The arrival of the steamboat changed the landscape and lives of the people along the rivers of the Old South forever. Great sugar and cotton plantations sprang up, and trade boomed along the entire Mississippi River system. It was the dawn of a new era.

Today you can follow in the heritage of Mark Twain as you explore the Old South region. You’ll see columned mansions of plantation country; the poignant cemeteries and memorials of the Civil War; the early settlements of the French Acadians; and the bustling major riverports of New Orleans, Baton Rouge and Memphis.

You’ll hear the music that was born of hardships and triumphs - Delta blues, Dixieland jazz, gospel and zydeco. You’ll revel in local tastes like ‘red beans and rice’ and ‘cafe au lait’. And you’ll be in awe of the spectacular sights you’ll see along the river, which are much the same as they were over a century ago.

Experience the renowned hospitality in the land where the Cajuns say ‘Laissez les bon temps rouler!’ - ‘Let the good times roll!’. There’s no better way to describe a Steamboating vacation, especially through the Old South!

Highlights of the Region

Lower Mississippi River including Red and Atchafalaya Rivers
From its confluence with the Ohio, the Mississippi continues a journey that ends 2,000 miles away in the waters of the Gulf. More than 50 rivers add to its width and depth. Today, and throughout its relatively short recorded history - from the exploits of cotton kings to the impact of the paddlewheel steamboat - the lower Mississippi captures the imagination and lures adventurers with its mystique and romance.

New Orleans, Louisiana
Beginning its recovery, life in the ‘Big Easy’ blends legendary jazz, fine architecture, laid back ‘laissez-faire’ lifestyle and world-renowned cuisine - Cajun to Creole, beignets to jambalaya. Mardi Gras has returned to New Orleans and so has some of its spirit.

Baton Rouge, Louisiana
The state capital, and an important deep water port, it was once the stomping grounds for some of the state’s most colourful political characters.

Memphis, Tennessee
Home of the Blues, Elvis’ Graceland, fascinating Mud Island and the famed bomber aircraft, the Memphis Belle, this historic port city, still a thriving southern financial centre, offers a combination of culture and charm. Ask about extending your vacation with a hotel stay before or after your Steamboating cruise.

Galveston, Texas
Glen Campbell sang about it. Now you can discover this gulf-side town’s charms and experience Texan hospitality. Stroll the grand promenade along the Strand, lined with lovely Victorian architecture. Visit stately homes and, time permitting, let the waters of the Gulf of Mexico caress your feet.

Oak Alley Plantation, Louisiana
Feel like Scarlett and Rhett as you promenade down a grand ‘alley’ of 28 magnificent live oak trees to one of the South’s most elegant homes. Oak Alley was the setting for scenes from Interview With the Vampire starring Tom Cruise and Brad Pitt. From here, you may explore a neighbouring home or head into the swamps.

Back to Steamboat index

Search for your ideal Steamboat Cruise