The Mississippi River’s a glorious sight and while boat trips on it are amazing, there’s much to be said about planning a cruise on this magnificent waterway. Are Mississippi River cruises smooth? Yes, they usually are but you have to be prepared, as different weather and geographic conditions can cause choppier waters, so it’s important to secure the right boat and start planning your voyage thoroughly.
Where Does the Cruise Go?
The Mississippi River stretches for thousands of miles and cuts through many U.S. states. As such, there is a multitude of places one can cruise through. Depending on your budget, personal goals and interests, you can plan a shorter or longer journey along the river. Cruises can range from a day’s excursion to week-long ventures.
Most river cruises begin their journeys in the Northern Midwest embarking in cities like St. Paul, Minnesota, and La Crosse, Wisconsin. While St. Paul River cruises may take 2-3 days to complete, longer trips take passengers through states such as Illinois, Iowa, South Dakota and Montana. Some even head to the Gulf of Mexico in New Orleans.
The Nature of the Waters
The Mississippi River runs through several states and while this makes it particularly interesting, it also comes with some risks. Depending on your route, the waters can get choppier or calmer. If you’re not prepared for these changing conditions you could end up with a less than ideal experience.
The nature of cruising on the Mississippi River also depends on the time of year. Summer months usually bring more tranquility to the waters and better conditions for sailing. As such, the most popular time for river cruises is between May and October, though the waters are usually quite smooth year-round.
The Boat Matters
Choosing the right boat is essential for a safe, enjoyable journey along the Mississippi. Not all boats are designed to handle choppier waters, so it’s important to research the types of boats available and get one that’s suited for the journey you’re planning. This will reduce the risk of a catastrophe occurring and make for a much smoother and more comfortable sailing.
Some boats to consider for Mississippi River cruises include luxury yachts, plenty of which come equipped with a dining area, TV lounge and sun deck. Yachts are very safe for river cruises and offer plenty of features for guests to make their experience as smooth and comfortable as possible. However, if you’re looking for a more cost-effective vessel with plenty of amenities, a pontoon boat is a great option. You’d still get plenty of room for a party, extra storage and the essential creature comforts. It’s important to keep these architectural differences in mind when selecting the type of boat you’d like to use.
Amenities and Features
Fortunately, it’s quite possible to make a Mississippi River cruise really enjoyable. With the right amenities and features, you can turn a standard river cruise into an adventure. To make sure passengers remain comfortable and have a blast, luxury yachts are outfitted with large bedrooms, entertainment systems and restaurant-style seating areas. On the additional boats, there will be plenty of amenities that can help to keep everyone warm, happy and relaxed throughout the voyage.
Planning for Emergencies
Above all, safety should always be paramount when taking a Mississippi River cruise. Prior to departure, it’s wise to plan for the worst, so even if the worst happens you are still prepared. One of the best ways to quarter against such emergencies is by having a lifeboat with enough buoyancy to carry the whole crew in the event of a disaster. Additionally, it’s important to take into account the presence of other boats in the area as well as local wildlife.
Each person onboard should be familiar with the basics of survival and how to use the tools and equipment on board in the event of an emergency. The last thing anyone needs is getting caught up in an unexpected situation due to lack of preparedness.
Mind the Weather
It’s also important to take into account the weather conditions. It doesn’t take much for a river cruise to experience some turbulence, so always be sure to monitor the weather reports before embarking. If anything, postpone your journey if the forecast isn’t favorable. Mississippi River cruises usually do good when they have at least a few days of fair weather, which will keep the boat steady throughout the journey.
Finally, it’s also wise to carry a satellite phone on board in case of an emergency. A satellite phone will keep the boat at contact with the mainland and help ensure the crew and passengers stay safe.
Securing the Right Crew
Whether you decide to hire a captain or go with a smaller crew, it’s important to make sure everyone aboard the boat is qualified and reputable. After all, the crew will be responsible for the safety and security of everyone else onboard. As such, it’s important to hire someone who is experienced in handling emergencies and has a good understanding of the Mississippi River waters.
It’s also important to make sure the crew are well-supplied. Boats should come with enough food, water and tools to see everyone through a voyage. Furthermore, the crew should be trained to handle emergencies and they should have all the necessary equipment to help them cope with unexpected situations.
Choosing the Right Route
The route you take will also determine how easy or smooth your journey will be. In addition to routing your trip away from most turbulent waters, it’s wise to choose a route that does not include too many dangerous river crossings. As such, it’s important to obtain detailed charts of the Mississippi River and read up on potential river crossings as well as areas that may be subject to bad weather or changing conditions.
To save time and ensure a smoother journey, it’s wise to plan some pit stops along the way. Take the time to visit landmarks and witness history firsthand as you visit iconic cities and sights. Research what each town specializes in so you can make the most of your visit and sample some authentic southern fare.
Renting or Buying a Boat
Before you finally set off, you’ll also have to decide between a rented boat or purchasing one. Renting is often less costly, but if you plan to take cruising trips frequently it can be worth investing in your own boat. When owning a boat, maintenance is key, so make sure it’s in good condition before the trip and double-check to make sure the boat is well-stocked with all the necessary items for a voyage.
To ensure a smooth trip along the Mississippi River, do your research into the boat types and amenities that will accommodate your needs. It’s worth asking yourself whether you’ll be enjoying a short excursion or a week-long journey and keep in mind the changing weather conditions. Make sure to obtain the right navigational charts and a quality crew, choose a route that will keep the journey smooth, and don’t be afraid to take a few stops along the way. With the right preparations, Mississippi River cruises can be a fantastic experience.
Safety Gear and Supplies
It is important to think carefully when packing for a Mississippi River cruise. You must have essential items such as lifejackets and flares, and it’s important to have enough supplies onboard. Depending on the duration of your voyage, it’s wise to carry additional food, water, blankets and medicines. It’s also important to keep the boat well-stocked with first aid supplies and any tools the crew may need to work on potential repairs. You may also want to bring along some basic items such as backup batteries, flashlights, and an emergency whistle to signal for help if necessary.
As such, it’s important to provide everyone onboard with a first aid and survival kit. Make sure everyone knows the safety procedures and take the time to practice. This will go a long way in making sure everyone remains safe and comfortable throughout the trip.
Technical Knowledge
It’s also crucial that someone onboard knows how to navigate the boat. Someone with nautical expertise should be in charge of the cruise, regardless of whether the captain is someone who’s been hired or an experienced boating enthusiast. Before you embark on your journey, be sure to plan out the journey thoroughly and make sure the captain is familiar with the route. Furthermore, be sure to use the right navigational tools and carry guidelines that can help the captain in case of an emergency.
In addition, it may be beneficial to bring along someone who’s familiar with the latest technologies for relating the boat’s location. GPS and mobile devices can be incredibly helpful in certain situations, so it’s important to bring them onboard and input their exact location.
Navigation equipment is an essential tool when getting ready for a Mississippi River cruise. You’ll need tools such as a depth sounder to measure water depth, a map of the area, and basic tools such as a compass and loran. If you plan to venture off the beaten path, you may need extra navigational equipment. For instance, a GPS is a great way to pinpoint location and a handheld VHF transmitter can help connect the boat with shore stations in case of emergency. Other navigational equipment such as radar systems and satellite phones may be necessary if you plan to take a longer trip.
The navigation equipment you bring must be of the highest quality, as a malfunctioning tool can be responsible for dangerous situations. Before embarking on your voyage, make sure all navigational tools are in good condition and are calibrated, then relearn how to properly use them before setting sail.
