A New Way to See The Natural State – Take a Luxury Cruise on the Arkansas River

There's a new way to see Arkansas and it's by ship. Just think, you could set sail as American Cruise Lines launches cruises along the Arkansas River with stops in Van Buren and Fort Smith.

A Scenic Adventure Through Arkansas

The new river cruises will carry up to 180 passengers on a nine-day, eight-night journey between Tulsa, Oklahoma, and Memphis, Tennessee, with itineraries traveling one way in both directions. Along the way, guests will have the opportunity to visit several ports of call, including Van Buren and neighboring Fort Smith, where they can experience the town's history and attractions.

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One special cruise from Little Rock to Tulsa will be a Thanksgiving-themed cruise, offering travelers a unique way to celebrate the holiday while enjoying the beauty of the Arkansas River.

American Cruise Lines describes the cruises on their website as,

Explore one of America’s hidden gems aboard a cruise along the Arkansas River, a culturally rich tributary of the Mississippi. This lesser-known route winds through lush farmland, the Ozark foothills, and picturesque small towns, offering intimate views of the nation’s interior.

 

READ MORE: Civil War Weekend 2026: Battle of Prairie D’Ane in Prescott

Cruises Are Filling Up Fast

The new cruises are already booking up fast. Three of the next four Arkansas River sailings have already sold out.

American Cruise Lines currently has 19 Arkansas River cruises scheduled through 2029 that are available for booking. The cruises are pretty pricey, but it is a 9-day cruise and the accommodations look wonderful!

Interested in learning more or reserving a trip? You can visit the American Cruise Lines website for schedules, pricing, and additional information.