These new itineraries and new twists on popular destinations are sure to make a splash in 2025.
Meander Along the Mighty Mississippi With Viking
There is something very peaceful about floating along a river and simply taking in the scenic views of the surrounding countryside. Curious travelers can enjoy this type of bliss during a Viking trip as it meanders along North America’s second-longest river, the Mississippi.
Awe-Inspiring Itineraries
With various itineraries to choose from, including new tours such as The Big Easy to the Gateway City and the comprehensive Mississippi River Odyssey, there are plenty of ways to discover North America’s heartland and the soul of the American South.
Highlights can include visiting the French Quarter and enjoying delicious Creole cuisine in New Orleans, seeing literary legend Mark Twain’s childhood home in Hannibal, Missouri, and sailing along the lush wetlands of the lower Mississippi while spotting diverse local wildlife. This is a river cruise that brings nature, cuisine, and culture together.
Ship Highlights
The purpose-built Viking Mississippi is a modern five-deck ship with an elegant interior and expansive windows that provide panoramic views of its namesake river.
In between excursions, guests can relax in style. The Sun Terrace, complete with an infinity plunge pool, is the place to unwind, while the 360-degree promenade deck is the perfect place for onboard sightseeing. Alfresco dining — and a can’t-miss barbecue pit — takes place at the indoor/outdoor Aquavit Terrace, and the two-story Explorers’ Lounge and Bar is another sophisticated space to share conversation.
The elegance of the ship continues throughout the 193 staterooms, ranging from veranda options to various suites, all with river views. Modern comforts include a private bathroom with a heated floor, robe and slippers, and a 42-inch flat-screen television with complimentary on-demand movies.
Family-Filled River Fun
Combine your love for river journeys with a sprinkling of magic during an Adventures by Disney trip aboard an AmaWaterways ship. These unique river sailings are designed for families who want to explore some of Europe’s most wonderful waterways — including the Danube, Rhine, and Seine — while enjoying a touch of fanciful whimsy along the way.
Destination Excursions at the Forefront
Make no mistake: These itineraries are more focused on the destinations than any sort of theme park tie-ins. Exciting excursions such as hiking along a treetop path in the Austrian Alps or tobogganing downhill through the bucolic Black Forest are the norm. There are plenty of adult-centric adventures, too, such as extensive bicycle excursions and wine tastings, that add an element of sophistication to the overall experience while fun-filled activities like the Junior Adventurer scavenger hunt and marionette shows will keep kids happily entertained.
The beauty of these river cruises is that there is something for the whole family. The daily itineraries can be customized for different tastes and occasions, with various tour and activity choices and dining options.
Plus, Adventures by Disney does offer a select number of adults-only itineraries.
The Disney Difference
It’s the subtle Disney touches that add a sparkle of fairy dust to these river cruises. Whether that be the Mickey Mouse–shaped treats or the Disney-themed karaoke, during which kids can sing their hearts out to Disney classics, these sailings are filled with magical delights for all.
What’s more, the Disney-trained Adventure Guides help to make sure that you have a top-notch experience, from providing insider information about local dining to sharing personal stories during cultural excursions.
America’s West Coast Gets an Ovation
Maritime travelers have been cruising from Southern California to Mexico for a long time. But never like this. In June 2025, Royal Caribbean’s Ovation of the Seas® will become the first ship of its class to sail from Los Angeles. Which means that guests can experience even bigger thrills en route to Baja.
A Trio of Itineraries
The Ovation of the Seas is scheduled to run three itineraries from June through September 2025: a quick three-night escape to Ensenada, a five-night trip that includes an overnight in Cabo San Lucas, and a six-night affair that combines the best of the two shorter journeys, with a stop in Ensenada and the Cabo sleepover.
Ensenada is the place to satisfy your epicurean yearnings. Possible shore excursions include a visit to a local cheese cave, a cooking class, a walking food tour, and tequila tasting. In Cabo San Lucas, be sure to savor the outdoor attractions. Snorkeling, off-road tours, dolphin encounters, and scenic boat cruising are popular choices.
Planning Ahead for Fun
Each itinerary includes at least one day at sea, so you’ll have an opportunity to experience the Ovation of the Seas’ highlights. Pro tip, though: Come prepared with a plan. There are so many cool things to see and do aboard this vessel, it’ll be hard to narrow down your favorites.
Cruisers in search of a shot of adrenaline should plan to tackle the Rock Climbing Wall, RipCord® by iFly® free-fall experience, and FlowRider® surf simulator. After-hours aficionados have plenty of choices, too, from Spectra’s Cabaret to the Shush! Silent Party; Live. Love. Legs. show; and ’70s Disco Party. Of course, you can also simply relax next to one of the swimming pools or sign up for a spa treatment.
