigorating day, your spacious stateroom is a comfortable haven and the perfect place to relax and unwind. Enjoy the ever-changing scenery from your large opening picture window or from your private balcony.

• Spacious staterooms, the largest on any cruise ship
• Private balconies
• Sliding glass balcony doors offer panoramic views
• Full-size private bathrooms with a full set of amenities
• Satellite TV and DVD player in all staterooms
• Twice daily stateroom service
• Individual climate control

Specifications

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American Heritage

Built in 2015, American Heritage, formerly Queen of the Mississippi, will receive a total ship redesign in time for the 2022 cruise season. From the staterooms and suites to the lounges and dining rooms, American Heritage will be completely remodeled with new color palettes, luxurious textiles and linens, new furniture and carpets, and artwork and flourishes, celebrating the Mighty Mississippi River. Guests can enjoy large staterooms with private balconies, full-size bathrooms, and complimentary room service. Experience breathtaking scenery from the privacy of your stateroom as American Heritage makes its way down the legendary river.

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Public reservations can be booked online four weeks in advanced to cruise date.

La Crosse Queen Cruises

Paddlewheel cruises on the mississippi river.

Now taking reservations for private charters or groups of 30 or more on any public cruise for our 2024 season! Please call for more information. All other public cruise reservations open for booking four weeks prior to each cruise date. New to 2024 season: Captain’s Sunday Brunch Cruise departing at 10:30 a.m. and lasting until 1:00 p.m. Two-and-a-half hours will allow us to “lock thru” Lock & Dam No. 7, conditions permitting!

Individual public reservations will become available in Spring of 2021—Group reservations are now available for 2021.

• Most Popular

Saturday Dinner Cruise

Feast on a delicious chicken and prime rib dinner while relaxing on this Mississippi River tour!

• Clock 6:00 p.m.
• Users All ages
• Hour Glass 2.5 hours

Cruise on the Mighty Mississippi!

• Clock Wednesday's and Friday's at 5:30 p.m. & Saturday's and Sunday's at 3:30 p.m.
• Hour Glass 1.5 hours

Pizza Cruise

Enjoy an afternoon on the Mighty Mississippi River while eating free pizza on this fun boat tour!

• Clock 10:30 a.m.

Captain’s Sunday Brunch

Enjoy a delicious brunch while learning about the Mississippi River on this narrated river tour!

• Clock 11:00 a.m. & 1:30 p.m.

Sightseeing Cruise

Learn all about the historical and present day Mississippi River on this sightseeing cruise!

See the historical sites and local wildlife of the beautiful Upper Mississippi River!

Step back in time when you come aboard our replica paddlewheel river boat!

Choose from our tasty brunch, lunch, pizza, and dinner buffet-style cruises!

Beer, wine, and liquor offered on every cruise.

About La Crosse Queen Cruises

Cruise back in time and explore the Upper Mississippi with us! The La Crosse Queen is a modern-day replica of the grand river boats that plied the Mississippi River in the early 1900s. Cruising out of La Crosse, Wisconsin, she is one of the few authentic Mississippi River paddlewheel river boats still in operation in the United States today. In keeping with early traditions, she was built with sternwheels that are her only means of propulsion. 

The La Crosse Queen has a split sternwheel, and each half is run by a twin diesel engine that powers hydraulic motors, which turn the paddles. The split paddlewheel gives the Queen greater maneuverability and dependability. This is in contrast to most Mississippi River paddlewheelers in operation today that have a “free wheeling” paddlewheel at the stern of the boat for visual effect, but have traditional screw-type engines hidden for their real means of propulsion. 

The La Crosse Queen is U.S. Coast Guard inspected for safety and is licensed to carry up to 149 passengers.

The #1 Outdoor Activity in La Crosse on TripAdvisor

We took this boat cruise on a beautiful Saturday afternoon. The boat was full, but there was plenty of room. Drinks are very reasonable and the staff was knowledgeable and friendly. One big plus was the bathrooms were clean and spacious, something I didn't think I would find on a paddle boat! I would recommend the La Crosse Queen.

We took this cruise with a group and it was a lot of fun! We saw eagles, blue herons, foxes, osprey, along the banks of the Mississippi. We were able to go through the locks, which was lucky since if there is a barge in the area they do not allow this. We are talking about going again in the fall when the leaves are changing and birds are migrating.

We took the Friday night Pizza cruise and enjoyed fantastic views of the Mississippi River. Several people from our group had never been on a river cruise and were amazed. Free Pizza and beer along with cruise for $18.95 is hard to beat! Some questioned the cheap price, but soon found out it was good.

This was an excellent tour. The guide who did the narrative was friendly, fun and knowledgeable about the town and river. We saw bald eagles, a swing bridge, fancy homes, etc. We sat on the top deck which is covered and has open air sides so you get out of the sun and a nice breeze.

Always wanted to take a cruise on the Mississippi and we booked the early afternoon cruise on a weekday. Boarding went smoothly - they take your picture for sale later as a souvenir. Boat was clean and comfy and captain and staff friendly, helpful and knowledgeable. They do have a snack bar and bathrooms on board. Relaxing and enjoyable!

We went on the La Crosse Queen on a beautiful day. Cruising on the river was so cool. The breeze, scenery was awesome. Best place to view everything is on the top deck. The crew were so polite and fun to talk with. If you have questions they answered them. Hats off to the La Crosse Queen.

Wonderful time on a 2-hour Sunday Brunch cruise. The buffet was small but the price was still good. Met wonderful folks inside and outside during the trip. Got to go through a Lock and Dam. The wait staff were very accommodating. Definitely worth every penny for this adventure.

We celebrated our 23rd wedding anniversary on the La Crosse Queen. The dinner exceeded our expectations. The turkey and roast beef were both tender and moist. For being a buffet the food was delicious. The staff was attentive and live music was a surprise. We were fortunate to have wonderful weather and really enjoyed ourselves!

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The 7 best mississippi river cruises for 2024.

Explore the history, culture and cuisine of the U.S. while cruising along the Mighty Mississippi.

The Best Mississippi River Cruises

Courtesy of American Cruise Lines

The 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

Courtesy of American Cruise Lines | www.AmericanCruiseLines.com

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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Travel tips, vacation ideas and more to make your next vacation stellar.

Viking River Cruises

Courtesy of Viking

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

Length: Eight days 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

Length: 15 days 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.

You may have seen riverboat gambling ships or are at least familiar with riverboat gambling along U.S. waterways. However, while high rolling on the river sounds like an exciting way to spend a night (or two, or more) while on your riverboat cruise, you'll have to jump ship to play the slots, roll the dice, spin the wheel or play a hand of Texas Hold 'em. Gambling on cruise ships sailing on internal waters is prohibited by U.S. law.

Gambling on boats in the U.S. is a complicated matter. While you will find some ships sailing along American waterways that are only set up for gambling, they are not carrying passengers from port to port. Most vessels that feature riverboat gambling are now moored, offering sports betting, table games, entertainment, live music and dancing while tethered to shore.

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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• Mississippi

Why Historic Mississippi Riverboats Continue To Be A Beloved Pastime In The South

Bon voyage!

The Mississippi River has long been a character all its own in the South, brought to life by the words of Southern writers and musicians, as well as through those who have traveled it. The river runs over 2,300 miles and spans 10 states, with a popular stretch running from Memphis to New Orleans. During the early 1800s, steamboats began running up and down the mighty Mississippi, offering a new kind of access to all the towns and ports in between.

The History of Riverboat Cruises on the Mississippi

What started as a shipping venture became a pastime for people to explore the South. The river offered a peek into the culture of the places it flows through. You could explore the roots of jazz, blues, and country, as well as the small towns of the pre- and post-Civil War eras. The many ports-of-call offer the ability to tour and experience a sliver of the South, each with a different view into the area's history. For good or bad, the Mississippi knows the South better than anything else, and the riverboat has always acted as a translator.

Following the first legendary steamboats, such as the Natchez , the industry boomed with thousands of riverboat cruises. Now, you won't find near as many boats floating the Mississippi River, looking like tiered white wedding cakes adorned with red trim.

What Cruise Experiences Are Still Offered Today

The use of the steamboat, which can only run at a speed of around 15 miles-per-hour, has given way for more modern and efficient boat travel. However, there are still day cruises, casino cruises, and even multi-day experience cruises that pay homage to the historic custom.

The tradition continues to survive in the South with a timely point-of-view. American Queen Voyages recently marked its 10th season on the Mississippi River with new experiences (such as events with chef and biscuit queen, Regina Charboneau) on its flagship paddlewheeler, American Queen . Its Lower Mississippi River itineraries have included nine-day journeys that sail between Memphis and New Orleans, with ports-of-call in Vicksburg , Natchez, St. Francisville, Baton Rouge, and more. Additional riverboat options that remain on the Mississippi River include American Cruise Lines and Viking River Cruises , amongst others.

While the historic view of the river might appear differently than a hundred years ago, a ride on a Mississippi riverboat still feels like a step back in time.

Related Articles

Cruise Maven

Cruising the World One Port at a Time

Queen of the Mississippi Embarkation Day in New Orleans

By: Sherry Laskin · Updated On: September 7, 2022

Note:  Queen of the Mississippi was refurbished and renamed American Heritage in 2022.

I’m heading north on the Big Muddy aboard American Cruise Line’s Queen of the Mississippi . Our seven-night Mississippi River cruise began in New Orleans with a night of jazz on Bourbon Street. 

It’s an Americana cruise filled history, culture and of course, southern food.

Mississippi River Cruise Aboard Queen of the Mississippi

I followed my own advice and arrived the night before my cruise. American Cruise Lines can vary the hotel but for this cruise it was The Whitney Hotel, conveniently located in the heart of downtown New Orleans. With an entire evening to relax, a stroll along New Orlean’s famous Bourbon Street and neighborhood was number one on my list. 

In an 1880’s converted bank building, The Whitney was charming and the staff and service exceeded my expectations. Breakfast wasn’t so special, but you’re in New Orleans! Hop on the Garden District street car to La Madeleine’s for a local New Orleans full breakfast, under $12.

At 10:30am, the motor coach picked up all 44 of us at the hotel for a short ride to the busy riverfront. As our bus lumbered through the narrow New Orleans roads to the port, I had my first glimpse of the Queen of the Mississippi .

RELATED:  New American Symphony Heads to New Orleans

Welcome aboard Queen of the Mississippi

A bright light blue sky was the perfect backdrop for the ship’s gleaming white hull and candy-apple red paddlewheel. Red, white and blue banners hung from balcony rails.

A member of the ship’s staff boarded our bus, looked at our identification and gathered our boarding passes. That was it. Off the bus and onto the ship. Our staterooms were unlocked and our keys on the bed. Nice.

Queen of the Mississippi First Impression

The rooms are enormous by almost any standard. Certainly bigger than most mainstream cruise ships. There are plenty of dresser drawers and hangers, too. Bathrooms are large, great lighting and ample-sized, walk-in showers.

Our Mississippi River cruise was underway at 1:30pm. We would have departed New Orleans sooner but we were waiting for a few late arrivals. It’s different on a river cruise. With a maximum of 150 guests, as soon as everyone is onboard, the ship is on the move.

Lunch was followed by a short safety brief and a “meet the staff” introduction. Before we knew it…it was 5:30pm and time for the first of seven complimentary cocktail hours throughout the week.

At sunset we docked in front of the impressive oak-lined entrance to Oak Alley Plantation. Tomorrow morning, we would walk along the Live Oak canopied path to the beautifully restored plantation house for a short tour. 

I’ve always had very mixed feelings about glorifying plantations. On one hand, they are landmarks of living history. On the other hand, the ever-present reminder of slavery is a sobering experience. 

The Week Ahead on the Mississippi River

Our Mississippi River cruise will take us 600 river miles upstream to Memphis. Along the way, we’ll pass smokestacks belching flames and quiet cat-tailed marshes. Pastel-colored plantation homes stand high above the river. Civil War battlefields and quiet downtowns are on our agenda.

It’s going to be a fascinating week on the Mississippi River…especially for this Yankee gal.

READ NEXT:   Complete Mississippi River Cruise From New Orleans to Memphis

And of course there were plenty of rocking chairs…the best place to watch the scenery as we meandered north. 

Disclaimer: I was a sponsored guest aboard the Queen of the Mississippi. As always, all opinions are my own, as are the photos, unless otherwise given credit.

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About Sherry Laskin

I'm the editor and creator of CruiseMaven.com, a solo traveler cruising the world without flying. I hope my articles and photos entertain, advise and inspire you to travel the world without flying. Take a breath...stop for a local meal and a glass of wine along the way.

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November 1, 2020 at 11:03 pm

Hi José, No worries…thank you for reading the article and taking the time to write. I hope to write more Mississippi River articles as soon as it’s safe to travel again. Sherry

October 31, 2020 at 5:38 pm

Hi Sherry again. I’m realizing right now that this article is old. I’m sorry. I don’t know why I received an email that redirectioned me to this article. I’m sorry about that. Please, ignore it. Thank you. José

October 31, 2020 at 5:32 pm

Hi Sherry. I loved your review on board. Are you going to write some more about this river cruise? An anecdote, what you liked the most about this ship, the menu, … and so on. This river cruise is 7 nights long. You should tell us a little bit more, please. I believe that many people are looking forward to knowing something more about this amazing river cruise aboard the Queen of the Mississippi Thank you anyway. José

June 8, 2016 at 9:05 pm

Hi Greg, Thanks for your comment. I have more parts for the Mississippi River cruise review in the works. Stay tuned… Sherry

June 8, 2016 at 10:16 am

It’s a shame you never wrote more. This article ranks pretty well for “Mississippi River cruise review” on Google, and if it had another part attached it might move up even higher.

April 25, 2015 at 2:40 pm

Hi Dale, Thank you for the reminder. I’m working on the rest of the cruise and will upload as soon as possible. Please subscribe (if you’re not already) to my newsletter and it’ll include the trip in its entirety as soon as it’s published. Thanks, again.

April 25, 2015 at 12:42 pm

Hi, Sherry:

How can I get the full article about the New Orleans to Memphis Queen of the Mississippi cruise? Is it archived somewhere?

Dale Blanshan

January 28, 2015 at 8:54 pm

It IS a fun cruise. Have a wonderful time and thanks for reading my article.

January 28, 2015 at 4:06 pm

This sounds like so much fun! History and relaxation, great combo. I’ll send my mother-in-law the link and we’ll start working on our husbands to book a river cruise on the Mississippi!

August 10, 2014 at 9:50 pm

I’m putting the review together. It’s a terrific ship and I like that it holds only 150 passengers. If you are subscribed to my site, you’ll receive the post as soon as it’s published. Have a wonderful cruise!

August 9, 2014 at 11:56 am

Would like to be able to see your review of Queen of the Mississippi as I am soon going on one.

June 30, 2014 at 11:55 am

Would love to see your review of the cruise.

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A Look at The Mississippi River Fleet for 2024

• March 28, 2024

With American Queen Voyages ceasing operations , the number of cruise ships on the Mississippi River is diminishing in 2024.

Two cruise lines are set to offer itineraries along the U.S. domestic waterway this year, including American Cruise Lines and Viking.

Cruise Industry News lists all of the vessels sailing on the Mississippi in 2024.

American Serenade Cruise Line: American Cruise Lines Type: Modern riverboat  Built: 2023 Capacity:  175 guests Tonnage:  5,148

After entering service for American Cruise Lines in 2023 , the American Serenade will be the newest cruise ship in operation on the Mississippi River this year.

For its second season, the 175-guest vessel is currently offering itineraries that cover the entire length of the Mississippi River and also include sailings to other waterways, such as the Ohio, the Cumberland, and the Tennessee.

American Symphony Cruise Line: American Cruise Lines Type: Modern riverboat  Built: 2022 Capacity:  175 guests Tonnage:  5,148

Custom-designed to sail on the Mississippi , the American Symphony is marking its third season on the river in 2024.

Part of American Cruise Lines’ Modern Riverboat Series, the 2022-built vessel is set to offer a series of itineraries along both the Lower and Upper Mississippi, in addition to cruises that also sail to the Tennessee, Cumberland and Ohio rivers.

American Melody Cruise Line: American Cruise Lines Type: Modern riverboat  Built: 2021 Capacity:  175 guests Tonnage:  5, 148

Also part of American Cruise Lines’ series of modern riverboats, the American Melody entered service in 2021 .

In 2023, the 175-guest vessel will offer seven- to 23-night cruises that sail along the Mississippi, Tennessee, Cumberland, and Ohio rivers. Some of the itineraries can be combined with land-based tours that include visits to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.

American Splendor Cruise Line: American Cruise Lines Type: Classic paddle-wheeler Built: 2016 Capacity:  185 guests Tonnage:  2,000

After undergoing a major refurbishment in 2022 , the American Splendor continues to sail on the Mississippi River in 2024.

One of American Cruise Lines’ classic paddle-wheelers, the 185-guest vessel is set to offer four different itineraries during the season, which include destinations in Louisiana, Arkansas, Mississippi, Tennessee, Illinois, Kentucky, Alabama and Missouri.

American Heritage Cruise Line: American Cruise Lines Type: Classic paddle-wheeler Built: 2015 Capacity:  149 guests Tonnage:  3,800

Previously named the Queen of the Mississippi , the American Heritage is another paddle-wheeler operated by American Cruise Lines.

Built in 2015, the 149-guest cruise ship is scheduled to offer three seven- to 11-night itineraries across the Lower Mississippi in 2024. Additionally, it will offer a 15-night itinerary that focuses on the Ohio River and sails all the way to Pittsburgh.

Viking Mississippi Cruise Line: Viking Type: European-style modern riverboat Built: 2022 Capacity:  386 guests Tonnage:  10,000

The Viking Mississippi is the largest cruise ship sailing on the Mississippi River. After entering service in 2022 , the 10,000-ton European-style riverboat continues to offer itineraries across both the Upper and Lower river regions.

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American Heritage cabins and suites

American heritage staterooms review, floor plans, photos.

American Heritage cabins and suites review at CruiseMapper provides detailed information on cruise accommodations , including floor plans, photos, room types and categories, cabin sizes, furniture details and included by American Cruise Lines en-suite amenities and services.

The American Heritage cruise ship cabins page is conveniently interlinked with its deck plans showing deck layouts combined with a legend and review of all onboard venues.

Owners Suite

Balcony Cabin

Window Cabin

Studio Single Cabins

American Heritage cabins review

Follows the review of Queen of the Mississippi/American Heritage riverboat cabins as amenities, furniture and included (complimentary) services:

• Hotel beds (king or 2 twins, size 200 x 160 cm, no under-bed space for suitcases), bedside tables with lamps, open closet, 1 or 2 dressers (with drawers), individual climate control, medical emergency button.
• Each accommodation has a private, hotel-style, full-size bathroom with shower, hairdryer, Judith Jackson premium bath amenities (shampoo, body wash, conditioner, moisturizer, mouthwash, facial bar, bath soaps, vanity kit), smart HDTV (local/satellite reception), DVD player, phone (onboard communication only), coffee-maker, digital clock, a seating area (small table with 1 or 2 swivel chairs), vanity desk.
• Owner Suites are larger in size, with extra amenities, such as fresh flowers, terry robes, mini-bar, in-room dining service (continental breakfast served on the balcony).

Cabin balconies are the same size regardless of the category, each furnished with a small table and two chairs.

Free of charge Wi-Fi Internet access (shipwide coverage), with several Internet computers located around the ship.

Complimentary are alcohol (beer and wine at lunch/dinner), unlimited drinks (soda, water, juices, coffee, tea), snacks, room service.

American Cruise Lines deals are non-inclusive of gratuities, shore excursions/tours, port fees.

American Heritage cruise ship has 2 wheelchair-accessible cabins (for disabled passengers) in categories A-Window (on deck 1-Main) and AAR (on deck 2nd), which are conveniently located near the elevator.

The ship has a total of 19 single cabins (for solo passengers) that can be booked with single-occupancy rates (no single supplement).

American Heritage cabin and suite plans are property of American Cruise Lines . All floor plans are for informational purposes only and CruiseMapper is not responsible for their accuracy.

Reservations

The Delta Queen will offer 3-10 night cruises operating throughout the Mississippi River and its tributaries following a multi-million dollar refurbishment including new boilers and many other safety upgrades.

Please sign up below to be among the first to receive updates on the project and notifications when reservations open.  Use the selections below to let us know which routes you’d be most interested in cruising aboard the Legendary Delta Queen.

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First look: The cool new paddlewheeler that will take you from New Orleans to Memphis

Note: American Queen Voyages ceased operations in February 2024, following financial difficulties stemming from the COVID-19 pandemic. Booked passengers seeking refunds can request them by filling out a form on the dedicated website American Queen Voyages set up to handle claims.

It's been a big week for the comeback of cruising in North America -- and not just because two of the world's biggest big-ship cruise lines, Royal Caribbean and Celebrity Cruises , opened bookings for their first sailings on the continent since the coronavirus pandemic forced the industry to a halt.

This week also saw some of the first sailings by small cruise vessels on U.S. waterways in more than a year, including the first voyage of a new riverboat on the Mississippi River.

The new riverboat, the 245-passenger American Countess, is the latest Mississippi River paddlewheeler from American Queen Steamboat Company -- the company behind the iconic American Queen steamboat. And its arrival is something of a big deal in the world of cruising.

Christened on Sunday in New Orleans , American Countess is the first new cruise vessel of any kind to be christened and go into service in North America since the coronavirus-related cruising shutdown began in early 2020.

TPG is one of just a handful of travel outlets getting exclusive access this week to the first sailing of American Countess — a nonrevenue "preview" cruise from New Orleans to Memphis with company executives, their friends and family, and local dignitaries.

As I'm seeing this week, American Countess offers an alluring mix of both traditional and contemporary riverboat design. From the outside, it resembles a classic paddlewheeler of old -- the sort of thing you'd expect to see on the cover of a Mark Twain novel. But on the inside, it's as modern as any newly built hotel on land, with a stylish, contemporary vibe.

Here's a first look at some of the most notable features of the vessel, which will begin its first sailings with paying passengers on Sunday:

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

A classic steamboat exterior

If you've always dreamed of cruising the Mississippi on a riverboat that (on the outside, at least) evokes the golden age of steamboats, American Countess could be your vessel.

The exterior of the four-deck-high paddlewheeler is a red-and-white, gingerbread trim-festooned confection that would look right at home in an 1800s period piece.

Among the old-timey touches that make the exterior of American Countess a delight for the eyes is its classic (and fully functional) giant red paddlewheel, which churns through the water with a mesmerizing, bump-bump-bump-bump rhythm.

The exterior of the American Countess also is embellished with two large white "booms" at its bow that project forward like giant antennae -- a classic touch of riverboats of old. The booms, which swing from side to side, support long mobile walkways known as stages, which in turn swing down onto land to let passengers off onto the shore.

The stages are an old-style way of getting passengers off riverboats that are, notably, not just evocative of a bygone era but also practical for Mississippi River cruising even today. The flexible nature of the stages means American Queen can "dock" just about anywhere it wants along the river. It just needs to find a relatively open area along the shore to tie up.

We saw this sort of flexible docking in action during a stop near White Castle, Louisiana. The American Countess just pulled up the side of the river, in a place where there was no formal dock, to let passengers off.

Modern interiors

Despite its exterior, the inside of American Countess is as stylish and modern as anything you'll find in a just-built city hotel.

The main gathering space on the vessel is the Grand Lobby, a soaring bar and lounge area with a classy, contemporary feel. Running for 80 feet along the port side of American Countess, its standout feature is what is essentially a wall of glass offering lounge-goers stunning panoramic views of the passing scenery. Few American river cruise vessels can boast such a spectacular interior space for river-gazing while underway.

The Grand Lobby is located at the center of American Countess' main public deck, appropriately called the Main Deck, which also is home to an elegant and contemporary dining space. Called the Grand Dining Room, it's where passengers eat most of their meals.

Also located just off the Grand Lobby is a full-blown theater (called, simply, The Theater) and a small lounge called Perks that offers self-serve coffee beverages, tea, cookies and soft-serve ice cream. Both spaces also are designed in a contemporary style.

Passengers can also enjoy a small library, card room, fitness center and a deck-top lounge area.

Contemporary cabins

The American Queen Steamboat Company's best-known vessel, American Queen, is famous for the 19th-century-style opulence of its cabins (think: Victorian-style wooden armoires, four-poster beds and red patterned wallpaper). Staying in a cabin on the vessel is a little like going back in time.

Not so for the American Countess.

Like American Queen Steamboat's last new vessel, American Duchess (unveiled in 2017), American Countess has unmistakably contemporary cabins that match the aforementioned public spaces. You can expect clean-lined sofas and desk areas; queen beds topped with crisp white-on-white duvets; and large, flat-panel televisions mounted on the wall.

Bathrooms in American Countess cabins feature glass-walled showers with sleek chrome Grohe fixtures, white-tile floors and minimalist toilets and sinks. They're also unusually large for cabins on a cruise vessel.

In a "keep-things-simple" strategy that was aimed, in part, at making it easy to sell the ship to groups, the line has essentially just put two types of cabins on the vessel. Most of the rooms are balcony cabins that measure either 192 or 226 square feet. Then there are some windowless "inside" cabins that mostly measure 153 square feet.

That's a notable change from American Queen Steamboat's last vessel, American Duchess, which offers a broader array of cabins including some very large suites.

Overall, the rooms are comfortable and inviting -- and they have a lot of wonderful little modern touches. I'm particularly smitten with the electric outlets that are built right into the side tables on each side of the bed. There are three U.S.-style electric outlets and two USB outlets at the top of each side table, which is a dream for people like me who travel with all sorts of gadgets. Four more outlets and two USB outlets are built into the desk across the room.

Each side of the bed also features a perfectly placed light fixture with both a lamp to provide ambient light and a small spotlight that can be directed any-which-way for reading in bed. The latter allows you to lay in bed reading without wayward light bothering someone who is trying to sleep right next to you.

The cabins do have one noticeable flaw that could leave someone a bit flustered upon arrival, depending on his or her packing habits: There's relatively limited storage space. There is just one modest-sized closet with a single row for hanging clothes, two drawers and nowhere logical to put your shoes.

If you're thinking about booking a trip on American Countess, be strategic about what you pack -- or assume you'll keep some of your clothes and other items in your suitcase, which you can slide under the bed.

Lively entertainment

American Countess is notably smaller and more intimate than American Queen Steamboat's 436-passenger American Queen, which is the world's largest river steamboat. It has just 123 cabins vs. 222 on American Queen. But despite its relatively small size, it offers a lot of entertainment.

A small theater group that includes four performers and a four-person house band sails with American Countess and performs most nights in its theater, with musical medley-type productions that offer everything from classic songs of the South to 1970s music.

In addition, the house band entertains passengers most nights in the Grand Lobby.

The vessel's theater also welcomes special guest performers such as Steve Spracklen, a pianist who often entertains passengers on American Queen Steamboat vessels with ragtime music, weaving in some of the history of the genre as he goes.

Passengers also will find lots of daily activities such as bourbon tastings and talks from the vessel's "riverlorian" -- an onboard river expert who recounts local river lore and history.

On this sailing, well-known Natchez-based chef Regina Charboneau also was on board to host cooking demonstrations.

Comfortable river views

One of the great things about American Countess is that it's filled with spaces that use the main attraction of a Mississippi River cruise -- the river itself -- as a focal point.

In addition to having interior spaces such as the Grand Lobby that are built around panoramic views of the river through huge glass windows, the vessel also offers lots of outdoor areas where you can sit and watch the river roll by.

The bow of the vessel features particularly wonderful outdoor deck spaces that are lined with rocking chairs where passengers can lounge for hours, watching the activity of the river.

There's also a large deck-top lounge area with comfortable outdoor furniture that can be covered or uncovered, depending on the weather.

Included tours

As is typical for all American Queen Steamboat vessels, American Countess offers tours to passengers in every destination it visits.

On this sailing, that included a tour of Nottoway. Due to high water levels on the Mississippi River this week, American Countess wasn't able to tie up right there, but it was able to get close. Passengers were then taken to the site in custom-built American Queen Steamboat motorcoaches.

A signature feature of the line is that its motorcoaches -- each specially designed with extra glass up top for viewing -- follow its vessels up and down the Mississippi and other rivers for daily use during touring.

American Queen Steamboat is particularly known for included-in-the-fare "hop-on, hop-off" tours in the river towns its vessels visit that allow passengers to explore at their own pace while stopping at multiple attractions. For now, as part of the anti-coronavirus measures American Queen Steamboat is implementing, such touring has been scaled back in the interest of safety. But the line is offering alternative included-in-price tours that are more closely managed.

During these new tours, passengers travel together as a group by motorcoach for sightseeing with a more limited number of stops.

American Queen Steamboat executives have said the new touring system is likely just a temporary measure until it implements a new COVID-19 vaccine requirement for passengers in July.

American Countess this year initially will sail week-long voyages between New Orleans and Memphis with stops in places such as Natchez and Vicksburg, Mississippi, and St. Francisville, Louisiana. But the vessel also will operate on the upper part of the Mississippi River and also on the Ohio and Cumberland rivers later in the year.

The itineraries will take the vessel as far north as Red Wing, Minnesota, and as far east as Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, and Chattanooga, Tennessee.

All American Countess itineraries include a pre-cruise overnight stay at a hotel in the departure port.

Bottom line

American Countess is an enticing option for travelers hoping to cruise on the Mississippi River or one of its tributaries. While it has a classic Mississippi paddlewheeler look on its outside -- something that, to many people, just seems right for Mississippi River cruise vessels -- its interior isn't a throwback to the 19th century.

If you cruise on American Countess, you'll find interior public rooms including lounges and dining venues that are as modern and stylish as any new-build boutique hotel, with cabins to match.

Just keep in mind that American Countess, like most river cruise vessels, is a relatively small vessel when compared to the typical ocean cruise ship. You'll find fewer restaurants, lounges and other venues on American Countess than you'll find on the typical ocean ship. You'll also find far fewer crowds. As is typical for small cruise vessels, American Countess has much more of the feel of a boutique hotel than a large resort.

The Points Guy cruise writer Gene Sloan is traveling on American Countess this week as a guest of the cruise line.

Planning a cruise? Start with these stories:

• The 5 most desirable cabin locations on any cruise ship
• The 8 worst cabin locations on any cruise ship
• A quick guide to the most popular cruise lines
• 21 tips and tricks that will make your cruise go smoothly
• 15 ways cruisers waste money
• 12 best cruises for people who never want to grow up
• What to pack for your first cruise

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A History of Riverboats in Mississippi

The mighty Mississippi river stretches from Northern Minnesota to the Gulf of Mexico. The second-longest river in the United States, the Mississippi is integral to the history of America — particularly in the state of Mississippi. Riverboats facilitated travel, commerce, and cultural exchange within Mississippi and beyond. Learn more about the impact of Mississippi riverboats in this post from Visit Mississippi .

Riverboats: The Early Days

While people have navigated the waters of the Mississippi River for centuries, steamboat technology was not viable until the early 1800s. The first steamboat to travel the Mississippi was the New Orleans, whose October 1811 maiden voyage began in Pittsburgh, PA, and ended in New Orleans after traveling along the Ohio and Mississippi Rivers.

The New Orleans stopped in Natchez in December 1811 before continuing to its final port in New Orleans. First established by French colonists and later ruled by the Spanish, Natchez was an important center of trade and cultural exchange.

The Golden Age of the Steamboat

By the 1830s, steamboats existed all along the Mississippi River and its major tributaries. The growth of Mississippi’s riverfront communities, such as Bolivar, Commerce, and Greenville, can largely be attributed to the riverboat trade. Riverboats also brought new settlers to the state, helping to speed up agricultural development in the fertile Mississippi Delta.

Propelled by steam-driven paddle wheels, steamboats could navigate the river more quickly and effectively than barges or flatboats. They carried goods such as cotton, timber, and livestock up and down the river, expanding trade throughout the growing U.S. However, steamboats could be dangerous — the boilers used to create steam could build up too much pressure and explode. Steamboats were also susceptible to hitting obstacles such as rocks or logs, which could cause them to sink. This created a growing industry for a smaller type of riverboat called a “snagboat.” Snagboats patrolled the Mississippi River looking for tree stumps, debris, or other hazards and removing them before they damaged larger steamboats.

Wealthy Mississippians could enjoy leisure travel on a showboat — a riverboat used for theater and musical performances. Showboats were ornately decorated and would announce their arrival at a port by playing music that could be heard for miles.

Riverboats During the Civil War

During the years after Mississippi’s secession from the Union, many steamboats were used to support the Confederate Army. Riverboats carried troops, provisions, and supplies along the Mississippi during the Civil War. Demand for ships was so high that both the Union and Confederate governments chartered steamboats. Riverboats also played a role in the defense of Vicksburg, an important Confederate stronghold that connected the South to the Western states.

Gaming on the River

Riverboat gambling became popular in the early 1900s due to legislation surrounding gaming. By keeping poker, roulette, and other games of chance restricted to a riverboat, business owners could evade the anti-gambling laws that were in effect on land in states along the Mississippi River. Riverboat gaming in Mississippi was legalized in 1993, but unfortunately, Hurricane Katrina destroyed many riverboat casinos. In response, Mississippi lawmakers allowed casinos to move 800 feet inland.

However, you can still find a few riverboat casinos throughout the U.S. In Mississippi, visitors can try their luck at the Ameristar Casino Hotel in Vicksburg , a riverboat-style casino and hotel located right on the water.

Mississippi Riverboats in the Present Day

According to National Geographic, by 1900, the growth of railroads across the U.S. significantly reduced the demand for transporting goods and people via steamboat. Many riverboats were retired, but a few showboats remained as a testament to this period in history.

The popularity of riverboats continues to thrive in the Magnolia State. Today, tourists can enjoy the relaxing and immersive experience of river cruising. These luxury expeditions offer a unique way to travel the Mississippi, where guests can admire the breathtaking scenery along the waterway. First-class accommodations, fine dining, and a variety of things to do can be expected on a luxury tour on the Mississippi. Companies such as American Cruise Line and Viking River Cruises offer a variety of cruises that vary in duration and cities visited, like Vicksburg and Natchez.

Plan Your Trip With Help From Visit Mississippi

If you’re planning a trip to one of our historic riverfront cities like Natchez, Vicksburg, or Greenville — or anywhere else in the Hospitality State — Visit Mississippi is here for assistance.

Plan your next trip to Mississippi using our complimentary trip planner tool that helps you map out all your must-see attractions, restaurants, and lodging options. Whether you’re here for a week or just passing through, you’ll find a wealth of information about Mississippi history and culture on the Visit Mississippi website. For more information, contact us today.

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Mississippi River cruises take hit as American Queen shuts down

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Memphis has bet big on Mississippi River cruises, but the industry took a hit this week when American Queen Voyages — one of three companies cruising the Mississippi — shut down. 

The company said it couldn’t rebound after the COVID-19 pandemic. 

“The overnight cruise industry was especially affected by changes in travel preferences and, as a result, (American Queen Voyages) has become financially unsustainable,” the company said in a statement. 

Lee Hendrix is no stranger to the instability of the industry. He’s worked as a “riverlorian,” or river historian, on board the American Queen through several ownership changes and bankruptcies. His first stint on board was from the late 1990s to 2008. When the company shuttered in 2008, he left for a job with the Army Corps of Engineers as a way to stay on the river with more job security. 

“It’s a tough business because you’re so dependent on the vagaries of the economy,” he said.

Hendrix returned to the American Queen a couple years ago, after retiring from the Corps. Now, he’s witnessing another bankruptcy that’s left the American Queen sitting empty at a dock.

Even as the dust settles, he’s optimistic there’s still a future for the boat he worked on, which was the company’s namesake.

“We expected that there was going to be some kind of disruption, but we somehow expected the American Queen would survive,” Hendrix said of the boat itself. “That’s sacred ground for me.”

American Queen Voyages — under various names and ownership — has a tumultuous history. There was a bankruptcy in 2001, followed by a stint of sales and closures until 2008, when the fleet went out of commission. In 2011, it returned, even headquartered in Memphis for several years, and ran continually for more than a decade until its parent company, Hornblower Group, filed for bankruptcy this week.

Kevin Kane, president and CEO of Memphis Tourism, said American Queen’s closure was an unexpected hit to local river tourism — the city is expected to lose 10,000 hotel room nights annually because of it — but he’s confident the market is still there.

Ebbs and flows

For two decades, Memphis’ investment in overnight river cruises has been up and down.

Plans to construct Beale Street Landing, the city’s biggest dock, started in the early 2000s and dragged on through three mayoral administrations. In that time, Hurricane Katrina hit, the river’s overnight cruise industry collapsed and the company that built the American Queen went bankrupt in 2001 — not for the last time.

American Queen returned, despite multiple ownership changes and business closures, but shuttered again in 2008 — as did its only competitor — leaving Memphis with a dock under construction but no cruises running on the Mississippi River.

When American Queen returned to the river, again, the company’s decision to headquarter in Memphis in 2011 was a vote of confidence for river tourism. Within the decade, however, American Queen moved its headquarters out of the city.

Then, in 2020, the COVID-19 pandemic halted all travel. 

By the time cruises started up again post-pandemic, cities along the Mississippi River, including Memphis, were betting that the industry would make a comeback. Their confidence was boosted when Viking Cruises launched a Mississippi River itinerary in 2022, bringing a third company to the river.

Memphis Tourism previously estimated cruises have an annual economic impact of $100 million on Memphis and are responsible for 20,000 hotel room nights yearly in the city. American Queen alone was responsible for half of that hotel traffic.

Related: Burgeoning Mississippi riverboat industry grapples with increasing threats of flooding, drought

Overnight cruises on the Mississippi River aren’t cheap. The lowest tickets for a week-long cruise are a few thousand dollars, and Kane said cruising’s affluent customer base brings a lot of money to Memphis .

At one point, Memphis was planning a $35 million expansion of its docks — an indication of the city’s confidence that river cruises were here to stay — but the idea to build an additional dock at Greenbelt Park was scrapped late last year. All that funding will go to Beale Street Landing instead.

However, even with American Queen’s exit, Kane said the city still needs a second dock to accommodate the two remaining cruise companies: Viking and American Cruise Lines.

“We still need expanded docks,” Kane said. “River cruising is still very important to the Memphis hospitality industry.” 

Sinking ship

American Queen Voyages retired the smallest of its three Mississippi River boats in late 2022. Then, last year, it scrapped its trips on the Great Lakes and sold the boats that ran those tours. At the time, the company characterized the decision as a move to refocus on its river cruises.

In late 2022, as American Queen was rolling back its services, Viking was launching its Mississippi River tours, and American Cruise Lines was adding more boats, despite the hits all three companies took when the river dropped to record lows during recent summers . Droughts forced them to change itineraries, offer refunds and, in some cases, cancel tours completely , as river conditions made it challenging — and in some cases, impossible — to travel along the river.

There were other signs of trouble in the months leading up to American Queen’s closure. The company’s president, Cindy D’Aoust, left the company last fall after about a year in the role, according to news reports. A few months later, the company canceled its season-opening tours in February, and several travel agency groups stopped booking trips on the American Queen.

Those troubles came to a boiling point in late February when its parent company, Hornblower, filed for bankruptcy and laid off 500 employees. American Queen has canceled all future cruises and is offering refunds to customers. The company is up for sale, but if there are no buyers, it’ll shut down.

“Whatever happened to them, I can’t explain it,” Kane said. “I don’t think river cruising is on the decline. I’m not the least bit concerned.” 

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BREAKING NEWS

Orlando Commissioner Regina Hill arrested on charges of elderly exploitation, mortgage fraud

2 rip current statements in effect for coastal flagler and coastal volusia regions, driving along ... and the roadway vanishes beneath you. what's it like to survive a bridge collapse.

Trisha Ahmed And Valerie Gonzalez

Associated Press

Copyright 2024 The Associated Press. All rights reserved.

FILE - Recovery workers pull a car from the bay at the site where the Queen Isabella Causeway collapsed, in Port Isabel, Texas, Tuesday, Sept. 18, 2001. The collapse of the Francis Scott Key Bridge in Baltimore following a ship strike on March 26, 2024 brought back jarring memories of their own ordeals to people who survived previous bridge collapses. (AP Photo/Eric Gay, File)

You're driving along, and without warning, the roadway drops from beneath you.

There are a few seconds of falling, with thoughts possibly racing about family or loved ones, followed by a jarring impact, and most likely injury.

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Tuesday's collapse of the Francis Scott Key Bridge in Baltimore following a ship strike brought back jarring memories of their own ordeals to people who survived previous bridge collapses.

'THERE WAS DEFINITELY SOMETHING WRONG'

Linda Paul, 72, survived a bridge collapse in Minneapolis on Aug. 1, 2007. The Interstate 35W bridge collapsed without warning into the Mississippi River in downtown Minneapolis during the evening rush hour.

Paul was 55 then, working as a shop-at-home designer for a local company and driving home in a minivan that doubled as a “store on wheels,” loaded with fabrics and sample books. Traffic was at a total standstill, leaving her stuck on the bridge around 6 p.m.

“I remember looking around and thinking that there was definitely something wrong,” Paul said. “I looked ahead and realized that the center section of the bridge was going down, and knew at that point that there was a good chance I would go down with it. And that is exactly what happened.”

Police later told her that she plunged down a 50-foot (15-meter) slope as the concrete deck of the bridge collapsed. She was still inside the minivan as it fell onto wreckage on the riverbank.

Chunks of concrete hit her, fracturing five of her vertebrae and crushing her left cheekbone, as the collapse killed 13 people and injured 145.

‘IT WAS KIND OF, LIKE, JOLTY’

Jessie Shelton, now a 35-year-old Broadway actor and voiceover artist in New York, was 18 when she survived the Minnesota bridge collapse. She had been driving from work to a production she was part of at Children’s Theater in Minneapolis.

“I started to slide backwards. And it was kind of, like, jolty,” she said. "I felt like I was on some sort of amusement park ride. And I remember thinking at 18 years of age, ‘Well, we’ll see what happens.’”

Then she was knocked unconscious, suffering a concussion and injuries that broke her back in four spots.

“I just remember that sort of final moment before I got a concussion,” Shelton said. “I don’t recall what came after. I woke up at North Memorial Hospital with either my mom or my best friend standing over me.”

“I had a big cement block in the backseat of my car," she recalled. "It narrowly missed me. It came off of one of the signs, I think, up above. So it really was pretty miraculous that I made it because I couldn’t have navigated out of that situation, because I was out cold.”

ESCAPED THROUGH A HAND-CRANKED WINDOW

Gustavo Morales Jr. was driving a truck over the Queen Isabella Causeway in Port Isabel, Texas and fell into an abyss after a tugboat struck a pillar, sending part of the bridge into the water on Sept. 15, 2001.

Morales was on his way home from a late night managing a restaurant on South Padre Island at the time. He remembers it feeling like a rumble or explosion — and then his pickup truck flew over the collapsed roadway for a few seconds before crashing into the water. Thoughts of his wife, who was expecting their third child, flooded his mind.

“Everything comes into your mind a thousand miles an hour," he said. “It was my wife, my girls, my son who was on his way.”

Morales believes wearing his seatbelt and being able to manually roll down the window helped him stay conscious and escape the truck. He spent about ten minutes in the water before some young men nearby who witnessed the tugboat hit the pier helped him and others safely out. Eight people died that day. Morales was among three survivors.

MULTIPLE SURGERIES AND TRAUMA

Garrett Ebling, another survivor of the 2007 Minnesota bridge collapse, was numb when he learned that six people who were on the bridge in Baltimore remained missing and were presumed dead .

“As Minneapolis bridge collapse survivors, one of the things we hold onto is that we went through this in the hopes that people wouldn’t have to go through something like this in the future,” Ebling said.

Ebling, 49, of New Ulm, Minnesota, endured multiple surgeries, including facial reconstruction, as well as emotional trauma.

“We don’t know what happened in Baltimore,” Ebling said. “But I don’t want to see somebody have to go through that, especially unnecessarily. If it ends up being a preventable accident then I really feel bad. In my estimation, what happened in Minneapolis was a preventable bridge collapse. And if that also happened in Baltimore, then I think that makes it even more disappointing.”

Ahmed reported from Minneapolis and Gonzalez in McAllen, Texas. Associated Press writers Ben Finley in Norfolk, Virginia, and Wayne Parry in Atlantic City, New Jersey, also contributed to this story.

Copyright 2024 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed without permission.

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Catch up on our Maryland bridge collapse coverage

A container ship lost power and rammed into a major bridge in Baltimore early Tuesday, causing it to snap and plunge into the river below. Several vehicles fell into the chilly waters, and rescuers are searching for survivors.

A cargo ship is stuck under the part of the structure of the Francis Scott Key Bridge after the ship hit the bridge Wednesday, March 27, 2024, in Baltimore, Md. (AP Photo/Steve Helber)

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FILE - In this Wednesday, Aug. 1, 2007 picture, vehicles are scattered along the broken remains of the Interstate 35W bridge, which stretches between Minneapolis and St. Paul, after it collapsed into the Mississippi River during evening rush hour. The collapse of the Francis Scott Key Bridge in Baltimore following a ship strike on March 26, 2024 brought back jarring memories of their own ordeals to people who survived previous bridge collapses. (Stacy Bengs/The Minnesota Daily via AP)

A container ship rests against wreckage of the Francis Scott Key Bridge as dawn approaches on Wednesday, March 27, 2024, in Baltimore, Md. Recovery efforts resumed Wednesday for the construction workers who are presumed dead after the cargo ship hit a pillar of the bridge, causing the structure to collapse. (AP Photo/Matt Rourke)

A container ship rests against the wreckage of the Francis Scott Key Bridge during a rainstorm on Wednesday, March 27, 2024, in Baltimore, Md. The ship rammed into the major bridge in Baltimore early Tuesday, causing it to collapse in a matter of seconds and creating a terrifying scene as several vehicles plunged into the chilly river below. (AP Photo/Matt Rourke)

Since a ship hit the Francis Scott Key Bridge in Baltimore early Monday and brought it down, events have been moving fast. And the chaotic saga is still unfolding.

Here are some key Associated Press stories that, together, can bring you up to speed on the story so far and what has taken place. We’ll add to this list of stories in coming hours and days as events warrant. ___

• Start catching up with Wednesday’s “mainbar,” as AP calls the main news story related to an event. This story looks at the investigation into the disaster and where it is taking authorities.
• “It looked like something out of an action movie.” Find out what happened in this first-day story about the collapse and its immediate aftermath.
• Follow along with live updates in this AP Live Blog, which began shortly after the disaster and continues now.
• Watch the moment the bridge fell in this video.
• What happened, why, and other crucial information: Get briefed fast in this explainer about what we know and what we don’t.
• What it’s like to survive a bridge collapse: “There was definitely something wrong.”
• Delays, Disruption. Rising costs. “Significant and long-lasting impacts.” The collapse of the Francis Scott Key Bridge rippled through shipping lanes — local, regional and global.
• Who was Francis Scott Key, for whom the bridge is named? Turns out he was in a boat in the same waters more than 200 years ago, watching a battle and writing the poem that would become the lyrics to “The Star-Spangled Banner.”
• From Texas’ Queen Isabella Causeway in 2001 to Florida’s Sunshine Skyway Bridge in 1980, disasters involving human-built spans are destructive and often lethal. Find out where others happened and what caused them.

For more coverage of the bridge collapse, follow AP News here.

A list of major US bridge collapses caused by ships and barges

The Associated Press

March 27, 2024, 1:09 PM

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A container ship struck a major bridge in Baltimore early Tuesday, causing it to plunge into the river below. From 1960 to 2015, there were 35 major bridge collapses worldwide due to ship or barge collision, with a total of 342 people killed, according to a 2018 report from the World Association for Waterborne Transport Infrastructure. Eighteen of those collapses happened in the United States.

A list of notable disasters involving ships or barges hitting bridges in the U.S.:

POPP’S FERRY BRIDGE

March 20, 2009: A vessel pushing eight barges rammed into the Popp’s Ferry Bridge in Biloxi, Mississippi, resulting in a 150-foot section of the bridge collapsing into the bay.

INTERSTATE 40 BRIDGE: 14 DEAD

May 26, 2002: A barge hit the Interstate 40 bridge over the Arkansas River at Webbers Falls, Oklahoma, collapsing a 500-foot section of road and plunging vehicles into the water. Fourteen people died and 11 were injured.

QUEEN ISABELLA CAUSEWAY: 8 DEAD

Sept. 15, 2001: A tugboat and barge struck the Queen Isabella Causeway in Port Isabel, Texas, causing a midsection of the bridge to tumble 80 feet into the bay below. Eight people died after motorists drove into the hole.

EADS BRIDGE: 50 INJURED

April 14, 1998: The Anne Holly tow traveling through the St. Louis Harbor rammed into the center span of the Eads Bridge. Eight barges broke away. Three of them hit a permanently moored gambling vessel below the bridge. Fifty people suffered minor injuries.

BIG BAYOU CANOT: 47 DEAD

Sept. 22, 1993: Barges being pushed by a towboat in dense fog hit and displaced the Big Bayou Canot railroad bridge near Mobile, Alabama. Minutes later, an Amtrak train with 220 people aboard reached the displaced bridge and derailed, killing 47 people and injuring 103 people.

SEEBER BRIDGE: 1 DEAD

May 28, 1993: The towboat Chris, pushing the empty hopper barge DM3021, hit a support tier of the Judge William Seeber Bridge in New Orleans. Two spans and the two-column bent collapsed onto the barge. Two cars carrying three people fell with the four-lane bridge deck into a canal. One person died and two people were seriously injured.

SUNSHINE SKYWAY BRIDGE: 35 DEAD

May 9, 1980: The 609-foot freighter Summit Venture was navigating through the narrow, winding shipping channel of Florida’s Tampa Bay when a sudden, blinding squall knocked out the ship’s radar. The ship sheared off a support of the Sunshine Skyway Bridge, dropping a 1,400-foot section of concrete roadway during the morning rush hour. Seven vehicles, including a bus with 26 aboard, fell 150 feet into the water. Thirty-five people died.

Copyright © 2024 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, written or redistributed.

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Key Bridge collapse brings haunting memories of Queen Isabella Causeway tragedy in Texas

Eight people were killed on sept. 15, 2001.

Julie Moreno , Executive Producer/Digital Content

The scenes in Baltimore following the collapse of the Francis Scott Key Bridge are hauntingly familiar to many in South Texas who remember the accident nearly 23 years ago that brought down the Queen Isabella Causeway in Port Isabel.

On Sept. 15, 2001, a tugboat and barge struck the bridge. Eleven people driving on the bridge plunged into the water as the causeway collapsed. Only three of them survived.

The victims include: Bob Harris, Hector Martinez, Jr., Barry and Chelsea Welch, all of Port Isabel; Julio Mireles of Los Fresnos; Robin Leavell of Mercedes; Stvan Francisco Rivas of Humble and Gaspar Hinojosa of Kingsville.

The bridge has since been rebuilt and is now known as the Queen Isabella Memorial Causeway.

In the video player above, watch KSAT’s 2021 report on the 20th anniversary of the tragic Queen Isabella Causeway collapse near South Padre Island.

From 1960 to 2015, there were 35 major bridge collapses worldwide due to ship or barge collisions, with a total of 342 people killed, according to a 2018 report from the World Association for Waterborne Transport Infrastructure.

Eighteen of the collapses happened in the United States:

POPP'S FERRY BRIDGE

March 20, 2009: A vessel pushing eight barges rammed into the Popp's Ferry Bridge in Biloxi, Mississippi, resulting in a 150-foot section of the bridge collapsing into the bay.

INTERSTATE 40 BRIDGE: 14 DEAD

May 26, 2002: A barge hit the Interstate 40 bridge over the Arkansas River at Webbers Falls, Oklahoma, collapsing a 500-foot section of road and plunging vehicles into the water. Fourteen people died and 11 were injured.

QUEEN ISABELLA CAUSEWAY: 8 DEAD

Sept. 15, 2001: A tugboat and barge struck the Queen Isabella Causeway in Port Isabel, Texas, causing a midsection of the bridge to tumble 80 feet into the bay below. Eight people died after motorists drove into the hole.

EADS BRIDGE: 50 INJURED

April 14, 1998: The Anne Holly tow traveling through the St. Louis Harbor rammed into the center span of the Eads Bridge. Eight barges broke away. Three of them hit a permanently moored gambling vessel below the bridge. Fifty people suffered minor injuries.

BIG BAYOU CANOT: 47 DEAD

Sept. 22, 1993: Barges being pushed by a towboat in dense fog hit and displaced the Big Bayou Canot railroad bridge near Mobile, Alabama. Minutes later, an Amtrak train with 220 people aboard reached the displaced bridge and derailed, killing 47 people and injuring 103 people.

SEEBER BRIDGE: 1 DEAD

May 28, 1993: The towboat Chris, pushing the empty hopper barge DM3021, hit a support tier of the Judge William Seeber Bridge in New Orleans. Two spans and the two-column bent collapsed onto the barge. Two cars carrying three people fell with the four-lane bridge deck into a canal. One person died and two people were seriously injured.

SUNSHINE SKYWAY BRIDGE: 35 DEAD

May 9, 1980: The 609-foot freighter Summit Venture was navigating through the narrow, winding shipping channel of Florida’s Tampa Bay when a sudden, blinding squall knocked out the ship’s radar. The ship sheared off a support of the Sunshine Skyway Bridge, dropping a 1,400-foot section of concrete roadway during the morning rush hour. Seven vehicles, including a bus with 26 aboard, fell 150 feet into the water. Thirty-five people died.

** The Associated Press contributed to this report

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A list of major US bridge collapses caused by ships and barges

A container ship struck a major bridge in Baltimore early Tuesday, causing it to plunge into the river below. From 1960 to 2015, there were 35 major bridge collapses worldwide due to ship or barge collision, with a total of 342 people killed, according to a 2018 report from the World Association for Waterborne Transport Infrastructure. Eighteen of those collapses happened in the United States.

A list of notable disasters involving ships or barges hitting bridges in the U.S.:

POPP'S FERRY BRIDGE

March 20, 2009: A vessel pushing eight barges rammed into the Popp’s Ferry Bridge in Biloxi, Mississippi, resulting in a 150-foot section of the bridge collapsing into the bay.

INTERSTATE 40 BRIDGE: 14 DEAD

May 26, 2002: A barge hit the Interstate 40 bridge over the Arkansas River at Webbers Falls, Oklahoma, collapsing a 500-foot section of road and plunging vehicles into the water. Fourteen people died and 11 were injured.

QUEEN ISABELLA CAUSEWAY: 8 DEAD

Sept. 15, 2001: A tugboat and barge struck the Queen Isabella Causeway in Port Isabel, Texas, causing a midsection of the bridge to tumble 80 feet into the bay below. Eight people died after motorists drove into the hole.

EADS BRIDGE: 50 INJURED

April 14, 1998: The Anne Holly tow traveling through the St. Louis Harbor rammed into the center span of the Eads Bridge. Eight barges broke away. Three of them hit a permanently moored gambling vessel below the bridge. Fifty people suffered minor injuries.

BIG BAYOU CANOT: 47 DEAD

Sept. 22, 1993: Barges being pushed by a towboat in dense fog hit and displaced the Big Bayou Canot railroad bridge near Mobile, Alabama. Minutes later, an Amtrak train with 220 people aboard reached the displaced bridge and derailed, killing 47 people and injuring 103 people.

SEEBER BRIDGE: 1 DEAD

May 28, 1993: The towboat Chris, pushing the empty hopper barge DM3021, hit a support tier of the Judge William Seeber Bridge in New Orleans. Two spans and the two-column bent collapsed onto the barge. Two cars carrying three people fell with the four-lane bridge deck into a canal. One person died and two people were seriously injured.

SUNSHINE SKYWAY BRIDGE: 35 DEAD

May 9, 1980: The 609-foot freighter Summit Venture was navigating through the narrow, winding shipping channel of Florida’s Tampa Bay when a sudden, blinding squall knocked out the ship’s radar. The ship sheared off a support of the Sunshine Skyway Bridge, dropping a 1,400-foot section of concrete roadway during the morning rush hour. Seven vehicles, including a bus with 26 aboard, fell 150 feet into the water. Thirty-five people died.

Notable US bridge collapses after being hit by a vessel

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Russia blocks renewal of North Korea sanctions monitors

Russia on Thursday vetoed the annual renewal of a panel of experts monitoring enforcement of longstanding United Nations sanctions against North Korea over its nuclear weapons and ballistic missile programs.