Name: American Cruise Lines
Rating: 4.6

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Frederick J Luongo Methuen, MA

American Cruise Lines is the leader in cruises in America. They only operate in the USA and have the most varied and interesting cruises in America. My wife and I took the Hudson River cruise in September of 2022. We had originally booked the Columbia River cruise in May of 2020 but it was cancelled for COVID reasons. I almost lost $15K to bad customer service who had a lack of understanding and empathy. Working with the CEO's office we got to reschedule the Hudson River cruise in September of 2022 on the American Constitution. Our experience on the weeklong cruise was quite pleasant. The meals were tasty and presented well. I am a fussy eater and did not have a problem. We met a number of interesting and friendly people. The staff were courteous, friendly, and helpful. The shore excursions were interesting, and some were breathtaking! The only con was the condition of the ship. The stained carpeting, room safe and refrigerator not working, outside rust on the ship, the sliding glass door in our room would not close (a stick in the door channel solved this problem), and the torn upholstery on the top deck outside seating showed a lack of attention to detail. If you are willing to ignore the details, you will have a fun filled, pleasant cruise.

2 years ago

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Amy Sturtevant Grass Lake, MI

Likes: The staff (except one*), crew, and meals were all five star. The scenery was beautiful and most excursions were very interesting. I also enjoyed the small ship size. Dislikes: Most of the evening entertainment was very disappointing. Covid vaccinations were not checked upon arrival and we arrived home carrying the virus. *I hesitated to comment on this but one employee's mannerism compared to all others totally surprised us. 'Marty' was the tour guide on our bus from the ship to the airport. She received a phone call reporting someone had left their luggage on the dock. (We were unaware that once the luggage was removed from the ship, it was not placed on the buses but set on the dock.) Marty shook her head in disgust, identified us, twice, and made sure everyone knew we were the people responsible. I'm guessing she thought she was funny? Later she mentoned she had received a 'timeout' previously for something she had said. That didn't surprise us. As we were exiting the bus, she apologized for her comments. Perhaps a little additional training will take care of this concern. Every other staff and crew member were so positive, helpful, and caring. Thank you for a great cruise!

2 years ago

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Katharine Welin Carrabelle, FL

"Why Not Choose The Best?" Attracted by an ACL brochure of a 3 week cruise up the entire Mississippi River, in 2017, we booked it, on a paddlewheeler, and got "hooked"! So amazing, that we went again in September 2022, on the brand new ACL Symphony Riverboat, plush in every regard! Fewer than 200 passengers, our country, our language, our history, not far from home, no passports needed, an American family building their own boats in Maryland, offering an "at home" feeling!

2 years ago

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Michael LaBelle Rapid City, SD

This has been our third cruise with ACL and the service has been great. The staff has been warm and welcoming. They have gone 'out of the box' of standard amenities as we like Diet Pepsi rather than Coke products and I like orange marmalade with breakfast toast. They cannot get it in individual packets so they get in a jar and serve it in a serving container at breakfast. That is thinking out of the box.

2 years ago

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Lou Serio Charlotte, NC

This was our 3rd cruise with ACL. We went to the San Juan Islands. The ship was an older ship, the American Spirit. The guests in total were 42. The food selections were very good but no always served very hot. There were some otherwise common items not always available or limited, for example lemons for the seafood dishes and bacon for breakfast. The attentiveness of the dinning staff was nothing short of exceptional. Along with the cabin staff keeping all very clean. There were some minor issues with the bed and TP holder. There were a few items that were "a bit off" and did not expect them to have happen based on our past cruises with ACL. Perhaps this was a result of limitations due to pandemic. The on shore excursions offered variety, were fun, informative and pleasurable. The on board entertainment was pleasing and the naturalist was exceptional, entertaining with the topics and local history and lore that he covered. The San Juan's and port stops offered beautiful sights and sea life sightings.

2 years ago

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Richard O'Bryan Coraopolis, PA

Best cruise company of any we have ever sailed on, including Caribbean and Alaska cruises on larger ships. The entire crew are more friendlier, and due to the smaller number of passengers (max of 200), the relationship between passengers and crew is so much closer. And because of this, the crew will drop whatever they are doing and immediately take action if one needs assistance of any kind.

2 years ago

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Patty lockett Ocean City, MD

If you want a river cruise where they know your name and always provide excellent personal service, you found the right cruise line. Our cabin, meals and excursions were top notched. Special drink request was completed with a smile. The Historians who presented great talks appeared to love their job. We were so pleased that 8 of us booked another cruise together and before the cruise we were strangers.

2 years ago

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Peg Kelly Pinckney, MI

This is the Best Cruise we have ever been on. From our first step onto the ship being greeted by the Captain, Cruise Director, and all the staff we knew we had not made a mistake in booking a cruise through this line. Everyone is so kind and helpful. I love the relaxing laid back feeling. Cocktail hour with the fellow guests is fun. The Cruise Directors are a blast so funny and enjoyable. Our Guide David was so informative loved listening to him. I learned a lot. We had such an amazing time. We’ve already booked our next cruise.

2 years ago

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Janette thibodeau Land O' Lakes, FL

Sailing with a smaller group of passengers brings more personal experiences. Friendships are created, leisure times are welcomed , activities are more available without hustle and bustle. This is certainly the cruise you should take for excitement and peacefulness combined. Dining is excellent , cabins are extraordinary , tours are superb and educational and amenities are generous.

2 years ago

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joanne manzi Chicago, IL

American Cruise Lines is a great opportunity for solo travelers -the only cruise line that offers single rate rooms and 5-star accommodations - all inclusive from early morning breakfast to after dinner. After three cruises, all of your excursions are free and a free cruise for #11. And, if you book a future cruise on board, the discounts are great. A great way to explore the USA on the many rivers throughout the land and meeting great passengers from all over the USA.

2 years ago

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Randy Hartselle Bend, OR

American Cruise Lines is a wonderful small ship experience. I traveled on the American Harmony April 18-May 5th along the Columbia and Snake Rivers. Stunning waterfalls and lush forests viewed from your balcony off of spacious staterooms made this a special trip. Escorted excursions and wonderful enrichment classes provided something for all travelers. With formal and relaxed anytime cafe dining I found I could schedule my meals as I wanted. Nightly cocktail hour and entertainment was also a highlight. If you are looking for a small ship on America’s rivers this could be just the opportunity you need.

2 years ago

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KC Gray Siebert San Diego, CA

I sailed aboard the American Harmony from Portland to Clarkston and back retracing the trail of Lewis and Clark, Mar 30-April 18, 2022 . It was an amazing cruise with daily tours, onboard enrichment series of speakers and art classes. The staff is attentive, fun and works hard to make sure each cruiser has a delightful time. They followed all Covid protocols.

2 years ago

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Joan Mattson Cedar Rapids, IA

We have traveled with ACL to the San Juan Islands and the SE United States coast. We are scheduled for another cruise soon. Small ship cruising with them has been wonderful. Attention to our needs by wait staff, cruise staff and housekeeping have all been very good. Our rooms have all been clean and well kept while cruising. I realize this all looks glowing and it really is! We have been on the big ships but just do not feel that is a good way to spend our money.

5 years ago

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CAROL A JORDAN Randallstown, MD

I have previously done two cruises with American and have another coming up shortly. Their staff is wonderful, the food is delicious, the tours are unbelievable. I'm a solo traveler and couldn't be more comfortable than I am with American. I feel safe and happy whether I'm on the ship or out and about on a tour. I wouldn't travel in the US with any other cruise line!

5 years ago

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Thelma Jean Gosney Belton, TX

We Love the meeting of new friends on board American Cruise Ships. Being older we are able to get around to all activity where everyone is helpful and nice. We have seen up close mountains, whales, bears and dolphins. So many things can be seen from these small ships. Hope to celebrate our 70 th wedding Anniversary on board an American Cruise Ship. Mrs Gosney

5 years ago

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JO New Milford, CT

We had never been on a cruise and my husband hates crowds, so small boat cruising was a compromise. We booked an Alaska adventure and there was no compromise. It was wonderful. The service, the side excursions, the food were all wonderful. My husband is 6'2" and had no complaints about the balcony, the cabin or even the bathroom. The captain made sure we had time to experience the wonders of Alaska, even stopping to let us watch a mother bear and two cubs playing on the shore and changing course to follow a pod of whales, to give us more time to watch them. All things your big ships don't do. We have since bee on a river cruise and will be going to Puget sound this year with American.

5 years ago

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S dele Tucson, AZ

A wonderful cruise line. If you like small ships beautiful sailing and a staff who truly understand and embrace customer service. They don’t do it because it’s a job but because they love what they do. We have taken one cruise last year going another in a few months and already talking about what cruise to take after this one. We can’t say enough about our e tire experience. Everyone is treated like family respected and no is not in anyone’s vocabulary. We think they are the BEST!!

5 years ago

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T&S Kraft1 Royal Oak, MI

The staff and the food are highlights for us. Next comes the excursions during the day. The cabins are very nice especially those with balconies (although they are small). On our two cruises we have enjoyed the people very much but we would like there to be more age diversity. Apparently, the younger crowd has not discovered American Cruise LInes!

5 years ago

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David R Busby Alabaster, AL

We had a wonderful time on our very first cruise this past year. Every crew member was awesome. Smile on their faces everyday. The food was simply great. Enjoyed having a menu instead of a food trough. The excursions at each stop were alot of fun and informational. The small ship allowed us to meet and get to know our fellow passengers. We have already booked another cruise for this year 2020.

5 years ago

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Edward Rocereta Adel, GA

From boarding until disembarkation, the trip was perfectly organized, the staff friendly and helpful and the ship clean and cozy. Cruising a river, in our case the lower Mississippi, is by far superior to ocean cruising because of the various planned stops at interesting cities and the option of taking trips at these cities to historically significant sites. We look forward to our next trip with American Cruise Lines.

5 years ago

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Judith Zaleski Springfield, IL

My husband & I have been on 4 cruises withAmerican Cruise Line and currently have 3 more booked. We have enjoyed each cruise. We especially like all of the Staff, always smiling, very friendly and will try to meet whatever needs that you may have. Like the size of the ships, the people that we meet, really like the expert lectures, the itineraries, and the food choices.Overall each of our experiences have been excellent.

5 years ago

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Robert Herndon Brandon, MS

I love the overall experience, particularly the historical lectures we received on the Lewis and Clark Columbia River trip. It was outstanding as was the added Snake river trip. The knowledge of the lecturers was outstanding and, even though I have read several accounts of the Lewis and Clark expedition, I learned a good deal more about it from the lectures

5 years ago

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Marilyn Cantey Campbell, CA

I’m signed up for my 10th cruise in May. What I like best is the small size of the ships. 90-100 passengers. I know you’re building bigger ships now, but I like the smaller ones best. I’ve been on the Independence twice, Cabin 220 and will be on her again in May. The food and shore excursions are great. Don’t know what I like least, maybe since I’m a Renaissance and Classical musician, some of the evening entertainment. I like the lectures of local history, flora and fauna best.

5 years ago

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Kathleen Mary Rose Northridge, CA

I travel alone. I found the staff on the Constitution very helpful with planning my itinerary. My room was perfect for me. Since I was busy meeting new and wonderful fellow travelers, I did not miss not having a balcony! The ship has a large balcony on the 4th floor where my new friends gathered at the end of the day to share our daily experiences. Looking forward to my next trip.

5 years ago

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Kathleen Chapman Virginia, MN

We loved our riverboat cruise on the Columbia River. We enjoyed the trips onshore and found going through the locks to be extremely interesting. The food was more than plentiful and very, very good. The staff was phenomenally helpful. The jet boat ride on the Snake River was very interesting and fun. The entertainment in the evening was always very, very good.

5 years ago

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Linda Cedaredge, CO

We took their Mississipi River Cruise and I would highly recommend it. The boat is small enough that you get to know your fellow passengers. Each suite has its own balcony. The crew is amazingly helpful and polite. They go the extra mile to accommodate your wishes. We loved it so much that we booked one of their Alaska cruises. You won’t be sorry if you choose this cruise line.

5 years ago

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Ellyn L Wasserbeck Richwood, OH

We have comleted our third cruise with American Cruise lines. This compnay does it right. We like it for the small ship and passenger feel. This makes it a more personal attention to detail. The venues are terrific. My absolute favorite was the Columbia/Snake River trip. The food is terrific and not that fancy "what is this" thing. They go above and beyond to make sure your trip is a great one. Thanks American Cruise Lines.

5 years ago

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ART Long Branch, NJ

A river boat trip on the Columbia and Snake rivers is a journey through some of America's most spectacular scenic countryside. American Cruise Lines itinerary provides stops at points of interest that are both unique and wonderful to see. In addition to the sights, our trip provided a valuable history lesson as we traveled the paths of Lewis & Clark and other early explorers. We did it in style and saw the same great country they did decades ago.

5 years ago

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South Texas Victoria, TX

Boat was somewhat difficult to find and not very handy, quite a walk to boat. Sure appreciate cruise employees taking bags so did not have to carry all the way to boat. Once on food was great and employees very professional from getting on to deportation. Negative would be inside cabin thermostat hard to set and announcements not coming in all the time.

5 years ago

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Donnie and Dianne Shelton Louisville, KY

Hudson River Cruise was great. Enjoyed the tours with Robert and the walk through little Italy, NY. Food was outstanding and appreciative Kenny and Eric the chef . The servers Alli, Gabbi and all were very friendly and eager to make our dinning experience the best. Entertainment was wonderful especially Robert and Stephanie, and the lady that sung patriotic songs.

5 years ago

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Jack Blachly Frisco, TX

This was my third cruise with ACL and like the others it was perfect. The management and staff went out their way to make sure everything was exceptional. Hannah B was our cruise director and you could not have a better representative on board your ships. Cruising the Mississippi constantly presents obstacles and Hannah made the changes seamless.

5 years ago

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Carl Schroeder Saint Paul, MN

Some memories of our cruise: 1. Because of the smaller size of the boat and its design, it's possible to get anywhere on board in a couple of minutes. 2. A friendly and comfortable way to vacation; the members of the crew will help you (or each other for that matter) with a smile and good nature. 3. The food and food service are excellent; they work hard to provide a good experience for the passengers. 4. The excursions and scenery are world-class.

5 years ago

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Cecile E. Johnson Angleton, TX

Except for room 318 our original room that flooded during the night bathroom and bedroom , being moved to 414 and two nights later that room flooded twice in one day. We did not put anything down the toilet that should not have been in there. We have taken over 25 river cruises so we know how the system works and believe me this has never happened to us before. I feel American Cruise Lines owes us some kind of compensation for the inconvenience that we had to endure. My husband asked Amelia for an American Cruise Line hat, she said she would get him one but he never did receive it. Todd was a fantastic riverlorian, he really knew his history. Could have listened to him for hours. The food was excellent. The entertainment was a lot better than the Mark Twain tour. I suggest you have happy hour not the same time as dinner. It was too early and then eat your meal

5 years ago

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Carol Hernandez Anaheim, CA

We have cruised with American Cruise Lines 6 times over 6 years. The service & friendliness of the crew is excellent. The food & dining experience is superb. And coctails & wine are all inclusive. Our stateroom (not a suite) is spacious & comfortable. We love the breakfast room service. There is always a choice of excursions which are excellent. Booked our 7th cruise for 2020.

5 years ago

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Sonny Donaldson Montgomery, TX

Cruise was most enjoyable. The itenarary was excellent. The staff was friendly and exceeded expectations . Captain S was most engaging about the cruise, his experience and the operation of the boat. Special recognition for service and courtesy goes to Kegen, Jason, Olivia and Loretta. The entertainer from New Orleans was the best with the couple the first to nights a distance second.

5 years ago

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Virginia Stein Plano, TX

Have been on 3 cruises - #4 upcoming. Staff and food great and friendly. Ships are clean and rooms spacious. Great mix of passengers ages from 50 to 89. Love the excursions, history of the area and onboard programs and entertainment.

1 year ago

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CLARK GASIOR Sylvan Lake, AB

The staff was Excellent! The ship Very disappointing The excursions , disappointing, we did the 2 week, online pre-booking, and we were not registered for several. The ship stairway carpet was extremely worn, and also torn in one spot. River Lounge not vacuumed every day. Stateroom not cleaned very well. A pair of shoes under the bed, from previous guest. The back of a chair very dirty, when we boarded and the whole time we were on the ship. Not advertised as non-smoking, they reluctantly let us smoke at the back of the ship(fine), no seating and no ashtray. The whole top deck is open, surely a couple of tables could be provided.

1 year ago

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Pat Rieley

My husband and I loved the boat’s decor and cleanliness, friendliness of staff, food offerings, excursions, entertainment, helpfulness, communication, and the attitude of ACL representatives they couldn’t do enough for you!

1 year ago

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Richard White Dayton, TX

Customer service during the reservation process was excellent. The food, accommodations and service were outstanding!! The excursions left a little to be desired. Too much drive time for too little time spent at sites. Could not get in one because the key would not fit. We like to visit a place and spend time there, so perhaps this is not our kind of vacation.

1 year ago

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Roger & Sara Taylor Elgin, IL

Our experience was amazing! The crew, from the officers, to the wait staff, to housekeeping did everything they could to make sure we had the best possible experience. We enjoyed the smaller number of people; it seemed more friendly than on the larger boats. Have already booked our next cruise with them.

1 year ago

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Georgetta Miears Tuttle, OK

Wonderful cruise. The staff were all exceptional. The entertainment was amazing and the excursions were very informative and interesting. Food was great and no buffets which I enjoyed. The most relaxing trip I have ever taken. I would highly recommend it.

1 year ago

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Lynn Moak Austin, TX

This was a new ship, and we viewed it as a new house with a punch list. Food was marvelous; crew went out of their way to provide everything that anyone asked for, including non-alcoholic beverages. Did a good job keeping us out of the hurricane and keeping us entertained while constrained to the ship.

1 year ago

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Mike

We've been on 10 of their small-ship cruises and enjoyed them all. The best one was the inside passage of Alaska and the second best was the Columbia/Snake Rivers trip. We like the food and the small number of traverlers, typically 75 to 175 or so.

2 years ago

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RLF Ocala, FL

very nice rooms, nice balcony, friendly staff, food was good, tours were good, could have had vegetarian menu for my wife, I have been on a lot of ocean cruises there was no movement compared to them. music entertainers were good

2 years ago

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Karen Broido Davis, CA

I enjoyed the food and lectures, but there was no wifi, Upon leaving the ship to fly home, we were told to take bus A, which would take us to the Delta Terminal. I was with my 100 year old mom and had 5 pieces of luggage. The bus driver said he couldn’t take us to that terminal, and had never been able to do so because the bus was to high to get through to it. If I’d been told this we would have made other arrangements!We were taken to the international terminal. My cousin got me a cart and helped me get the luggage onto the cart. I had ordered a wheelchair for my mom, but there was no skycap around. So with my mom walking with her walker and me pushing the cart, we finally found a skycap and made it to the Delta terminal. When I called American Cruise Lines customer service about this, instead of apologizing, she said, well we got you to the airport didn’t we!

2 years ago

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Mary Karish Houston, TX

I enjoyed the itinerary, the inhouse entertainment and the story teller. The rooms were great, and the GM did his best to address issues as they arose. However, they can do a lot better with their meal selection and availability. They had had to ration bread at dinner, and even then, the bread quality was midiocre. Also, the meals could have used a better uplift. They served expensive cuts of meat, but they all tasted the same. No flavor. Also, for their cafe, aside from serving junk food, consider serving salads, sandwiches or healthy snacks instead of hamburgers and hotdogs.

2 years ago

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cruisetalk Deptford, NJ

They have small ship cruising down to a science! It is perfect for 50 plus guests because there are no children (I have grandchildren but I enjoy different activities with them!) and they plan all the excursions for you - most are included in the price!

2 years ago

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Jerry Jensen St. George, UT

We had a FANTASTIC experience on the Columbia River Cruise. The excursions were great and very educational. Food was over the top great! Our cabin was clean and comfortable. The entertainment and area talks were excellent. We signed up for 2 more this fall.

2 years ago

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James Newman Grand Blanc, MI

American Cruise Lines travel in and around the U. S. taking you to many interesting places on each voyage. The services is first rate. The crew is friendly and efficient. The boats are neat and clean. Shore excursions are well planned and go to interesting places.

2 years ago

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Vincent Fusca Springfield, VT

Lower Mississippi River cruise in May 2022 was truly superb and recommend this cruise to anyone looking to try a river cruise. The service was first-class and the shore excursions were well planned and executed. The hotel team were fun and engaged. The boat crew were very skilled and worked well with the hotel team.

2 years ago