Many people have dreamed of boat travelling down the Mississippi River, but is this really possible? The answer is surprisingly yes, it is – it’s been done before and it’s possible to do it safely and with minimal risk.
The Mississippi is the second longest river in all of the United States. At 2,530 miles long and having a drainage basin of approximately 1.2 million square miles, it is no surprise the journey is quite long and has its risks. Without proper preparation and knowledge of boating on it, the journey is perhaps not for the faint of heart.
The main highlights when travelling by boat on the Mississippi include Louisiana’s swamps, the towering bluffs of Minnesota, remnants of Indigenous American Civilisations from centuries ago, and the many locks that dot the riverbanks. The river also provides stunning views of the countryside along its route.
Before planning any voyage on the Mississippi, it’s important to be aware of the restrictions and regulations in place for those travelling by boat on it. These restrict the speeds boats can travel at and specify when and where boats can be launched, meaning that boats must stick to the designated route down the middle of the river.
Ensuring your safety is paramount to planning an enjoyable voyage. It’s important to research the navigational features of the river, along with the weather conditions, and plan accordingly and include enough provisions. An experienced skipper is a must, as navigation of the Mississippi can become complicated and the currents can be quite strong.
It can take a long time to go the whole length of the Mississippi, so you’ll need to plan your journey carefully and pack plenty of supplies. Most people choose to set off from Lake Itasca at the northmost point of the Mississippi and from there make their way south until they reach the Gulf of Mexico. The journey should generally take around three weeks and you’ll be rewarded with an adventure that few ever experience.
Boating down the Mississippi can be a thrilling and unique experience for the brave adventurer. While it’s essential that safety is the top priority, there is great potential for an unforgettable journey.
Safety Precautions
Making sure your boat is properly equipped is key before embarking on your river journey. Several safety features are official recommendations when travelling the Mississippi River. In order to ensure a safe and successful journey, it is important to make sure that each boat comes equipped with life jackets, a signaling device, basic repair tools, and plenty of communication technologies like a VHF radio.
A recommended way to reduce risk is to travel with a group of boats and people who are experienced in navigating the waters of the Mississippi River and know the navigational landmarks. Having an experienced skipper on each boat can be extremely helpful in making sure the group follows the right markings, manages to dodge the worst of the currents, and has all the knowledge about the river environment beforehand.
It is also important to have proper insurance for your boats and personal travel insurance in case of an emergency situation. This will allow for a greater peace of mind during the voyage and will ensure that any unfortunate incidents can be taken care of properly and with minimal risk.
With all of the rules and regulations in place, it’s important to stay alert and follow the proper safety protocols if wanting to travel down the Mississippi River.
The Mississippi River is littered with sandbars, eddies, and other navigational markers that need to be taken into account when travelling the river. Keeping an eye out for the blue signs that are posted on the opposite side of the shoreline is an important practice while travelling the river. Although they may be hard to see in the distance, they still mark the navigational channels of the river and are extremely important when travelling in a group.
Another important aspect is to familiarize yourself with the currents of the river and how they can be used to your advantage. If a boat is travelling downstream then it is recommended to stay in the middle of the river. On the other hand, if you are going upstream, it is recommended to stay along the sides of the river to avoid going against the current.
It is also important to have a basic knowledge of the main bends of the river and to be familiar with the landmarks it contains. There are several bends and curves throughout the length of the Mississippi, and it is important to be aware of these when boating down it.
Having knowledge of the river and its environment will also provide an opportunity with wildlife sightings. Wild animals, like bald eagles, beavers, and moose, are commonly spotted along the Mississippi. Seeing these species up close will certainly provide a thrill to any journey.
The Cost of Embarking on Such a Journey
The costs for embarking on such a journey are not overly expensive for an individual, but costs can add up quickly. Additionally, it is highly recommended to have a support team following the boaters from nearby towns, in case of emergency.
Reservations for dry-docking spots along the river, fuel costs, sustenance, and various fees are all items that need to be considered when budgeting. All of these fees can add up quickly but can be lessened if provisions and other necessary resources are bought as needed along the journey.
It is also important to keep in mind the costs associated with buying and maintaining a boat before even starting the voyage. Boats in good condition are far safer than a boat that has been neglected or is not properly maintained. So keeping the boat in good condition is necessary and it is recommended to have it inspected by a certified boat mechanic beforehand.
Current Regulations
As with almost any activity on the Mississippi River, no amount of preparation is complete without being familiar with the rules and regulations for it. Watercraft traffic is held to certain standards when travelling the Mississippi River.
For instance, travelling during the night is prohibited, unless a light is affixed to the boat to visibly show it from a distance. Beachcombing and camping along the river are not legal without proper permits. Additionally, discharging waste water and hazardous substances is also not allowed. Finally, fishing and swimming along the river may be done with proper licenses.
Of course, there are cases where rules and regulations are slightly more lax or sometimes even do not apply to the Mississippi. Mississippi River regulations are always subject to change and can vary depending on the area of the river, so it is always recommended to research and uphold the regulations when travelling.
Wildlife Sightings
When travelling the great Mississippi River, a variety of wildlife sighting opportunities can present themselves. The Mississippi is home to bald eagles that soar along the horizon, beavers that can often be spotted in the shallows, deer that forage for food in the trees, and even moose that sometimes venture down from Canada.
In addition to the usual wildlife, the Mississippi is also home to a number of fish species, including bass, catfish, and bluegills. Many of these can be caught with a rod and reel during the seasons that are open for fishing. Not only is fishing a great activity, it is also an excellent way to supplement food for the voyage.
The Mississippi River is also a great location for swimming and sunbathing, two activities that can be enjoyed in the summer months. Swimming along the banks, fishing, and observing the wildlife are just some of the activities that can be enjoyed while boating down the great Mississippi River.
Famous Locations Along the Mississippi
The Mississippi boasts various historic locations, and some of the most famous locations look out onto the river itself. For example, the state capital of Mississippi, Jackson, can be visited while travelling the great river and has piers on its vibrant riverfront where boats can dock and admire the city.
The bustling city of New Orleans, with its vibrant nightlife, historical monuments, and majestic landmark of the French Quarter, can also be seen along the banks of the Mississippi. Here, travellers can stop off to explore the culture of the city and its unique character.
On the other end of the river is the Twin Cities of Minneapolis and Saint Paul. With the spectacular Mississippi River basin and its bridges, the city offers a distinct contrast to the countryside and provides a modern contrast to the more rural areas along the river.
Finally, the nationally-renowned state of Missouri, filled with grandeur and old-world charm, makes up another iconic pitstop along the riverside. Boats can dock up to inspect some of the famous monuments, such as the Gateway Arch, as well as take in the charming architecture and visit the many quaint markets and stores throughout.
Conclusion
Travelling down the full length of the Mississippi River in a boat is a challenge that many are willing to take on. All the precautions should be taken when embarking on such a journey, and with adequate preparation and the right boat, it can be safely achieved.
The sights, experiences, and vistas of the Mississippi River are awe-inspiring and will certainly ensure an incredible journey for those willing to undertake it. Boating down the Mississippi River offers adventurers the chance to explore and experience a unique part of the United States that very few have the opportunity to.
