Mississippi is home to 26 miles of gulf coastal beaches and ports, and the state's entire western border is edged with the Mississippi River. According to Native America folklore, the word Mississippi translates to--"Father of Waters." Despite the miles of coastline, the dinner cruise options are limited to just a few; however, they each offer a unique experience upon the waters of Mississippi.
In the heart of the Mississippi Delta along the legendary Mississippi River is the Tunica RiverPark, with museum, eco-park and Tunica Queen Riverboat. Departing from the RiverPark landing, the Tunica Queen is a replica 19th-century riverboat, seating 400 passengers in modern luxury. The Tunica Queen has scheduled two-hour dinner/dance cruises Tuesday through Saturday (April through October) and Saturdays (March and November) at 7 p.m. Dinner includes roasted turkey, prime rib, red beans and rice, salad, potato and steamed vegetables, desserts, coffee and tea. Full bar service is available upon the boat.
As of 2010, price for adults is $47, $44 for seniors and $22 for children nine and under.
Tunica RiverPark
Tunica Queen
One Riverpark Drive
Tunica Resorts, MS 38664
866-805-3535
tunicaqueen.com
Biloxi's North Star Sailing Charters offer a private two-and-a-half-hour dinner cruise aboard a 31-foot Catalina sailboat. Enjoy the romance of a gourmet dinner as you sail the blue-green waters off the Gulf coast. Select from a varied menu prepared by Farradday's Fine Dining--Isle of Capri Casino, or enjoy a simpler "cruise platter" for four. Cruise costs as of 2010 are $175 for one to two passengers, $15 for each additional person.The dinner choice costs vary according to menu selection, starting at $40 per person or the platter for four at $65. Meal costs include a bottle of wine or champagne.
North Star Sailing Charters
756 Ivy Hill Drive
Biloxi, MS 39532
228-617-8057
northstarsailingcharters.com
This cruise service offers many options for private dinner parties, receptions or events. Charters are available on any of their three ships: The smaller 65-foot Pan American Clipper holds up to 100 passengers, and there are two larger vessels--the Gulf Islander (200 guest capacity) or Captain Pete (150 guest capacity). Dinner cruises span two hours along the beachfront between Gulfport and Biloxi. The ships have two levels for dancing and dining. You may select your own caterer and entertainment from the party planner list for an additonal cost. Packaged themed cruises are available for 50 to 150 passengers. The 2010 costs vary between $1,800 and $3,400. Included in the cost are your choice of eight trays of finger sandwiches, vegetable or cheese trays, soft drinks and bottled water. At an extra cost, alcoholic beverages may be served, as well as entertainment provided.
Ship Island Excursions
Pan Isles, Inc.
P.O. Box 1467
Gulfport, MS 39502
228-343-2245
msshipisland.com
