This was a really great trip. To me the major attraction is the Mississippi River itself and I was able to spend hours on my veranda watching the river and watching middle America pass by at seven miles an hour. The food was exceptionally good from the continental breakfast that appeared in our cabin each morning to the well prepared and tasty dinners at night. Service was exceptional and many of the staff actually remembered my name from previous voyages. Entertainment was excellent and I particularly enjoyed Phil Westbrook who is the consummate lounge entertainer.

The shore excursions fall into two categories: a hop-on hop-off bus tour of the port with local guides narrating the history and traditional type excursions. Both types were interesting and very well done. The social hostess, Suzanne, circulated around the boat throughout the trip answering questions and making everyone feel at home. She is a great addition to the crew.

The one negative thing I have to say is not about the boat but about the included hotel the night before embarkation. The included breakfast at the Hyatt Regency was an absolute disaster. They constantly ran out of food, coffee and even hot water. Getting a fork was a real struggle. Read more