River Cruises in Biloxi

Biloxi: Southern Shores and Scenic Splendor

Fringed by sugar-white beaches and whispering marshes, Biloxi’s waterways are alive with contrasts: Spanish moss drapes over centuries-old oaks, shrimp boats drift by colorful casinos, and antebellum homes watch over still bayous. This is where river cruising becomes a deeper exploration—of Southern history, Creole cuisine, and timeless coastal landscapes.

Whether your itinerary sails through the Biloxi River, explores the winding tributaries of the Wolf, or ventures farther east toward the Pascagoula, Biloxi is your embarkation point into the Deep South’s untamed beauty. These are cruises that don’t just take you somewhere—they immerse you in everything the Gulf Coast has to offer.

Major Rivers That Define the Cruise Experience

Biloxi River

The Biloxi River offers an intimate journey through lush wetlands and sleepy Southern backwaters. Its relatively narrow passage snakes northward from Biloxi Bay, flanked by oak hammocks and coastal marshes. Birdwatchers love this route—egrets, herons, and osprey circle overhead while the gentle wake of the boat barely disturbs the water’s mirror-like surface.

D’Iberville

A historic town named after French-Canadian explorer Pierre Le Moyne d'Iberville. Stroll its revitalized riverfront, where seafood markets and boat launches offer a taste of daily life on the Gulf.

Saucier

A quiet village surrounded by pine forests and wetland preserves. It’s a serene stop ideal for nature walks, birdwatching, and spotting native flora.

Lizana

This rural outpost is known for its tranquil beauty and connection to Mississippi’s farming heritage. Visitors often enjoy peaceful canoe rides and sunset views over the calm riverbanks.

Wolf River

Emerging from the De Soto National Forest and flowing southeast toward the Gulf of Mexico, the Wolf River is a favorite for eco-cruises. This brackish waterway moves through a patchwork of cypress groves, sandbars, and fishing villages. It’s a haven for kayaking and smaller vessels, which makes it ideal for river cruises on boutique-sized ships.

Gulfport

Gulfport, Mississippi’s second-largest city, combines sandy beaches with a working port and lively downtown. Visit art galleries, indulge in fresh seafood, or take a side trip to nearby barrier islands.

Long Beach

With a charming small-town atmosphere and scenic coastal views, Long Beach invites guests to slow down. It’s a favorite for beachcombing, boutique shopping, and enjoying Southern hospitality.

Delisle

This quiet community is steeped in Creole culture and natural beauty. Cruise visitors can explore local oyster farms or visit heritage sites nestled in moss-draped woods.

Pascagoula River

The Pascagoula River is America’s most extensive unimpeded river system, and a cruise here is a true immersion into unspoiled nature. Known as the "Singing River" due to Native American legend, it winds through over 70,000 acres of protected wetlands.

Ocean Springs

Ocean Springs is a coastal town that blends artistic flair with Southern charm, home to dozens of galleries and studios. Its walkable downtown is perfect for discovering local crafts and coastal cuisine.

Moss Point

Known for its connection to nature, Moss Point is the gateway to the Pascagoula River Audubon Center. Visitors enjoy swamp tours, scenic overlooks, and native wildlife habitats.

Pascagoula

A city with strong maritime traditions and a welcoming vibe, Pascagoula boasts a waterfront filled with music, food, and history. It's an excellent stop for learning about the Gulf Coast’s shipbuilding legacy.

Mississippi River (select itineraries)

While Biloxi is not located on the Mississippi River proper, it is occasionally included in longer itineraries that start or end near the Gulf of Mexico. Guests may travel inland toward major Mississippi River ports such as:

Vicksburg

Perched on a bluff overlooking the river, Vicksburg is rich in Civil War history. The Vicksburg National Military Park and riverfront murals offer deep insight into America’s past.

Natchez

Natchez enchants with its antebellum architecture, charming streets, and sweeping river views. Enjoy historic home tours, cultural museums, and fine dining with Southern flair.

Cleveland

Located in the heart of the Mississippi Delta, Cleveland is a hub for blues music and culinary discovery. The GRAMMY Museum Mississippi and vibrant food festivals make it a cultural highlight.

Themed and Length-Based Itineraries

Short Cruises (3–5 Days)

Perfect for a quick getaway, short cruises from Biloxi often focus on nature and culinary immersion. Imagine a three-day voyage tracing the Biloxi and Wolf Rivers, punctuated by shrimp boils on the deck, evening jazz performances, and morning birding excursions. These cruises typically include stops in Long Beach, Moss Point, and Ocean Springs.

Medium Cruises (6–9 Days)

Offering a balanced blend of coastal and river experiences, medium-length cruises might stretch across the Pascagoula and Mississippi River systems, with deeper excursions into wildlife preserves and historical towns. These itineraries often include themed dinners, guest lectures on Gulf Coast history, and hands-on oyster farm visits.

Long Cruises (10+ Days)

For the truly immersive experience, longer cruises begin in Biloxi and sail through multiple rivers—Wolf, Biloxi, Pascagoula, and even the Mississippi—reaching destinations such as Vicksburg, Greenville, and Natchez. Enrichment programs often include Civil War history, jazz music workshops, and regional wine pairings.

Special Interest Cruises

• Wine Cruises – Featuring onboard tastings of Gulf Coast varietals and excursions to boutique wineries and seafood pairings.
• History & Art Cruises – Stops in Biloxi’s historic district, the Walter Anderson Museum of Art in Ocean Springs, and Civil War landmarks.
• Holiday Cruises – Christmas market-themed voyages with festive decor, seasonal menus, and gift markets in Gulfport and Moss Point.
• Culinary Tours – Featuring chef-led demos, seafood sourcing trips, and meals infused with Creole, Cajun, and Southern flavors.

The Onboard Experience

Ship Sizes and Ambiance

River cruises in and around Biloxi favor smaller vessels—think 30 to 100 passengers—allowing access to tighter river bends and shallow waters. These ships provide an intimate atmosphere with spacious lounges, open-air decks, and regional décor that echoes the charm of the Gulf Coast.

Cuisine and Wine

Dining onboard is a celebration of Southern hospitality. Expect freshly caught Gulf shrimp, crawfish étouffée, gumbo, and cornbread, often paired with Mississippi Delta wines or craft brews. Meals are served in a relaxed, open-seating format, fostering camaraderie among guests.

Excursions and Enrichment

Shore excursions are integral to the experience—whether it’s a walking tour through Biloxi’s Lighthouse District, an eco-kayak journey through Pascagoula’s backwaters, or a live blues performance in a historic juke joint. Onboard programming includes lectures, cooking demonstrations, storytelling, and art workshops featuring local creators.

Something for Everyone

• Couples – Enjoy romantic strolls along Biloxi’s beachfront and candlelit dinners on deck.
• Families – Multigenerational fun with nature tours, onboard games, and hands-on learning.
• Solo Travelers – Welcoming communities with social tables, mixers, and small-group excursions.
• Luxury Seekers – Boutique accommodations, spa treatments, and concierge-led private excursions.

Choose Biloxi for Your River Cruise Adventure

“A cruise through Biloxi is more than a vacation—it’s a soulful journey through the Deep South’s hidden waterways. It’s the sound of blues drifting over moonlit bayous, the taste of oysters fresh off the boat, and the quiet thrill of discovering towns where time moves a little slower.”

Biloxi invites you to explore its rivers not from the sidelines, but from the deck of a ship that weaves you into the region’s narrative. From eco-adventures to cultural immersion, this is river cruising reimagined—where every bend in the river tells a story, and every port leaves a lasting impression.