When Viking announced in April they were opening bookings for the inaugural 2022 Mississippi River Cruises, we knew it would be popular. But we didn’t know it was going to be this popular. When you see inside the new state-of-the-art Viking Mississippi, you’ll know why several of the voyages down America’s iconic river, including America’s Great River 15-day itinerary, have completely sold out for 2022. But the good news is small-group luxury river cruising has bounced back and Viking is opening up bookings for sailing dates in 2023.
On Viking cruises, the food is an undeniable highlight, and it’s no different on the Viking Mississippi. On the top deck, awash with glorious sunlight, the classic American barbeque experience is brought to life on the Aquavit Terrace. Enjoy iconic dishes as you sail gently past the crimson bluffs of the north to the bayous of the south.
As the sun drops below the horizon, wander up to the pool deck where you’ll be able to spot the first stars twinkling in the night sky. Then it’s time for cocktails and a night of American folk, soul and jazz music in the Living Room and the Explorers’ Lounge on Deck 1, which feature two-storey panoramic views of the Mississippi.
Inspired by their award-winning Viking Longships® and ocean ships, the Viking Mississippi features sleek Scandinavian design – think blonde timber panelling, black and white images of ski slopes, and furnishings in natural hues. If you’re a foodie, don’t miss Mamsen’s; a popular eatery serving traditional Norwegian food. And as on the rest of Viking’s fleet, all meals are included, and beer, wine and soft drinks are complimentary with lunch and dinner.
A journey into America’s heartland Although we can’t travel overseas right now, many Australians are dreaming of intimate and luxurious river cruise journeys to take us into the heart of America. In particular, we can’t resist Viking’s 2022-2023 Mississippi voyages: America’s Great River from New Orleans, Louisiana to St Paul, Minnesota (15 days) Heart of the Delta from New Orleans, Louisiana to Memphis, Tennessee (8 days) Southern Celebration roundtrip from New Orleans, Louisiana (8 days) America’s Heartland from St Louis, Missouri to St Paul, Minnesota (8 days)
At five decks high, the Viking Mississippi is one of the largest passenger vessels constructed on the Mississippi and Viking’s first purpose-built river cruise ship to sail American waters. The ship features an incredible glass-backed infinity plunge pool offering sweeping 270° views of the Mississippi River.
All 386 passengers on the Viking Mississippi will have ocean view staterooms that have either French or full step-out balconies so you can watch the world go by or pull out your binoculars to spot spectacular birds flitting by. There are 128 veranda and deluxe veranda staterooms, 8 French balcony staterooms, 24 penthouse veranda staterooms, 16 penthouse junior suites, 7 terrace suites and 10 explorer suites. All suites feature two full-size rooms so you’ll have plenty of space to stretch out and relax.
One of the things we love most about Viking (and yes, there are many) is their dedication to a ‘culture curriculum’ which includes onboard lectures, destination performances and concerts drawing on the music of the region. The enrichment programs reflect each port of call and include history and current affairs.
If antique shops, historic buildings, rustic pubs, sophisticated wine bars and fascinating museums are your thing, you’ll be spoilt for choice as you stop for shore excursions at charming towns and cities like Dubuque, Hannibal (the childhood home of Mark Twain) and Vicksburg. This is the best way to get a true flavour of life along the famous Mississippi River.
