Viking Mississippi River Cruise Plans – Finally, It’s Official, Viking To Begin Sailing 2022!
This week, Viking Chairman, Tortein Hagen, made a highly anticipated announcement that Viking will launch a fleet of custom vessels on the Mississippi river.
“AT A TIME WHERE MANY OF US ARE AT HOME, LOOKING FOR INSPIRATION TO TRAVEL IN THE FUTURE, I AM PLEASED TO INTRODUCE A NEW, MODERN WAY TO EXPLORE THIS GREAT RIVER. WE INVENTED THE CONCEPT OF MODERN RIVER CRUISING WHEN WE GOT OUR START 23 YEARS AGO—FIRST ON THE RIVERS OF RUSSIA AND THEN IN EUROPE. SINCE THEN, MANY PEOPLE HAVE COME TO APPRECIATE THE UNIQUE EXPLORATION THAT COMES WITH RIVER CRUISING—BUT CURRENTLY THERE ARE VERY FEW OPTIONS TO DO SO ON AMERICAN RIVERS,” SAID TORSTEIN HAGEN, CHAIRMAN OF VIKING. “OUR GUESTS ARE CURIOUS TRAVELERS, AND THEY CONTINUE TO TELL US THAT THE MISSISSIPPI IS THE RIVER THEY MOST WANT TO SAIL WITH US. THE MISSISSIPPI RIVER IS CLOSER TO HOME FOR MANY OF OUR GUESTS, AND NO OTHER WATERWAY HAS PLAYED SUCH AN IMPORTANT ROLE IN AMERICA’S HISTORY, COMMERCE AND CULTURE.”
The company’s first custom vessel, Viking Mississippi, will debut in August 2022 and will sail voyages on the Lower and Upper Mississippi, between New Orleans and St. Paul. Viking’s arrival will bring modern river cruising to the Mississippi and will represent a major commitment to tourism and economic development in many communities along the river.
Starting today, initial Viking Mississippi sailings of 2022-2023 season are now accessible to Viking past guests only. Bookings will open to the general public on April 15, 2020.
Currently scheduled ports of call on Viking’s new Mississippi River Cruises to comprise seven U.S. states: Louisiana (Baton Rouge, Darrow, New Orleans, and St. Francisville); Mississippi (Natchez and Vicksburg); Tennessee (Memphis); Missouri (Hannibal, St. Louis); Iowa (Burlington, Dubuque, and Davenport); Wisconsin (La Crosse and Red Wing); and Minnesota (St. Paul).
Viking Mississippi
Guest Rooms
Explorers’ Lounge & The Bow
Aquavit Terrace
Sun Terrace with Infinity Plunge Pool
Viking Value
Viking will continue to provide its all-inclusive value both on and off the ship with destination featured entertainment and enrichment activities along with its world-renowned excursions.
2022-2023 Viking Mississippi Inaugural Voyages
America’s Heartland (8 days; St. Louis to St. Paul)— Immerse yourself in history and heritage on this journey from New Orleans to Memphis. Soak up the rich French and Acadian cultures that infuse the Lower Mississippi, and be inspired by the stories of famed musicians and civil rights heroes. Savor delicious Cajun and Creole cuisine, as well as Memphis’s famous BBQ. And stir your soul with the rhythms of Dixieland jazz, Delta blues and gospel.
Heart of the Delta (8 days; New Orleans to Memphis)—On this enlightening journey on the Upper Mississippi, you will hear stories of pioneers and the Lewis and Clark Expedition; walk in the footsteps of Mark Twain; and learn about the Norwegian migration. Enjoy the view as your ship navigates through the river’s intricate lock system. And experience the region’s many cultural treasures—from ragtime, polka and Norwegian folk music to Wisconsin cheese, craft beer and hearty stews.
Southern Celebration (8 days; New Orleans–Vicksburg–New Orleans)—The Lower Mississippi overflows with charm, history and hospitality. Explore historic estates, and visit notable Civil War sites. Sample the bustling French-flavored port cities of New Orleans and Baton Rouge. Sway to the tempos of Dixieland jazz, gospel and blues. Savor gourmet Cajun and Creole cuisine, as well as traditional Southern fare. Join us, and see why local Cajuns say, “Laissez les bons temps rouler” (Let the good times roll).
America’s Great River (15 days; New Orleans to St. Paul)—History and culture unfold as you cross the country from north to south on this enriching voyage. Enjoy relaxing scenic sailing and unparalleled bird-watching as the landscape changes from the bluffs of the North to the bayous of the South. Learn about the American civil rights movement and the Civil War. Along the way, tap your feet to the rhythm of American folk, soul and jazz music—and taste a delicious array of regional cuisine
