Today, the Mississippi River is the most traveled, richest, and most powerful river in North America. It starts in Minnesota and flows over 2,203 miles through central and southern states to the Gulf of Mexico. The watershed of the Mississippi River covers 32 states and all or part of 31 metropolitan areas. From grand adventures to simpler day trips, the River is a popular destination for travelers, immigrants, fishermen, and other adventurers who wish to explore its versatile waters. People often want to know: is it possible to boat on the Mississippi River?
The answer is yes, you can boat on the Mississippi River. But there are several factors to consider when looking to cruise this beautiful, timeless waterway. First, you should check the laws governing the states or provinces through which the Mississippi River may flow, for each of them has different regulations about the boats and their owners, as well as different water conditions. Knowing the local regualtions and water conditions is key to a safe, enjoyable trip.
For instance, in some places, you may need a permit to be able to operate a boat. In other places, the river will be too shallow and you will need to take a smaller boat. It is also important to observe all speed limits, even on the open water. Be sure to check the advisories of the National Weather Service to stay informed of the current conditions. Also, the Mississippi is subject to storms so be aware of the potential weather-related dangers.
It is highly recommended to check the navigational hazards of the Mississippi too, to stay safe and protect your boat from damage. The US Army Corps of Engineers regularly maintains the navigational channels and produces printable maps for recreational users. You can also take a course about navigation if you are not familiar with using navigational tools.
Boat operators should also take into account the wildlife in the area. Much of the wildlife in the Mississippi River Valley is still recovering from the extensive damage done by development and the massive floods of the 1990s and 2000s. Getting too close to the wildlife, both above and below the water-line, can give them unnecessary stress. It is possible that an animal will try to make contact with your boat, either as a means of subsistence or just curious innocence, so it is important to be aware of your surroundings.
Lastly, you must consider the type of boat you have. Many people have difficulty navigating the Mississippi’s currents and bridges, so larger boats are not recommended. In some places, the waves might be too high and it is advisable to use a smaller, more maneuverable vessel. But whatever type of boat you choose, it is important to understand the river’s various hazards and to be prepared for any eventuality.
Mississippi River Tour Options
If you are looking for a guided tour of the Mississippi River, you can visit the river traveler’s website for an extensive list of options. You can book a cruise that explores the entire river, or select a shorter tour of just a few days. The Mississippi River has many historical places to visit, such as the Grand Canyon, St. Louis, New Orleans, and the Mississippi Delta, just to name a few. You’ll have the opportunity to explore unique communities, seek out wildlife, hunt for fossils, and more.
Most tours offer lodging as part of the package and some have meals as well. Some also provide kayaking and canoeing as part of the tour. When selecting a tour company, make sure they are experienced in the route you are taking to ensure the tour is safe, enjoyable, and educational.
Mississippi River Safety
Whether you are boat on a chartered cruise or are doing an independent tour, it is always important to practice safe boat etiquette, as outlined by the US Coast Guard. Always make sure your boat is properly registered and has all applicable safety devices on board. Wear life jackets and practice proper boat operation, including having the proper safety signage and fire extinguishers on board. Keep your boat under control at all times, checking for depth and staying away from shoals and snags.
Additionally, travelling the Mississippi on a boat comes with its own set of unforeseen navigation hazards. Because of the current of the river, it is easy to loose sight of shallow areas or travel towards unexpected objects that may be obscured by water. Be sure to have a good map and compass and pay attention to the signs along the shore and on the radar.
It is also important to stay aware of the potential dangers of being too close to the riverbanks. The Mississippi can flood during rainstorm, and boats too close to the shore risk being pushed into shore, rocks, and other debris. These conditions can easily create hazardous boating situations.
Lastly, be aware that the Mississippi can become crowded with commercial boats. The most common ones – paddlewheelers, barges, and towboats – navigate the river with little notice to recreational vessels. It’s important to remain aware of their locations and keep your distance.
Mississippi River Prebridge Expeditions
For an unforgettable adventure, consider prebridge expeditions. These are boat trips through some of the most untouched and beautiful sections of the Mississippi River before the bridge crosses. Prebridge expeditions require careful planning and a lot of navigation experience, but the rewards will be worth the effort.
The trip will be full of wildlife watching and cultural discovery, breathtaking landscapes and flora, and of course, plenty of fishing opportunities. You’ll need to plan for camping and hikes since there will be no amenities for miles, so it’s important to be self-sufficient and bring the necessary gear. Don’t forget a good navigational system and map of the area too.
Although the prebridge expedition is an amazing adventure, it is important to only do it with an experienced boat captain with plenty of navigation and river/safety experience. It is not advised to undertake such an adventure without an experienced guide.
Mississippi River Safety Courses
For those who are wanting to boat on the Mississippi River but don’t have the experience, there are a variety of classes and courses available focused on river-based navigation and safety. One popular example is the Mississippi River Safety Course which covers topics such as emergency manuevers, river navigation, and boating laws. The course also provides information on local regulations, weather advisories, and safe operation.
The course also covers tips and techniques for dealing with potential dangers on the Mississippi such as large vessels, river obstacles, and other objects that can ruin a boating trip if not handled properly. Although the course helps with the skills required to navigate the rivers, it is not a guarantee of safety. Knowing the local regulations and weather conditions is still strongly advised.
Conclusion
Yes, it is possible to boat on the Mississippi River. But before taking on this grand adventure, boaters should be aware of the local laws, check navigation maps, and prepare for any potential hazards. A variety of tour companies offer guided trips, and if boaters don’t feel confident in their skills, there are safety and navigation courses available. Whether it is an independent tour or chartered cruise, boating the Mississippi can be a truly rewarding experience.
