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New Years Eve Cruise

Lone Star is having our annual New Years Eve Dinner Cruise! On Friday, December 1st from 8pm to 10:30pm, we will enjoy the lights of downtown plus the City of Austin fireworks show from the best spot in town. We will be serving a deluxe fajita dinner plus unlimited non-alcoholic drinks (bring your own alcohol) on this very special night to start off the celebration. Cruise, dinner, and tips are included in the price of $95.00PP – great for the whole family. Purchase tickets online. Use the button below for more information.

4 th Of July Cruises

Lone Star is hosting our annual 4 th Of July Cruises! Our Dinner cruise has already sold out, but you can still view Austin's bats and annual firework show on one of our pontoon boats. Space is very limited, so get your tickets now!

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Austin's Most Popular Tours

Weekend sightseeing cruises, evening bat watching tours, friday night moonlight cruise, optional pretitle -->public tours.

Pick from one of Lone Star Riverboat's public tours down Lady Bird Lake. These tours include commentary by the captain. You are welcome to bring your own beverages on the Little Star, Southern Star, and Lone Star. The Lone Star has a non-alcoholic cash bar available.

Optional pretitle -->Our Boats

Choose from one of three different Lone Star Riverboats to host your next Austin adventure. Lone Star offers a luxurious double-decker paddle-wheel riverboat and three smaller boats ideal for sunsets and bat watching.

Optional pretitle -->Private Charters

Imagine your social occasion on a delightful cruise right through the heart of downtown Austin, Texas aboard a Lone Star Riverboat. Private charters are available year-round for groups of 30 to 100 people.

Lone Star Riverboat About Us

Located on Lady Bird Lake (formerly Town Lake) in Austin, Texas. Lone Star Riverboat Cruises and Austin are the two shining stars of Texas!

Join us aboard one of our all environmentally-friendly vessels. Experience the exhilaration of the outdoors, the abundant waterfowl, our ever changing city skyline and the natural beauty that is Austin. We offer public, narrated sightseeing cruises or witness the spectacular emergence of the world famous Mexican free-tailed bats on our sunset/bat watching cruises! Come see the sights and learn about Austin or jazz up your next occasion and have a private party aboard The Lone Star, the largest electric powered paddle wheeler in the nation.

Our staff at Lone Star Riverboat is committed to excellent customer service and making your trips as enjoyable and relaxing as possible. We want to show you Austin in Texas-friendly style.

We are a city concession and a portion of our gross sales goes to support our nationally recognized park system. Fred DuPuy is the new owner of Lone Star Riverboat which has been in business as an Austin icon since 1987.

riverboat cruises austin

Reviews Everybody Loves Cruises

Austin City Guide

"Lone Star Riverboat tours have consistently been one of the most popular tours in Austin. Their sightseeing, moonlight and afternoon cruises are a great way to see the city skyline and Lady Bird Lake. Their bat watching tour lands them consistently at the #1 activity in our Things to do in Austin Guide during bat watching season." ~ Ivan Collins Austin City Guide

TripAdvidor

"It was so fun, Captain Chris was so interactive and fun. I would recommend coming here if you are in Austin! Make sure to make a reservation so they can secure your spot on the boat!" ~Rachel E. October 2020

Yelp

"Really enjoyed our boat ride on Lady Bird Lake! The host was funny, the ride was smooth, and the city landscape was BEAUTIFUL! I definitely would recommend and plan on bringing my family next time." ~Sarah M. October 2020

Google

"We rented the boat for our reverse Rehearsal Dinner...The price is very reasonable and then you get to bring your own alcohol and food...The Captain walked me through how the night would go and then walked me through the invoice at the end. He is very kind! Joye was our sales contact and she was very accommodating and helpful through the whole process, answering all of my questions on linens, food, timing, etc." Kristin Davis November 2019

"Great excursion in Austin. Our boat captain was very fun and knowledgeable. Put us in the perfect location for bat viewing." ~Alison August 2020

"Beautiful sunset and Austin skyline. Educational and fun! The captain talked about the buildings in the Austin skyline and another person educated about the biology of the bats." ~Bonnie M. April 2019

"In addition to watching the bats, the boats will take a quick tour down Lady Bird Lake. The captain gave us information on the different landmarks (Stevie Ray's statue, etc.) while downtown Austin moves all around us. It was wonderful!" Kathy Roy November 2019

Special Offers

Check out valentines day cruise.

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Lone Star Riverboat

riverboat cruises austin

  • 10:00am - 5:00pm
  • 10:00am - 2:00pm

Authentic double-decked, paddlewheel riverboat provides sightseeing and sunset bat-watching cruises on Town Lake. Private charters available. Tickets at Austin Visitor Center.

Facility Information

  • Event maximum capacity (# ppl): 80

Facility Info

  • Largest Room 1500
  • Number of Rooms 2

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Lone Star Riverboat Sightseeing Tours logo

Lone Star Riverboat Sightseeing Tours

4.7 1114 votes

208 Barton Springs Road

(512) 327-1388

About Lone Star Riverboat

riverboat cruises austin

  • 1 hour tour
  • Reservations recommended
  • Departure time is approximately 30 minutes prior to sunset.
  • Departure times may vary, please call for the departure schedule.
  • 32' and 35' Electric cruisers
  • ADA compliant
  • Prices: Adults - $13, Seniors (60 and over) - $13, Children (12 and under) - $8, Children (2 and under) - Free
  • Saturday and Sunday - 12:30PM & 3:00PM
  • 1 hour narrated tour
  • ADA compliant 
  • Boarding begins 45 minutes before tour time. 
  • Prices: Adults - $13, Seniors (60 and over) - $11, Children (12 and under) - $8, Children (2 and under) - Free
  • Friday - 10:30PM
  • 1 hour scenic tour
  • Boarding begins at 9:45PM
  • All Tickets: $13 per ticket
  • Friday, Saturday and Sunday - 5:30PM
  • Non-alcoholic CASH only beverage service (on the Lone Star) or bring your own beverage of choices
  • Boarding begins at 4:45PM until 5:15PM
  • Minimum number of people: 30
  • Maximum number of people: 130
  • $18.00 per person (30 - 80 people)
  • $16.00 per person (81 - 130 people)
  • Children 2 and under are no charge
  • Two hour charter time (plus 30 minutes prior to departure for boarding)
  • $200 for each additional hour (may be broken into 1/2 hour increments)
  • Catering and beverage service may be arranged at an additional cost (see below)
  • Charges are for the number of people guaranteed or on a per person basis, whichever is greater

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Lone Star Riverboat Cruises

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(512) 327-1388

Lone Star Riverboat Cruises & Austin are two shining stars of Texas! Join us aboard one of our all environmentally-friendly vessels. Experience the exhilaration of the outdoors, the abundant waterfowl, our ever changing city skyline and the natural beauty that is Austin. We’re located on Lake Lady Bird in Austin, TX and feature boat charters, daily bat watching tours, weekend afternoon sightseeing tours, and a moonlight cruises on Friday nights. Free parking is available at Vic Mathias Shores subject to special event availability and on a first come first serve basis.

About Charters Imagine your social occasion on a delightful cruise right through the heart of downtown Austin, Texas aboard The Lone Star. Private charters are available year-round for groups of 30 to 100 people. Visit our charters page on our full website for more details.

Daily Bat Watching Sunset Cruises Climb aboard the Little Star, Northern Star and Southern Star Daily (March – October) for a spectacular sight to see the bats emerge from the bridge at sunset! An estimated 1.5 million Mexican free-tailed bats live under the Congress Avenue Bridge. Tours last 1 hour and start 30 minutes before sunset! Prices are $13 for adults, $11 for seniors, $8 for children aged 2-12, and free for children under 2.

Weekend Afternoon Sightseeing Cruises Enjoy a quiet, scenic and relaxing cruise on Lady Bird Lake, aboard one of our all environmentally-friendly electric cruisers-normally on the Lone Star – our big double-decker boat. Come join us and take in the picturesque sights of Lady Bird Lake. Tour times are Saturday and Sunday at 12:30 and 3pm, boarding begins 45 minutes prior to departure. Prices are $13 for adults, $11 for seniors, $8 for children aged 2-12, and free for children under 2.

Friday Night Moonlight Cruise Enjoy a romantic, scenic and relaxing cruise on Lady Bird Lake, aboard The Lone Star. Come join us and take in the beautiful Austin skyline under the stars with your special someone. Tours are Friday night at 10:30 and boarding begins at 9:45. All tickets are $13.

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Lone Star Riverboat Cruises Reviews

Nicole jawad.

Rating-inactive

This was a great experience for the price. We not only got to see the bats, we got to experience a nice river cruise for a great price. Playing music during boarding would have been a nice touch. I highly recommend bringing something to drink on board.

Jennifer Taylor

We had an awesome time with Captain Matt and Captain Toby , witty humor mixed with fun facts about Austin made our Bat tour experience memorable. We were right under the bridge with the best view to see last nights emergence , what an experience!

Shari Sawyers

We loved the boat tour! Even though the bats didn’t really swarm, we saw quite a few. Our tour guides Natalie & Maverick were great, and the night was beautiful. Even the screaming toddler couldn’t ruin the night for us! Thanks!

We prebooked the 8PM Bat Tour, and it was fantastic! Our captain, Jais, was funny and informative. The sunset was beautiful, and we got to see a moderate emergence of bats around 9:05. One of the best parts of our weekend visit to Austin!

Roodnel Charles

My wife and I did a 8Pm tour! Beautiful Sunset.. Very good and really fair pricing! And Captain Onsolo (don't know the right spelling, my bad..loll) was really fun.. Captain Natalie was on board too.. we've seen few bats... Highly recommend it..

Margaret Wurdeman

Great way to see the bats in Austin! Tour Guide was entertaining and knowledgeable. This was on my husband's bucket list and he enjoyed every minute of it!!

Even though we didn’t see the horde of bats as seen in so many of the pictures, the tour guide, Captain Toby was worth the price of admission. So much fun information about the Austin skyline in addition to the bats themselves. We had to give up as it looked like they weren’t coming out in the rain, but on our walk back to the car we stopped on the path under the bridge and witnessed groups of bats flying around the bridge pillars and into the nearby trees. It was very cool. Would definitely recommend the boat tour over standing in the bridge or a nearby patch of grass. Rainy conditions aside, our group of 3 really enjoyed it.

Had a great experience on the riverboat sunset bat tour! It's a little early in the year to see all the bats but we saw a few hundred! The guide told us that right now the bats are pregnant, and once they have their babies later in the summer, there will be up to a billion bats out! Excited to do this again!

Nicholas Hancock

Took the sunset bat tour after hearing it’s a ‘must do’ when visiting Austin and we had a great time once we got moving. The boat captain was great. She had an immense sense of humour and was very knowledge as we went up and down the lake on a little tour before viewing the bats. It was a surreal experience to see all the bats emerge from under the bridge. I was expecting a mass exodus but they gradually emerged and you need to be mindful that it’s nature and can be different day by day. The only slight criticism was, upon arrival, you’re left on the small boat in the heat for well over an hour before you depart. Overall we had a great time and would recommend the tour when on a visit to Austin.

Andre Rieder

We did the boat tour in early April, had great weather, and lots of bats to watch. In addition, Captain Mike, provided talked us through the architecture of the city in an entertaining and informative way. Highly recommend!

Lone Star Riverboat Cruises VIP List   Learn more about the VIP program

Total Score: 3575

Lone Star Riverboat Cruises Gallery

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We Are Accepting Reservations

Book your outdoor event with us today! E-mail: [email protected] 512.345.5220

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-->Welcome to Lake Austin Riverboats

For parties, weddings, rehearsal dinners and corporate events, Lake Austin Riverboats has been an Austin institution for more than 50 years

-->We are the Longest Running Riverboat Operation in Texas.

-->featuring the beauty of lake austin, -->weddings, parties, rehearsal dinners, corporate events, and more, about us celebrating over 70 years.

As the longest running riverboat operation in Texas and an official boat of the Texas Navy, Lake Austin Riverboats provides a party venue as unique as Austin itself. Our full crew and captain will do everything to make your birthday, company party, meeting, group event, banquet, rehearsal dinner or wedding memorable. We offer catering, bar service, linen service, theme parties and live music. Whatever you need for your event, we bring it all together at Lake Austin Riverboats. And we're located just five minutes from downtown Austin.

About Our Boats

Hand built on Lake Austin, our authentic stern-wheel riverboats are designed to host your large party, wedding, company meeting, club luncheon or other group event. The Commodore, with its vintage twin smoke stacks, can entertain up to 250 guests and has two dining rooms. The Commodore’s Pup, with its open upper deck, can accommodate up to 125 guests. Both boats have A/C and heating for your comfort.

The Beauty of Lake Austin

Lake Austin is one of the seven highland lakes in Central Texas. Your chartered course begins at the LCRA dock next to the Tom Miller Dam where free parking is readily available. As we meander up Lake Austin, you’ll enjoy the beauty of the natural limestone cliffs, Mt. Bonnell, some amazing lakefront mansions and spectacular views of the picturesque Pennybacker Bridge. The beauty of Lake Austin and the leisurely pace of our authentic stern wheel boat provide the perfect setting for your event or party. But don't take our word for it. Check out the video below for a bird's eye view of the scenary you'll see when you enjoy an event with Lake Austin Riverboats.

Contact Us Parking and Boarding Info

Parking: Weekends and Weekdays after 5pm in the LCRA visitor parking at 3700 Lake Austin Blvd or any time in the City of Austin metered lot at 1501 Scenic Drive .

Boarding: Two different locations depending on your event. Please contact your event host for location details: (1) The Hula Hut boat dock, 3825 Lake Austin Blvd 78703 (between Hula Hut and Quince Lakehouse), or the LCRA landing behind the LCRA's Jack Miller building, 3701 Lake Austin Blvd 78703 (between Hula Hut and the Tom Miller Dam.).

Boat Boarding Address

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We sincerely appreciate your interest in Lake Austin Riverboats. Use the form below for general questions. If you're looking for a price qoute on your next event, please fill out the form on the Request a Quote page so we can gather all the necessary details. We look forward to hearing from you and promise to respond as quickly as possible.

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Capital Cruises

Internationally Famous Bat Watching Tour

Largest urban bat colony in the world

bat watching

Watch the bats emerge nightly on our Public Bat-Watching Tour, running from March through mid-November. Or customize a private excursion with dinner, cocktails, and more. See dinner cruise and party boat pricing for rates.

Guided Kayak Tours

Sightseeing tours, private events, capital cruises fleet.

riverboat cruises austin

An experience like no other

Welcome to Capital Cruises

Deep in the heart of Austin, TX, we are proud to offer lunch and dinner cruises, wedding events, internationally famous bat-watching excursions, party boat services, and the ultimate alternative for group and corporate outings.

Where are you located?

We are on the boat dock at the lakeside of the Hyatt Regency Hotel. The Hyatt is located at 208 Barton Springs Road near the intersection of Congress and Barton Springs on the south side of Town Lake. Click here for Map and Directions .

Where can we park?

Unfortunately, there is very little free parking in the area. The Hyatt Regency does have a multi-level parking garage. Parking there should be $25.00 per vehicle for up to 3 hours, after which you may be subject to additional charges. Alternatively, you can typically pay to park at the surface lot adjacent to the hotel, though prices for this and other pay lots in the area may vary depending activities in the surrounding area. Both the Long Center for Performing Arts and Austin City Hall have large pay-parking structures and are a short walk from the dock. Also, One Texas Center off of Riverside Drive typically has available parking. Guests may drop off passengers at the front door of the hotel, but parking there is limited to 5 minutes. Please see map for directions .

When should we arrive?

For PRIVATE CRUISES, boarding time is usually 15 minutes in advance of departure (check with dock personnel for your specific cruise). For larger groups (~20 or more), we suggest telling your group to arrive 30 minutes prior to departure to allow for traffic or other possible delays. If our schedule permits, arrangements can be made for some members of your party to arrive earlier for set-up, decoration, etc. For PUBLIC CRUISES, check-in starts 30 minutes prior to departure. Reservations must be claimed no less than 15 minutes prior to departure, or they are no longer guaranteed, even if they are prepaid. Prepaid reservations are non-refundable unless the reservation was canceled at least 72 hours in advance.

See Austin like never before

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Team Building

Parish Festival Band

Live Entertainment

Casino Night

Casino Night

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Expert crew members

Meet the Skippers

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Kevin Martin

Mike hardson, christine eve.

Our benefits

Why Choose Us

No hidden fees, maintenance of boats, experienced team, come see the spectacle of the world's largest urban bat colony stream from the bridge nightly..

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Donut Boats and Duffy Boats

Show your friends and family the best time on one of our motorized vessels that you can rent and operate yourselves!  First Donut Boats in Texas! The Donut Boat’s unique design seats up to 10 people around a center table, outfitted with a center-post umbrella to shade you while cruising Lady Bird Lake. The quiet […]

Our Brand New Website is Ready to Launch!

We’ve been working behind the scenes for the past few months, poring over every last detail, overhauling our website to best serve you, the customer. Just like the next cruise you book or boat you want to rent, we’re ecstatic to be launching this incarnation of CapitalCruises.com. Throughout the brand new site, you’ll find a […]

Now offering Guided Sunset Tours

Looking to kayak at sunset on the lake? Capital Cruises now offers a Guided Sunset Kayak Tour Thursdays through Saturday evenings. Cost is $40 per person and includes a ~1.5 hour tour. See the striking downtown skyline as well as a great view of the sunset cast against the lake. Thursday – Saturday evenings departing […]

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Do512 Family - What to do in Austin with Kids

Do512 Family - What to do in Austin with Kids

Lone star riverboat cruise: best way to see the bats in austin.

Please note that this article was written before the pandemic. For full details about limited capacity boat tours and safety precautions due to COVID-19, please visit lonestarriverboat.com .

We all know that Austin is batty for bats. Austin is home to the largest Mexican free-tail bat colony in North America, and we love to celebrate these winged creatures that dwell underneath the Ann W. Richards Congress Avenue Bridge. Seeing the bats swoop out from under the bridge is quite an amazing site!

But what’s the best way to see the bats? And when?

“Bat Season” takes place every year from March to November, and bats emerge around sunset to feed on a variety of flying insects such as mosquitoes and moths. Typically, late July and early August is considered “peak season” to see a spectacular show.

You can certainly join the crowds and stand along the sidewalk of the bridge to wait for them to take flight, we we think the BEST way to see them is from the water. So we decided to hop aboard the Lone Star Riverboat Sunset Bat Watching Cruise for a special “true Austin” experience.

riverboat cruises austin

The boats available for this Bat Watching Cruise include a large pontoon boat, the Southern Star, that seats up to 60 people and the smaller boat, Little Star, which carries 30. Both are open-air, so you’re sure to get a great view no matter where you’re seated.

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Do512 Family is all about what to do in Austin with kids. We love to be out and about in Austin and are always looking for fun things to do with the family.

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This Holiday Riverboat Cruise In Austin Will Fill You With Christmas Cheer

riverboat cruises austin

Elisa Regulski

Elisa is a passionate travel writer with over five years of experience. After graduating with a B.F.A in acting from Oklahoma City University, Elisa earned a M.A in mass communication From Texas State University. When she's not writing about all of the amazing places throughout the U.S., she can be heard singing with her band.

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Watch the shimmering city skyline in the most festive way possible. This riverboat cruise is unlike anything you’ve ever experienced. Meet famous elves and play some reindeer games. Of course, it wouldn’t be a party without some music and food! This holiday riverboat cruise in Austin will fill you with Christmas cheer.

riverboat cruises austin

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Looking for more festive fun in Austin? You won’t want to miss this giant winter wonderland .

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riverboat cruises austin

The 7 Best Mississippi River Cruises for 2024

T he more than 2,300-mile Mississippi River invites travelers to discover its multifaceted heritage, with a vast range of deeply rooted culture, music and history. A cruise is a fantastic way to discover many of the riverfront cities on a single trip, from the comfort of your modern riverboat or traditional paddle-wheeler.

The following Mississippi River cruise itineraries can help you choose from cruises of various lengths and options for the Lower and Upper Mississippi. Note that all fares are listed as double occupancy (based on two people per cabin), and that they might not reflect taxes, port fees or gratuities. The itinerary availability listed is also subject to change.

American Cruise Lines

American Cruise Lines operates small ships accommodating between 90 and 180 passengers that are built, flagged and crewed in the U.S. – and it's the only company in the world operating a 100% U.S.-flagged fleet of riverboats and cruise ships. ACL's itineraries traverse waterways across 35 states, with 11 itineraries dedicated to the Mississippi River. Cruisers can choose to sail on modern riverboats with a sleek interior design or while away their time aboard classic paddle-wheelers reminiscent of days gone by.

ACL offers variety as well as versatility: This line boasts both the longest and shortest sailings on this list with cruises ranging from eight to 60 days in length, including The Great United States. This inaugural 60-day voyage spans four major rivers and 20 states, making it the longest U.S. river cruise in history.

Complimentary hotel and transportation packages are available from every departure city before your cruise. You can book certain premium packages for added perks, such as two nights spent next door to Graceland in Memphis – with VIP tickets and a city tour included in the price.

Music Cities Cruise

Length: Eight days

Price: Starts at $3,610 per person

Spend a week getting lost in the sounds of the Memphis blues, rock 'n' roll and country music legends on the seven-night Music Cities Cruise. A hotel stay the night before your sailing is included, but embarking in Memphis means you also have the chance to splurge on a two-night pre-cruise package near Elvis' former home Graceland .

Ports of call include Paducah, Kentucky; Dover, Tennessee; and Clarksville, Tennessee, with an overnight in Nashville and an included excursion to a show at the Grand Ole Opry. Two scenic sailing days feature picturesque views of America's Heartland along the Mississippi, Ohio and Cumberland rivers as well as Lake Barkley.

2024 dates: In 2024, there are two available itineraries in September and November.

Grand Heartland Cruise: St. Paul to New Orleans

Length: 15 days

Price: Starts at $9,455 per person

This 15-day voyage allows you to explore America's rich history in towns along the Upper and Lower Mississippi River. The immersive voyage covers six states and 12 cities including St. Paul, Minnesota ; Dubuque, Iowa; St. Louis, Missouri ; Memphis, Tennessee; Natchez, Mississippi; Baton Rouge, Louisiana ; and more.

Take a step back in time while visiting Mark Twain's boyhood home in Hannibal, exploring stately historic estates in Natchez and Civil War sites in Vicksburg. At the end of a busy day ashore, you'll have plenty to chat about with fellow passengers during the evening cocktail hour.

2024 dates: American Heritage – ACL's traditional paddle-wheeler – and three modern riverboats set off on this journey from August to October in 2024.

Complete Mississippi River Cruise: New Orleans to St. Paul

Length: 22 days

Price: Starts at $14,935 per person

If you want to see the entire Mississippi in one shot, check out this multiweek sailing that begins in New Orleans and ends in St. Paul, Minnesota. Along the way, you'll sail 1,393 miles, visit 10 states and experience a staggering 20 ports of call as you tour Louisiana and then head northbound to Minnesota.

In the South, walk the battlefields of the Civil War and sample delicious Southern barbecue before listening to the rhythms of jazz, the blues and rock 'n' roll. Then, explore the small and larger cities along the upper parts of the river. Remember to take time to gaze out at the picturesque scenery and the rolling farmlands of America's Midwest before disembarking in St. Paul.

2024 dates: Three of ACL's modern riverboats sail this itinerary in May, June and August in 2024.

The Great United States

Length: 60 days

Price: Starts at $51,000

This two-month long journey – the longest domestic itinerary ever created – will check all the boxes for U.S. history and Civil War buffs, music and nature lovers, culinary enthusiasts, and beer and distilled spirits aficionados alike as the ship traverses America's iconic waterways through 20 states and 50 ports of call.

This epic journey showcases the natural beauty and living history of the U.S. from sea to shining sea. The sailing embarks in Portland, Oregon , on the Pacific Coast before traveling east to the Atlantic shore along four major rivers that highlight some of the country's most stunning coastlines. Upon arrival in New York Harbor, guests will have an unforgettable view of one of the most iconic landmarks in the U.S.: the Statue of Liberty .

Passengers can follow in the footsteps of Lewis and Clark along the Snake and Columbia rivers; cruise along Ol' Man River in search of Mark Twain and Elvis; see the vibrant colors of fall during peak season on the Hudson River; and take in the coastal breezes (and fresh seafood) along New England's rocky coastline.

This curated adventure also includes two flights: Jackson, Wyoming , to New Orleans as well as St. Paul to Portland, Maine , plus a land package through Glacier , Yellowstone and Grand Teton national parks. All-inclusive pricing covers the pre-cruise hotel stay, all flights and hotels between cruise segments, an ACL jacket and gear pack, daily excursions, all meals and beverages, gratuities and port charges, entertainment, and Wi-Fi.

2024 dates: The inaugural cruise sets sail on August 16, 2024.

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Viking River Cruises

Viking is no stranger to sailing Europe's rivers; the brand is synonymous with river cruising worldwide aboard its dozens of ships. However, Viking River Cruises is a newcomer to U.S. rivers, with its purpose-built ship: the 386-passenger Viking Mississippi. Looking to carve out its own niche in the American river cruising category, Viking claims it has the region's "first truly modern cruise ship" with its distinct Scandinavian design and expansive top sun deck with an infinity plunge pool.

Viking's mostly all-inclusive fares include a complimentary excursion in each port, destination lectures and performances, beer and wine at meals, free Wi-Fi, specialty coffees and teas, and more. The line offers five itineraries ranging in length from eight to 22 days along the Mighty Mississippi. Pre- and post-cruise extensions can be added to all voyages for an additional expense.

New Orleans & Southern Charms: Round-trip from New Orleans

Price: Starts at $3,999 per person

If you don't know which Viking Mississippi itinerary to choose, start here. A round-trip voyage from New Orleans is convenient for booking flights and offers an excellent opportunity to extend your stay in NOLA. Six guided tours are included across eight days, from the historic estates of Natchez to Vicksburg National Military Park. A stop in St. Francisville gives you the chance to marvel at some of the 140-plus buildings it has on the National Register of Historic Places.

If you extend your stay in New Orleans, plan to sample the local Creole cuisine and take in some of the city's nightly jazz entertainment. In the morning, grab a beignet and a steaming cup of chicory coffee au lait at the original Café du Monde in the French Market.

2024 dates: This itinerary is available on select dates in February, November and December.

Heart of the Delta: New Orleans to Memphis

Length: Nine days

Price: Starts at $4,299 per person

Similar to its round-trip New Orleans Southern Charms itinerary, the Heart of the Delta cruise begins in New Orleans and calls on the same five ports, before sailing through the Lower Mississippi and disembarking in Memphis. Enjoy scenic views of the serpentine river route – perhaps with expert commentary or a local cooking demonstration – and then take time to explore the birthplace of the Memphis blues, which is also a center of civil rights history.

2024 dates: In 2024, this cruise is available in February, March, April, May, June and November.

America's Great River: St. Paul to New Orleans

Price: Starts at $12,999 per person

This Viking voyage sails from St. Paul to New Orleans on a two-week trip that calls on 13 ports with one day of scenic sailing. This itinerary combines the best of Viking's other Mississippi sailings for an all-encompassing Midwestern and Southern experience with 12 guided tours.

Included in the fare is a tour of Graceland; a stroll through small-town Burlington, Iowa, to see Snake Alley, deemed the most crooked street in the world; and a visit to the National Eagle Center of Red Wing, among others. For an additional fee, hop on an airboat ride through the Atchafalaya Swamp in Baton Rouge or tour the Anheuser-Busch Brewery of St. Louis.

2024 dates: Viking has availability for this itinerary in July, September and October.

Want to cruise the Mississippi River? See the top cruises on GoToSea , a service of U.S. News.

FAQ Module : Travel - Top Mississippi River Cruises FAQs

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Gwen Pratesi has been an avid cruiser since her early 20s. She has sailed on nearly every type of cruise ship built, including the newest megaships, paddle-wheelers on America's waterways, and an 18-stateroom river ship on the Mekong River in Vietnam and Cambodia. Most recently, she traveled on a small luxury expedition vessel in Antarctica and crossed the notorious Drake Passage twice. She covers the travel and culinary industries, specializing in cruises, for major publications including U.S. News & World Report.

You might also be interested in:

  • The Top River Cruise Lines
  • The Top All-Inclusive Cruises
  • Cruise Packing List Essentials
  • The Top Cruise Insurance Plans

Copyright 2024 U.S. News & World Report

American Cruise Lines' Serenade ship in Chattanooga.

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