Quick answer
US river cruises sail the Mississippi (New Orleans to Memphis, St. Louis and St. Paul), the Columbia and Snake rivers, and the Hudson. The best months are March–May and September–November.
- Cruise season
- Mar, Apr, May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct, Nov, Dec
- Best months
- Apr, May, Oct, Nov
- Typical length
- 5–15 nights
- Main departure ports
- New Orleans, Memphis, Portland
- Popular ports
- New Orleans, Baton Rouge, Natchez, Vicksburg, Memphis, St. Louis, Portland, Astoria
- Cruise lines sailing here
- 5
Why cruise here
- Paddle-wheel heritage
- Civil War and blues history
- Columbia Gorge scenery
Weather by month in New Orleans
Long-term averages for planning — not a forecast. Cruise season Best months
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg high °C | 17 | 19 | 23 | 26 | 30 | 32 | 33 | 33 | 31 | 27 | 22 | 18 |
| Avg low °C | 7 | 9 | 12 | 16 | 20 | 23 | 24 | 24 | 22 | 17 | 12 | 9 |
| Rain days | 9 | 8 | 8 | 6 | 7 | 11 | 13 | 12 | 9 | 6 | 7 | 9 |
Ports of call
- New Orleans
- Baton Rouge
- Natchez
- Vicksburg
- Memphis
- St. Louis
- Portland
- Astoria
- Clarkston
Sailings & fares
Loading sailings…
Cruise lines sailing Mississippi & US rivers
Expedition & polar cruises
Americas river & coastal cruises
Visas for Mississippi & US rivers cruises
A US visa (or ESTA) is needed.
Guides: US visa (B1/B2).
Frequently asked questions
When is the best time to cruise Mississippi & US rivers?
The cruise season is Mar, Apr, May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct, Nov, Dec; the best months are April, May, October, November.
Do I need a visa for a Mississippi & US rivers cruise?
A US visa (or ESTA) is needed.
How long is a typical Mississippi & US rivers cruise?
Most are 5–15 nights, usually from New Orleans, Memphis, Portland.
Which cruise lines sail Mississippi & US rivers?
UnCruise Adventures, American Cruise Lines, Viking on the Mississippi, Blount Small Ship Adventures, Victory Cruise Lines.