New Orleans & Mississippi River Gay Daddy Cruise 2027

7 nights from/to New Orleans, Louisiana

January 19 – 26, 2027
Viking River Cruises Viking Mississippi

Come join our intimate and super-friendly group of Gay Daddies, Bears, admirers and friends aboard the Viking Mississippi for cruise on the Mississippi River. Southern charm and hospitality, History and Dixieland jazz, Let the good times roll on the Lower Mississippi! Stretching for 2,350 miles down the United States, from Minnesota's Lake Itasca to the Gulf of Mexico, our new cruises on the "Mighty Mississippi" offer a different type of cross-country journey for the curious explorer—one that allows you to be immersed in American history and culture.

Step on board the newest and most modern ship on the Mississippi with all outside staterooms, private verandas, spacious public areas and our signature, clean Scandinavian design, reimagined for the Mississippi River.

The Lower Mississippi is rich with charm, history and hospitality. Explore historic estates and visit notable Civil War sites. Sample the bustling French-flavored port cities of New Orleans and Baton Rouge. Sway to the tempos of Dixieland jazz, gospel and blues. Savor gourmet Cajun and Creole cuisine, as well as traditional Southern fare. Join us, and see why local Cajuns say, “Laissez les bons temps rouler” (Let the good times roll).

Highlights of the Mississippi River Cruise

Starting and concluding in the lively city of New Orleans, this remarkable journey honors the festive culture and deep roots of a region where music speaks universally, and history is evident at every twist and turn of the river. Experience comfort aboard brand new Viking Mississippi as you explore captivating port cities, including Natchez, showcasing a distinct mix of African, British, and French influences, as well as Baton Rouge, the heart and core of Louisiana.

• Experience New Orleans, famed for the old-world architecture of its iconic French Quarter.

• Discover the historic architectural treasures of the Lower Mississippi.

• Visit St. Francisville, home to over 140 sites on the National Register of Historic Places.

• Explore the oldest city on the Mississippi, Natchez, with over 200 historic Southern estates.

• Honor the memory of a pivotal Civil War battle at the Vicksburg National Military Park.

• Savor the Baton Rouge’s celebrated Cajun and Creole music and cuisine as well as its distinct arts.

• Learn more about the eclectic mix of influences that comprise New Orleans’s rich culture.

Your Ship - Viking River Cruises Viking Mississippi

Hosting 386 guests in 193 all outside staterooms, the new state-of-the-art Viking Mississippi is inspired by our award-winning Viking Longships® and ocean ships feature clean Scandinavian design, as well as public spaces that are familiar to guests but that have been reimagined for Mississippi River voyages. Purpose-built for the Mississippi, the ship's cutting-edge design, expansive windows and comfortable amenities make it the first truly modern cruise ship in the region.

Because we spend so much time in port, the focus is more on the destinations, and less on the actual sailing. That’s why a shore excursion in each port is included in the price of this cruise! Now, there’s no gym on board: you’ll get your exercise exploring the fabulous cities and towns we visit. And there’s no theater with huge Broadway style productions, because you’ll still be in port checking out the local nightlife instead!

That said, you’ll still have plenty to appreciate on board. Service is top notch! According to CruiseCritic, food is “another highlight” with a menu that focuses on regional cuisine and signature dishes that are “"perfectly prepared". The décor throughout is understated and minimalist. Little touches everywhere will amuse, pamper (heated bathroom floors!) and amaze you.

Ship Features
• 193 comfortable all outside staterooms (128 Veranda & Deluxe Veranda Staterooms, 8 French Balcony Staterooms, 24 Penthouse Veranda Staterooms, 16 Penthouse Junior Suites, 7 Terrace Suites, 10 Explorer Suites)
• All suites feature two full-size rooms with large veranda
• Sun Terrace with Infinity Plunge Pool
• Stroll the full 360-degree promenade deck for views of scenic landscapes and regional wildlife
• The Bow, a quiet sitting area at the front of the ship
• Aquavit Terrace, a revolutionary indoor/outdoor viewing area for al fresco dining or an American barbecue experience

• The Explorers' Lounge and Bar with two-story panoramic views of the Mississippi
• River Café, a new way to dine featuring American classics
• Elevators throughout the ship
• Free Wi-Fi (connection speed may vary)
• Self-service launderettes and laundry service
• Intelligent energy-efficient propulsion systems produce less vibrations for a smoother ride
• 42" flat-screen LCD TV with intuitive remote & complimentary Movies On Demand

Stateroom Features
The purpose-built Viking Mississippi offers a wide variety of staterooms for your selection. From Veranda Staterooms to the abundance of extra perks and amenities in our spacious Explorer Suites, there is no finer way to travel. And whichever stateroom you choose, you will find it beautifully designed in the understated elegance for which Viking is known.

Exclusive extras for our group only

• Special discounted rates at our host hotel in New Orleans before and after the cruise.

• Welcome Aboard Party (with free drinks!) - come meet your fellow Daddies and friends in a warm, welcoming, and casual atmosphere. Play our fun mingling/get-to-know-you activity, and start forging friendships that will last a lifetime.

• Free Welcome Aboard Gifts include a lanyard for your sailing card… and then some other surprises!

• Onboard Host/Cruise Director - We'll be there to make sure you have a great vacation. Our colleagues will resolve any issues that may arise, answer questions, and help you enjoy your cruise to the utmost. We'll coordinate and host activities and parties each day—all of which are optional (it's your vacation: pick and choose what you want to be a part of).

• Exclusive excursions just for our group (in addition to the free excursions offered by the ship).

• From our standing group dinner reservation, to our daily happy hour; from our private activities on board to our private excursions in port—you’ll always have a seat waiting for you (if you want it).

• Special Daddy group activities on board (card games, trivia contests, happy hours, parties, etc.)

• We promise your Daddy Cruise experience will far exceed what the cruise line delivers without us. If not, we'll make it up to you.