Overview of the Experience
Written: Jan 10 '00
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Product Rating:
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Pros: Historic, relaxing
Cons: Too slow-paced for many people
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| EFoss195's Full Review: Mississippi Queen |
As a former Chief Purser of this vessel perhaps I'm a bit biased, but I'll try to be objective.
Delta Queen Steamboat Company is the BEST at doing what it does ... providing overnight cruise experiences in the heart of America. With the most recent Mississippi Queen renovation, this vessel has become as close to authentic as it's ever going to get (without sacrificing modern day conveniences such as hot tubs and elevators).
You'll never suffer from a language barrier here: the crew all speak fluent English. In fact, the vast majority are Americans. Some would say service isn't as good as on larger ships. I say that the service is outstanding, but it is American service - not European service. That's not a bad thing, just a different thing. The food is also excellent, but it is very much Americanized cuisine with a strong southern influence. (If you want gourmet European cuisine, don't cruise American rivers.)
The rooms are small by modern standards (especially the inside cabins), but the suites are a nice size. They are all decorated in traditional Victorian style and aren't like any other cabin you've cruised in before. Splurge for a veranda cabin if you can, especially on the Ohio and Upper Miss. rivers.
The entertainment is also very good, although it's very much geared to an older crowd. Big Band music abounds in the evenings and banjo and ragtime piano are the big draws in the Paddlewheel Lounge.
The thing about this vessel, as with all DQSC vessels, is that it is what it is. It's slow-moving and laid-back. The ports-of-call are small towns ... historic, but not terribly exciting. The people are warm and genuine and gracious. This cruise, in short, is a step back in time. It's a wonderful vacation if that's what you're looking for. If, however, you need lots of energetic activities, Vegas-style shows, plenty of chrome and neon and exotic ports you'd be better off cruising the Caribbean.
If you're still reading, then you'll need to decide on which river to cruise. Each area is a very different experience. The southern Mississippi is what most people opt for the first time, but frankly the scenery is pretty bland for a good part of it. (You see more levies than anything else.) While the plantation homes are magnificent and abundant, the heat can be a real killer even in the late spring and early fall. The upper Mississippi, however, is generally very pleasant weather-wise and truly beautiful. The locks are a lot of fun to experience and the ports are easy to walk around in and very interesting from a historical perspective. (Shore excursions make the most of this fact.) The Ohio River is also a great alternative. Similar to the Upper Mississippi in appearance and atmosphere, I'd take that cruise before heading south ... although the Upper Miss will always be my personal favorite.
And one final word on cabin selection: do NOT book a room with only an upper and lower berth if neither of you are able to climb up a ladder! Despite what your travel agent might tell you, you will NOT get a better upgrade deal onboard. In fact, there's a good chance there won't even be an open cabin to upgrade to! Do everyone a favor - especially yourself - and book a cabin you'll be comfortable in to start with.
*DO ask to talk with the Captain personally. (Maybe invite him to join you after dinner.) They're fascinating people and very willing to mix with the passengers. In fact, feel free to invite any crew member to join you for a bit. Non-officers may have to get special permission, but the goal is to please the passenger here so there's a good chance your request will be met!
*DO take the time to talk with your cabin attendant and the other crew members you see working around the boat. They all have interesting stories about how they came to be there.
*DO consider extending your cruise with a stay in your final city. It's a good way to end a vacation.
*DO take a good book and a travel diary - and get ready to RELAX!
Recommended:
Yes
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Epinions.com ID:
EFoss195
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Member: Elizabeth Foss
Location: Naples, FL
Reviews written: 10
Trusted by: 2 members
About Me:
Travel agent with over 20 years experience; specializing in cruises and Disney travel
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