Digital Brochure Heartland Celebration

New Orleans, LA to St. Louis, MO15-Day Cruise

Heartland Celebration

Small Ship Cruising Done Perfectly™

Contact a Cruise Specialist at 1-888-251-2059

WelcomeWith over 30 years of experience, American Cruise Lines has perfected small ship cruising, allowing us to off er guests the best American cruise experience anywhere. With the newest fl eet 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 ContentsPorts of Call ......................................................3

What Sets American Cruise Lines Apart ...........4

Onboard Experience ..........................................5

Shore Tours .......................................................5

Location Highlights ..........................................6–18

What to Bring ...................................................19

Onboard Food & Beverage ................................19

Getting to New Orleans, LAand the Queen of the Mississippi...........................20

Boarding Process ...............................................20

Cruise Conclusion .............................................20

2 Contact a Cruise Specialist at 1-888-251-2059. Subject to change.

Queen of the Mississippi

Vicksburg

Greenville

TunicaHelena

New Madrid

Chester

PaducahCape

Girardeau

Natchez

Baton RougeSt. Francisville

Oak AlleyLouisiana

Mississippi

ArkansasTennessee

MissouriIllinois

NewOrleans

Memphis

St. Louis

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Ports of CallStep 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.” Th is journey includes everything from explorations of antebellum homes and working farms in Natchez to Cajun cuisine to historical Civil War landmarks.

New Orleans, LAOak Alley, LABaton Rouge, LASt. Francisville, LANatchez, MSVicksburg, MS

Memphis, TNNew Madrid, MOPaducah, KYCape Girardeau, MOChester, ILSt. Louis, MO

Victory Belles

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What Sets American Cruise Lines ApartTh e newest and most environmentally friendly small cruise ships and riverboats

Th e largest fl eet of small cruise ships in America Seven ships carrying 50 to 150 passengers

A true all-American experience. American built, fl agged, and crewed shipsTh e largest staterooms with interior entrances and private balconies

Elevator service to all decks of the shipOpen seating dining allows you to dine where and when you want

35 cruise itineraries to 28 states in AmericaTh e only cruise line with three authentic paddlewheelers

Complimentary cocktail hour every evening before dinnerComplimentary wine and beer with lunch and dinner

Gracious hospitality and personalized service—that is the hallmark of American Cruise LinesMany 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 cruiseDaily lectures ranging from history & ecology to culture & cuisine

Exciting shore excursions show you the best of each area

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Paddlewheel Lounge

Onboard ExperienceOur mission is to make your exploration eff ortless by providing unsurpassed attention to detail amid the magnifi cent landscape. Th is is just one of the benefi ts of small ship cruising with American Cruise Lines.

Onboard and ashore we will work with you to accommodate your specifi c interests and tastes. Th e 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 specifi c areas of interest to make your cruise enlightening.

Th e experience we provide means something diff erent 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 off er all the amenities of a modern hotel. Every stateroom has a picturesque view of the ever-changing scenery and most feature a private balcony.

Other Amenities include:• Twin or king-sized bed• Private bathroom• Twice-daily stateroom service• Satellite TV with DVD player

• Complimentary wireless Internet access• Hair dryer• Spacious closets/four-drawer dressers • 110-volt outlets

Shore ToursYour 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 fi nest 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.

F FeaturedFeatured tours are complimentary to all guests.

P Premium

Premium tours typically cost between $20 and $70 and can be paid for onboard, near the end of your cruise.

S Signature

Signature tours are limited-availability excursions. We recommend that you reserve and pay for these tours in advance with your Cruise Specialist.

Shore excursions come in one of three categories:

5Contact a Cruise Specialist at 1-888-251-2059. Subject to change.

Queen of the Mississippi stateroom

Location HighlightsNew Orleans, LALocated a few blocks from the famous French Quarter, sights of architecture from Spanish, French, Creole, and American styles abound. Th e 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


Oak Alley, LALocated 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.” Th e 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-profi t foundation (Oak Alley foundation) for the 25 acres of land to remain open and for all to enjoy.

Shore Tour Options Oak Alley Plantation

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.

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Oak Alley

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Baton Rouge, LAFrom the legendary Southern Cajun cuisine, the active fi lm 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 OptionsCajun Heritage Tour

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 fi rst-hand experience and appreciation for the people who lived and worked on an antebellum plantation.

Historic Baton Rouge Tour

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 fi gure). Th e 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.

Additional points of interest include: Baton Rouge Zoo, L’Auberge Casino & Hotel, Old Arsenal Museum

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New State Capitol

St. Francisville, LALocated on the bluff s 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. Th ere 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 OptionsTh e Myrtles & Rosedown Plantations Tour

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 fi ne 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 infl uenced the main house, historic gardens and buildings and 371 acres of preserved land.

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Rosedown Plantation

Natchez, MSEstablished 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 fi rst half of the 19th century.

Shore Tour OptionsNatchez Shuttle

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

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 fi nish, you will gain a unique perspective of a working cotton plantation from 1790 to present day.

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Frogmore Plantation

Natchez City Tour

Travel to the city known as the crown jewel of the Southwest Mississippi, where rich history is in abundance. Enjoy the preserved infl uences, traditions and artifacts of Native American, European, Southern and African American cultures. While on a guided tour through the city, fi nd delight at Longwood, one of the most elegant houses to grace the historic district with its presence.

J.N. Stone House Tour & Concert

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

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Longwood Mansion

Vicksburg, MSWith 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 OptionsBattle of Vicksburg Tour

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. Th e tour concludes at the Visitors Center, where life-size exhibits and artifacts from the Siege of Vicksburg are on display. Th e 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, Th e Old Depot Museum, Biedenham Coca-Cola Museum

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Vicksburg, MS

Memphis, TNTh e largest city in Tennessee off ers 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 OptionsMemphis City Tour

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. Th is tour will also take you through historic neighborhoods such as the Pinch District.

Graceland Tour

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

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Graceland

New Madrid, MOF ounded in 1789, New Madrid is the oldest city west of the Mississippi and is the fi rst American town in Missouri. Originally ruled by Spain, settlers were welcomed to the region, but required to become citizens of Spain. Th e 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 OptionsNarrated Walking Tour

On a guided tour, you’ll experience the very best that New Madrid off ers. 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

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Paducah, KYExperience the rich culture, fi ne 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 OptionsPaducah City Tour

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. Th e tour concludes at the National Quilt Museum where the crafty, and even the not-so-crafty, will delight in the Museum’s collection of intricately-designed quilts.

Art Demonstration Tour

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.

River Discovery Center Tour

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.

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Paducah, KY

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Cape Girardeau, MOJust 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 OptionsNarrated City Tour &Old St. Vincent’s Church

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 fi ne art exhibits, prehistoric Native American artifacts and interpretive regional history displays.

Trail of Tears State Park

Th e 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. Th e 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

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Old St. Vincent’s Church

Chester, ILChester was named by Jane Th omas, wife of Samuel Smith, who built the fi rst 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 OptionsWalking Tour of Chester

Located on the bluff s of the Mississippi River, Chester is known as “Th e City of Popeye” as it is the birthplace of his creator, Elzie Segar. Founded in the early 18th century, Chester off ers 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.

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Small-town America

St. Louis, MOKnown as the “Gateway to the West,” St. Louis was the location for exploration following the Louisiana Purchase of 1803. Th e 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 OptionsSt. Louis City Tour

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. Th e 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.

Th e Arch Experience

Your tour begins with the fi lm, “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

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St. Louis Arch

What to BringCasual 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 BeverageFor 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.


Points of DistinctionSpacious staterooms

Most staterooms with private balconiesLarge opening picture window

All interior entrances with a private viewComplimentary Wi-Fi in each stateroom

Satellite TV and DVD player in each stateroomTwice-Daily stateroom room service

Individual climate control systemWriting desk with stationary

Bathrooms are private and hotel sizeAmenities and hair dryers are provided

A spacious closet4 drawer dresser and night tables

110-volt standard American outletsThere are NO safes in the staterooms

Stateroom CategoriesCategory AALThese 2nd and 3rd deck rooms add a private balcony with sliding glass doors to create an open feeling with an outdoor seating area.

Category AACLocated 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 SuiteOur most spacious stateroom at 400 sq. ft., this distinctive suite off ers a maximum of space, tasteful furnishings and a large private balcony.

Category AAR(Queen of the Mississippi)Th ese spacious rooms on the 2nd deck off er every modern comfot with the luxury of an expansive private balcony.

Category ALocated on the main deck, this 304 sq. ft. stateroom off ers modern amenities, a large, opening picture window and an oversized bathroom.

Single (with or without balcony)21Contact a Cruise Specialist at 1-888-251-2059. Subject to change.

Getting to New Orleans, LA and the Queen of the MississippiYour ship will be docked at the Thalia Street Wharf.

Thalia Street Wharf 1350 Port of New Orleans Place New Orleans, LA 70160

Flying 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.

Driving You may park at the Cruise Terminal located at 2 Julia Street New Orleans, LA 70610. Price is approximately $112 for the week.

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 ProcessBoarding 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 ConclusionOn 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.

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031715741 Boston Post Rd., Suite 200Guilford, CT 06437

We look forward to having you onboard soon.

For more information, please contact a Cruise Specialist at 1-888-251-2059

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Digital Brochure Heartland Celebration