7 Night Gulf Coast Cruise and Land Tour from New Orleans

Enjoy a one-night stay in New Orleans and explore this culturally rich port city at your leisure. Located on the banks of the Mississippi River, New Orleans is a major cultural destination with a mix of history, music, and cuisine. Visit the French Quarter, where walkable streets are lined with colorful Creole townhouses, jazz clubs, and local restaurants serving Cajun and Creole specialties. Explore landmarks like St. Louis Cathedral and the National WWII Museum or enjoy the city's vibrant music scene and cultural sites. This time allows you to experience the character of New Orleans and discover why it is one of the most iconic Mississippi River cities on a gulf coast itinerary.

Board your ship and receive a warm greeting at the Welcome Reception as your Mississippi River cruise begins. This small ship experience gives you the chance to meet fellow travelers and become familiar with onboard amenities and enrichment opportunities. Spend time on deck taking in the scenic views of New Orleans and the riverfront, enjoying the relaxed pace and vibrant atmosphere, providing a welcoming start to your cruise.

Visit Ship Island and discover Fort Massachusetts, one of the most impressive Civil War coastal forts along the Gulf Coast. Accessible by ferry, Ship Island is part of the scenic Mississippi Barrier Islands and a highlight among Gulfport attractions. Fort Massachusetts served as a Union stronghold during the Civil War, playing an important role in coastal defense. Today, visitors can explore its brick corridors, cannons, and historic chambers while learning about its role in protecting the Gulf. Beyond the fort, Ship Island offers beautiful beach walking, sweeping coastal views, and opportunities for fishing, kayaking, or boat tours, making it a memorable Mississippi Barrier Islands experience. Nearby, the Mississippi Aquarium adds even more to explore with engaging marine and freshwater exhibits, creating a well-rounded coastal visit.

Biloxi is a coastal Mississippi city known for its beaches and maritime heritage. Stroll the Biloxi waterfront or visit the Biloxi Lighthouse, standing since 1848, for panoramic views. Cultural stops include the Ohr-O'Keefe Museum of Art and the Maritime & Seafood Industry Museum, where exhibits and historic vessels highlight Biloxi maritime history and seafood traditions. Fresh Gulf shrimp, oysters, and other seafood are central to the city's identity. Things to do in Biloxi include sampling local cuisine and exploring hands-on displays at the Maritime & Seafood Industry Museum. History lovers can visit Beauvoir, the estate of Confederate President Jefferson Davis, with guided tours of the mansion, grounds, and Confederate cemetery. Along with the lighthouse and waterfront, these sites showcase Biloxi's history and role among Mississippi Gulf Coast towns.

Along the Gulf Coast you'll find Ocean Springs, a quiet coastal town known for its arts and dining. Just a short drive from Biloxi, it offers historic shops, cafes, Fort Maurepas, and the Ocean Springs Museum of History. Ocean Springs has many things to do including the Walter Anderson Museum of Art, showcasing works inspired by the region's coastal landscapes. The town's art scene is lively, with galleries featuring traditional and contemporary works. Local Gulf Coast cuisine is a highlight, from fresh shrimp and oysters to Southern comfort dishes like gumbo and fried catfish. Downtown Ocean Springs offers strolls along Washington Avenue, colorful boutiques, galleries, and award-winning restaurants.

Visit Mobile, Alabama, to explore the waterfront and historic streets that reflect the city's early settlement and port history. Founded as the first capital of French Louisiana in 1702, its landmarks include Fort Conde and the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception. Mobile is also the birthplace of Mardi Gras in the US. The Mobile Carnival Museum highlights Mardi Gras history, including parades, balls, and local traditions. Things to do in Mobile include visiting museums and walking the historic downtown. For military and maritime history, the USS Alabama Battleship Memorial Park offers the World War II battleship, aircraft, tanks, and other artifacts. The National Maritime Museum provides interactive exhibits and views of the Mobile river and port.

Located in the Florida Panhandle, Pensacola is a hidden gem for cruise travelers interested in history and coastal charm. Founded in 1559, the city's maritime heritage can be explored at the Pensacola Lighthouse, Fort Barrancas, and the National Naval Aviation Museum, featuring restored aircraft and exhibits on the Blue Angels. The natural landscape includes white sandy shores and emerald-green waters. On the Jolly Sailing & Dolphin Cruise, visitors may see dolphins, sea turtles, and shorebirds while passing landmarks like Fort Pickens, NAS Pensacola, and the lighthouse. Downtown Pensacola offers walkable streets with shops and restaurants serving fresh seafood and regional dishes, giving visitors a clear sense of the city and its role among Florida Panhandle coastal towns.

Enjoy a final breakfast onboard before beginning the disembarkation process, marking the conclusion of your Gulf Coast cruise. After days exploring historic Mississippi River cities and coastal towns, the journey leaves you with lasting memories and a greater appreciation for the region's history and culture.