Smithsonian Journeys Brings History to Life: Mississippi River Cruises Resume with Expert Commentary

Smithsonian Journeys is making a notable return to the Mississippi River cruise scene with a new itinerary for the first time since 2019, signaling its re-engagement with USA inland waterways after the pandemic hiatus. Partnering with American Cruise Lines, the program will feature a 9-day voyage aboard the American Splendor, commencing from Memphis and concluding in New Orleans in March 2026.

This special sailing will have onboard insights from Doris Kearns Goodwin, a distinguished presidential historian and author, which aligns with Smithsonian Journeys’ educational mission. Initially planned as a single departure, this cruise is reportedly experiencing strong interest and bookings.

This initiative is part of a larger strategy by Smithsonian Journeys to amplify its river cruising offerings. The organization is notably expanding its European cruises via an ongoing partnership with AmaWaterways, which has over 30 departures set for the next year, each featuring two expert lecturers onboard.

As a division of the Smithsonian Institution, Smithsonian Journeys has committed to a long-term presence in the cruise sector, having entered the expedition cruise market through a collaboration with Ponant in 2022. Future offerings are also in the pipeline, including cruises in Canada, Peru, and a Nile River cruise scheduled for 2027, coinciding with a total solar eclipse.

For more details, refer to Smithsonian Journeys and American Cruise Lines.

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