13-/14-day river cruise, including an 8-day cruise on the Mississippi aboard a paddlewheel steamboat
North America
United States
14 - 24 people
13 days
From the blues rhythms of Beale Street to Elvis Presley’s estate and world-class barbecue—your journey begins in Memphis with a feast for the senses! Then a mighty natural wonder takes center stage: At 3,778 km, the Mississippi is one of the longest rivers on Earth. The southern stretch between Memphis and New Orleans is the river of myths, jazz, the blues, centuries-old oak trees, Southern plantations, and elegant mansions. And Mark Twain is just as much a part of the Mississippi as the paddlewheel steamboats he first captained and later described. Aboard one of them—the comfortable American Splendor—you’ll travel from Tennessee to New Orleans, Louisiana. The city is famous for its festivals, local legends, and culinary delights—from
stirring jazz music and spine-chilling ghost stories to powdered-sugar beignets and delicious Creole cuisine. Your Mississippi adventure ends in the Big Easy, as New Orleans is called because of its laid-back lifestyle.
Stephanie Gräf
A specialist in personalized and exciting trips around the globe.
I am your contact person for questions and bookings regarding your trip.
You can reach me by phone or email:
+49 (0)201 858 90 960
welcome@inventia.de
HIGHLIGHTS
- Historical Insights and Architectural Highlights in New Orleans
- Stunning natural landscapes and a diverse array of wildlife in the bayous
- 8-day luxury river cruise aboard the paddlewheel steamer American Splendor from Memphis to New Orleans
- Cruise with meals, all beverages, shore excursions, and gratuities included in the price
- Permanent German-speaking tour guide
- Southern charm and history in Memphis, Tennessee
- Graceland: The Enduring Legacy of Elvis Presley
route
itinerary
Day 1: Flight to Memphis
Today, you’ll fly across the Atlantic to Memphis. Your tour guide will meet you at the airport and escort you to your special luxury hotel, located right next to Elvis Presley’s estate. (If you booked without flights, your trip begins on Day 2.)
Day 2: Graceland
Follow in the footsteps of the King of Rock ’n’ Roll! In the morning, you’ll tour Graceland—a dream come true for countless rock fans. You’ll visit Elvis Presley’s home and explore the Jungle Room and other extravagant rooms in his mansion. During dinner together in Memphis, you’ll get in the mood for the days ahead. (FA)
Day 3: Walking in Memphis
Memphis is located at the northern end of the Mississippi Delta and is considered the birthplace of blues, soul, and rock ’n’ roll. You’ll explore the legendary Beale Street, which is filled with the sounds of blues and jazz. Afterward, you’ll visit the Stax Museum, which is now located on the original site of the former Stax Studios—the very place that made Otis Redding, the King of Soul, and many others famous. Let yourself be swept away by the hits of countless music legends who were discovered and nurtured here! During a visit to the National Civil Rights Museum, you’ll learn fascinating facts about the history of the American civil rights movement. (B)
Day 4: Welcome Aboard!
In the afternoon, the crew will welcome you with a cocktail aboard the elegant paddlewheel steamer American Splendor, and you’ll settle into your cozy cabin. This is where your journey back in time to the era of Mark Twain begins. The red paddlewheel, the massive black smokestacks, and the charming balconies give the ship a majestic appearance; the Victorian-style interior creates an atmosphere that is both elegant and casual. (FA)
Day 5: Cleveland, Mississippi
Cleveland's history is closely tied to the cotton trade. This is reflected in the historic downtown, where magnificent buildings bear witness to the once-thriving trade. Located along the Mississippi Blues Trail, legendary musicians have shaped this culturally diverse region. At the Grammy Museum, interactive exhibits featuring original costumes and instruments bring the vibrancy of the music to life. (FMA)
Day 6: Vicksburg
Vicksburg perfectly blends the culture and heritage of the South with modern attractions. As the site of major battles during the Civil War (1861–1865), it has a history unlike any other. Here, you can explore the former battlefield with its countless impressive monuments in Vicksburg National Military Park. (FMA)
Day 7: Natchez
Founded in 1716, this city—the oldest on the Mississippi River—is known for its hospitality, elegance, and preservation of its historical treasures. Discover historic homes, unique shops, fascinating museums, and restaurants that introduce you to the vibrant culture and hearty cuisine of the Southern states. (FMA)
Day 8: St. Francisville
Today, your ship will anchor in St. Francisville, a charming small town in Louisiana known for its beautifully preserved historic homes and opulent mansions, which you can discover while strolling through its quaint neighborhoods. (FMA)
Day 9: A Day on the Mississippi
Enjoy the passing scenery and explore your ship at your own leisure. For some light reading, we recommend Mark Twain’s memoirs. The title: *Life on the Mississippi*. Of course, his two classics about Tom Sawyer and Huckleberry Finn are always a pure reading delight, especially when you’re traveling on the river that shaped the lives of these two mischievous heroes just as much as it did that of their creator. Make yourself comfortable in one of the spacious lounges or on deck, let your gaze wander over the river and its banks, and let the crew pamper you. (FMA)
Day 10: Oak Alley
Not far from the small town of Vacherie lies Oak Alley, a legendary Southern plantation. Its avenue of massive oak trees stretches toward the Mississippi like something out of a picture book. Built in the early 19th century, the mansion—with its magnificent rooms and the gigantic fan above the dining table that had to be operated by hand—along with the cramped wooden quarters for the slaves in the garden, will transport you to another era. Our tip: Be sure to treat yourself to one of the delicious mint juleps in the small cafeteria at the end of your tour—the Oak Alley recipe isn’t just a real treat, it’s also immortalized in countless cocktail recipe books. (FMA)
Day 11: The Bayous
Today, your ship arrives in the uniquely vibrant city of New Orleans, where you’ll disembark from the American Splendor and say goodbye to your crew. This region is famous not only for its historic plantations but also for its mysterious swamp landscapes. On a motorboat tour, you’ll explore the Louisiana swamps and experience fantastic wildlife, including alligators that often make surprise appearances and colorful bird species. In the afternoon, you’ll visit Laura Plantation and delve deep into the history of this Creole estate. (B)
Day 12: The Big Easy
New Orleans offers a blend of Caribbean, Spanish, French, and African flavors, sights, and sounds that is unmatched anywhere in the world. Today, you’ll enjoy a full day in this exciting metropolis. After a city tour by bus, take a stroll through the French Quarter, where you’ll admire the French Market with its Café du Monde, Canal Street and Bourbon Street, the often-photographed St. Louis Cathedral, and the impressive 18th-century Spanish Cabildo building. Take the famous streetcar to the Garden District, a neighborhood full of historic Southern mansions. In the evening, enjoy a festive farewell dinner in the French Quarter, where you’ll savor the classic Cajun cuisine for which the South is so famous. (FA)
Day 13 Return journey
Today you'll travel to the airport in New Orleans, where you'll board your return flight. You're sure to cherish fond memories of your trip to the Land of Legends for a long time to come. (F)
Day 14: Arrival in Germany
(If you booked without flights, your trip ends on Day 13)
DATES & PRICES
Request your trip here!
Scheduled Dates for 2028:
August 28, 28 – September 9, 28
We'd be happy to put you on the list for these dates. Please contact us!
Please select your preferred date:
October 10, 2027 – October 22, 2027
from €10,120 per person
13 days/12 nights
Double/Twin Cabin - Balcony Cabin (Cat. SB)
October 10, 2027 – October 22, 2027
Starting at €10,570 per person
13 days/12 nights
Double/Twin Cabin - Deluxe Balcony Cabin (Cat. DB2)
October 10, 2027 – October 22, 2027
Starting at €12,280 per person
13 days/12 nights
Double/Twin Cabin - Balcony Single Cabin (Cat. SGB)/Single Room
October 10, 2027 – October 23, 2027
Starting at 11,120 € per person
14 days/13 nights
Double/Twin Cabin - Balcony Cabin (Cat. SB)
October 10, 2027 – October 23, 2027
Starting at €11,570 per person
14 days/13 nights
Double/Twin Cabin - Deluxe Balcony Cabin (Cat. DB2)
October 10, 2027 – October 23, 2027
Starting at 13,280 € per person
14 days/13 nights
Double/Twin Cabin - Balcony Single Cabin (Cat. SGB)/Single Room
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Summary
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mandatory fees
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adults
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personal data
Traveler 1
I understand that by clicking "Request now," I am submitting the General
Travel Conditions and Data protection provisions read and accepted.
By clicking on the "Request now" button, you agree to the Processing of your personal data to complete the reservation.
By clicking on the "Request now" button, you agree to the Processing of your personal data to complete the reservation.
Thank you very much
We have received your request and will contact you as soon as possible.
Summary
Activities
mandatory fees
appointment
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adults
Is there anything else you would like to tell us?
personal data
Traveler 1
I understand that by clicking "Request now," I am submitting the General
Travel Conditions and Data protection provisions read and accepted.
By clicking on the "Request now" button, you agree to the Processing of your personal data to complete the reservation.
By clicking on the "Request now" button, you agree to the Processing of your personal data to complete the reservation.
Thank you very much
We have received your request and will contact you as soon as possible.
Summary
Activities
mandatory fees
appointment
options
adults
Is there anything else you would like to tell us?
personal data
Traveler 1
I understand that by clicking "Request now," I am submitting the General
Travel Conditions and Data protection provisions read and accepted.
By clicking on the "Request now" button, you agree to the Processing of your personal data to complete the reservation.
By clicking on the "Request now" button, you agree to the Processing of your personal data to complete the reservation.
Thank you very much
We have received your request and will contact you as soon as possible.
Summary
Activities
mandatory fees
appointment
options
adults
Is there anything else you would like to tell us?
personal data
Traveler 1
I understand that by clicking "Request now," I am submitting the General
Travel Conditions and Data protection provisions read and accepted.
By clicking on the "Request now" button, you agree to the Processing of your personal data to complete the reservation.
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Summary
Activities
mandatory fees
Information
Included services:
- Flights from Frankfurt to Memphis and from New Orleans to Frankfurt in Economy Class
- 8-day river cruise aboard the American Splendor, including 7 nights in the booked cabin category
- 5 nights in comfortable hotels in Memphis and New Orleans
- Meals as per itinerary (B = breakfast, L = lunch, D = dinner)
- Included during the river cruise: welcome cocktail, all meals and beverages, daily onboard entertainment, English-language lectures by experts on board, excursions, and gratuities
- Excursions by modern tour bus according to the itinerary
- Permanent German-speaking tour guide
Not included in the price:
- Tips Outside the Cruise
- Additional excursions
- Entry fee for the USA ($40)
Travel documents:
- Travel Documents: A passport and ESTA authorization are required for travel to the United States.
- Required vaccinations: Information before booking.
The Mississippi River near Vicksburg
The Mississippi River near Vicksburg
Breakfast on Deck of the American Splendor—Credit: American Cruise Lines
Breakfast on Deck of the American Splendor—Credit: American Cruise Lines
New Orleans
New Orleans
Musician in New Orleans
Musician in New Orleans
American Heritage
American Heritage
The Legendary Southern Plantation: Oak Alley
The Legendary Southern Plantation: Oak Alley
By Boat Through the Swamps of Louisiana
By Boat Through the Swamps of Louisiana
Monument in Vicksburg National Military Park
Monument in Vicksburg National Military Park
Graceland: The Eternal Legacy of Elvis Presley
Graceland: The Eternal Legacy of Elvis Presley
Pianist in Natchez
Pianist in Natchez
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