Relaxing on the River

OVER THE YEARS my wife and I have been on three cruises on ocean-going vessels - and they were all wonderful! Our cruise adventures have taken us to the western Caribbean, Alaska, and Scandinavia. These trips solidified in our minds that we did in fact enjoy the total experience of being on the water in the luxurious ships of the Royal Caribbean and Princess lines. But perhaps our most unique amphibious journey occurred when we had the opportunity of relaxing on the river - the Mississippi River. For seven days, we were aboard the Mississippi Queen, a riverboat from the Delta Steamboat Lines. And, it also was wonderful! No doubt, the timing of the trip influenced our evaluation - at least to some extent.

Our riverboat cruise was a celebration of retirement from long professional careers for both of us, and it provided an anniversary extravaganza. It was a gift from our son. The trip began only two weeks after my wife's last day of work, and it ended only two weeks before we headed south for our first winter on the Emerald Coast. Especially for my wife, the riverboat experience was the perfect transitional activity from the world of work to the joys of a lifestyle of leisure.

The Mississippi Queen left port in St. Louis and headed north toward St. Paul. We had a room with a large window - and a veranda - which provided great views of the river and the constantly changing shoreline. As we proceeded northward, autumn leaves became increasingly more brilliant in an array of fall colors. Ports-of-call along the way, and the opportunity for short shore excursions, made our journey even more interesting and exciting. Arrivals and departures of our big boat at the various ports-of-call were always fun! In some places we were greeted with bands; in other places we had crowds on the dock to welcome us, and also to wave good-bye when we steamed out of port. At every stop, the Queen's own calliope sounded out it's musical happy notes!

While steaming up the river, the paddle-wheeler had several decks to explore, and various ways to stay busy for passengers who were so inclined. Many of us took advantage of the deck chairs and the art of "decking" - just sitting on the deck, perhaps visiting, relaxing, and watching the world float by. And, it was quite interesting to be on board as the Queen passed through several locks during her northward journey. A historian of river lore - a "riverloreian" - held special appeal for several of us.
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There was room for over 400 passengers and 157 crew members aboard the Mississippi Queen. In addition to the cabins for passengers and crew, the riverboat featured a dining room, ballroom, fitness center, library, movie theater, beauty salon, barber shop, swimming pool, and shops! Bikes could be brought on board and used during shore excursions. There was plenty to do and multiple opportunities to be active; and yet ample space to do nothing at all. It was always easy to find the time - and a variety of places - to simply relax.
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Meals were exceptionally good throughout our cruise. My wife and I delighted in the fellowship and fun times with our table-mates. All of these individuals became instant friends, and my wife and I have maintained close and long-lasting relationships with four of these fine folks. Along with our table-mates, we decided that shrimp and chocolate goodies were two of the best choices offered at our table - and they quickly became favorites.
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Entertainment and shows on the MQ were top-notch! The performances thrilled us with music, drama, colorful costumes, and good variety. It was a special time that everyone seemed to enjoy each and every evening.

Various steamboat companies offer riverboat cruises on the inland waterways of the United States and other countries. But, I can't imagine anyone doing it better than the Delta Steamboat Lines. If this type of adventure sounds like a good vacation option, check out all the possibilities online - or with any travel agent. From my own personal perspective, a riverboat cruise is an excellent leisure choice. And, the best thing about the entire adventure are the innumerable opportunities for relaxing on the river!