You don’t need a passport for a Viking voyage on the Mississippi River. 

A Viking river cruise doesn’t have to involve international airfare and jet lag. You can enjoy the Norwegian brand’s hallmark upscale experience aboard the Viking Mississippi, a modern ship with clean Scandinavian design and light-filled common areas. There are several U.S. river cruise itineraries to choose from, including one close to home that follows the lower Mississippi from New Orleans to Memphis. 

What’s special about the Viking Mississippi? 

Purpose-built to sail “America’s River” in 2022, the still-new Viking Mississippi river ship is larger and taller than its European counterparts. With five decks, it features three restaurants, two bars, an outdoor walking track, a classroom for enrichment programs, a heated plunge pool and a large living room with vinyl records and performance space. 

While you might be tempted to stay snuggled up in your stateroom, the ship is a joy to explore, with Nordic art, photography and relics around every corner. There’s even a listening tour available, if you want to visit the Viking Mississippi like a museum.

The ship’s decor is calming, a streamlined Scandinavian design that is easy on the eyes. With subtle blue and white tones accenting pale birch, it invites you to relax and turn your gaze outward to the river.

Borrow a book, puzzle or game from the expansive library, grab a lounger on the sun terrace by the 95-degree infinity plunge pool or swing by the lounge to sip a cocktail from your rocking chair. With so much space to spread out, the ship never feels noisy or crowded. It was thoughtfully designed with peacefulness in mind. 

Why cruise a U.S. river? 

The Mighty Mississippi played a major role in U.S. history, from plantations and wealth to slavery and war. Each stop along the river is an opportunity to dive deeper into the area’s historical importance. 

On my journey through Louisiana, Mississippi and Tennessee, I realized how much I still have to learn about the rich and complicated history of the region. Daily guest lectures on topics like the system of enslavement in the pre-Civil War South painted a vivid picture of the past, and excursions with local experts helped tie the past to the present. 

Advertised as the “thinking person’s cruise,” Viking curates an immersive educational experience for curious travelers. At every stop, there’s at least one complimentary shore excursion, including walking tours, visits to historic homes and gardens, Civil War sites and a barbecue lunchtime concert. 

Each day, the Viking Daily newsletter outlines the historical significance of your next stop. The ship’s restaurants serve regional dishes, like catfish and hush puppies, and the entertainment lineup reflects the area’s musical significance. You’ll be immersed in the rich culture and diversity of every destination. 

Why sail with Viking? 

On average, 80% of passengers on a Viking ship are repeat guests. Viking cruisers are exceedingly loyal to the brand. They often book their next cruise two years out. While this cruise was my first on Viking, it was the 23rd for another passenger on my ship.   

One appeal of Viking is that when you’re on the ship, you don’t feel nickel and dimed. Wi-Fi is included, laundrettes are free and there’s no charge for soda, beer or wine at meals. All restaurants are included in the price and no reservations are required to enjoy a delicious meal. 

There’s also an appealing list of “nos” on Viking: no children, no inside rooms, no casinos, no art auctions. Just a calm ship with high quality food, entertainment and service. 

Travelers on Viking feel taken care of. I spoke with one woman on board whose delayed flight had caused her to miss our cruise departure. Viking arranged for her to be picked up at the airport and taken to a hotel for the night, then sent a limo service in the morning to drive her an hour to catch up to the ship. She was so thrilled with the white-glove service, she shared the limo driver’s information with me, in case I was ever in New Orleans and in need of a driver. 

Why sail in your own country? 

If you dream of heading to Europe for a Viking river cruise, you might be surprised at how much you’d enjoy a similar experience in your own country. The Mississippi River shoreline is beautiful and sunsets on the water are spectacular. Bring binoculars for birding from your balcony and enjoy a languid tour along the twists and turns of the river. 

It would be hard to find an easier vacation. You unpack once and wake up in a new location each day. Venturing off the ship in your own country is not at all stressful. You know your cell phone will work, everyone speaks English and you don’t need to change any money. There are free excursions, paid excursions or you can take an Uber and do your own thing for the day. 

Once back on board, you can get back to the business of being pampered. Enjoy a mulled wine and some charcuterie while listening to The Viking Trio in The Living Room. Mosey over to the Explorers’ Lounge for more drinks and appetizers. Then, head to dinner for some local delicacies. After dessert, make yourself a cappuccino in The Living Room and settle in for an evening of live music and dancing. When you’re ready to call it a night, your bed is just a few steps away. 

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Cover photo Heidi Gollub

Heidi Gollub is an editor who lives in Austin, Texas.