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Music Cities Cruise

Memphis, TN to Nashville, TN - Example 9 Day Cruise aboard American Melody
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Embark on a 9-day cruise from Memphis to Nashville aboard the American Melody. Traverse the mighty Mississippi, majestic Ohio, and scenic Cumberland rivers. Experience the charm of historic towns, immerse yourself in local music culture, and enjoy nightly entertainment onboard. Relax and take in the picturesque landscapes and unwind with delightful Southern cuisine and cocktails during daily cocktail hours as you soak in the beauty of America's heartland.
Cruise the rivers of KentuckyBeale Street is on the U.S. National Register of Historic Places,Explore the rivers of AmericaExplore beautiful NashvilleExplore beautiful Nashville
Highlights
  • Explore the rich musical legacy of Memphis on legendary Beale Street
  • Discover the awe-inspiring confluence of the Ohio and Mississippi Rivers in Paducah
  • Experience cruising Lake Barkley and the Cumberland River
  • Enjoy the lively streets and musical heritage of Nashville
Places Visited
Activity Level: Variable
Activity options vary depending on destination and operator. Activity level is determined by the range and intensity of activities you choose to participate in. Discuss with your Trip Planner which options are best for you.
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Full Itinerary

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Day 1: Memphis, Tennessee

Welcome to Memphis, a historic city that rises picturesquely up the hillside from the river, adorned with grand oak trees, lush parks, and historic sites commemorating everything from the Civil War to the Civil Rights Movement. Immerse yourself in its rich musical legacy as you stroll along legendary Beale Street, where music flows from every doorway, and savor the rich flavors and aromas of the city’s famous BBQ. After a day of exploration, return to the comfort of The Guest House. 

Day 2: Cruising the Mississippi River | Embark

The comfort of your ship awaits at the nearby Beale Street Landing, docked along an impressive, recently renovated city park. Be entertained on board by local musicians as you enjoy the afternoon rolling on the mighty Mississippi.

Day 3: Cruising the Ohio River

Design a day just the way you want it. Sleep in. Or greet the morning from your stateroom’s private veranda to read, enjoy the scenery, or watch the ship transit through the Ohio River’s newest lock and dam, completed in 2018 after 23 years of construction.

View the awe-inspiring confluence of the Ohio River emptying into the mighty Mississippi. Make new friends as you savor the chef’s scrumptious creations. Enjoy festive onboard activities, captivating lectures to illuminate the region’s history, plus live entertainment highlighting the region’s diverse musical styles.

Day 4: Paducah, Kentucky

The beautiful Tennessee River empties into the Ohio River just upriver of your ship's dock. Also nearby are confluences with the Cumberland River and the Mississippi. The convergence of these four major river crossroads makes Paducah an important port centralized at the axis.

Wander along the landing to admire more than 50 murals that highlight the region's rich history. Learn the town's importance as headquarters for Civil War General Ulysses S. Grant as he embarked to secure Union control of the rivers. Only a block away, the excellent River Discovery Center illuminates the importance of the rivers to this historic port. View a treasure trove of incredible works of art created with fabric, needle, and thread at the National Quilt Museum.

Inland Waterways Museum - Complimentary Excursion
Paducah’s location at the confluence of the Ohio and Tennessee Rivers makes it unique. The city is home to some of the nation’s largest barge and towing companies. At the Inland Waterways Museum, learn all about the inland waterways and the impact they have on the daily lives of local residents. You can be a captain and choose your vessel type in the state-of-the-art boat simulator, as well as explore and learn about the history, environments, culture, and economy of these rivers through interactive exhibits.
Activity Level: Low | ADA ACCESSIBLE: Yes

Paducah Local Loop - Complimentary Excursion
Discover downtown Paducah at your own pace. Visit the areas many museums, including the Paducah Railroad Museum, featuring equipment and memorabilia from the romantic past of America’s railroads. Stop at the River Discovery Center, which celebrates Paducah’s maritime legacy. Explore the Lowertown Arts District & Neighborhood, listed on the National Register of Historic Places, as well as the Civil War Museum & Tilghman House, an 1852 Greek-revival home, which tells the story of Paducah’s influence during the Civil War. Take time for shopping and walking along the riverfront to view the many wall murals which chronicle Paducah’s past.
Activity Level: Low | ADA Accessibility: Yes

Day 5: Cruising Lake Barkley and the Cumberland River

Cruising the Cumberland River’s Lake Barkley is a special day you can cherish. The 1966 completion of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers’ 57-foot Barkley Lock and Dam pooled the Cumberland River back for 134 miles, creating a curving, stunning collection of coves totaling more than 1,000 miles of shoreline. 

Enjoy the picturesque panorama of grand, sweeping views of craggy limestone bluffs from large windows and private balconies. Between Lake Barkley and the Tennessee River’s Kentucky Lake, paralleling to the west, the Land Between the Lakes National Recreation Area includes more than 170,000 acres of forests, wetlands, and open spaces with roaming herds of elk and bison. Relax and be pampered by the enthusiastic all-American crew, enjoy culinary delights, historical tales from your onboard guest speaker, interactive activities, and visiting with fellow travelers.

Day 6: Dover, Tennessee

At Dover, your ship nestles in at the town’s lovely waterfront park. Locals often welcome the vessel and set up crafts and tasty treats booths. The adjacent bluff is the site of the historic Fort Donelson National Park site, which played a pivotal role in the Civil War. It was there that Union forces led by Ulysses S. Grant won their first surrender during this pivotal early victory in the struggle to gain control of the rivers. Learn about the importance of river transportation during the war and the story of this February 1862 battle, which led quickly to the Union’s capture of their first Confederate state capital at Nashville.

The Cross Creeks National Wildlife Refuge is within Dover, an over 8,000-acre waterfowl and plant life habitat, and the Land Between Lakes National Recreation Area.

Fort Donelson National Military Park - Complimentary Excursion
Once the gateway to the Confederate Heartland, the Battle of Fort Donelson became a key victory for Ulysses Grant and Union forces. Enjoy a warm welcome at the visitor’s center by tour guides who are eager to share their knowledge. After a short introductory film, tour the grounds of the fort, surrender site, and National Cemetery while learning about the military strategies employed by each side and how the Union victory impacted the entire Civil War.
Activity Level: Low | ADA ACCESSIBLE: Partial

Homeplace 1850s Working Farm & Living History Museum – Complimentary Excursion
Travel back in time to this 1850’s working farm. Take time to walk around this historic nature preserve and interact with interpreters dressed in period clothing going about their daily chores that make the farm function. Ask questions about the animals, crops, historic artifacts, structures, and seasonal activities. Enjoy a nice stroll throughout the grounds. Or feel free to hike up your farm boots and give a helping hand to the farmers! Throughout this guided experience, you will see a carpenter shop, a house, an herb garden, a tobacco barn, animal barns, sheep, pigs, geese, chickens, people dressed in period clothing. and have the opportunity to visit the museum/visitor's center. 
Activity Level: Moderate | ADA Accessible Yes

Day 7: Clarksville, Tennessee

On this narrow and gorgeous stretch of the Cumberland River, your ship docks at the beautiful riverfront park at Clarksville. The town is named for General George Rogers Clark, a frontier fighter, Revolutionary War hero, and brother of William Clark of the Lewis and Clark Expedition.

Ramble the waterfront trail along miles of picturesque exploration. View architectural treasures such as the remarkable 1898 U.S. Post Office and Customs House as local guides share the city's historical importance as a major tobacco port during the 1800s. 

Customs House Museum & Cultural Center - Complimentary Excursion
Built in 1898, this building originally housed a U.S. Post Office and Customs House for the flourishing tobacco trade. This architecturally fascinating structure was designed by architect, William Aicken, who was commissioned by President Grover Cleveland. It consists of Italianate ornamentation, a Far East influenced roof, Romanesque arches and Gothic copper eagles perched at the building’s four corners. The museum is among the most photographed buildings in Tennessee. It features rotating shows, fine art galleries and a sculpture garden.
Activity Level: Moderate | ADA ACCESSIBLE: Yes

Fort Defiance - Complimentary Excursion
Fort Defiance was originally a central hub for trading goods and settlement for both the American Indians and white settlers beginning in the late 18th century. During the Civil War, the Fort became a base for the Confederate Troops. But in 1862, the fort was captured by Union Troops and stayed under their command for the remainder of the war. The grounds have been well maintained and preserved since the war ended, so you will truly take a step back in time.
Activity Level: Moderate | ADA ACCESSIBLE: Yes

Downtown Clarksville Shuttle – Complimentary Excursion
Downtown Clarksville is filled with entertainment and activities year-round. Take time to explore this terrific town bordered by the scenic beauty of a major river, a thriving and progressive university, and neighborhoods of people who are passionately committed to their community. Enjoy one-of-a-kind shopping, restaurants, breweries, art galleries and street art, stunning historic architecture and urban trails.
Activity Level: Low | ADA Accessible Yes

Day 8: Nashville, Tennessee

From the legendary Ryman Auditorium to the Country Music Hall of Fame, Nashville hosts an array of museums and performance venues that pay tribute to its heritage as the home of Country Music. The lively streets are lined with art galleries and unique shops that welcome you at every turn, and the sounds of talented performers hoping for stardom echo from every pub.  

Enjoy transportation and tickets to the renowned live show at the Grand Ole Opry featuring longtime Opry performers and rising stars!

Discover Nashville - Complimentary Excursion
Enjoy a narrated exploration of historic downtown Nashville. Along the way, view Honky Tonk Row, Bicentennial Park, the State Capitol Building, and more. Stop at the Country Hall of Fame and Museum, home to a growing collection of over 2.5 million artifacts, including one-of-a-kind recordings, films, instruments, and more.
Discover the connections between country music's past and artists of today in the interactive gallery space. Witness everything from Hank William's cherished Martin guitar and Elvis Presley's custom Cadillac to outfits and instruments from all of your favorite artists.
Please Note: This tour is only offered on cruises ending in Nashville, TN.
Activity Level: Low | ADA ACCESSIBLE: Yes

Grand Ole Opry Show - Complimentary Excursion
Enjoy live country music at its best with a visit to the Grand Ole Opry. The evening show will begin at 7:00 pm, featuring up and coming country artists, as well as musical groups that have been Opry Members for years.
Activity Level: Low | ADA ACCESSIBLE: Yes

Day 9: Nashville, Tennessee | Disembark

  • 1 Breakfast
Nashville is well worth a pre-or post-cruise stay to explore further attractions such as the incredible Country Music Hall of Fame, the Patsy Cline Museum, and the Johnny Cash Museum. Walk in the footsteps of country music history with a VIP-guided backstage tour of the legendary 1880 Ryman Auditorium. Visit President Andrew Jackson’s fascinating Hermitage home, the Tennessee State Capitol, a full-size replica of the Parthenon, or the opulent Gaylord Opryland Hotel’s nine acres of indoor gardens, rivers, and waterfalls. Throughout your stay, savor the town’s warm welcome, the extensive options for delicious southern cuisine, and a plethora of musical entertainment venues.

Ship/Hotel

American Melody

Dates & Prices

My Preferred Start Date

Per person starting at
$4,840 2-3 travelers
Single Balcony
Queen-size bed, full-size private bathroom with a full set of amenities, sliding glass doors open to private balcony, satellite TV and DVD player, complimentary WiFi Size: 250 sq. ft., including balcony
Standard Balcony
King-size bed, full-size private bathroom with a full set of amenities, sliding glass doors open to a private balcony, sitting area, writing desk, satellite TV and DVD player, complimentary WiFi Size: 275 sq. ft., including balcony
Deluxe Balcony
King-size bed, full-size private bathroom with a full set of amenities, sliding glass doors open to private balcony, sitting area, writing desk, satellite TV and DVD player, complimentary WiFi, Size: 316 sq. ft., including balcony
Premium Balcony
King-size bed that can convert to two twin beds, full-size private bathroom with a full set of amenities, sliding glass doors open to private balcony, sitting area, writing desk, satellite TV and DVD player, complimentary WiFi. Located on the top deck, these spacious staterooms feature commanding views of the passing river landscapes. Size: 350 sq. ft., including balcony
Veranda Suite
King-size bed that can convert to two twin beds, full-size private bathroom with a full set of amenities, large living area, sliding glass doors open to private balcony, satellite TV and DVD player, complimentary WiFi. Size: 405 sq. ft., including balcony
Grand Suite
Grand Suite
King-size bed, floor-to-ceiling glass windows offering 270-degree panoramic views, large balcony, private dining area, full-size private bathroom with a full set of amenities, satellite TV and DVD player, complimentary WiFi, individual climate control. Each Grand Suite features a separate bedroom and living area, ideal for gathering with family and friends after an invigorating day of exploration. Size: 650 sq. ft., including balcony
Included
  • 7 Breakfasts, 6 Lunches, 7 Dinners
  • 8 Nights Accommodations
  • Accommodations as listed
  • Ground transportation as listed
  • Activities as listed
  • Meals as listed
  • Access to a 24-7 Emergency line while traveling
  • Snacks
  • Onboard Entertainment 
  • Onboard gratuities
  • Port charges and fees
  • Complimentary cocktail parties
  • Dining service
Excluded
  • Travel Insurance
  • Personal Expenses
  • Flight costs (please request a quote)
  • Additional excursions during free time
  • Fuel and transportation surcharges (when applicable)
  • Signature shore excursion - Should be reserved in advance due to limited availability.

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The trip was terrific with great planning on your part. Most of the adventures were not mainstream and somewhat off the beaten path which made it especially enjoyable!! We felt taken care of and you all were readily available to respond to questions and issues. I would highly recommend your company and friends have already expressed interest based on our pictures and excitement.
Gale Cantor

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