Mississippi River Boat Cruises

Put your feet up, grab a book, and let the scenery soothe you. There's just something about gliding down one of the United States' greatest rivers that calms the soul.

But sailing the Mississippi (or Ohio) River onboard Queen of the Mississippi isn't just relaxing. Exploring some of the country's most storied cities like St. Louis, Memphis and Louisville, as well as small towns most passengers have never heard of, is like taking a little bite out of the proverbial American apple pie. It's a taste of America few on the country's edges ever get to see, and it's the best that home has to offer for those from mid-America.

Onboard, the service is superb, which is somewhat surprising, considering American Cruise Lines' employment policy limiting waiter/room attendant contracts to three months per any nine-month period. The mostly young crew, therefore, is new to the job, though they make up for any lack of experience with friendliness, an eagerness to serve and a genuine interest in your well-being.

The food is excellent, the accommodations spacious and comfortable, and your fellow passengers, of which there are only 150, are keen to meet you and chat. With no assigned tables, you quickly get to know the majority of others on the boat.

It might feel unbelievably small to anyone who's only been on a giant cruise ship. If you're looking for a lot of activity, you're not going to find it here. Onboard life is geared toward the older crowd. All activities are seated, from listening to lectures and enjoying some golden oldies tunes to participating in a marathon jigsaw puzzle contest. At times, we craved a stroll around a nice promenade deck.