Viking Launches 2027 River Cruises on the Mississippi & Ohio Rivers, Delivering an Unmatched Cultural and Musical Experience

Published on February 23, 2026

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Viking has launched its highly anticipated 2027 river cruises along the Mississippi and Ohio Rivers, offering travelers an unparalleled cultural and musical adventure. These new itineraries, including Bayous, Blues & Bluegrass and Mississippi & Ohio River Explorer, are designed to immerse guests in the vibrant history, music, and traditions of two of America’s most iconic rivers. From exploring the birthplace of blues, jazz, and rock ‘n’ roll to savoring local Southern cuisine and experiencing the region’s unique cultural heritage, Viking delivers an authentic journey that blends live music performances, expert-led cultural tours, and scenic cruising. These cruises promise to offer an extraordinary and unmatched experience, where history, culture, and music come together to create memories that will last a lifetime.

New Journeys on America’s Iconic Rivers

Viking’s newly launched itineraries, Bayous, Blues & Bluegrass and Mississippi & Ohio River Explorer, offer a fascinating blend of history, culture, and music as travelers cruise along two of the most renowned rivers in the United States. These voyages provide an authentic exploration of America’s past, with a special focus on the cultural heritage of the American South and Midwest.

These itineraries are designed for travelers who are looking to connect with the rich history and traditions of the Mississippi and Ohio rivers, offering a chance to explore the regions’ unique musical heritage, indulge in Southern cuisine, and experience charming river towns that many have yet to discover.

The New 2027 Viking River Cruises

1. Bayous, Blues & Bluegrass (15 days; New Orleans – Louisville)
   This captivating 15-day voyage takes guests on an unforgettable journey through the American South along the legendary Mississippi River. Travelers will immerse themselves in the soulful world of blues and jazz, sample mouthwatering Tennessee barbecue, and explore Kentucky’s famed whiskey-making traditions. This cruise offers a deep dive into the culture, food, and music that define the region.
2. Mississippi & Ohio River Adventure (8 days; Memphis – Louisville)
   On this eight-day itinerary, guests will experience the musical legacies of both the Mississippi and Ohio rivers. This journey highlights the birthplaces of rock ‘n’ roll, blues, and bluegrass music, along with an exploration of baseball’s rich history in the region. It’s the perfect blend of American culture, from iconic music genres to the spirit of baseball.

More Mississippi River Itineraries

Viking offers a variety of other enriching itineraries along the Mississippi River, each showcasing the region’s unique history and charm.

3. Mississippi River Odyssey (22 days; New Orleans – St. Paul)
   For those seeking an in-depth exploration, the Mississippi River Odyssey spans 22 days, cruising from New Orleans to St. Paul. This extensive journey covers the full length of the river and immerses travelers in the cultural origins of jazz, blues, and soul music while also exploring the region’s distinctive Southern cuisine.
4. Mississippi Delta Explorer (eight days; New Orleans – Memphis)
   This eight-day adventure explores the iconic Mississippi Delta, where the roots of blues music run deep. In addition to discovering the origins of one of America’s most influential music genres, guests will have the opportunity to enjoy the region’s delicious Cajun and Creole dishes and the legendary barbecue of Memphis.
5. Heartland of America (eight days; St. Louis – St. Paul)
   This eight-day journey along the Upper Mississippi focuses on the region’s cultural heritage, including the legacy of Mark Twain and the Norwegian immigration to the Midwest. Guests will also experience the sounds of ragtime and polka music and sample local Wisconsin cheese, craft beer, and hearty stews.
6. New Orleans & Southern Charms (eight days; New Orleans roundtrip)
   The New Orleans & Southern Charms itinerary is a roundtrip cruise that explores the Lower Mississippi River. This journey delves into the Civil War history of the region while giving guests the chance to sample New Orleans’ world-renowned cuisine and discover the vibrant cultural heritage of Baton Rouge.

Take Advantage of Viking Savings Event

As part of the Viking Savings Event, guests can save up to 35% on select itineraries from 2026 to 2028. For those booking these river cruises, Viking is also offering free international airfare and a $25 deposit on all bookings. Additionally, returning guests can enjoy exclusive savings, ensuring an exceptional value for their river cruise adventure.

Viking has launched its 2027 river cruises on the Mississippi and Ohio Rivers, offering an unparalleled cultural and musical experience that immerses travelers in the rich heritage of the American South and Midwest, featuring live performances and local traditions.

With Viking’s newly launched 2027 itineraries, there has never been a better time to explore the historic Mississippi and Ohio rivers. Whether you are a lover of music, history, or cuisine, these cruises offer a rich and diverse experience, all while traveling in comfort and style aboard the Viking Mississippi. Book your journey today and take advantage of the limited-time Viking Savings Event, which ends on February 28, 2026.