American Cruise Lines (ACL) has set the stage for an extraordinary 2025 cruise season on the iconic Mississippi River. With a fleet of five state-of-the-art riverboats and an ambitious lineup of over 12 itineraries, the company is redefining river travel. From captivating cultural experiences to extended voyages that span up to 51 days, this season promises to deliver a new standard of luxury, adventure, and American heritage.
Setting Sail on February 21: A Season Like No Other The season kicks off on February 21, 2025, with the award-winning American Serenade embarking on a 9-day Lower Mississippi River Cruise from New Orleans to Memphis. Travelers will explore a mix of history, music, and regional charm along the waterway. Among the new offerings, the 12-day Mississippi Explorer Cruise (Memphis to New Orleans) and the 16-day Grand Ohio River Cruise (Pittsburgh to St. Louis) are set to capture the imagination of seasoned and first-time cruisers alike.
For those seeking unparalleled adventure, ACL introduces two of the longest river cruises in the U.S. market: the 51-day Great United States Cruise and the 36-day Civil War Battlefields Cruise. These monumental journeys traverse the entire Mississippi River or significant portions, paired with stops at other storied waterways.
Unveiling Authentic American Experiences Spanning 10 states, ACL’s Mississippi itineraries combine iconic landmarks, cultural immersion, and off-the-beaten-path adventures. Highlights include:
- Historic Landmarks: Visit Graceland, the boyhood home of Mark Twain, the St. Louis Arch, and Vicksburg National Military Park.
- Cultural Immersion: Engage deeply in American music, regional cuisine, and local history.
- Adventurous Excursions: From Cajun swamp safaris to thrilling ATV treks, there’s an experience for every traveler.
In addition, ACL’s themed cruises cater to niche interests, such as Mark Twain-inspired itineraries, culinary adventures, Civil War explorations, and festive Christmas journeys. A National Parks cruise featuring the Great Smoky Mountains further expands the allure of these offerings.
A Fleet Tailored for Intimacy and Luxury Unlike more extensive cruise lines, ACL operates riverboats less than half the size of competitors, delivering an unparalleled personalized experience. Guests can choose between classic paddlewheelers and modern riverboats, offering luxurious amenities and attentive service. The smaller vessel size ensures exclusive access to remote ports and a more intimate connection with the river’s unique character.
Enhanced Inclusions for a Seamless Journey ACL’s commitment to excellence extends to its all-inclusive offerings:
- Pre-cruise hotel stays
- Onboard enrichment programs and live entertainment
- Complimentary shore excursions and private transportation
- Fine dining featuring regional specialties
- Wi-Fi access and complimentary cocktails
- Flat-rate and complimentary domestic airfare options for select sailings
Additionally, tips, gratuities, port charges, and fees are included in the cruise fare, ensuring a hassle-free experience.
Award-Winning Excellence As the most awarded river cruise line in the U.S., ACL has garnered accolades including:
- Cruise Critic’s 2024 Award: Best for Solo Travelers
- Travel Weekly’s 2024 Magellan Award: Best Mississippi River Cruises
- USA Today’s 2025 10Best Awards: Best River Cruise Line, Best Alaska Cruises, Best Boutique Cruise Line, and Best Shore Excursions
These accolades underscore ACL’s dedication to delivering unforgettable journeys that blend luxury with authenticity.
2025 Mississippi River Itineraries at a Glance Here’s a snapshot of ACL’s highly anticipated itineraries:
- 8-Day Historic Mississippi River Cruise (Roundtrip from New Orleans, LA)
- 9-Day Lower Mississippi River Cruise (Memphis, TN to New Orleans, LA)
- 9-Day Upper Mississippi River Cruise (St. Louis, MO to St. Paul, MN)
- 9-Day Music Cities Cruise (Memphis, TN to Nashville, TN)
- 9-Day Tennessee Rivers Cruise (Nashville, TN to Chattanooga, TN)
- NEW: 12-Day Mississippi Explorer Cruise (Memphis, TN to New Orleans, LA)
- 12-Day Mississippi River Gateway Cruise (New Orleans, LA to Louisville, KY)
- 9-Day Ohio River Cruise (Louisville, KY to Pittsburgh, PA)
- NEW: 16-Day Grand Ohio River Cruise (Pittsburgh, PA to St. Louis, MO)
- 12-Day Great Smoky Mountains National Park Cruise (Knoxville to Nashville, TN)
- 16-Day Grand Heartland Cruise (St. Paul, MN to New Orleans, LA)
- 23-Day Complete Mississippi River Cruise (New Orleans, LA to St. Paul, MN)
Extended and Exclusive Adventures For those seeking the pinnacle of river travel, the 51-Day Great United States Cruise and the 36-Day Civil War Battlefields Cruise offer transformative journeys through America’s waterways and history.
A Legacy of Excellence American Cruise Lines continues to lead the way in redefining the river cruising experience. With its innovative 2025 season, the company invites travellers to explore the Mississippi River like never before—blending luxury, authenticity, and adventure in one unforgettable package.
For more details on itineraries and bookings, visit American Cruise Lines’ Official Website.
Written by: Octavia Koo
