Gulf Coast Cruise
New Orleans, LA to Pensacola, FL
Pensacola, FL to New Orleans, LA
Join us on this new adventure along the stunning shores of the Gulf Coast. Explore the rich maritime and military history of Pensacola. Stroll along the charming historic streets of Mobile, home to the renowned USS Alabama Battleship and the first Mardi Gras celebration.
Discover the scenic beauty of the Pascagoula waterfront, which has been a hub for shipbuilding and fishing for centuries. Experience the relaxed atmosphere of Ocean Springs, a picturesque town renowned for its arts scene, great restaurants, and delightful small-town atmosphere. A highlight of this journey is a visit to Fort Massachusetts on West Ship Island, which served as a key defense point in the 19th century and remains a fascinating stop for history enthusiasts.
As your journey comes to an end, immerse yourself in the vibrant culture of New Orleans, where you can indulge in its jazz scene, French Quarter, world-class cuisine, and magical charm.
Upcoming Dates & Fares
Itinerary
Map & Itinerary Overview
Join us on an adventure along the Gulf Coast, exploring the maritime history of Pensacola and the historic streets of Mobile. Discover the scenic beauty of Pascagoula, the artsy town of Ocean Springs, and the historic Fort Massachusetts. Experience the jazz scene, French Quarter, and vibrant culture of New Orleans.
Day 1 - New Orleans, LA
Explore this vibrant and culturally rich port city located on the banks of the Mississippi River, offering a unique blend of history, music, and cuisine. Famous for its lively French Quarter, discover its historic streets lined with colorful Creole townhouses, jazz clubs, and world-famous eateries serving Cajun and Creole delicacies. The city’s diverse heritage is showcased in attractions like St. Louis Cathedral and the National WWII Museum. New Orleans is also known for its annual Mardi Gras celebrations, featuring grand parades and elaborate costumes. Whether you're savoring beignets, visiting museums, or experiencing live music, New Orleans offers an unforgettable experience.
Day 2 - Day of Cruising
Board your ship and receive a warm greeting during the Welcome Reception, where you’ll have the chance to meet your fellow travelers and get to know the crew. As the ship sets sail, relax on deck and take in the panoramic views of New Orleans as you cruise through the Mississippi River and out into the Gulf of Mexico.
Day 3 - Biloxi / Ship Island, MS
From our ship docked in Biloxi, take a ferry to explore Ship Island, part of the Gulf Islands National Seashore. Admire its pristine white-sand beaches, crystal-clear waters, and a peaceful natural environment. Explore the island’s diverse wildlife, including abundant bird species, making it a great spot for birdwatching and photography.
Historically, Ship Island played a pivotal role during the Civil War, serving as a Union military base, and home to the well-preserved Fort Massachusetts, built in the 1800s. Explore the fort’s architecture, learn about its strategic importance during the war, and admire breathtaking views of the Gulf Coast.
In addition to its historical and natural attractions, Ship Island offers activities like fishing, kayaking, and boat tours, making it a perfect destination for outdoor adventures.
Day 4 - Ocean Springs, MS
For those cruising along the Gulf Coast, Ocean Springs is a peaceful escape, offering a chance to unwind, eat delicious seafood, and enjoy local art and culture. Just a short drive from Biloxi, Ocean Springs offers a quieter, less commercialized experience compared to other Gulf Coast cities.
Founded by French settlers in the early 1700s, the town has a rich history that can be explored at landmarks such as Fort Maurepas and the Ocean Springs Museum of History. Delicious Gulf Coast cuisine is never far from port, with local specialties such as shrimp, oysters, as well as Southern comfort cuisine, including dishes like gumbo, po'boys, and fried catfish, available on board and ashore.
For art aficionados, Ocean Springs is home to numerous galleries, with works ranging from traditional to contemporary and has a historic district filled with charming streets, shops, cafes, and restaurants. This small-town feel, combined with the Southern charm, makes it a welcoming place to stop and explore.
Day 5 - Pascagoula, MS
With a deep and storied maritime heritage rooted in its strategic location along the Gulf Coast, Pascagoula has been a hub for shipbuilding and fishing for centuries. Its maritime history dates back to the early 19th century when it became a crucial center for shipbuilding, particularly during World War II. Today, it is home to the Ingalls Shipbuilding yard, one of the largest and most advanced shipyards in the world, producing military vessels for the U.S. Navy.
The towns rich cultural tapestry, influenced by its historical Native American, French, Spanish, and African American populations, is particularly evident in its multicultural community events, local cuisine, and historical preservation efforts that celebrate different ethnic traditions.
Pascagoula is also known for its stunning coastal landscapes, featuring pristine beaches along the Gulf of Mexico and the Pascagoula River, one of the longest free-flowing rivers in the U.S. With a combination of marshlands, riverfront vistas, and sandy shores, Pascagoula's coastal environment is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.
Day 6 - Mobile, AL
Situated on the Gulf of Mexico, this vibrant city is known for its rich history and strategic location as a major port city. Founded as the first capital of French Louisiana in 1702, the city’s colonial history is evident in landmarks like the Fort Conde and the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception.
Mobile is also the birthplace of Mardi Gras in the U.S, predating the celebrations in New Orleans. During this time of year, a colorful festival with parades, balls, and other festivities is held throughout the city, attracting thousands of visitors every year. Visit the Mobile Carnival Museum which offers an exciting journey into the rich history of Mardi Gras.
Discover The USS Alabama Battleship Memorial Park, featuring the historic battleship, a World War II-era vessel of the same name, which visitors can explore along with other military artifacts and planes.
Day 7 - Pensacola, FL
Located in the Florida Panhandle, Pensacola is a hidden gem for cruise travelers seeking the perfect blend of historical charm and natural beauty.
Pensacola’s history dates back to 1559, making it one of the oldest settlements in the United States. Boasting an incredible maritime heritage, guests can explore landmarks like the historic Pensacola Lighthouse, Fort Barrancas, and the National Naval Aviation Museum which offers visitors a deeper understanding of the U.S. Navy's history.
The city's natural landscape is equally compelling, with pristine white sandy shores and emerald-green waters providing a breathtaking backdrop for exploration. Discover the charming downtown area, which features unique shops, lively cultural events, and vibrant restaurants that offer an exceptional culinary experience, particularly for seafood lovers.
Day 8 - Pensacola, FL
As your Gulf Coast cruise comes to an end, disembark in this charming city after bidding farewell to the ship and your fellow travelers. Begin the journey home, carrying with you unforgettable memories of sun-soaked days and scenic coastal views.
Our Gulf Coast itinerary comes complete with a Hotel Stay, providing you with a seamless way to board the ship and explore the local area.
On the morning of the cruise, meet in the hotel lobby and we will transport you to the ship to begin your cruise. All luggage will be brought directly from the hotel and placed in your stateroom aboard the ship.
As you embark upon your journey, enjoy a Welcome Aboard Reception with cocktails, hors d’oeuvres and entertainment. Meet the crew, your onboard experts, and fellow guests. Learn more about the wonderful adventure ahead of you.
Visit this historic Civil War-era fort offering a fascinating glimpse into the past. Explore its stone walls, cannons, and underground chambers while learning about its role in the Union's defense strategy during the Civil War. Knowledgeable guides share stories of the fort’s construction, military history, and the soldiers who once guarded the Gulf Coast. Surrounded by beautiful views of the Gulf of Mexico, this excursion provides a unique combination of history, education, and scenic relaxation.
Embark on this adventure, where you can experience the Gulf Coast's rich maritime heritage firsthand. Hop aboard a traditional shrimp boat and join the crew as they demonstrate the age-old techniques of shrimping, from casting nets to sorting the catch. Along the way, learn about the region’s thriving seafood industry and its important role in Biloxi’s economy. After the catch, enjoy a hands-on opportunity to sort and identify the different marine life, before returning to shore to savor the day's fresh shrimp.
Visit Beauvoir, the historic estate once home to Confederate President Jefferson Davis, located on the beautiful Biloxi coastline. This 19th-century mansion offers a glimpse into the past, with guided tours showcasing Davis’s life and the Civil War era. Explore the well-preserved house, the well-manicured grounds, and the Confederate cemetery, where many of Davis’s associates are buried. Learn about the history of the South through exhibits and artifacts as you enjoy breathtaking views of the Gulf of Mexico.
Aboard an airboat, take an exhilarating journey through the untouched wilderness of Moss Point's pristine swamplands. Your expert guide will navigate you through a sprawling 105-acre natural sanctuary, where the rhythmic hum of the airboat's powerful fan blades cuts through the serene landscape. As you glide across the water's surface, encounter alligators basking on partially submerged logs. A diverse array of birds, from great blue herons to osprey, will soar overhead, while beneath the water's surface, schools of fish dart between cypress knees and tangled roots.
Step back in time as you discover the La Pointe-Krebs House, formerly known as the Old Spanish Fort, Mississippi's oldest documented dwelling and a remarkable testament to Gulf Coast colonial history. Explore this meticulously preserved structure offering an intimate journey through three centuries of architectural and cultural transformation. Get rich insights into the region's complex heritage as you learn about the diverse inhabitants who called this landmark home, from early French settlers to Spanish colonists and local families.
Canopied by a grove of century-old oaks and adorned with fine antiques and crystal chandeliers, the Bragg-Mitchell Mansion offers a rare glimpse into life in the Old South. Built in 1855, it was once the heart of Mobile’s vibrant social scene during the city's heyday as a cotton port. Today, it serves as a museum, providing guided historic tours. As one of Mobile's most photographed buildings, the mansion is a prime example of Greek Revival architecture and stands out for its unique floor plan and elegant design.
This park, dedicated to the men and women of Alabama who have served our country, offers a fascinating and immersive experience for history enthusiasts. Explore the legendary World War II battleship USS Alabama, walk through its vast decks, and see its powerful guns and aircraft. Discover a vast collection of military planes, tanks, and other artifacts as you take a fascinating look into the history of naval warfare and the bravery of those who served.
Take an exciting journey into the rich history of Mardi Gras in the birthplace of this American celebration. Explore elaborate costumes, intricate masks, and vibrant floats that bring the city’s unique Mardi Gras traditions to life. See firsthand the intricate designs and artistry of majestic crowns, scepters, and robes of Mardi Gras monarchs. View videos of past parades and balls.
Pensacola Bay, Santa Rosa Sound, and the Gulf of Mexico are home to many pods of bottlenose dolphins. On this cruise, view wild dolphins in their natural habitat, with the chance to see a variety of pods. You are also likely to encounter other marine life and shorebirds, including sea turtles, stingrays, ospreys, pelicans, cormorants, and schools of fish. As you travel along the National Seashore, pass by landmarks such as Fort Pickens, NAS Pensacola- home of the Blue Angels, the Naval Aviation Museum, and the Pensacola Lighthouse.
Immerse yourself in the world of naval flight as you explore over 150 meticulously restored aircraft spanning military aviation history and representing Navy, Marine Corps, and Coast Guard Aviation. Interactive exhibits showcase legendary aircraft such as the Blue Angels' jets and historic World War II planes. Experience flight simulators, watch live aircraft demonstrations, and discover the courage and innovation of naval aviators through engaging, comprehensive displays.
Discover this historic lighthouse, an active maritime museum dating back to 1859 and located onboard Naval Air Station Pensacola. Climb the 177 steps of the tower for breathtaking Gulf Coast views, explore the meticulously restored keeper's quarters, and learn about maritime navigation history. Engage with interactive exhibits, view notable artifacts, and learn about the lighthouse's crucial role in regional maritime operations and naval heritage.
Why not stay an extra night or two to immerse yourself in the spirit of this vibrant city? Ask your onboard Hotel General Manager for recommendations on area hotels, attractions, and more.
Our Gulf Coast itinerary comes complete with a Hotel Stay, providing you with a seamless way to board the ship and explore the local area.
On the morning of the cruise, meet in the hotel lobby and we will transport you to the ship to begin your cruise. All luggage will be brought directly from the hotel and placed in your stateroom aboard the ship.
Get a flavor for this dynamic region aboard this shuttle which runs on a continuous loop. Drop off points include:
- The Double Tree, a few blocks from Bourbon Street and centrally located near a variety of specialty shops, art galleries, and restaurants.
- Jackson Square set in the heart of the French Quarter overlooking the Mississippi River and across the street from the world-famous Café Du Mont.
- The Historic French Market near the New Orleans Jazz Museum and the Louisiana Historical Center.
- The Louis Armstrong Park located in the Tremé neighborhood, the birthplace of many of New Orleans' most famous jazz musicians.
Activity Level: Low | ADA Accessible: Yes
The National WWII Museum illustrates the epic and global scale of the war that changed the world. Exhibits not only highlight the role of world leaders, but also the everyday men and women who found the strength and courage to accomplish the extraordinary. Personal artifacts and multimedia installations give life to the pages of history, offering a visceral understanding of the era's triumphs and tragedies. From the solemnity of the Holocaust Memorial to the valor of D-Day landings, every corner of the museum resonates with heroism and human resilience.
Activiy Level: Moderate | ADA Accessible: Yes
Why not stay an extra night or two to immerse yourself in the spirit of this vibrant city? Ask your onboard Hotel General Manager for recommendations on area hotels, attractions, and more.
Map & Itinerary Overview
Join us on an adventure along the Gulf Coast, exploring the maritime history of Pensacola and the historic streets of Mobile. Discover the scenic beauty of Pascagoula, the artsy town of Ocean Springs, and the historic Fort Massachusetts. Experience the jazz scene, French Quarter, and vibrant culture of New Orleans.
Day 1 - Pensacola, FL
Check into your hotel and explore Pensacola at your leisure. Located in the Florida Panhandle, Pensacola is a hidden gem for cruise travelers seeking the perfect blend of historical charm and natural beauty. Discover the downtown area, which features unique shops, lively cultural events, and vibrant restaurants that offer an exceptional culinary experience, particularly for seafood lovers.
Day 2 - Day of Cruising
Board your ship and receive a warm greeting at our Welcome Reception. This is the perfect opportunity to meet your fellow travelers and enjoy the scenic views as you spend the afternoon cruising the scenic Gulf Coast.
Day 3 - Mobile, AL
Situated on the Gulf of Mexico, this vibrant city is known for its rich history and strategic location as a major port city. Founded as the first capital of French Louisiana in 1702, the city’s colonial history is evident in landmarks like the Fort Conde and the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception.
Mobile is also the birthplace of Mardi Gras in the U.S, predating the celebrations in New Orleans. During this time of year, a colorful festival with parades, balls, and other festivities is held throughout the city, attracting thousands of visitors every year. Visit the Mobile Carnival Museum which offers an exciting journey into the rich history of Mardi Gras.
Discover The USS Alabama Battleship Memorial Park, featuring the historic battleship, a World War II-era vessel of the same name, which visitors can explore along with other military artifacts and planes.
Day 4 - Pascagoula, MS
With a deep and storied maritime heritage rooted in its strategic location along the Gulf Coast, Pascagoula has been a hub for shipbuilding and fishing for centuries. Its maritime history dates back to the early 19th century when it became a crucial center for shipbuilding, particularly during World War II. Today, it is home to the Ingalls Shipbuilding yard, one of the largest and most advanced shipyards in the world, producing military vessels for the U.S. Navy.
The towns rich cultural tapestry, influenced by its historical Native American, French, Spanish, and African American populations, is particularly evident in its multicultural community events, local cuisine, and historical preservation efforts that celebrate different ethnic traditions.
Pascagoula is also known for its stunning coastal landscapes, featuring pristine beaches along the Gulf of Mexico and the Pascagoula River, one of the longest free-flowing rivers in the U.S. With a combination of marshlands, riverfront vistas, and sandy shores, Pascagoula's coastal environment is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.
Day 5 - Ocean Springs, MS
For those cruising along the Gulf Coast, Ocean Springs is a peaceful escape, offering a chance to unwind, eat delicious seafood, and enjoy local art and culture. Just a short drive from Biloxi, Ocean Springs offers a quieter, less commercialized experience compared to other Gulf Coast cities.
Founded by French settlers in the early 1700s, the town has a rich history that can be explored at landmarks such as Fort Maurepas and the Ocean Springs Museum of History. Delicious Gulf Coast cuisine is never far from port, with local specialties such as shrimp, oysters, as well as Southern comfort cuisine, including dishes like gumbo, po'boys, and fried catfish, available on board and ashore.
For art aficionados, Ocean Springs is home to numerous galleries, with works ranging from traditional to contemporary and has a historic district filled with charming streets, shops, cafes, and restaurants. This small-town feel, combined with the Southern charm, makes it a welcoming place to stop and explore.
Day 6 - Biloxi / Ship Island, MS
From our ship docked in Biloxi, take a ferry to explore Ship Island, part of the Gulf Islands National Seashore. Admire its pristine white-sand beaches, crystal-clear waters, and a peaceful natural environment. Explore the island’s diverse wildlife, including abundant bird species, making it a great spot for birdwatching and photography.
Historically, Ship Island played a pivotal role during the Civil War, serving as a Union military base, and home to the well-preserved Fort Massachusetts, built in the 1800s. Explore the fort’s architecture, learn about its strategic importance during the war, and admire breathtaking views of the Gulf Coast.
In addition to its historical and natural attractions, Ship Island offers activities like fishing, kayaking, and boat tours, making it a perfect destination for outdoor adventures.
Day 7 - New Orleans, LA
Explore this vibrant and culturally rich port city located on the banks of the Mississippi River, offering a unique blend of history, music, and cuisine. Famous for its lively French Quarter, discover its historic streets lined with colorful Creole townhouses, jazz clubs, and world-famous eateries serving Cajun and Creole delicacies. The city’s diverse heritage is showcased in attractions like St. Louis Cathedral and the National WWII Museum. New Orleans is also known for its annual Mardi Gras celebrations, featuring grand parades and elaborate costumes. Whether you're savoring beignets, visiting museums, or experiencing live music, New Orleans offers an unforgettable experience.
Day 8 - New Orleans, LA
Disembark in the city doesn't just claim jazz; it lives it. After eight days of cruising along the historic Mississippi River, our journey has concluded. Filled with lasting memories and a new appreciation for the river's history. As we disembark for the last time, the Mighty Mississippi and the serene landscapes we've encountered offer a quiet goodbye.
