Explore and book Viking River Cruises 7 Night New Orleans & Southern Charms on the Viking Mississippi departing from New Orleans, Louisiana on Dec 27, 2025 and ending in Baton Rouge, Louisiana on Jan 3, 2026 Sail to New Orleans, Louisiana, Natchez, Mississippi, Vicksburg, Mississippi, Baton Rouge, Louisiana

New Orleans, Louisiana

The birthplace of American jazz, New Orleans exudes a festive atmosphere along the balcony-lined Bourbon Street. Here, in the heart of the French Quarter, soulful rhythms lift the spirit, especially during the city’s Mardi Gras celebration. Founded by Fre

New Orleans, famed for its vibrant culture and lively music scene, offers an unforgettable experience. Discover the unique blend of French, Spanish, and Creole influences in the architecture and cuisine of the French Quarter. Enjoy live jazz, indulge in beignets at Café du Monde, and explore the historic Garden District. New Orleans is a city of endless festivities and rich cultural heritage.

The Lower Mississippi region is dotted with historic mansions; Darrow is the gateway to these grand homes, meticulously kept to preserve the memory of early Southern American history. Here, imposing houses share the riverscape with moss-draped oak trees a

Boasting more than 140 buildings on the National Register of Historic Places, St. Francisville is set along one of the most historic bluffs of the Mississippi. The town is said to be “two miles long and two yards wide” because it was originally built on a

Natchez has one of the highest concentrations of historic Southern estates in the country. More than 200 perfectly preserved homes line its avenues. It is the oldest city on the Mississippi, established in 1716 by French colonists and named for the Natche

Natchez, Mississippi

Natchez, with its antebellum homes and rich Southern history, invites you to step back in time. Wander through beautifully preserved mansions, take a leisurely stroll along the bluff overlooking the Mississippi River, and explore the historic downtown area. The city’s warm hospitality and charming streetscapes offer a glimpse into the past. Natchez is a delightful destination for history enthusiasts and those seeking Southern charm.

Located on a high bluff where the Yazoo River flows into the Mississippi, Vicksburg is the epitome of Southern heritage and charm. It was incorporated in 1825 and, with its prime locale on the Mississippi, grew into an important port. During the Civil War

Vicksburg, Mississippi

Vicksburg is steeped in Civil War history, offering a poignant glimpse into America’s past. The Vicksburg National Military Park preserves the battlefield and commemorates this pivotal siege, while the historic downtown features charming shops and local eateries. Visitors can also enjoy the scenic beauty of the Mississippi River and its surrounding landscapes. With its historical significance and Southern hospitality, Vicksburg is a captivating stop on any Mississippi River journey.

Baton Rouge paints a historic picture on the eastern bank of the Mississippi. Its early success was due to its flood-free location upon the first natural bluff north of The Delta. French explorer Pierre Le Moyne, Sieur d’Iberville, named the city after a 

Baton Rouge, Louisiana

Baton Rouge, the vibrant capital of Louisiana, offers a unique mix of Southern charm and cultural richness. Visitors can explore the historic Old State Capitol and the modern Louisiana State Capitol, as well as the lively riverfront with its scenic parks and entertainment venues. The city's culinary scene is a highlight, with delicious Creole and Cajun cuisine to savor. Baton Rouge's dynamic culture and warm hospitality make it a memorable destination on any river cruise itinerary.

7 Night New Orleans & Southern Charms

North America

A perfect spot for relaxation and conversation, this spacious area fosters camaraderie with its comfortable seating and enriching activities. The well-curated library invites you to browse and borrow any selection, making it ideal for even the most discerning readers.


The Living Room

Boasting two-story panoramic views, this lounge is the perfect place to unwind and soak in the breathtaking scenery. Ideal for those looking to relax while enjoying the ever-changing vistas.


Explorers’ Lounge

A serene lounge located at the front of the ship, offering spectacular views as you sail along the Mississippi. This quiet area is perfect for reflection and capturing the beauty of your journey.


The Bow

Experience relaxation at its finest with a unique glass-backed pool offering ultimate views. This serene space provides a tranquil escape with panoramic vistas.


Sun Terrace

The Aquavit Terrace, revolutionary in its design, provides the ultimate al fresco dining experience along the river, blending indoor and outdoor settings seamlessly. Engage with fellow travelers over breakfast and lunch as you take in the tranquil beauty of the river, creating memorable moments in this inviting and relaxing space.


Aquavit Terrace

Discover a haven of literary delight in the onboard Library, where a thoughtfully curated selection of titles beckons the curious traveler. Choose a volume, find your cozy nook, and let the pages transport you as the world glides by.


Library

Dive deep into the art, culture, and history of your destinations with the expert-led lectures and port talks, providing insights into the landmarks and heritage of each place. These sessions are perfect for enriching your understanding and preparing for your adventures ashore.


Guest Lectures & Port Talks

Witness the artistry of local crafts and culinary traditions with demonstrations by artisans and chefs, from glassblowing to making Austrian apple strudel. These sessions offer a hands-on glimpse into the region's heritage and flavors.


Craft & Cooking Demonstrations

Revolutionizing casual dining, the River Café serves pastries and coffee for early risers, along with breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Dine on American favorites and Southern barbecue in a bright, airy space with floor-to-ceiling windows that open to passing landscapes.


River Cafe

The Restaurant presents a feast for the senses, serving multicourse meals that celebrate regional flavors alongside timeless classics. Dine in upscale elegance as panoramic windows frame ever-changing vistas, ensuring every meal is accompanied by a view.


The Restaurant

Experience the spirit of each region through the Destination Performances, featuring local cultural arts like Portuguese fado and Viennese opera. These performances are a captivating blend of entertainment and cultural immersion.


Destination Performances

Enjoy the soothing sounds of classical and regional music performed by talented musicians, from local ensembles to renowned choirs. This auditory journey is designed to enrich your mind and complement the scenic beauty of your travels.


Classical & Regional Musicians

Viking Mississippi offers a refined cruising experience with a strong emphasis on Scandinavian design, featuring river-facing cabins with balconies and luxurious suites. Guests can enjoy three distinct dining venues, including The Restaurant with panoramic views, the River Cafe with regionally inspired dishes, and the casual Aquavit Terrace. Onboard enrichment programs highlight the storied history and rich culture of the Mississippi River, complemented by an array of inclusive amenities such as specialty dining, complimentary beverages, and shore excursions.

Inspired by Southern living and the great outdoors, this terrace offers a casual setting to celebrate with friends. Enjoy sweeping views of America's heartland while dining in a relaxed porch-like atmosphere.


Aquavit Terrace 

Explore a literary haven in the onboard Library, featuring a curated selection of captivating titles. Pick a book, find a cozy spot, and immerse yourself in the pages as the world sails past.


Guest Lectures & Port Talks 

Craft & Cooking Demonstrations 

Enjoy daily changing menus featuring regional cuisine and timeless classics, all prepared with fresh, local ingredients. This main dining venue ensures a delightful culinary experience with every meal.

Library 

Classical & Regional Musicians 

Sun Terrace 

Viking River Cruises

Heart of the Delta

New Orleans & Southern Charms

America's Great River

Tour Elvis' Graceland Estate

Viking Mississippi

Stroll through the famous French Quarter for an intimate look at New Orleans’s oldest, most evocative neighborhood. A local expert will narrate the history of this 85-square-block area, also known as the Vieux Carré (Old Square). It was here that New Orleans began in 1718, and the area is now a National Historic Landmark. Highlights of the tour include Jackson Square, presided over by St. Louis Cathedral; the Cabildo, where the Louisiana Purchase was signed; and the Pontalba Buildings, elegant town houses that capture the French Quarter’s most iconic architectural elements. Your guide will point out some famous eateries and bars that you may wish to try on your own—like Galatoire’s and Pat O’Brien’s, where New Orleans’s signature cocktail, the hurricane, was invented.

Visit the Civil War site where the Battle of Vicksburg ended, turning the tide of the war in favor of the Union. Visit the Civil War site where the Battle of Vicksburg ended, turning the tide of the war in favor of the Union. Vicksburg had been the last Confederate stronghold on the Mississippi River. When it finally surrendered to Gen. Ulysses S. Grant on July 4, 1863, the Union gained control of the entire Mississippi—effectively splitting the South in half. With a Licensed Battlefield Guide narrating your tour, you will see the historic trenches, markers and monuments. Learn about the battle’s impact on the lives of civilians and troops on both sides, including the many African Americans who served in the campaign. Also included is a visit to USS Cairo, an ironclad gunboat that prowled the Mississippi as part of the Union’s brown-water navy.

Enjoy Privileged Access to several historic sites during a guided walking tour of downtown Vicksburg. Your route will take you past the landmark Old Courthouse, an architectural jewel that is now a museum filled with pre-Columbian artifacts and the largest collection of Civil War memorabilia in the South. Visit the Romanesque-style Church of the Holy Trinity to admire the six Tiffany glass windows that adorn its interior. Continue to the Wahl-Shaffer Cottages, where its owner will take you through several architecturally distinctive homes. At Tully’s Cave, a reproduction of a cave used during the 1863 Siege of Vicksburg, hear about life during war time. After, stroll to the riverfront floodwall to view the 32 life-like pictorial murals created by Robert Dafford that depict different periods from Vicksburg’s history, as well as an abstract mural by local artist Martha Ferris.

Stroll the charming streets of historic Vicksburg and explore the city’s stately homes. Begin your tour at Christ Episcopal Church, built in 1846, and admire its towering pinnacles and four Tiffany windows. Inside, a church rector will recount the history of the church and its relation to the Civil War. From here, discover the surrounding neighborhood and learn about its grand architecture during a guided walk. Depending on availability, you will visit the nearby Wahl-Schaffer Cottages—each featuring a distinctive architectural style—and then embark on a short trip to either the Baer House or the Martha Vick House, both built in the 1800s. After gaining valuable insights into Vicksburg’s past, you may stay in town for further exploration or return to your ship.

Explore the home of Indigenous Americans during a guided tour of Poverty Point—a UNESCO World Heritage Site. More than 3,000 years old, this important North American archeological site and engineering marvel was part of a vast trading network that stretched for hundreds of miles across the continent. Who built these mounds has been lost to time, but evidence of their existence remains. Embark by motor coach to this designated National Historic Landmark, located in northeastern Louisiana. Upon arrival, meet your local expert, who will take you back in time to explain the history of the hand-built mounds that served this Indigenous community in the area for 600 years before being abandoned. You will also be treated to a short but steep hike up an earthwork, one of the largest man-made mounds on the continent. Afterward, board your coach and return to your ship.

Learn about local history during a tour of Natchez that visits the city’s top sights and historic homes. Admire panoramic vistas from your motor coach on your way to view the Rosalie Mansion and Gardens, a National Historic Landmark. Continue to the Stratton Chapel, stopping to view its collection of photographs documenting the early days of Natchez, before arriving at Magnolia Hall, where you will enjoy a guided tour of this opulent Greek Revival-style mansion. After time to explore, journey past the King’s Tavern—the oldest building on the Natchez Trace—and Natchez’s Main Street on your way to the “Proud to Take A Stand” monument. Built in 2019, this new memorial is dedicated to the Natchez citizens who were wrongfully incarcerated during the Civil Rights Movement. Gain insight into its history and then return to your ship.

Uncover the history of two historic Southern homes while exploring their well-preserved grounds. Travel to the Frogmore cotton plantation and gin, where you will gain insights into the contributions of West Africans and Europeans from the 1600s through the 1960s. Walk into the cotton fields, authentic cabins, and a rare National Register steam gin to contrast history against the computerized gin of today. At the Longwood estate, step inside the largest octagonal house in the United States, an unfinished mansion known as “Nutt's Folly.” Here, you will join a guided tour of the first floor and discover why the home was never completed.

Enjoy classical music and Southern cuisine at two historic homes in Natchez. Begin your journey at the Joseph Stone House with Joseph Britton Stone, a descendant of the original owner, who will guide you through the home and share insights into the estate’s ornate furniture, artwork and decor. In the home’s Music Room, attend a concert featuring classical music played on a 1903 Steinway grand piano. After, travel to the nearby Lansdowne Plantation, a stately Greek Revival-style mansion set on 120 acres and listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Here, enjoy a specially prepared lunch and admire its manicured grounds during a tour of the property hosted by a fifth-generation owner, directly descended from the home’s original builder, George Matthews Marshall. At the end of your time here, you will return to your ship.

Discover Natchez’s enduring architectural legacy during a panoramic drive and visit to Choctaw Hall. Called the “Jewel of the South,” Natchez’s pre-Civil War wealth can be seen in its many stunning examples of Greek Revival, Federal and Victorian-style buildings. Embark by motor coach on a narrated drive through the city, passing several of these historic estates en route to Melrose, a stately mansion. Here, enjoy free time to walk its expansive grounds before continuing to Choctaw Hall, an embodiment of Italianate flair with its ornate brackets, distinctive cupola and intricate ironwork. Admire the swirling oval staircase and browse the many antiques on display, including the largest private porcelain collection in the US, then enjoy a local cocktail. Afterward, return to your ship.

Savor a meal of Southern-inspired soul food and enjoy an inspiring Privileged Access a cappella gospel performance. Travel to the Dunleith Historic Inn, a National Historic Landmark and Mississippi’s last remaining pre-Civil War mansion. At The Castle Restaurant, located in the estate’s original 18th-century carriage house, indulge in classic Southern dishes, such as fried chicken, black-eye peas, okra, biscuits and more, accompanied by a glass of regional muscadine wine. Appetite sated, board your motor coach for a panoramic tour around Natchez, stopping at the solemn Forks of the Road, a former auction site for enslaved persons. Gain insight into the African American experience through exhibits and sculptures. Afterward, head to the Zion Church to learn about the evolution of African American music in the South, then enjoy an a capella rendition of gospel music by a local singer.

Explore one of the South’s most intact manor homes, the Rosedown Plantation, and stroll its exemplary gardens. Encompassing 374 acres that once sustained cotton, pastureland, stables and orchards, the Rosedown’s prosperity depended on the economic contributions and handiwork of the 450 enslaved Africans who lived on the land. The main house was built in the Greek Revival style with exquisite furnishings from Europe and the North. It is approached by a grand alley of towering oak trees that leads to ornamental gardens—18 acres of paths winding through bowers of azaleas, camellias, roses and many other indigenous and exotic species. The gardens are designed in both the baroque geometric and less formal English styles—accented with beautiful sculptures and latticed gazebos.

See Baton Rouge’s most important sights during a panoramic drive and visit the Capitol Park Museum. Crowned with a soaring skyscraper, the 450-foot-tall New State Capitol reflects the modern architectural designs of the 1930s. In contrast, the Old State Capitol boasts a neo-Gothic facade reminiscent of a medieval castle. Drive past the Tiger Stadium; home to the LSU Tigers; the venue can house more than 100,000 fans and is the eighth largest stadium in the world. Learn about the state’s historic university, founded in 1860, before stopping at the Capitol Park Museum. Here you will pause to view informative exhibits that provide insight into Louisiana’s industry and culture, from its musical heritage to the world-famous annual Mardi Gras event. After your tour, return to your awaiting ship.

Discover the Oakley Plantation, where John James Audubon created 32 bird paintings. Audubon arrived at Oakley in 1821 to work as a tutor for the Pierre family who lived there. During his free time, he roamed the woods and remarked, “The rich magnolias covered with fragrant blossoms, the holly, the beech, the tall yellow poplar, the hilly ground, and even the red clay, all excited my admiration.” Now part of the Audubon State Historic Site, Oakley has 17 rooms, nature trails and landscaped grounds that you can explore. While on the grounds, try your hand at blacksmithing or attend an art lesson where Audubon drew his inspiration and sample food from the original 200-year-old hearth.

Visit two of St. Francisville’s more unusual homes—one soaked in legend, the other in familial charm. The Myrtles derives its name from the crape myrtles found in abundance on its grounds. Explore its 22 rooms, whose standout features include a French Baccarat crystal chandelier and cantilevered staircase. While here, you will hear the stories of past denizens, some of whom are purported to make ghostly appearances in what has been called “one of America’s most haunted homes.” You will also visit the Greenwood Plantation. Built in the Greek Revival style, its 1830 mansion with 28 columns is considered the South’s finest example of classic colonial architecture. Furnishings include beautiful original Barrow family pieces, as well as pieces from the many movies filmed here.

Stroll along the forested trails of a National Historic Landmark-designated battlefield. Port Hudson sits atop a bluff overlooking a former channel of the Mississippi River, cut with deep ravines and streams and lush with thick hardwood forest—providing an ideal spot to hike and bird watch. It is also the site of a siege that took place during the Civil War that lasted from May 23rd to July 9th, 1863, making it one of the longest sieges in U.S. military history. Significantly, the siege marked the first time African American troops participated in combat for the U.S., and with their victory, Union forces gained control of the entire Mississippi River and its tributaries. While visiting Port Hudson, enjoy a guided nature hike followed by time for self-exploration on the extended trail system.

Gain insights into Cajun culture with Privileged Access to the Rural Life Museum of Louisiana State University. Listen to folktales, sample Cajun cuisine and enjoy music and dance performances, including traditional Cajun dances. With more than 30 historic buildings, the museum complex opens a window into the lifestyle of 18th- and 19th-century rural Louisianans—a blend of French, Spanish, Native American, African, German and British influences. Learn about their history and observe artisan demonstrations as you explore the museum’s three main areas: the Exhibit Barn, filled with artifacts; the Plantation Quarters, featuring a blacksmith shop, sick house, sugarhouse, grist mill and cabins; and the Louisiana Folk Architecture, a collection of various rural houses.

Sail through the Atchafalaya Swamp by airboat in search of wildlife and native flora. This 1.4-million-acre wilderness of majestic cypress and tupelo-covered swampland is home to hundreds of plant, bird, fish and reptile species. With nutrient-rich water flowing in from the Mississippi, the Atchafalaya supports half of America’s migratory waterfowl and is an important habitat for neotropical migratory birds and other avian species of the Mississippi Flyway. Your captains will navigate to specific places that have a high probability of alligator sightings, and you will also have the chance to see the beavers, otters, owls, bald eagles, egrets, ospreys and turtles who frequent the area.

Savor the flavors of Cajun cuisine while sampling local delicacies at two legendary Baton Rouge establishments. Cajun cuisine is a flavorful style of cooking originating in Louisiana. It often involves days-long preparation of vegetables, spices, meats and flavoring techniques, resulting in spicy and hearty dishes. Meet your culinary guide, who will offer insight into the significance of Cajun traditions to the region’s cuisine and history. Stop at the award-winning Chris’ Specialty Meats for a demonstration on boudin making and the preparation of other Cajun specialties, before tasting pork and chicken cracklings, pork boudin and crawfish boudin. Continue to the family-owned Drago's Seafood Restaurant to try its signature dish—char-grilled oysters—as well as blackened alligator tacos, red beans and rice, and chicken and sausage gumbo. Appetite sated, you will return to your ship.

Discover the history of Baton Rouge during a guided walk through the city’s downtown district. As you stroll, your guide will regale you with colorful stories about Baton Rouge’s past, including how the city received its name and the long-lasting legacy of Huey Long, nicknamed “The Kingfish” and the state’s controversial governor and state senator during the 1920s and ’30s. Admire the eclectic mix of old and new architectural styles, such as the neo-Gothic facade of the Old State Capitol. Finish your walk at the USS Kidd Veterans Museum, named after the Jolly Roger-flying USS Kidd, a Fletcher-class destroyer. During your informative self-guided museum tour, view its gallery of historic photos and displays, including a Curtiss P-40 Warhawk and a full-scale replica of the gun deck of USS Constitution. At the end of your tour, you will transfer back to your ship.

Step on board USS Kidd, the only Fletcher-class destroyer restored to her World War II configuration. Berthed against the levee in downtown Baton Rouge, the ship operates as the USS Kidd Veterans Museum, offering an intimate glimpse into the lives of those who served aboard her. While named for Rear Admiral Isaac Campbell Kidd, her crew took Captain William Kidd as the ship’s mascot, flying a Jolly Roger and painting an image of the legendary pirate on the ship’s smokestack. The crew became known for “ransoming” rescued pilots for ice cream and other treats from their Allied comrades, earning the ship the nickname “the Pirate of the Pacific.” During the tour, learn about the Kidd’s battle history, including a kamikaze attack in 1945 that took the lives of 38 crew members.

Get acquainted with New Orleans and see some of its most vibrant neighborhoods. Explore the historic sights of the Uptown district, including the campuses of Tulane University and Loyola University New Orleans. Discover the leafy streets and stately homes of the Garden District, so named because of the expansive gardens that once surrounded its houses. Pass by Jackson Square, admiring the eclectic architecture of the facade of the St. Louis Cathedral, the oldest continuously used cathedral in the US, and the equestrian statue of Andrew Jackson, the hero of the Battle of New Orleans and future seventh US president. You will also view landmarks like the Superdome, National WWII Museum and the New Orleans Museum of Art in City Park. Learn about the cultural significance of New Orleans’ unique cemeteries during your guided tour.

Revisit the contributions of Allied forces in World War II on a tour of this acclaimed museum. Among its exhibits is a replica of the Higgins boats—designed and built in New Orleans and vital to the success of the Normandy D-Day landings. Watch the award-winning 4-D film Beyond All Boundaries, an intense sensory experience produced and narrated by Tom Hanks. Also included is entrance to the Final Mission: USS Tang Submarine Experience. This interactive exhibit puts you on board the most successful submarine in World War II for its final patrol in 1944. Consistently ranked in the top tier of traveler awards polls, the National WWII Museum is a must-see for any history lover, as well as anyone moved by the sacrifices and spirit of America’s “Greatest Generation.”

Experience the best of New Orleans, from jazz to jambalaya, with local jazz musician Tom Fischer as your guide. A highly regarded clarinetist who has toured the globe extensively, Tom has been a mainstay in the New Orleans jazz scene since arriving here from Chicago during the late 1980s. Travel to the historic French Quarter, where you will begin your journey at Mahogany Jazz Hall with a private concert featuring Tom and the house trio while enjoying a complimentary cocktail. Next, stroll to the famous Court of Two Sisters for a special brunch of mouthwatering Creole- and Cajun-inspired fare and an entertaining jazz performance. Delight in tasty dishes, such as shrimp creole omelets and duck à l'orange. Afterward, travel to the New Orleans Jazz Museum for an informative overview of the exhibits, followed by ample time to explore on your own before returning to your ship.

Gain insight into the Battle of New Orleans during a visit to the Jean Lafitte National Historical Park & Preserve. Named after the French pirate Jean Lafitte, this large park protects the natural and cultural resources of Louisiana’s Mississippi River Delta region. You will transfer to the Chalmette Battlefield and National Cemetery, the site of the 1815 Battle of New Orleans. Here, American forces resoundingly defeated the British in what was the last major engagement of the War of 1812. Upon arrival, follow your guide to view a reconstructed American rampart, an 1830s house, the 100-foot-high Chalmette Monument and more. Learn how this victory helped shape America’s early identity and set the course for 19th-century expansionism. Then, pay your respects at the Chalmette National Cemetery, the final resting place for more than 14,000 Americans from the War of 1812 to the Vietnam War.

Discover the Mississippi River’s influence on Delta life during an immersive tour of New Orleans and the bayou. Take a narrated drive through the charming French Quarter to the historic community of Arabi, along the way passing important landmarks and admiring the distinctive architecture. Stop to learn about the region’s Spanish influences at the Los Isleños Museum Complex before entering the bayou. See ghost forests created by coastal land loss and learn about the massive restoration efforts underway to sustain this important region. At the coastal fishing village of Ycloskey, breathe in the sea air as you learn how local fishermen have earned their livelihood from these waters for centuries. Sit with a resident oysterman and savor a delicious lunch of fresh seafood, then enjoy time to explore the nearby beach. Afterward, you will return to your hotel via a panoramic drive.

Delve into New Orleans’s literary scene, discovering the haunts and homes of several famous authors. A combination of rich history and vibrant community has helped “The Big Easy” to cultivate a strong literary tradition, including Truman Capote, Ernest Hemingway, Ann Rice, Eudora Welty and Tennessee Williams. Meet your local guide, then follow in the footsteps of these legendary writers during a walk through the charming French Quarter. See famous neighborhood landmarks as you stroll to the favored watering holes of Capote and Hemingway. Pass by the former homes of Capote and Williams, learning more about their deep Southern roots. There will be time to stop and soak up the atmosphere at each venue as you sip on a cocktail and listen to stories about art, literature and the colorful characters of the 1920s’ Dixie Bohemia. Afterward, you will return to your ship.

Experience the beauty and history of the Mississippi River delta wetlands during an immersive pontoon boat ride. Travel through colorful neighborhoods, passing landmarks such as the Doullut Steamboat Houses and the mansion of rock ’n’ roll pioneer Fats Domino. At the marina, board your pontoon boat for a guided journey through the Louisiana wetlands, the continental US’s largest and most productive river delta ecosystem. Keep watch for wildlife as you gain insight into the coastal restoration projects of the Central Wetlands and view the imposing Lake Borgne Surge Barrier, the largest design-build flood civil works project in the history of the US Army Corp of Engineers. See historic military fortifications and learn about Bayou Bienvenu, used by the British to attack New Orleans in 1814. Back on shore, cap your tour with a delicious “gulf-to-table" lunch featuring fresh seafood.

Walk the storied streets of the French Quarter, discovering significant sites from the American Civil War. The South’s largest city at the time, New Orleans’ location at the mouth of the Mississippi River also made it a strategically important port for both the Union and Confederacy. Captured by Union forces just 13 months after the start of the war, the city was spared the destruction that befell many other Southern cities and retained many of its pre-war structures, including those in the quaint French Quarter. You will transfer by motor coach to this historic neighborhood, where you will set out with your knowledgeable guide. See the palatial Supreme Court Building, the storied Napoleon House, famous Jackson Square, Pirate’s Alley and the Spanish Cabildo as you listen to tales of New Orleans’s rise and fall during the Civil War. Afterward, you will return to your hotel.

Honor the sacrifices and spirit of America’s “Greatest Generation” at the National WWII Museum. Affiliated with the Smithsonian Institute, this expansive museum focuses on the contributions made by the United States to the Allied victory in World War II. Follow an expert docent through the multitude of exhibitions, including a replica of the Higgins boats—designed and built in New Orleans, this amphibious landing craft was vital to the success of the Normandy D-Day landings. You will also watch the award-winning 4D film Beyond All Boundaries, an intense sensory experience produced and narrated by actor Tom Hanks. Included in your exclusive tour is entry to the Final Mission: USS Tang Submarine Experience. This interactive exhibit puts you on board the most successful US Navy submarine in World War II for its final patrol in 1944.

Prepare a mouthwatering “French Quarter Feast” during an in-depth cooking class on New Orleans-style cuisine. Transfer to the prestigious New Orleans Culinary and Hospitality Institute, located in the city’s bustling Central Business District. Upon arrival, meet your expert instructor and take your place in the state-of-the-art kitchen. Follow along as the chef leads you through the steps to create delicious dishes like barbecue shrimp, fish amandine with Brabant potatoes and Bananas Foster. More than just a cooking lesson, this interactive gastronomic experience will also provide you with insight into the cultural and historical influences that shape New Orleans’s famous cuisine. At the end of your course, and with your appetite whetted, take a seat and indulge in your scrumptious creations, accompanied by a refreshing beverage. After your meal, you will return to your hotel.

Cruisebound

7 Night New Orleans & Southern Charms

About the ship

Viking Mississippi

What’s Included

7 Night New Orleans & Southern Charms Save

About the ship

Viking Mississippi

What’s Included

7 Night New Orleans & Southern Charms