New riverboat itinerary: St. Louis to New Orleans

American Cruise Lines has announced new one-way itineraries between St. Louis and New Orleans.

The seven-night trips on the 150-passenger Queen of the Mississippi will kick off in August 2014 and feature stops in Memphis; Vicksburg and Natchez, Miss.; and Baton Rouge.

The new itineraries are notable because they encompass a longer stretch of the Mississippi River than existing seven-night itineraries available from the line and its rivals. The vessel will pass through six states during the sailings.

Fares start at $4,195 and include all meals; a complimentary cocktail hour; and wine and beer with lunch and dinner.

Launched in August 2012, the Queen of the Mississippi is the first new paddle wheeler designed for overnight travel on America's rivers in nearly 20 years. It features a period exterior with an authentic, 28-foot-wide paddle wheel combined with a modern interior that includes spacious, amenity-filled cabins with balconies (for a glimpse of the vessel's public areas and cabins, click through the photo carousel below).