Queen of the Mississippi
Queen of the Mississippi / American Cruise Lines
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Paddlewheel Lounge
Paddlewheel Lounge / American Cruise Lines
2 of 2
Cruise American Cruise Lines

Queen of the Mississippi

Our Ship Review
American Cruise Lines
Cruise Line
by Peter Knego
Deal Expert / Travel Blogger

Launched in 2015, the 150-passenger Queen of the Mississippi (formerly named American Eagle) is the second in American Cruise Lines' Queen of the Mississippi class of ships. Operating year-round in the Lower Mississippi between New Orleans and Memphis, Tennessee, the diesel-driven river cruise ship has a bow ramp, a large red paddle wheel, and filigreed stacks that give it the impression of an old-fashioned steamboat. The five passenger decks are linked by an elevator and central staircase, and all of the cabins on the comfortable, low-key Queen of the Mississippi are outside staterooms, most with a private balcony.

What We Love

Included Extras: You'll find lots of little (and big) things rolled into the rate: free drinks at cocktail hour and wine and beer with dinner; complimentary excursions in most ports; Wi-Fi access (available in all staterooms and public spaces); round-the-clock bottled water, coffee, and soft drinks; room service breakfast.

Cardio Machines: Unlike many river cruise ships, Queen of the Mississippi has — in addition to rocking chairs — a terrace with elliptical machines and treadmills overlooking the paddle wheel.

Numerous Nooks and Crannies: In addition to the larger lounges, the ship has a card room, library, and meeting room, as well as intimate seating on most decks.

Best Known For

Riverlorians: An onboard guide details everything from the history to the geology and scenic highlights of the Lower Mississippi region.

Regional Cuisine: Southern specialties with locally sourced ingredients are served by the shipʼs friendly staff in an informal setting.

Who It's Best For

Homeland Cruisers: This is an ideal ship and itinerary for those who want to explore this historic waterway, and those who prefer to cruise in American style.

Don't Say We Didn't Warn You

It's More Modern: Although this is a very comfortable and well-designed ship, it lacks the Victorian-era grandeur and scale of other steamboats plying the Mississippi.