Viking Launches 2027 Mississippi-Ohio River Cruises On Viking Mississippi: What Tourists Need To Know

New Orleans and Louisville will feel closer than ever for river cruise guests in 2027, as Viking opens bookings on two new itineraries that provide slow-travel comfort together with rich music heritage and flavourful Southern hospitality throughout the Mississippi and Ohio rivers. Travellers who want to explore America’s heartland through water travel will experience the origins of blues jazz and bluegrass music while they relax aboard the Viking Mississippi which features Scandinavian design.

Two new itineraries for 2027

Viking has confirmed that its expanded US river programme will feature the 15‑day Bayous, Blues & Bluegrass itinerary between New Orleans and Louisville, and the 8‑day Mississippi & Ohio River Explorer between Memphis and Louisville. Both sailings will be operated exclusively by the Viking Mississippi and are now open for booking as part of the line’s 2027 season.

Bayous, Blues & Bluegrass is designed as an extended journey through the Deep South and up into Kentucky, combining bayou landscapes, Civil War history and the craft traditions that have shaped modern American culture. The shorter Mississippi & Ohio River Explorer focuses on Tennessee and Kentucky, ideal for guests who want a compact immersion in musical heritage, baseball lore and bourbon without sacrificing the comfort of a premium river cruise.

Viking’s chairman and CEO, Torstein Hagen, has indicated that guests consistently look for history, culture and culinary depth wherever they travel, and that many are now eager to discover destinations closer to home along these storied rivers. This expansion is set to appeal both to seasoned Viking loyalists and first‑time river cruisers curious about seeing another side of the United States.

Bayous, Blues & Bluegrass: 15 days of Southern soul

The new 15‑day Bayous, Blues & Bluegrass itinerary links New Orleans and Louisville, with calls along both the Mississippi and Ohio rivers and a programme of 11 guided tours. Guests can expect to wander among grand antebellum homes that preserve the South’s layered past, step into key Civil War sites such as Vicksburg, and meet local experts who bring these chapters of history to life.

Musically, the voyage connects the dots between the blues clubs of Mississippi, the jazz roots of New Orleans and the bluegrass traditions that echo through Kentucky. For many travellers, evenings are likely to revolve around live performances, local storytellers and culinary experiences that pair smoky barbecue, Gulf seafood and regional specialities with tales of the people who created them.

As the ship heads north, Tennessee and Kentucky introduce a different rhythm: slow‑smoked meats, small‑town main streets and the proud heritage of Louisville’s bat makers and bourbon distillers. The itinerary is positioned as a chance to see multiple facets of American identity in a single journey, while only having to unpack once.

Mississippi & Ohio River Explorer: 8 days between Memphis and Louisville

For guests with less time, the 8‑day Mississippi & Ohio River Explorer offers a more compact route, sailing between Memphis and Louisville and threading past wetlands, river bluffs and riverfront towns that have quietly shaped US cultural history. The programme highlights the rise of blues and rock ’n’ roll in Memphis, with visits linked to icons such as B.B. King and Elvis Presley, before shifting focus to Kentucky’s bluegrass and sporting traditions.

In Louisville, excursions are set to showcase the city’s celebrated baseball museum and historic connection to America’s favourite pastime, alongside tastings and behind‑the‑scenes looks at local bourbon distilleries. The itinerary has been crafted to give guests a sense of how river commerce, music, sport and craftsmanship intersect along the Mississippi–Ohio corridor, all within a one‑week holiday window.

Strengthening Viking’s US river portfolio

These two additions join the Viking Mississippi’s existing line‑up of itineraries, including Mississippi River Odyssey (22 days, New Orleans–St Paul), Mississippi Delta Explorer (8 days, New Orleans–Memphis), Heartland of America (8 days, St Louis–St Paul) and New Orleans & Southern Charms (8 days, roundtrip New Orleans). Together, the programme now offers a spectrum of options from week‑long escapes to nearly month‑long explorations of the full river system.

For the wider US river cruise market, Viking’s move reinforces the growing appeal of domestic itineraries that rival European river routes in comfort and cultural depth. Travel advisors are likely to position these journeys as an alternative for guests who might usually opt for the Rhine or Danube, but now want to discover a different river story without crossing an ocean.

Viking Mississippi: modern comfort on America’s great rivers

At the heart of the experience is the Viking Mississippi, a contemporary river vessel hosting 386 guests in 193 all‑outside staterooms, all with either French or step‑out verandas. The ship draws on Viking’s longship and ocean‑ship DNA, featuring clean Scandinavian interiors, expansive windows and airy public spaces adapted specifically for US river cruising.

Facilities include multiple dining venues, bars and lounges, an infinity‑style pool on the upper deck, and indoor–outdoor spaces designed to keep guests close to the passing scenery in all seasons. With a US registry and a crew complement of around 148, the ship blends Nordic design with American river know‑how, positioning itself as the first truly modern vessel on the Mississippi.

For many travellers, the draw will be the chance to watch small towns, wetlands and working riverfronts glide by from the comfort of a private balcony, before stepping ashore for small‑group tours and time at leisure. The itineraries’ focus on local music, food and stories means days are likely to feel less like ticking off sights and more like slipping into the slower rhythm of river life.

Bottom Line

The three cities of New Orleans, Memphis and Louisville create a cultural triangle which defines contemporary American society through its culinary traditions and local character. The Viking 2027 river programme enables visitors to experience the historical American story in comfort from their riverfront seats. The new Mississippi–Ohio voyages will provide travelers who want to drink bourbon on deck while listening to blues music from the shore with an experience that feels more like a direct encounter with the musical traditions of the American South and Midwest than an actual cruise.

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Unveil the Hidden Charms of the Mississippi And Ohio Rivers in 2027 with Viking’s All-New Epic River Cruises!

Viking has recently unveiled a series of new river cruise itineraries for 2027, focusing on the iconic Mississippi and Ohio Rivers. These exciting new voyages are designed to cater to the growing demand for cultural, historical, and culinary experiences in the heart of the United States. With an emphasis on authentic local experiences, these new itineraries promise to offer travelers a unique and immersive way to explore the American heartland.

Unveiling New Itineraries for 2027

In response to travelers’ desires for deeper cultural connections and unforgettable experiences, Viking has designed two new itineraries that will explore the Mississippi and Ohio Rivers in unprecedented detail. One of the standout options is a 15-day voyage called “Bayous, Blues & Bluegrass,” which takes passengers on a journey between New Orleans and Louisville. The route offers an exploration of the culture, music, and cuisine that define these iconic regions, allowing guests to enjoy authentic Southern hospitality along the way.

For travelers looking for a shorter but equally rich experience, Viking has also introduced the eight-day “Mississippi & Ohio River Explorer” itinerary. This voyage travels between Memphis and Louisville, showcasing the history and charm of both rivers with stops in Tennessee and Kentucky. Guests will have the opportunity to explore these scenic areas and enjoy Viking’s luxurious amenities during their journey.

Expanding the Mississippi River Experience

For those seeking to immerse themselves even further in the majestic Mississippi River, Viking has introduced a comprehensive 22-day voyage titled the “Mississippi River Odyssey.” This itinerary covers the full length of the Mississippi River, taking guests from the vibrant city of New Orleans to the historic St. Paul, Minnesota. The journey offers a complete exploration of the river’s diverse landscapes, from the Southern bayous to the majestic bluffs in the upper reaches of the river.

In addition to the long-distance voyages, Viking also offers two eight-day cruises dedicated to specific sections of the Mississippi River. These include the “Lower Mississippi” route, traveling between New Orleans and Memphis, and the “Upper Mississippi” voyage, which runs between St. Louis and St. Paul. Both options provide travelers with a unique perspective of the river’s beauty, along with the convenience of shorter travel times.

A Comfortable and Stylish Cruise Experience

All of Viking’s Mississippi River cruises will be operated aboard the state-of-the-art Viking Mississippi, a 193-passenger ship featuring all-outside staterooms. This vessel combines Viking’s signature Scandinavian design with luxurious amenities, providing guests with the utmost comfort and relaxation during their river journey. The ship’s modern design, along with its thoughtfully crafted itineraries, makes it a perfect choice for travelers looking to experience the history and charm of the Mississippi River in style.

Viking’s commitment to providing an exceptional experience on the Mississippi River reflects the company’s understanding of what travelers are seeking. By offering cruises that include enriching cultural experiences, breathtaking landscapes, and local culinary delights, Viking’s new Mississippi River voyages for 2027 promise to be a once-in-a-lifetime journey for those looking to explore the heart of the United States.

Highlighting Iconic Destinations Along the Way

One of the most appealing aspects of these new itineraries is the opportunity to visit several historic and culturally rich destinations along the Mississippi and Ohio Rivers. The “Bayous, Blues & Bluegrass” route, for example, takes guests through New Orleans, a city known for its vibrant music scene and diverse cuisine. Louisville, the final stop on the journey, is famous for its horse racing and bourbon, providing a perfect blend of culture and relaxation.

Similarly, the “Mississippi & Ohio River Explorer” route will take guests to iconic cities like Memphis, known for its rich musical history, and Louisville, where visitors can enjoy world-class dining and unique cultural experiences. These locations are not only scenic but also deeply tied to the history of the United States, making them an essential part of the voyage.

The longer “Mississippi River Odyssey” route also features a variety of captivating stops, including Baton Rouge, Natchez, and St. Louis, each offering distinct attractions that reflect the diverse heritage of the river’s surrounding regions.

Exploring the Untapped Potential of the Mississippi River

Viking’s new voyages also highlight the untapped potential of the Mississippi River as a prime destination for river cruising. While the river has long been associated with Americana, it has often been overlooked as a major cruising destination. However, these new itineraries demonstrate Viking’s commitment to unlocking the full potential of the river, providing travelers with an immersive experience that goes beyond just sightseeing.

For many, the Mississippi River represents the heart and soul of the United States, and Viking’s new itineraries bring this iconic waterway to the forefront of American river cruising. With its focus on local culture, history, and cuisine, these voyages offer travelers the chance to experience the essence of the river in a way that is both intimate and enriching.

Conclusion: A Journey Through America’s Heartland

Viking’s unveiling of new Mississippi River voyages for 2027 offers an exciting new way for travelers to explore the rich history, culture, and natural beauty of the American heartland. Whether opting for a shorter eight-day journey or the epic 22-day Mississippi River Odyssey, guests will have the opportunity to experience this iconic waterway in comfort and style. With its carefully crafted itineraries, Viking is poised to redefine American river cruising, providing a luxurious yet authentic way to explore the Mississippi and Ohio Rivers.

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