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Delta Queen - Part 1
Written by: Dominick A. Miserandino
Photography by: Margherita Miserandino
The Delta Queen is so historic, it's unfathomable, it's like riding the Titanic, but without the iceberg issue.
The Delta Queen is so historic, and unfathomable, it's like riding the Titanic, but without the iceberg issue. Our country prospered and developed during the times of the steamboating era, which is exactly where the Delta Queen comes from. It was the era of Mark Twain, cotton, Robert Fulton, and well, steamboating things. Now, there are only two types of paddlewheel steam boats: a modern gambling boat that takes you out for two hours; or the Delta Queen -- the one that started it all in 1927.
If my point isn't too clear, the Delta Queen is listed as a National Historic Treasure. Yes, it's a National Landmark, just like the Statue of Liberty. It's old, historic, and has the papers to prove it.
My first impression upon walking onto the boat was akin to walking into a bed and breakfast. The entire boat is a floating museum. I'm not referring to the paintings and other objects lying around, but even the walls are historic. Beautiful woodwork, which in fact had to be grandfathered into the naval laws as a completely wood-superstructure ship, is against naval code. Don't worry, that's not a bad thing. Think of it like, "They don't make boats like that anymore," and you can either ride the original, or a fabricated copy of the original. I'm sure you can see my preference.
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Walking up to the Delta Queen | |
Once you get to the boat, I highly recommend just walking around the boat for a few rounds. Peak into the rooms, check out every detail, and you'll definitely feel like you've gone back in time.
The rooms are reasonably large and bigger than some other cruise lines we've gone on. It still retains the look of the early 1900s, while retaining the amenities of a modern cruise line.
However, along that theme, there are some things you should not expect to find aboard the Delta Queen. There are no TVs in your room, there are no VCRs, and there is no phone. There is no video game room, no pool... You are cruising like you would over 100 years ago; this is not a bad thing, but a different thing.
I admit, I felt apprehensive in learning there was no CNN, and Margherita was traumatized she could not watch the MTV Video Awards.
Again, you must realize that the Delta Queen is as close you're going to get to a floating treasure in this country. Just like you'd go to a historic mansion for a bed and breakfast, now you get your bed and breakfast, which includes other meals, and you have a constantly changing view of the Mississippi too.
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Delta Queen from a distance | |
The meals are based on typical Southern fare and all-around American fare. Each of the meals feature dietary options for cholesterol monitoring, diabetics, and the chef will accommodate almost any other dietary need.
Entertainment-wise, it's of course based on Dixie music and jazz, which is the sound of the Delta Queen's headquarters in their homeport of New Orleans. During the week, they have various shows, which range from cabaret to revues like, "Sing America" and "Music from the Movies."
One of the major aspects to this cruise is the history, though. Being such a historical vessel and with historical stops, talks and activities, it seems to have attracted an older crowd. I find that to be a mistake on the part of the public. It's an easier going cruise than some ships, which stop you at port early in the morning, and you're running around all day.
Also, historically speaking, you'll see below in our day-by-day itinerary, when we went to Memphis, the Mississippi River Museum had replicas of steamboats which we essentially rode on. You can go to the museum and see the pictures, or just ride on the history they're talking about.
Regrettably, I believe only a more "senior" population has discovered this cruise line though it does have features that would appeal to other demographics. If you're into a relaxing vacation, history, or seeing America, then this is for you.
Below you will find a day-by-day documentation of our week:
Daily Itinerary of Our Cruise
Delta Queen
Day 1 - Oak Alley Plantation
Day 2 - Baton Rouge
Day 3 - Natchez
Day 4 - Vicksburg
Day 5 - Helena
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