Greenville River Cruises

Discover the Soul of the Mississippi Delta in Greenville, MS

Positioned at the heart of the Mississippi Delta, Greenville offers an evocative blend of historic charm and natural beauty that makes it a highlight of any river cruise itinerary. The city’s proximity to the river allows cruisers to explore not just Greenville itself, but also a tapestry of neighboring towns and bayous that have defined Southern life for generations. From historic plantations to vibrant main streets lined with local boutiques, each excursion offers a glimpse into Mississippi's multifaceted identity.

Whether you’re savoring catfish fresh from the Delta, exploring the Delta Blues Museum, or sipping sweet tea under the canopy of a 300-year-old oak, Greenville invites you to slow down and connect—deeply—with the land, the people, and the stories that define it. A river cruise in Greenville is more than a journey. It’s an immersion into the American South’s most soulful currents.

The Rivers that Shape the Experience

The Mississippi River

Arguably America’s most iconic waterway, the Mississippi River flows through the heart of Greenville. Cruises here trace a journey through the region’s past and present, with stunning views of floodplains, cypress swamps, and riverside towns that offer stories of exploration, trade, and culture. Along the Mississippi, you’ll encounter:

Cleveland

Located just east of Greenville, Cleveland is home to the Grammy Museum Mississippi. This charming town celebrates the music that shaped the world and hosts frequent blues and Americana festivals.

Tunica

North along the river, Tunica is a casino resort town with a rich agricultural history. It offers museums that chronicle the evolution of farming in the Delta and elegant Southern mansions to explore.

Vicksburg

Further south, Vicksburg tells the story of the Civil War through the Vicksburg National Military Park. The town’s bluff-top views and antebellum architecture make it a highlight of many cruises.

Natchez

Elegant and historic, Natchez boasts well-preserved antebellum estates and gardens. Walk the Natchez Trails, dine on Southern fare, and explore its role in the cotton economy.

Other Scenic Waterways near Greenville

The Biloxi River

While not immediately adjacent to Greenville, the Biloxi River’s brackish bayous and saltwater marshes add depth to extended itineraries. Southern river cruises that connect to coastal Mississippi often pass through this waterway, especially on longer, themed routes.

Biloxi

Biloxi is a historic coastal city known for seafood, shrimping, and beaches. Visit the Biloxi Lighthouse and enjoy waterfront dining as part of a Southern Coastal extension.

The Wolf River

This meandering waterway weaves through lush woodlands and cypress groves, often forming part of eco-cruise extensions south of the Mississippi Delta. The Wolf River offers pristine views and wildlife sightings, including herons, turtles, and even alligators in certain stretches.

Gulfport

Gulfport sits near the Wolf River’s mouth and is a bustling harbor city with maritime museums and boardwalks. Its laid-back vibe and waterfront eateries make it a lovely overnight stop.

The Pascagoula River

One of the last free-flowing rivers in the contiguous U.S., the Pascagoula River offers a raw, untouched experience. It’s popular among nature-themed itineraries, with scenic flat-bottom boat excursions and birdwatching trips through the wetlands.

Ocean Springs

Neighboring Biloxi, Ocean Springs is an artsy enclave filled with galleries, charming shops, and oak-lined streets. It’s a favorite stop for cruisers seeking coastal elegance and culture.

Pascagoula

Known for its shipbuilding heritage and outdoor recreation, Pascagoula blends industrial grit with ecological wonder. It’s a highlight on longer Southern cruise routes.

Themed and Length-Based Itineraries

Short Itineraries (3–5 Days)

Short cruises departing from Greenville are ideal for travelers looking to sample the essence of the Mississippi Delta. These compact itineraries typically include visits to nearby river towns and cultural landmarks. Guests can expect guided tours of museums, live blues performances, and scenic excursions through the Delta’s pastoral landscapes—perfect for a quick yet enriching escape.

Medium Itineraries (6–9 Days)

Medium-length cruises offer a deeper dive into the region’s culture, combining the rich history of the Mississippi River with select coastal highlights. These journeys often include immersive shore excursions such as plantation visits, Civil War sites, and regional culinary experiences. Onboard, guests enjoy themed lectures, cooking demonstrations, and performances that enhance the narrative of the river and its people.

Long Itineraries (10+ Days)

Longer cruises provide a comprehensive exploration of the Mississippi Delta and beyond. Travelers can expect a rich variety of experiences—from the rhythms of blues-filled towns to the charm of historic riverfront cities and coastal ports. These extended voyages typically blend cultural heritage with natural beauty, offering ample time for in-depth excursions, wildlife observation, and meaningful cultural exchanges.

Special Interest Cruises

• Wine & Culinary Cruises: Savor the Delta’s rich flavors—barbecue, tamales, and crawfish boils—paired with Southern wines and craft cocktails. Market tours and chef-led classes are standard highlights.
• Art & History Voyages: Visit the Delta Blues Museum, historic cotton plantations, and local artist studios. Onboard, enjoy lectures by historians and live painting demonstrations.
• Christmas & Holiday Cruises: Celebrate the season with gospel choirs, candlelight tours of festively decorated mansions, and holiday markets in towns like Natchez and Vicksburg.

The Onboard Experience

Ship Sizes and Ambiance

Greenville river cruises are often conducted on small to mid-size vessels, offering an intimate atmosphere with personalized service. With capacities ranging from 100 to 250 guests, these ships feel like floating boutique hotels, where every corner—from the open-air deck to the cozy lounge—is designed for relaxation and discovery.

Cuisine and Wine

Dining onboard is a celebration of Southern hospitality. Menus feature regional favorites like shrimp and grits, pecan pie, and smoked brisket, often sourced from local farms and markets. Wine pairings focus on Southern varietals and bold reds, while themed nights may include Delta crawfish boils or elegant white-tablecloth dinners.

Excursions and Enrichment

Each port of call offers curated shore excursions—walks through historic districts, visits to museums and plantations, and even swamp boat rides through backwater bayous. Onboard, guests can attend cooking demos, musical performances, Civil War talks, and storytelling sessions by local authors and historians.

Something for Everyone

• Couples: Enjoy romantic evenings with sunset cocktails, private balconies, and fine dining.
• Families: Multigenerational cruises feature flexible excursions and onboard programs that blend fun and education.
• Solo Travelers: Many ships offer single cabins or roommate matching, along with communal dining and group tours.
• Luxury Guests: Indulge in spa treatments, concierge service, and premium suites with floor-to-ceiling river views.

Begin Your Journey in Greenville

“On a river cruise through Greenville, Mississippi, time slows to the rhythm of paddlewheels and blues chords. Here, stories are told not just in museums and monuments, but in the smiles of locals, the scent of pecan pie drifting through the air, and the endless song of the river itself.”

Greenville captures the essence of the American South in its purest form—authentic, soulful, and steeped in the melodies of history. Whether you’re embarking on a short escape or a grand Delta adventure, this river town offers unforgettable depth and beauty at every turn.