This cruise line is bringing European Christmas market sailings to the US
You don’t have to go all the way to Europe to take a Christmas market cruise. American Queen Voyages is teaming up with Natchez, Mississippi, to launch a series of stateside sailings inspired by the popular overseas itineraries.
The Christmas Markets Experiential Voyages will take place along the Mississippi River in 2023 and 2024.
“We are delighted to be partnering with the City of Natchez for our new Christmas Markets cruises,” American Queen Voyages President Cindy D'Aoust said in a news release. “Natchez is the quintessential Christmas town, making it the perfect place for our guests to enjoy this festive fusion of European yuletide nostalgia and authentic Southern charm.”
When are the Christmas Markets Experiential Voyages?
The cruises will sail in November and December of 2023 and 2024, beginning with a nine-day cruise on Nov. 26. The sailings will take place on the line’s American Countess and American Queen vessels, which can accommodate 245 and 417 guests, respectively.
What can guests expect from the Christmas Markets Experiential Voyages?
Natchez will host a Christmas market created especially for passengers on the cruises – though it will also be open to the public – where they can shop for holiday treats and handmade goods from local artisans.
Guests on the sailings can also warm up by bonfires, hear live carols, take photos with Santa Claus and sip drinks like hot chocolate. If you’re feeling extra festive, there will be Christmas cocktails on offer, too.
Exact ports vary by cruise, but the itineraries include New Orleans, Memphis, Baton Rouge, Vicksburg, St. Francisville and more.
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How much do the Christmas Markets Experiential Voyages cost?
Prices vary by sailing, but the Nov. 26 cruise from Memphis to New Orleans currently starts at $2,499 per person based on double occupancy, according to the line’s website. The fare includes one night in a hotel before the sailing, all meals, Wi-Fi and more.
Nathan Diller is a consumer travel reporter for USA TODAY based in Nashville. You can reach him at ndiller@usatoday.com.
This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: You don't have to go Europe to take a Christmas market cruise
