Viking has announced the launch of Mississippi River Cruises and released details of its new custom-built vessel for the US, launching in August 2022.

Viking Mississippi will sail voyages on the Lower and Upper Mississippi, between New Orleans and St. Paul.

Currently, scheduled ports of call on Viking’s new Mississippi River Cruises include Louisiana (Baton Rouge, Darrow, New Orleans and St. Francisville); Mississippi (Natchez and Vicksburg); Tennessee (Memphis); Missouri (Hannibal, St. Louis); Iowa (Burlington, Dubuque and Davenport); Wisconsin (La Crosse); and Minnesota (Red Wing, St. Paul).

Hosting 386 guests in 193 all outside staterooms, Viking Mississippi is inspired by Viking’s river and ocean ships and will feature the line’s staple Scandinavian design, as well as public spaces that are familiar to guests, including the Explorer’s Lounge, River Café and Aquavit Terrace.

Guests can choose from seven spacious stateroom categories onboard that range from 268 sq ft to 1,024 sq ft: Veranda, French Balcony, Deluxe Veranda, Penthouse Veranda, Penthouse Jr. Suite, Terrace Suite and Explorer Suite.

All staterooms will feature a private veranda or French balcony, king-size bed with luxury linens, large flat-screen interactive TV, mini-bar, large glass-enclosed shower, heated bathroom floor and 24-hour room service.

The purpose-built, five-deck ship is currently under construction in Louisiana.

In a statement, chairman of Viking Torstein Hagen said: “At a time where many of us are at home, looking for inspiration to travel in the future, I am pleased to introduce a new, modern way to explore this great river.

“We invented the concept of modern river cruising when we got our start 23 years ago – first on the rivers of Russia and then in Europe.

“Since then, many people have come to appreciate the unique exploration that comes with river cruising—but currently there are very few options to do so on American rivers.

“Our guests are curious travellers, and they continue to tell us that the Mississippi is the river they most want to sail with us. No other waterway has played such an important role in America’s history, commerce and culture.”

Cruise fares will include one complimentary shore excursion in each port of call, all onboard meals, and all port charges and government taxes.

Guests will also enjoy many complimentary amenities as part of their fare, including beer and wine with lunch and dinner service, lectures, alternative dining at no extra charge, self-service launderettes, 24-hour room service and free wifi.

Viking also announced that it would be extending its pause in operations until July, along with many other cruise lines. 

To watch the full video with Viking chairman Torstein Hagen, visit VikingTV.