6 Ways Viking's Mississippi River Cruise Will Surprise You

6 Surprising Features of Viking’s Mississippi River Cruise

The Viking Mississippi River cruise offers an experience that feels more like a small oceangoing voyage than a typical river cruise, and it comes with several unexpected features that will delight passengers.

1. Big-Ship Feel with Space to Roam
   At 471 feet long, the Viking Mississippi feels more like a small ocean liner than a riverboat. Its spacious design ensures plenty of room to explore, and there’s rarely a crowded area, allowing guests to enjoy the journey in comfort. Unlike traditional river cruises where meal selections must be pre-ordered, the Viking Mississippi lets guests choose from the menu at mealtime, offering a more relaxed dining experience.

2. Friendly and Professional All-American Crew
   The crew aboard Viking Mississippi is known for its exceptional service and warm hospitality. Despite the challenges of staffing near-luxury river cruises in the U.S., the crew’s friendly and engaging attitude enhances the onboard experience. Although some are still perfecting their skills, their kindness and dedication to service make the experience unforgettable. Viking’s crew embodies the hospitality that the cruise line is famous for, ensuring passengers are well taken care of.

3. Custom Craft Cocktails in the Explorers' Lounge
   Viking Mississippi has a hidden gem for cocktail enthusiasts: a team of bartenders who can create bespoke, off-menu drinks. While there’s a set menu featuring regionally inspired beverages like Mint Juleps, the bartenders are more than willing to whip up any cocktail you can imagine. These custom creations rival those found on luxury ships and elevate the onboard experience with personalized drinks tailored to your taste.

4. Top-Notch Onboard Entertainment
   Despite its modest size, Viking Mississippi offers entertainment that goes beyond what is typically expected on a river cruise. Local musicians, including jazz trios, pianists, and harpists, perform regularly, creating a lively atmosphere. Beyond music, guests can enjoy trivia nights, cocktail demonstrations, and educational lectures about the Mississippi River and its rich history, all of which enhance the cultural experience of the cruise.

5. Breathtaking Mississippi Sunsets
   One of the simple yet awe-inspiring features of the Viking Mississippi cruise is the stunning sunsets. The ship’s design, with all-balcony staterooms and a promenade deck, allows guests to take full advantage of these beautiful views as the sun dips below the horizon, casting vibrant colors over the river.

6. Charming and Historical Ports of Call
   Viking Mississippi’s itinerary includes stops at historically significant ports along the river, each offering a unique charm. Guests can enjoy both guided shore excursions and independent exploration. From quaint towns like Hannibal, Missouri, with its rich literary history, to local shops and artisans, these ports give passengers a taste of Americana and offer a deep dive into the region’s past.

Viking’s Mississippi River cruise offers a luxurious and engaging experience that blends the comfort of a large ship with the charm of river cruising. With personalized cocktails, warm hospitality, exceptional entertainment, and breathtaking views, this cruise provides more than just a river journey—it’s a floating escape into America’s heartland. Whether you’re captivated by history, scenery, or simply great service, the Viking Mississippi delivers in ways that are bound to surprise and delight