How to Take a Delta Queen Cruise

The "Delta Queen," built in 1926, is an historic landmark and one of the last American sternwheel steamships still in service. Now owned by Majestic America Line, the 176-passenger vessel is based in New Orleans and sails America's waterways, including the Ohio, the Mississippi and the Tennessee Rivers, year round. Guests will find many unique features on this "grande dame." Read on to learn more.

Instructions

1. See America "close-up." Unlike traditional cruise ships, the "Delta Queen" can get close to shore, giving passengers the opportunity to view Antebellum homes in the south and fall foliage in the north, among other sights.

2. Listen to the calliope. Get in the mood of the river by listening to the authentic 1897 steam-powered calliope play songs from the days of Mark Twain.

3. Admire the art and antiques on board. The "Delta Queen" is decorated with a collection of authentic 19th century American furniture and art objects. In addition, much of the ship's original woodwork and moldings are still intact.

4. Participate in the Great Steamship Race. The "Delta Queen" participates each year in the Great Steamship Race, held each year the week before the Kentucky Derby in Cincinnati. The event is accompanied by fanfare, live concerts and a parade.

5. Take a theme cruise. In addition to the Great Steamship Race cruise, the "Delta Queen" offers a number of other theme cruises. Among these are a series of fall foliage cruises and several Civil War cruises, which include visits to Civil War battlefields and lectures on Civil War history and events.