A fitting complement to this year’s 150th Civil War anniversary, American Cruise Lines will feature Civil War era-themed cruises come 2012, aboard the Queen of the Mississippi sternwheeler (which is currently under construction). Visits to Vicksburg’s National Military Park in Mississippi and New Orleans’ Civil War Museum, along with stops at Civil War battlefields mark some of the highlights on this 7-night itinerary between a variety of southern cities, while onboard offerings like authentic regional cuisine (think jumbo shrimp cocktails and lobster thermidor with fingerling potatoes) and lectures given by Civil War historians let passengers experience the South’s unique past. Emulating the architecture of traditional riverboats, the Queen’s oversized staterooms, private balconies, and elegant dining salon is due to provide a luxurious journey along the entire Mississippi River System. “Cruising aboard Queen of the Mississippi is a historic experience on its own – only to be heightened by our Civil War theme cruises. Passengers are in for quite a treat,” said Timothy Beebe, Vice President of American Cruise Lines. Dates and details about the Civil War and other theme cruises on the Queen will be available later this summer – be sure to check back in on Savvy Flyer for the latest developments.