PHOTO: The American Queen paddleboat will visit Christmas markets along the Mississippi River. (Courtesy of American Queen Steamboat Company)
European river cruises that visit Christmas markets are wildly popular. And now American Queen Steamboat Company is planning similar holiday voyages on the Mississippi River.
The American Queen will operate five nine-day holiday voyages between Memphis and New Orleans and a New Year's cruise round-trip from New Orleans.
These holiday sailings will visit Christmas markets in Greenville, Miss., and Nottoway Plantation in Louisiana offering seasonal and locally produced crafts and goods. Musical entertainment will be presented by strolling carolers in St. Francisville, La., departure serenades from the levees of Vicksburg and Natchez, Miss., and the Steamboat Syncopators throughout the journey.
Cruises sailing from Memphis to New Orleans operate Nov. 21-29, Dec. 5-13 and Dec. 19-27. The November voyage includes a Thanksgiving feast.
The Nov. 28-Dec. 6 and Dec. 12-20 voyages sail from New Orleans to Memphis. The Dec. 12 cruise includes a Christmas Ball at the historic Nottoway plantation, which will be adorned with holiday decorations and feature costumed carolers strolling the gardens and front lawn. Guests will enter the mansion for a private dinner of Cajun cuisine.
The Dec. 26-Jan. 3 roundtrip from New Orleans explores the Lower Mississippi, including the Oak Alley plantation in Saint James Parish.
Fares begin at $2,699, based on double occupancy. All vacations include a one-night pre-voyage hotel stay, shore tours in all ports, and complimentary wine and beer with dinner.
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