Day 1. Depart London, Arrive New Orleans

Make your way to London Heathrow for your flight to New Orleans today. On arrival, be met at the airport and transferred to your hotel.

Two Nights: The Roosevelt New Orleans

Day 2. New Orleans

After a Welcome Breakfast this morning, embark on a sightseeing tour of New Orleans. Later, head for the nearby swampland, where a high-speed airboat adventure will take you skimming over the famous bayous and right up close to the native alligators. Tonight, dine at Antoine’s Restaurant, which has been serving delicious French-Creole cuisine in the heart of New Orleans since 1840.             BD

Day 3. New Orleans, Embark Mississippi River Cruise

Today board your luxury boutique-sized paddlewheeler for the start of your cruise along one of America’s most famous rivers - the Mississippi. After settling in, this evening, head for the Dining Room and enjoy a Welcome Dinner.

Seven Nights: Queen of the Mississippi - stay in a spacious Twin Window Stateroom       BLD

Day 4. Oak Alley

Disembark your ship at Oak Alley today - an historic mansion and plantation. Here, wander under a 240-metre-long canopy of towering oak trees that were planted in the early 18th century. Then enjoy a tour of the wonderfully restored Greek-revival-style antebellum mansion and its impressive grounds, before returning to your ship.       BLD

Day 5. Baton Rouge, St Francisville

This morning in Baton Rouge, perhaps tour the Old Louisiana State Capitol. Or, you may like to tour the Louisiana Culinary Institute and enjoy a cooking demonstration. Return to your ship for lunch, then cruise to the town of

St Francisville. Here, embark on a tour of the home and grounds at Rosedown Plantation.            BLD

Day 6. Natchez

In the state of Mississippi on a bluff overlooking the river, Natchez was a wealthy and important city before the Civil War. On an Historic District Tour here, you’ll visit Longwood Mansion, an octagonal house that was never completed due to the onset of the war. You’ll also see many of the city’s restored homes and buildings, including fine examples of antebellum architecture.      BLD

Day 7. Vicksburg

As the site of a 47-day siege during the American Civil War, this morning’s port of call - Vicksburg, Mississippi – is bursting with history. On disembarking here, explore the Vicksburg National Military Park, which commemorates the famous campaign, siege and defence of Vicksburg in 1863. Take a narrated coach tour of the battlefields then drop in to the visitor centre. Later, return to your ship and set out cruising towards the city of Memphis.         BLD

Day 8. Cruising the Mississippi River

Take advantage of a full day on the river today, passing the sights of Arkansas on your left and Mississippi on your right. Perhaps take part in some of the onboard activities.       BLD

Day 9. Memphis

Disembark this morning in Memphis, Tennessee - the city that many consider to be the home of rock’n’roll. Here, take in the sights during a guided tour. Then head to Graceland - the former home of Elvis Presley. This evening, indulge in a Farewell Dinner.               BLD

Day 10. Disembark Mississippi River Cruise, Memphis

Disembark for the final time this morning and transfer to your hotel. The entire day is then yours at leisure to further explore Memphis as you choose.

Stay: The Peabody Memphis      BD

Day 11. Memphis, Franklin, Nashville

Travel via the unique Southern town of Franklin to Nashville. Here, take a backstage tour at The Grand Ole Opry House, which hosts an iconic weekly stage concert and radio broadcast that showcases the stars of country music. Afterwards, on a city tour, discover the places that have earned Nashville its reputation as the heartland of country music.

Two Nights: Nashville, Sheraton Nashville Downtown Hotel or similar     B

Day 12. Nashville

Today begins with a visit to The Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum, followed by a backstage tour of the Ryman Auditorium. This evening, enjoy a Country and Western Farewell Dinner and Drinks.       BD

Day 13. Depart Nashville

Today, you’ll transfer to the airport for your return flight.             B

Day 14. Arrive London.