7 Night Gulf Coast Cruise and Land Tour from Pensacola

Check into your hotel and explore Pensacola at your leisure before your cruise begins. Located in the Florida Panhandle, Pensacola is a coastal town with a rich maritime and military history. Visit the waterfront, lined with shops, restaurants, and cultural sites. Enjoy the local dining scene, especially fresh seafood and regional specialties. This time allows you to experience the character of Pensacola at your own pace, while getting a firsthand look at Florida coastal towns before your Gulf Coast cruise begins.

Board your ship and receive a warm greeting at a Welcome Reception as your Gulf Coast cruise begins. Take the time to meet fellow travelers, share stories, and immerse yourself in the relaxed atmosphere of small-ship cruising. Relax on the sun deck as you cruise along the coastline, taking in the emerald-green waters, scenic views, and laid-back coastal atmosphere, a perfect way to start your cruise.

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.

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 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.

Explore this culturally rich port city on the Mississippi River, known for its history, music, and cuisine. Famous for the French Quarter, visitors can stroll streets lined with Creole townhouses, jazz clubs, and eateries serving Cajun and Creole specialties. Things to do in New Orleans include visiting St. Louis Cathedral and the National WWII Museum, which features self-guided exhibits and a 4-D film. The city's jazz heritage and cultural sites are visible throughout the French Quarter. The narrated French Quarter Loop stops at Jackson Square, Cafe Du Monde, the Old U.S. Mint, and Louis Armstrong Park, highlighting New Orleans' music and history. Local flavors are central to the experience, from beignets to Creole and Cajun dishes. With its museums, historic streets, live music, and walking exploration, New Orleans is a top stop among Mississippi River cities for culture and history.

Enjoy a final breakfast onboard before beginning the disembarkation process, marking the conclusion of your Gulf Coast journey. After eight days exploring historic Mississippi River cities and coastal towns, the cruise leaves you with lasting memories and a deeper appreciation for the region's history. Guests have the option to extend their time in New Orleans to explore more of the city's culture, music, and cuisine. This final stop highlights why New Orleans remains a popular destination for cruise lines in New Orleans.