U.S. River Cruises: A Different Way to See America
U.S. river cruises may not be the first thing that comes to mind when you think about river cruising. For many travelers, Europe and rivers like the Rhine, Danube, and Rhône are much more familiar.
But you don’t have to fly to Europe to enjoy a river cruise.
Here in the United States, river cruising offers something very different: American history, music, local culture, and small towns along the waterways that helped shape our country.
And if you haven’t looked at U.S. river cruises in a while, you may be surprised by how much has changed.
U.S. River Cruising Has Changed
When I first wrote about U.S. River cruises a few years ago, the options were different.
Now, the two main cruise lines are American Cruise Lines and Viking. Viking joined U.S. River cruising in 2022 with the Viking Mississippi, adding a modern style to the Mississippi River experience.
American Cruise Lines offers a different experience. Their fleet has both classic paddle wheelers and modern riverboats.
So, the classic paddlewheel riverboat isn’t your only option anymore. You can still pick that nostalgic trip, or you can choose a modern ship with updated interiors, private balconies, and roomy public spaces.
This choice is important because the ship is a big part of your vacation.
Where Can You River Cruise in the United States?
The Mississippi River is still the most popular choice, with trips available on both the Upper and Lower Mississippi.
But it’s not your only option.
Depending on the cruise line and route, you can also travel on the Ohio, Cumberland, Tennessee, Columbia, Snake, and Arkansas Rivers.
History and Culture Are Part of the Journey
What makes U.S. River cruises special is how the river connects you to the places you visit.
On the Lower Mississippi, you can visit New Orleans, learn about Civil War history in Vicksburg, and enjoy the music and food of the Delta. Head farther north, and you’ll find stories about Mark Twain, Midwestern river towns, immigration, and westward expansion.
On the Columbia and Snake Rivers, you’ll see dramatic scenery and hear stories about Lewis and Clark and the Pacific Northwest.
You’re not just visiting different ports. The river itself tells the story of the region.
Since you’re on an inland waterway, there’s always something to see as you cruise: farmland, wooded hills, historic towns, locks and dams, and city skylines.
Choosing the Right Ship Matters
Begin by looking at the itinerary. Where do you want to go, and what do you want to experience along the way?
After you find an itinerary you like, consider how you want to spend your time on the ship. Your vacation continues even when you’re back onboard.
Would you like the charm of a traditional paddle wheeler, or do you prefer a modern riverboat? Think about whether a private balcony matters to you, as well as ship size, staterooms, dining, public spaces, and the overall feel.
Be sure to check what’s included. Meals, drinks, tips, Wi-Fi, transfers, and shore excursions can all be packaged in different ways.
The best choice matches an itinerary you’re excited about with a ship and onboard experience that suits your travel style.
American River Cruising Is Not European River Cruising
If you’ve taken a river cruise in Europe, don’t expect an American river cruise to be the same experience but closer to home.
The scenery, ships, distances, ports, and history are all different.
In Europe, you might see medieval villages, cathedrals, vineyards, and castles. On an American river cruise, you could enjoy jazz and blues, Civil War history, Southern food, pioneer stories, and river towns.
Neither one is necessarily better.
They’re just different experiences.
Sometimes You Can Cruise Surprisingly Close to Home
I once took a U.S. River cruise that started in Cincinnati and ended in Pittsburgh.
Part of the fun was cruising out of my hometown.
Depending on where you live and which itinerary you pick, your cruise could start or end close to home, as mine did.
There are also round-trip cruises and trips that run in both directions on different dates. Picking one direction over the other can sometimes make your travel plans before and after the cruise much simpler.
Those little details can make a big difference.
Is a U.S. River Cruise Right for You?
A U.S. River cruise is a great option if you like smaller ships, history, local culture, and a relaxed way to travel.
If you’re thinking about a U.S. River cruise, I’d be glad to help you find the right itinerary and ship for your travel style.
You can visit my online calendar by clicking here to schedule an appointment or email me at jan@personallyyourstravel.com.
A great journey doesn’t always require crossing an ocean. It could be waiting for you on a river much closer to home.
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