Typically spanning nine to 12 days, sailings depart from Washington, D.C., and float along the Chesapeake Bay to historic sites like Annapolis, Maryland, and Williamsburg, Virginia. Itineraries typically range from seven to 16 days and often embark from Portland, Oregon. The Heartland of America cruise with Viking River Cruises takes passengers on a journey through some of the United States' most treasured, historic destinations. Combination cruises (of both the Lower and Upper Mississippi) are also available for guests who wish to explore a longer stretch of the mighty waterway.
The length of these sailings varies depending on whether they connect with other nearby waterways – including the Ohio River, the Cumberland River and more – but you can generally tour the Lower Mississippi itself in about eight or nine days. While Europe river cruises are among the most popular and well-known itineraries, U.S.-based travelers should know there's also plenty to explore by river ship right here in North America – no passport required. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. If you value spacious staterooms, many embarkation options across the country, and an all-American fleet, American Cruise Lines (ACL) thunder empire is your workhorse luxury pick. Planning a luxury river cruise involves many details, from selecting the perfect suite to arranging pre-cruise hotel stays. The most common duration for US river cruises is 8 days (7 nights).
Fares typically cover your stateroom, all onboard meals, and many beverages (often including beer and wine with meals). Most premium and luxury US river cruises are largely inclusive. Viking River Cruises on the Mississippi and PONANT’s coastal/river itineraries are often considered the most luxurious. Instead of just listing cruise lines, it analyzes them through the lens of a luxury traveler, helping you match a line’s style to your own preferences. For travelers who seek more than just a passing glance at America’s heartland, this guide to a luxury Mississippi River boat cruise stands out as an exceptional planning tool. Unlike domestic lines, the experience is distinctly international, with French-influenced cuisine from DUCASSE Conseil and a global passenger mix.
The brand’s purpose-built Viking Mississippi translates its signature Scandinavian design and enrichment-based travel philosophy to itineraries that explore this iconic river. Finding the best river cruises in USA can feel overwhelming, with distinct regions, vessel styles, and onboard experiences to consider. Skip the endless research and information overload—our deep destination expertise helps you design a more seamless trip in a fraction of the time. The Alaska and Pacific Coast waterways, featuring glaciers, wildlife, and dramatic coastlines. Most river cruises USA has to offer range from 5 to 14 days, with the majority lasting about a week. For travelers seeking wilder frontiers, small ship US river cruises along Alaska’s coast and the Pacific Northwest offer glacier views and abundant wildlife.