Heartland Celebration
New Orleans, LA to St. Louis, MO 15-Day Cruise
Small Ship Cruising Done Perfectly™
Contact a Cruise Specialist at 1-888-251-2059
Welcome
With over 30 years of experience, American Cruise Lines has perfected small ship cruising, allowing us to offer guests the best American cruise experience anywhere. With the newest fleet of ships, all-American crews, exciting shore excursions and unparalleled personalized service, American Cruise Lines is the only choice when it comes to planning your next cruise. We look forward to having you onboard soon.
Table of Contents
Ports of Call ......................................................3
What to Bring ...................................................19
What Sets American Cruise Lines Apart ...........4
Onboard Food & Beverage ................................19
Onboard Experience..........................................5
Getting to New Orleans, LA and the Queen of the Mississippi...........................20
Shore Tours .......................................................5 Location Highlights ..........................................6–18
Boarding Process ...............................................20 Cruise Conclusion .............................................20
Queen of the Mississippi 2
Contact a Cruise Specialist at 1-888-251-2059. Subject to change.
New Orleans, LA Oak Alley, LA
Baton Rouge, LA
St. Francisville, LA Natchez, MS
Vicksburg, MS
Paducah, KY
Cape Girardeau, MO Chester, IL
St. Louis, MO
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Arkansas
Helena
Paducah Tennessee
Memphis
Tunica
Greenville
Memphis, TN
New Madrid, MO
Chester
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Cape Girardeau New Madrid
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Step back in time to the grand era of steamboating with a cruise from the New Orleans French Quarter to Memphis’ Beale Street to St. Louis, the “gateway to the West.” This journey includes everything from explorations of antebellum homes and working farms in Natchez to Cajun cuisine to historical Civil War landmarks.
Illinois
Missouri
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Ports of Call
St. Louis
Mississippi
Vicksburg Natchez St. Francisville Baton Rouge
Louisiana
Oak Alley
New Orleans
Victory Belles
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What Sets American Cruise Lines Apart The newest and most environmentally friendly small cruise ships and riverboats The largest fleet of small cruise ships in America Seven ships carrying 50 to 150 passengers
A true all-American experience. American built, flagged, and crewed ships The largest staterooms with interior entrances and private balconies Elevator service to all decks of the ship
Open seating dining allows you to dine where and when you want 35 cruise itineraries to 28 states in America
The only cruise line with three authentic paddlewheelers
Complimentary cocktail hour every evening before dinner Complimentary wine and beer with lunch and dinner
Gracious hospitality and personalized service—that is the hallmark of American Cruise Lines Many spacious lounges and public spaces on each ship
Exquisite cuisine from American Cruise Lines’ staff of highly trained chefs Entertainment each evening
Historians, naturalists, or local experts join every cruise
Daily lectures ranging from history & ecology to culture & cuisine Exciting shore excursions show you the best of each area
Paddlewheel Lounge 4
Onboard Experience
Our mission is to make your exploration effortless by providing unsurpassed attention to detail amid the magnificent landscape. This is just one of the benefits of small ship cruising with American Cruise Lines. Onboard and ashore we will work with you to accommodate your specific interests and tastes. The cruise director will assist to set up special land adventures and the chef will sit down with you to understand any dietary preferences. One of our resident onboard experts will listen attentively and answer your questions about your specific areas of interest to make your cruise enlightening.
Other Amenities include: • • • •
Twin or king-sized bed Private bathroom Twice-daily stateroom service Satellite TV with DVD player
Shore Tours
Your onshore experience is as important as your onboard experience, so American Cruise Lines has taken special care to research and plan excursions at each port. With American Cruise Lines, you will experience what makes each destination a special place. Every tour will take you to the finest local sites at each port and give you true insight to the area’s culture, heritage and history. On each excursion, you’ll be joined by local experts, historians or naturalists to further enhance your experience.
Queen of the Mississippi stateroom
The experience we provide means something different to everyone, but assistance is available at all hours for any request large or small. Our staterooms are the most spacious in small ship cruising and offer all the amenities of a modern hotel. Every stateroom has a picturesque view of the ever-changing scenery and most feature a private balcony. • • • •
Complimentary wireless Internet access Hair dryer Spacious closets/four-drawer dressers 110-volt outlets
Shore excursions come in one of three categories:
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Featured
Featured tours are complimentary to all guests.
Premium
Premium tours typically cost between $20 and $70 and can be paid for onboard, near the end of your cruise.
Signature
Signature tours are limitedavailability excursions. We recommend that you reserve and pay for these tours in advance with your Cruise Specialist.
Contact a Cruise Specialist at 1-888-251-2059. Subject to change.
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Location Highlights New Orleans, LA
Located a few blocks from the famous French Quarter, sights of architecture from Spanish, French, Creole, and American styles abound. The city incorporates history into modern lifestyles while remaining known as the melting pot of culture, food and music. Enjoy walking along the streets, tasting gumbo, being entertained by jazz inspirations, visiting historic neighborhoods and attending local festivals. Additional points of interest include: National WWII Museum, Mardi Gras World, Beauregard-Keyes House, French Quarter
Trolley in New Orleans 6
Contact a Cruise Specialist at 1-888-251-2059. Subject to change.
Oak Alley
Oak Alley, LA
Located on the Mississippi River, between the historic cities of New Orleans and Baton Rouge, Oak Alley Plantation has been called the “Grand Dame of the Great River Road.� The historic plantation is named after its distinguished feature of a canopy of live oak trees that were planted in the early 18th century before the current house was built. Oak Alley was restored in 1925 by Mr. and Mrs. Andrew Stewart, and before her death, she created a non-profit foundation (Oak Alley foundation) for the 25 acres of land to remain open and for all to enjoy.
Shore Tour Options Oak Alley Plantation
F
Enjoy walking through the canopy of 300 year old live oak trees as you make your way to this Greek revival antebellum home. Enjoy an educational tour conducted by guides in period clothing before taking time on a self-exploration of the grounds. Before leaving the plantation, indulge in a Mint Julep on the front lawn for a well-rounded experience of Southern culture. 7
Baton Rouge, LA
From the legendary Southern Cajun cuisine, the active film and television industry and overall hospitality and charm, Baton Rouge is a must see location. Experience Baton Rouge’s historical architecture and rich countryside with visits to some of the area’s many plantations. Browse the best shopping area in the South within Baton Rouge’s notable boutiques, antique shops, shopping centers and outlet malls.
Shore Tour Options Cajun Heritage Tour
P
Begin this guided tour at the LSU Rural Life Museum, where you will experience the life of the state’s early settlers on the 450-acre Burden Research Plantation and its 20 buildings. Sightsee within the Plantation Quarters that consist of 19th-century buildings, such as the schoolhouse, blacksmith’s shop and grist mill, which are authentically furnished to replicate a standard 19th century working plantation. At the end of the tour, you will gain a first-hand experience and appreciation for the people who lived and worked on an antebellum plantation. Historic Baton Rouge Tour
F
Begin the tour at the Louisiana Old State Capitol. Enjoy the new Sarah Morgan exhibit, the Ghost of the Castle,” and a theatrical presentation of the castle’s history, told by the ghost of Sarah Morgan (an authentic Civil War era figure). The tour continues to the New State Capital building, which stands 34 stories high and is the tallest man-made state capital in the United States. It is also features an exhibit that commemorates the legacy of Huey Long. Guests can visit the observation deck for scenic views of the Mississippi River.
New State Capitol
Additional points of interest include: Baton Rouge Zoo, L’Auberge Casino & Hotel, Old Arsenal Museum 8
Rosedown Plantation
St. Francisville, LA
Located on the bluffs of the Mississippi River, St. Francisville has been called one of the 200 most beautiful small towns in America due to its quiet lifestyle with historical attractions. There are 7 architecturally unique and historic plantation homes and gardens within St. Francisville that are open to the public for tours. Explore the sandy-bottomed creeks along the countryside or casually enjoy the relaxed atmosphere among local residents.
Shore Tour Options The Myrtles & Rosedown Plantations Tour
F
Immerse yourself in the Southern culture and hospitality among some of the most beautiful plantations in the South while visiting the Myrtles and Rosedown Plantations with a local guide. View the fine antiques on display at Myrtles Plantation, which dates back to 1796 and has been
called one of America’s most haunted homes. Visit the Rosedown Plantation to see an illustration of plantation life from the 1800s and how the cultural traditions of the Old South influenced the main house, historic gardens and buildings and 371 acres of preserved land.
Contact a Cruise Specialist at 1-888-251-2059. Subject to change.
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Natchez, MS
Established by French colonists in 1716, Natchez is known as the oldest and most important European settlement in the lower Mississippi River Valley. It is recognized for its vital role in the development of the Old Southwest during the first half of the 19th century.
Shore Tour Options Natchez Shuttle
F
Embark on an onshore excursion to tour the town on your own, with a companion or with family and friends. Stroll through town to shop, browse the Museum of Afro-American history or capture lively past-time works of art at the Stratton Chapel Gallery. Before returning to the Queen of the Mississippi, enjoy the city’s Southern charm by purchasing a souvenir or taking in the surroundings.
Frogmore Plantation 10
Frogmore Plantation
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Visit a historical plantation for a well-rounded understanding of an antebellum lifestyle from sharecropping to modern technologies. Spend part of the day with a guide exploring the plantation’s buildings, which include, a rare antique steam gin and the only completely computerized gin in the nation. From start to finish, you will gain a unique perspective of a working cotton plantation from 1790 to present day.
Longwood Mansion
Natchez City Tour
F
Travel to the city known as the crown jewel of the Southwest Mississippi, where rich history is in abundance. Enjoy the preserved influences, traditions and artifacts of Native American, European, Southern and African American cultures. While on a guided tour through the city, find delight at Longwood, one of the most elegant houses to grace the historic district with its presence.
J.N. Stone House Tour & Concert
P
Originally built circa 1850 as an elegant private billiard hall, this antebellum home is located in Natchez’s Historic District. On this tour you will meet the owner and hear the story of this beautifully-constructed home. Enjoy a lovely classical music concert performed by the owner in the home’s parlor.
Additional points of interest include: Rosalie Mansion, Bluff Park, Stanton Hall
Contact a Cruise Specialist at 1-888-251-2059. Subject to change.
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Vicksburg, MS
Vicksburg, MS
With sweeping views of the Mississippi River, Vicksburg perfectly blends Southern culture and heritage with its historical stories of Civil War battles. Vicksburg is a city actively involved in the arts, entertainment and outdoor adventure. Guests can visit historic sites, view architecture and antebellum mansions, indulge in upscale shopping and dining or play at one of the 4 world-class casinos.
Shore Tour Options Battle of Vicksburg Tour
F
A park ranger will take you on a narrated guide of the National Military Park, which commemorates the campaign, siege and defense of Vicksburg in
1863. The tour concludes at the Visitors Center, where life-size exhibits and artifacts from the Siege of Vicksburg are on display. The excursion extends with a brief bus tour of downtown Vicksburg and the riverfront murals.
Additional points of interest include: U.S.S. Cairo Museum, Vicksburg Waterfront Murals, The Old Depot Museum, Biedenham Coca-Cola Museum 12
Contact a Cruise Specialist at 1-888-251-2059. Subject to change.
Memphis, TN
The largest city in Tennessee offers everything a curious tourist, hungry gourmet or history buff could desire. Visit attractions that include music museums, art galleries, Mississippi riverboat tours and the Memphis Zoo. Be sure to make a stop at Graceland or visit the other side of the city to see the W.C. Handy Museum or Shelby Farms, which is the largest urban park in the country.
Shore Tour Options Memphis City Tour
F
Experience the highlights of Memphis on this narrated city tour. Learn about the city’s history as you drive past Mud Island, Mississippi River Educational Park, Cotton Row and the National Civil Rights Museum. This tour will also take you through historic neighborhoods such as the Pinch District.
Graceland Tour
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Begin with a brief tour of historic Memphis and the Mississippi riverfront on the way out to Graceland. See interesting places, including Sun Studios, as you travel to the Presley Estate. As you explore Graceland, enjoy a guided tour through the Jungle Room, the Trophy Room and more.
Additional points of interest include: Sun Studios, Memphis Zoo and Aquarium, Stax Museum of American Soul and Music, Pink Palace Museum
Graceland 13
New Madrid, MO
Founded in 1789, New Madrid is the oldest city west of the Mississippi and is the first American town in Missouri. Originally ruled by Spain, settlers were welcomed to the region, but required to become citizens of Spain. The city became well-known in 1811, when over 1,000 earthquake occurrences happen, some registering as high as magnitude 8. Historically, New Madrid became known for the Mississippi River military engagement of the Battle of Island Number Ten during the Civil War.
Shore Tour Options Narrated Walking Tour
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On a guided tour, you’ll experience the very best that New Madrid offers. From the ship, your guide will take you to the River Walk, the New Madrid Historical Museum, Veteran’s Park, the Greek Revival County Courthouse, and the Hart-Stepp House which is the oldest home in New Madrid. You will also have the opportunity to continue on to the Hunter-Dawson State Historic Site which is an antebellum plantation with a restored mansion. Additional points of interest include: Lazy L Safari Park, Riverfront Bridge Park, Fort D Historic Site
Oldest city west of the Mississippi 14
Paducah, KY
Experience the rich culture, fine dining and eclectic accommodations that draw visitors to this town located at the intersection of the Ohio and Tennessee Rivers. A truly creative place, Paducah is known for its talented culinary artists, painters, potter and jewelry makers that have been here since its foundation in 1827. Participate in hands-on workshops, marvel at life-size murals and captain a towboat in a pilothouse simulator.
Shore Tour Options Paducah City Tour
F
Discover Paducah’s colorful history during a guided tour through the town’s historic district. Visit the thriving riverfront, where you will view more than 50 life-sized panoramic murals depicting Paducah’s rich history. The tour concludes at the National Quilt Museum where the crafty, and even the notso-crafty, will delight in the Museum’s collection of intricately-designed quilts. Art Demonstration Tour
P
Visit the studios and galleries of Paducah’s artists and hear the stories of how they decided to make this cultured town their residence. For arts and crafts lovers, you can also take part in hands-on creative workshops.
Paducah, KY
River Discovery Center Tour
P
Part of the “Save America’s Treasures” project, the River Discovery Center features exhibits on the importance of the area’s rivers throughout history and tells the story of the Four Rivers Region. Visitors can also “captain” a towboat or Coast Guard vessel at the center’s state-of-the art pilothouse simulator.
Additional points of interest include: Paducah Railroad Museum, Whitehaven Mansion, William Clark Market House Museum. Contact a Cruise Specialist at 1-888-251-2059. Subject to change.
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Cape Girardeau, MO
Just thirty miles from the Mississippi and Ohio Rivers, this town became an important French trading post in the 1800s. Visited by Lewis and Clark and on the Trail of Tears, Cape Girardeau has a diverse history that is felt throughout the town. Today it boasts Civil War sites and a tranquil setting commemorating the Cherokee Trail of Tears.
Shore Tour Options Narrated City Tour & Old St. Vincent’s Church
F
Join a local guide for a narrated tour of Cape Girardeau’s beautiful Old St. Vincent’s Church. After visiting Old St. Vincent’s Church, travel down the street to the Crisp Museum, which features fine art exhibits, prehistoric Native American artifacts and interpretive regional history displays.
Trail of Tears State Park
The Trail of Tears State Park commemorates the Cherokee Indian groups who relocated to Oklahoma by way of the Mississippi River during the winters of 1838 and 1839. The park’s Interpretive Center helps you retrace the steps of the Cherokee Indians with a series of interpretive panels, paintings and maps. It also features shaded picnic areas, hiking trails and majestic views of the Mississippi River.
Additional points of interest include: Lazy L Safari Park, Riverfront Bridge Park, Fort D Historic Site
Old St. Vincent’s Church 16
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Chester, IL
Chester was named by Jane Thomas, wife of Samuel Smith, who built the first home in Chester, established a ferry system and began a mill in 1829. Home to a host of historical landmarks, including the Cole Milling Company, International Shoe Company, Prim Hosiery Mill and the Chester Pool, there’s plenty to see in this appealing town.
Shore Tour Options Walking Tour of Chester
F
Located on the bluff s of the Mississippi River, Chester is known as “The City of Popeye” as it is the birthplace of his creator, Elzie Segar. Founded in the early 18th century, Chester offers a combination of beautiful surroundings and interesting small town history. On this tour, you’ll join a local guide who will tell you about the people and places of this little corner of America.
Small-town America 17
St. Louis Arch
St. Louis, MO
Known as the “Gateway to the West,” St. Louis was the location for exploration following the Louisiana Purchase of 1803. The city has a variety of boutiques and live entertainment for locals and visitors to enjoy. Take the tram to the top of the Gateway Arch for a truly spectacular view of the Mississippi River.
Shore Tour Options St. Louis City Tour
F
Join among others on this narrated tour to downtown St. Louis, the riverfront, Citygarden and the historic neighborhoods of Soulard and Lafayette Square. You’ll also enjoy a tour of St. Louis’ 1,371 acre Forest Park, which is the seventh largest urban park in America. The tour will conclude at the Anheuser Busch Brewery for a stables only tour to browse these 19th century stables and the world-famous Clydesdale horses.
The Arch Experience
Your tour begins with the film, “Monument to the Dream,” which provides an up close and personal look at how the Arch was built. Our nation’s tallest man-made monument, it’s best seen from the top where you’ll get a birds-eye view of downtown St. Louis and the Mississippi River.
Additional points of interest include: Missouri Botanical Garden, St. Louis Zoo, Laumeier Sculpture Park, Cathedral Basilica of St. Louis 18
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Contact a Cruise Specialist at 1-888-251-2059. Subject to change.
What to Bring
Casual resort attire is recommended both on ship and ashore. For dinner, men’s clothing might include a sports shirt and slacks with a sport coat or sweater. Women might find a sweater or a dress more appropriate.
We do recommend you bring the following: Comfortable resort attire Comfortable walking shoes Sunscreen
Hat Light rain wear Jacket for cool evenings
Camera Photo identification
Please do not hesitate to ask your Hotel Manager for any item that you may have forgotten.
Onboard Food and Beverage
For your dining delight, our American Cruise Lines culinary masters have created a delectable all-American menu, tailored with a delightful regional twist. Each meal is carefully selected and locally sourced seafood, meat and produce are of the highest quality. We offer complimentary wine and beer during lunch and dinner and each evening before dinner, we offer a complimentary cocktail hour allowing guest to mingle and relax. If you have any special requests or dietary needs, they will be handled with precision and care.
Contact a Cruise Specialist at 1-888-251-2059. Subject to change.
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Points of Distinction Spacious staterooms Most staterooms with private balconies Large opening picture window All interior entrances with a private view Complimentary Wi-Fi in each stateroom Satellite TV and DVD player in each stateroom Twice-Daily stateroom room service Individual climate control system Writing desk with stationary Bathrooms are private and hotel size Amenities and hair dryers are provided A spacious closet 4 drawer dresser and night tables 110-volt standard American outlets There are NO safes in the staterooms
Category AAL
Stateroom Categories
These 2nd and 3rd deck rooms add a private balcony with sliding glass doors to create an open feeling with an outdoor seating area.
Category AAC
Located on the 4th deck with floor- to-ceiling sliding glass doors to your private balcony, these rooms offer expansive views from a secluded haven.
Category AAM (American Eagle) Located on the top deck for full privacy and panoramic views- these gracious rooms are a distinction of American Eagle. 20
Contact a Cruise Specialist at 1-888-251-2059. Subject to change.
Owners Suite
Our most spacious stateroom at 400 sq. ft., this distinctive suite offers a maximum of space, tasteful furnishings and a large private balcony.
Category AAR
(Queen of the Mississippi)
These spacious rooms on the 2nd deck offer every modern comfot with the luxury of an expansive private balcony.
Category A
Located on the main deck, this 304 sq. ft. stateroom offers modern amenities, a large, opening picture window and an oversized bathroom.
Single (with or without balcony)
Contact a Cruise Specialist at 1-888-251-2059. Subject to change.
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Driving
You may park at the Cruise Terminal located at 2 Julia Street New Orleans, LA 70610. Price is approximately $112 for the week.
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Louis-Armstrong New Orleans International Airport is the best airport to fly into. The airport is serviced by many airlines and is approximately 25 minutes from the ship when traveling by taxi.
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Thalia Street Wharf 1350 Port of New Orleans Place New Orleans, LA 70160
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Your ship will be docked at the Thalia Street Wharf.
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Getting to New Orleans, LA and the Queen of the Mississippi Ca
Port of New Orleans Admin. Bldg Drop-Off Location Mardi Gras World
Arriving Early?
If you arrive the day before your cruise, there are several hotels within a few minutes of the ship. Please ask for the American Cruise Lines rate. Each hotel can arrange for a taxi service to the Thalia Street Wharf.
Boarding Process
Boarding the ship takes place between 10 a.m. and 12:30 p.m. The ship leaves promptly at 1:30 p.m. (earlier if all passengers are onboard). From the moment you arrive, the American Cruise Lines deckhands will handle everything for you. From helping you with your luggage to assisting you onboard—we will handle everything with care. There are no restrictions on luggage, but it is recommended to bring as few bags as necessary. Suitcases less than 10 inches high may be stowed under your bed.
Cruise Conclusion
On the last day of your cruise, the ship will dock at the St. Louis Port Authority, 500 South Leonor K. Sullivan Boulevard, St. Louis, MO 63101. If flying home, we recommend you fly from Lambert-St. Louis International Airport. Taxis are typically available at the ship and American Cruise Lines offers transportation to the airports. 22
For more information, please contact a Cruise Specialist at 1-888-251-2059
We look forward to having you onboard soon.
741 Boston Post Rd., Suite 200 Guilford, CT 06437
031715