delta queen tours

Delta Queen Hotel

Best Riverboat In The States!

Delta Queen Riverboat Hotel

The Legendary Delta Queen now moored in Chattanooga, the last fully operational, overnight passenger steamboat in the country, is the newest landmark Chattanooga hotel . This grand lady had logged over two million miles, carried over half a million passengers and is the only boat to be inducted into the National Marine Hall of Fame while still in service. She has entertained Presidents, foreign dignitaries and a multitude of celebrities.

Chattanooga accommodations are right in the middle of the vibrant North Shore scene at Coolidge Park Landing. Plenty of self parking is located near our dock and available to the guests. The Delta Queen is a quick drive or an enjoyable walk (across the Pedestrian Bridge) to the Southside of the Tennessee River and the heart of downtown Chattanooga where many area attractions reside such as the Tennesee Aquarium and Hunter Museum of Art.

The Delta Queen offers an ideal base of operations for your exploration of Chattanooga attractions .  All aboard for a unique Chattanooga hotel experience…

So, if you’re looking for something extraordinary among the offerings of Chattanooga hotels, right in the middle of the action, with a bed rocking to the rhythm of the Tennessee River, the Delta Queen is your choice for an unforgettable stay in the Scenic City.

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Delta Queen Steamboat Cruises: A Unique Way to Explore America’s Heartland

If you’re looking for a one-of-a-kind experience to explore America’s heartland, look no further than Delta Queen Steamboat Cruises. Steeped in history and charm, these iconic steamboats offer a unique way to discover the beauty and culture of the Mississippi River and its tributaries. From breathtaking views to immersive onboard activities, here’s everything you need to know about Delta Queen Steamboat Cruises.

The Delta Queen Experience: A Journey Back in Time

Step aboard the Delta Queen, and you’ll immediately be transported back in time to an era when steamboats ruled the rivers. Built-in 1927, this historic vessel has been lovingly restored to its former glory, offering passengers an authentic taste of river cruising from a bygone era. With its distinctive red paddlewheel and classic Victorian design, the Delta Queen is a sight to behold.

As you embark on your journey along the mighty Mississippi or other waterways, expect to be greeted by friendly staff dressed in period costumes. The staterooms exude old-world charm with their antique furnishings and cozy atmosphere. Each room is uniquely designed with modern amenities while still maintaining that nostalgic ambiance.

Destinations: Exploring America’s Heartland

One of the highlights of Delta Queen Steamboat Cruises is the opportunity to explore America’s heartland like never before. Whether you choose a short excursion or an extended voyage, there are numerous destinations along the river where these majestic steamboats can take you.

From vibrant cities like New Orleans and Memphis to charming towns such as Natchez and Paducah, each stop offers a chance to delve into local history and culture. Explore antebellum mansions, visit historic landmarks, or simply soak in the picturesque landscapes that line these scenic waterways.

Activities Onboard: Something for Everyone

While the breathtaking views and fascinating destinations are undoubtedly a major draw, Delta Queen Steamboat Cruises also offer a wide range of activities onboard to keep passengers entertained throughout their journey. From educational lectures and live music performances to cooking demonstrations and wine tastings, there’s something for everyone.

For those seeking relaxation, indulge in a soothing massage at the onboard spa or unwind by the pool while taking in the panoramic views. Fitness enthusiasts can make use of the state-of-the-art gym facilities or join yoga classes on deck. And let’s not forget about the delicious dining options available – from gourmet meals to regional specialties, your taste buds will be delighted.

Preserving History: The Delta Queen’s Legacy

The Delta Queen holds a special place in American history as one of the last authentic overnight steamboats in operation. However, its journey has not always been smooth sailing. Due to outdated regulations, this iconic vessel was forced into retirement for several years.

Fortunately, thanks to dedicated efforts by preservationists and passionate supporters, the Delta Queen was granted an exemption from these regulations and returned to service once again. By embarking on a Delta Queen Steamboat Cruise, you not only get to experience a unique adventure but also contribute to preserving this important piece of American heritage.

In conclusion, Delta Queen Steamboat Cruises offer an unforgettable way to explore America’s heartland. With its historic charm, picturesque destinations, diverse onboard activities, and commitment to preserving history, these steamboats provide an experience like no other. So why settle for ordinary when you can embark on an extraordinary journey aboard the Delta Queen?

This text was generated using a large language model, and select text has been reviewed and moderated for purposes such as readability.

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Delta Queen Tours, LLC

MS ph: 504-610-6264 jeanie @deltaque entours .com

Delta Queen Blues Tours offers personal guided tours to all the sites, juke joints, museums, sacred burial plots, legendary recording studios and famous eateries in the Delta.  Tours made to order with dinner and live music if desired.  The Delta Queen knows all the Jukes!

  Delta Queen Literary Tours does the Clarksdale (Tennessee Williams), Greenville (Walker Percy, William Alexander Percy, Shelby Foot, David Coen) and Greenwood loop with shopping at McCormick's and Turn Row bookstores.

 Delta Queen Plantation Tours and   Agricultural  Tours available upon request.

Because of the geography and depending on the number in your party, all tours are customed designed.  We can do a quick city tour of Greenwood, Greenville, Clarksdale or Cleveland for $40 per person per hour.  Custom designed tours are commensurate.

Blues fans with The Delta Queen (second from left) in from of Ground Zero Blues Club.

"I never dreamed this area was so interesting and that there were so many of my favorite writers and musicians from the Delta!"

"This is the best duck hunt we've ever been on!  Book us for next year...and the year after that, for that matter!!"

"I've learned more about the blues today than I ever expected to learn in a lifetime!  You've brought a whole new prospective to my musical appreciation.  Thank you!"

Delta Queen

The famous Delta Queen steamboat is docked in Chattanooga, Tennessee. It is at the "North Shore" at Coolidge Park Landing.

The Delta Queen has recently been purchased and the goal of the new owner is to return it to cruising America's rivers. It will be extensively renovated before returning to service.

The historic wooden steamboat launched in 1927. Until 2008 it offered overnight cruises on the rivers of America's heartland, including the Mississippi. Read an interesting history of the Delta Queen , with photos.

Cruises out of New Orleans on the Delta Queen

No cruises are scheduled. When plans are announced, we will update the calendar here. For current options, please see our Mississippi River Cruises .

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A Historical Account Aboard the Delta Queen

• February 19, 2007
• No comments
• 7 minute read

By Jerry Sutphin

Early one evening in the fall of 1996 I received an unexpected telephone call from David Snow, Special Programs Director for the Delta Queen Steamboat Company of New Orleans.

David began our conversation by telling me that 1997 would be the 70th anniversary of the Delta Queen’s construction and initial service on the Sacramento River in California.  As he continued to talk, David explained the events being planned for this year-long celebration.  It was during this point in the discussion that I began to wonder why he had called me and why he was taking so much time to detail some of the planned events, since I had only met him one time prior to this call.  The festivities, he stated, would be highlighted by a special cruise on the Delta Queen from New Orleans to St. Louis and that the highlight of the cruise would be the premier showing of an hour long documentary history of the Delta Queen.

It was then that David took me by complete surprise by asking if I would be interested in producing this video history of the steamboat.  As stunned as I was by this unexpected request, I quickly responded with a yes that left no doubt about my interest in producing the history of what at one time had been America’s last overnight passenger-carrying steamboat.

Later that evening as I thought about my surprising conversation with David Snow it dawned on me just what I had agreed to do and the time frame in which I had to do it.  As I thought about the Delta Queen my mind raced back to the few times I had traveled on her, and to Captain Frederick Way, Jr. who had been so instrumental in developing my interest in the history of American’s Western Rivers and the steamboats that operated on their waters.  It was Captain Way who Captain Tom Greene of the Greene Line Steamers of Cincinnati, Ohio had asked to bring the Delta Queen to Cincinnati from California after purchasing her from the United States Maritime Commission in 1947.  Unfortunately, Captain Way had passed away in 1992 but his book, The Saga of the Delta Queen ; his stories about the boat that appeared in the S&D Reflector – the quarterly journal of the Sons and Daughters of Pioneer Rivermen – and our countless conversations about his experiences with the boat would prove to be the foundation for my film.

As I began my research I soon realized that this historic sternwheel steamboat tended to have a life-altering impact on a select number of individuals who responded to her siren song.

The first of those to fall under her spell was her builder, Captain A.E. Anderson, president and majority stockholder of The California Transportation Company.  At a time when automobiles, trucks and even airplanes were quickly becoming the public’s choice for transportation, Captain Anderson, against the advice of some of his most trusted associates, decided to build not one but two luxury steamboats to operate on California’s Sacramento and San Joaquin Rivers.  The building of Anderson’s new steamboats, the Delta King and the Delta Queen, would create a heavy financial burden for the company but for over thirteen years both boats would prosper.  It would take a world-wide economic depression and violent labor union struggles to cause the company to put the boat up for sale.

Acquired by the U.S. Navy for service as a ferryboat in the San Francisco harbor during World War II, both boats were sold to the highest bidder at the end of the war by the National Maritime Commission.

Captain Tom Greene of the Greene Line Steamers of Cincinnati was the next person to be captured by the charms of the Delta Queen.  Captain Greene had been aware of the two million dollar California riverboats since they were built and he was looking for a first class overnight passenger boat to replace the aging Gordon C. Greene to insure the future of the Greene Line on the Mississippi River System.  A trip to California to see the Delta King and Delta Queen was enough to convince Captain Greene that he had to have one of these boats.  He first bid on the Delta King but lost out to a firm in Siam (Thailand).  He then bid on the Delta Queen and since his was the only bid, he bought her for the sum of $46,250.00.

Enter the next individual to be captivated by the Delta Queen, Captain Frederick Way, Jr.  Captain Way and Captain Greene had become very close friends as they competed for the river trade between Pittsburgh and Cincinnati during the 1920s and 1930s.  Because of this close friendship, it was Captain Way that Tom Greene turned to and asked him to bring the Delta Queen from California to Cincinnati.  Captain Way, in his book, The Saga of the Delta Queen , recounts his experiences in moving a flat-bottom sternwheel steamboat from San Francisco Bay down the Pacific Ocean through the Panama Canal, across the Gulf of Mexico and up the Mississippi River.   From this experience, Captain Way would have a life long relationship with the Delta Queen and would also find that he and the boat would become synonymous with each other for the rest of his life.

Captain Tom Greene did not have long to enjoy his new flagship of the Greene Line.  On July 10, 1950 after having a heart attack on the Delta Queen, Captain Greene died at Evansville, Indiana at the age of forty-six.

Now it would be Captain Greene’s widow, Letha, who would decide what the fate of America’s last overnight passenger carrying steamboat would be.  Letha Greene, the mother of four, decided to continue to operate the Greene Line and to try to make her husband’s dream for the Delta Queen a reality.  It was not long before Letha too, found herself under the spell of the Delta Queen.  With the support of her family and devoted employees, Letha was able to manage the Greene Line fleet from 1950 to 1958 when due to a series of financial reversals, she felt it was necessary to close the business and sell the Delta Queen.  However, a phone call from Richard Simonton, a successful California businessman, offering to join Letha in keeping the steamboat running changed everything.  Simonton and his family had cruised on the Delta Queen in 1957 and all had fallen in love with the boat.  They could not envision a world without her.  With Simonton’s financial and management support the future of the Delta Queen was assured.  Simonton’s role as well as that of his friend E. J. Quinby and the general manager of his California businesses, William Muster, are detailed in Letha Greene’s 1973 book, Long Live The Delta Queen .

By 1962 the company was healthy financially and business was better than ever.  It would take an act of Congress to again threaten the continued operation of the Delta Queen.  In 1966 the Safety of Life at Sea Law was passed by Congress after the disastrous fire on the ocean going cruise ship Yarmouth Castle in the Caribbean Sea.  The law prohibited boats constructed of wood to sail in American waters.  Although the Delta Queen did have an iron hull and supports, most of her super structure was made of wood thereby including her in violation of the new law.

This time it was not only the management and owners of the Delta Queen that came to the rescue, it was thousands, perhaps hundreds of thousands of Americans that appealed to members of Congress to exclude their beloved Delta Queen from this unfair law.  She did have a wooden superstructure but she also had a state of the art sprinkler system, numerous other safety devices, including hourly watchmen and she was never out of sight of land.  With great effort on the part of thousands who had become enamored by this boat through the years, she was exempted by Congress in 1970.  Once more the Delta Queen had worked her magic on a group of dedicated individuals as well as a large portion of the American public to keep steam boating alive on America’s Inland Rivers.

Although the Delta Queen has been owned and operated by several cruise lines since 1970, she continues to capture the hearts and imaginations of thousands from around the world.  Yes, I too sometimes feel that I have been pulled into the mystical connection between selected individuals and this wonderful steamboat.

After producing the hour-long history, Tested By Time To Become An American Legend The Steamboat Delta Queen , I spent ten summers presenting and/or hosting programs aboard her highness.  I continue to frequently receive requests to speak or write about the history of the Delta Queen and to answer questions about her future.  And it all began because of an unexpected phone call in 1996.  I have had the pleasure of meeting hundreds of people, traveling on every major American Inland River and expanding my knowledge about the history of America’s first super highway aboard the steamboat Delta Queen.

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The “Easy” Yet Complex Writing of Walter Mosley, A Black Jewish Author

• February 15, 2007

Interview with Jerry Sutphin, Expert Aboard the Delta Queen Steamboat

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Delta Queen deck plans

Deck layouts, review of facilities, activities, amenities.

Delta Queen deck plan review at CruiseMapper provides newest cruise deck plans (2024-2025-2026 valid floor layouts of the vessel) extracted from the officially issued by River Cruises deckplan pdf (printable version).

Each of the Delta Queen cruise ship deck plans are conveniently combined with a legend (showing cabin codes) and detailed review of all the deck's venues and passenger-accessible indoor and outdoor areas. A separate link provides an extensive information on Delta Queen staterooms (cabins and suites), including photos, cabin plans and amenities by room type and category.

MS Delta Queen (1927-built) is an authentic American stern paddlewheel steamboat. The ship cruises on Mississippi River and its tributaries, and mostly in Southern USA. The riverboat was docked in Chattanooga Tennessee, serving as a hotel ship until 2015 when was purchased by the newly established Delta Queen Steamboat Company. Riverboats that are similar in design (stern paddle-wheelers) can be found in the fleets of AQV-American Queen Voyages (fka AQSC) and ACL-American Cruise Lines .

Delta Queen cruise ship deck plans show a total of 88 staterooms (for 176 passengers), two bar lounges (Forward Cabin Lounge with Front Porch of America, and Texas Lounge with an open-air terrace/alfresco venue), Lobby Hall (Reception Desk/Purser, Gift Shop), Betty Blake Library (Reading Room / Cards Room), Orleans Room (Restaurant & Galley/kitchen), Engine Room Viewing (lounge with views of the stern paddlewheel).

Deck layouts

Deck 01 - main-restaurant, deck 02 - cabin-lobby, deck 03 - texas, deck 04 - sundeck-bridge.

Delta Queen deck plans are property of River Cruises . All deck layouts are for informational purposes only and CruiseMapper is not responsible for their accuracy.

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Delta Is Offering a Limited-time Promotion to Help Loyalists Reach Medallion Status — What to Know

Travel must be booked by Sept. 30.

AaronP/Bauer-Griffin/GC Images

Looking to qualify for Delta Medallion status? There are just four months left of the year, though the airline has made elite status easier in reach with its latest promotion. 

Right now, SkyMiles members can earn 1 Medallion Qualification Dollar (MQD) per dollar spent on car rentals, hotels, and vacation rentals through the online Delta Travel Extras portal after taxes and fees. Travel must be booked by Sept. 30 and completed by October 31 in order to qualify for the MQD earnings. 

These MQDs are separate from SkyMiles , though you will still earn the latter on any bookings via the Delta Travel Extras portal. Whether booking a car rental, hotel, or vacation rental, members will earn a minimum of 2 SkyMiles per dollar spent that can be redeemed for future award flights. 

However, it can take up to eight weeks after travel is complete to receive MQDs and SkyMiles, according to the airline . 

There are four levels of Delta elite status: Silver, Gold, Platinum, and Diamond. The following MQD thresholds are required to qualify every calendar year, and once achieved, travelers will enjoy status benefits for the remainder of the calendar year and the next full calendar year:

• Silver Medallion - $6,000 MQDs
• Gold Medallion - $12,000 MQDs
• Platinum Medallion - $18,000 MQDs
• Diamond Medallion - $35,000 MQDs

For instance, a traveler who books a weeklong vacation rental home for $3,000 after taxes and fees through Delta Travel Extras will earn 3,000 MQDs. That purchase alone clears half the requirement for Delta Silver status, which grants perks like waived baggage fees and priority customer service.

Beyond booking flights — which earn 1 MQD per dollar spent with Delta — travelers can earn MQDs by holding the right credit card. Delta’s premium credit cards , including the Platinum and Reserve, come with a $2,500 MQD headstart. In addition, Delta Platinum cardholders will earn 1 MQD per $20 spent on everyday purchases, while Delta Reserve cardholders can earn 1 MQD per $10 spent. 

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9 places in Kabardino-Balkaria every adventurer needs to visit (PHOTOS)

An amazing journey through the mountains of Kabardino-Balkaria.

Together with local tour guide Artyem Babaritsky, we show you why this is one of the most underrated regions of Russia. According to Artem, the nature on the territory of Kabardino Balkaria is more “rigid” and “serious” than in the neighboring republics of the Caucasus. This is comparable to a human face: one moment it is kind and smiling (while we are in the Karachay-Cherkessia) and then suddenly this kind face starts to frown and becomes more severe.

The most famous attraction of the republic – and the Caucasus in general – is Mount Elbrus, the highest peak of the European continent. With a mighty height of 5,642 meters above sea level, Elbrus is actually a dormant volcano. Its permanent icecap feeds 22 glaciers, which, in turn, give rise to the Baksan, Kuban and Malka rivers.

Naturally, if you’re into mountain climbing, this is a peak that you will want to conquer at least once in your lifetime. Here are some detailed accounts of what it entails.

And this is what you’ll see along the way.

Not into mountain climbing? Not to worry! In summer, you can still reach an altitude of 3,658 meters from the bottom of the Azau Valley, thanks to a small network of cable cars and ski lifts. This will give you a bird’s eye view of the entire Main Caucasus Ridge – an extremely impressive sight to behold. And, of course, you’ll be right at the foot of the Elbrus glacier.

In winter, skiers and snowboarders can shred some sweet gnar on 23 kilometers of slopes serviced by 6 ski lifts. The winter sports area is situated between the elevations of 2,350 and 3,840 meters. There are plenty of accommodation options for a comfortable stay and a good selection of cafes and restaurants to refuel your energy supplies.

2. Dzhily-su

Translated from the local language, “Dzhily-su” means “warm waters”. The Tract is located on the slopes of the heart of the Caucasus at an altitude of about 2,400 meters above sea level, where you can enjoy the breathtaking view of Mount Elbrus on a clear day. On the territory of Dzhily-su, there are many unique mineral springs that aid in healing from various diseases and strengthening the body.

“It’s an amazing sensation when you lie in a warm mineral bath and dozens of small bubbles rise around you. Also, Dzhily-su is the land of waterfalls that bear beautiful male names like Sultan, Emir and Shah. Thanks to the unusual energy, esoterics are particularly fond of this place, because there are natural sand castles, amazing stone mushrooms and the energetic mountains Sirkh and Tuzluk,” Artyem says.

The road to Dzhily-su is considered one of the most beautiful in all of Russia: It’s a serpentine-like asphalt mountain road that follows along a huge cliff, over which you will see many eagles circling. If you decide to do the trip on your own, Artyem warns that you must get hold of an off road vehicle, because many of the roads that you will need to take are dusty gravel roads. 

3. Chegem Canyon, Gorge, Waterfalls and Paragliding 

This is one of the main tourist attractions of Kabardino-Balkaria and it’s not hard to see why.

“The views that stretch along the Chegem gorge are simply amazing. The Chegem gorge is quite big. You will begin your encounter with this area with the beautiful Chegem waterfalls that cascade down the rocky slope. Right at the foot of the rocks, there is a small market where local women sell various hand woven wool products. There is a ‘ladder of happiness’ consisting of two 222 steps, leading to the source of the waterfalls at the top of the cliff. Climbing it is not at all difficult, the views are amazing and there is a cozy cafe at the top, as well as at the bottom, where you can enjoy dishes of national cuisine,” Artyem says.

In winter, the Chegem waterfalls freeze and have a certain wild beauty to them. Some locals say that, perhaps, they are even more beautiful than in the summer. Ice pillars and columns of frozen jets and streams of water, like giant twisted candles, or stalactites, hang down all the way to the river.

There is no more asphalt road beyond the waterfalls, but you can still continue along the gorge on gravel, along the turbulent Chegem River. The road is very dusty, so Artyem advises visitors to drive along it in a car with closed windows and the air conditioning on. After about 30 kilometers, you will arrive at a paragliding station.

According to Artyem, the Chegem paragliding station is famous for its powerful, ascending wind currents. Thanks to them, paragliders can soar in the sky from morning to evening. On the territory of the station, there is also a zip line and a few other adrenaline-filled activities for those looking for some thrills. 

4. El-TyuByu

If time permits, you can continue moving along the Chegem gorge and arrive at the village of El-TuByu, a place with enormous history. This mysterious ancient Balkarian village is the focal point of the history of the entire Balkaria. Ancient watchtowers, remains of Greek temples and anomalous phenomena attract both adventure seekers and connoisseurs of beauty. The main highrise, the Balkarukov Tower, is also dubbed the ‘Tower of Love’. Legend has it that Akhtugan Balkarukov built it to defend against the relatives of the beautiful Kerime, stolen by him from Dagestan.

Not far from the village, two ancient defensive Greek stairs go up a rocky wall. They rise to a height of about 30 meters and lead to a small area surrounded by walls up to two meters high and about half a meter thick. A bit above the Greek stairs are the ancient Balkar mausoleums, where local nobility were buried in the VIII-XVIII centuries. Artyem advises to go with a tour guide, because there is just so much incredible history in this village. 

5. Valley of the Narzans

The Valley of the Narzans is a balneoclimatic resort area. It is located in the foothills of the northern slope of the Skalisty Ridge of the Greater Caucasus, in the Khasaut River valley, at an altitude of 1,300 meters above sea level (near the border with Karachay-Cherkessia).

What is Narzan water? It takes six years for the water from the melting snow in the mountains to become Narzan water. It needs this time to find its way through the fissures and cracks in the underground rocks, become enriched by more than 20 minerals and salts, congregate in the underground lakes and then appear on the surface as a spring. In the local language, its name sounds like “Nart-san-e”, which means “a drink of brave warriors”.

Visitors can come with empty bottles and fill them with different kinds of mineral water. The territory of the valley also has cafes with local delicacies and plenty of souvenir stands, where the local women sell traditional knitwear, mountain honey and other arts and crafts and delicacies from the region. 

6. Shadkhurei Karst Lakes

The two lakes - Lower and Upper Shadkhuei - are still little researched. Underwater currents, turmoils and a large network of underwater canals prevent scientists from doing deeper research. The estimated depth of each lake is more than 200 meters, though there is no data yet on the actual depth.

“This is a great place to spend some time, especially during the summer months. The water temperature is kept at the same level all year round – about +15 degrees Celsius. The two lakes are located close to each other and fascinate visitors with their magical colors, luring them into their emerald water,” Artyem says.

In Artyem’s experience, only with rare exceptions, no visitor can resist the urge to plunge into the water. Even without bathing accessories, both ladies and gents make it their priority to jump into the turquoise waters. Around the lakes there are a few gazebos so you can easily stay for the whole day, have a picnic and swim in the lakes to your heart’s content.

7. Chateau Erken

A little piece of Europe in the middle of the Caucasus Mountains, Chateau Erken is a majestic pseudo castle in the Romanesque style (it was actually built in the 1990s) surrounded by about 1,000 hectares of vineyards.

“If you want to have a relaxing day, try experiencing the fairy tale that is Chateau Erken. It stands right on the water and is absolutely stunning. There is also the option to do some wine tasting inside,” Artyem says. 

8. Upper Balkaria, Blue Lake and Aushiger Thermal Springs

These three places make for an easy day trip, because of their proximity to one another. Start your journey at the Blue Lake . The deep blue waters of this stunning lake, hidden in Russia’s Caucasus mountains, are shrouded in mystery. It’s uninhabited by fish and avoided by locals, but, in recent years, it’s become a popular site for tourists.

After soaking in the lake’s beauty, continue onwards to Upper Balkaria, which is just several kilometers away along the Cherek gorge. This is a small ancient village that almost seems like it’s hiding from the outside world. Architectural monuments, defensive towers, graves and ground crypts have been preserved there. Upper Balkaria serves as an excellent example of Balkarian life and culture. You’ll learn a lot about the ancient auls (Caucasian mountain or desert settlements) and Balkarian settlements from different historical periods. 

On the left bank of the Cherek River, in the village of Aushiger, there are a few healing hot springs. The territory of the health resort includes a healing lake, an open reservoir and indoor baths.

9. Adyr-su Gorge

“This place can be reached by car, mostly by asphalt road. Then, the car drives into a special lift, together with people and climbs up along the cliff. What a sight this is! There is a border control here, so it’s a good idea to have some ID on you,” Artyem cautions.

After driving along a relatively easy dirt road, you will get to a mountain climbing base. From there, you can take part in some light trekking, 4 kilometers there and back. Adventurers also have the opportunity to make a wish in the Valley of Desires, see waterfalls, go to the glacier and the huge, magical mountain Ulu Tau, which means “Mother Mountain”. Finish up the hike at the Silver Spring.

“Here, you can always encounter wild mustangs, they always come to graze on the beautiful meadows of lush grass and drink the healing water from the spring. The spring is the source of incredible strength - locals say that whoever plunges into it three times will be healed of many diseases,” Artyem boasts.

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Visiting Russia - Nalchik, Capital of Kabardino-Balkaria

By Koryo Tours

Nalchik, capital of Kabardino-Balkaria

Visiting Russia – Nalchik

Yoshkar-ola | cheboksary  |  astrakhan | elista | stalingrad (volograd)  | abakan  |  nalchik  | validkavkaz  | makhachkala  |  grozny.

Nalchik is a small city of around 240,000 people and serves as the capital of Kabardino-Balkaria, one of the lesser-known republics spread across the beautiful North Caucasus area of Russia, the mountain range that separates the former soviet states of Georgia, Armenia, and Azerbaijan from the Russian Federation.

This region has incredible diversity in ethnic groups and is a melting pot at the edge of empire. While there have been civilisations in the Caucasus for millennia Nalchik as a city is only a century old, having been a Russian fort since 1724. Today’s Nalchik is a mostly peaceful and relaxing place, being in the foothills of the mountains it has many areas of great beauty and multiple sanatoria for people looking to take the waters, over the last century it has certainly had its share of turbulence though, being occupied by Romanian troops fighting on the side of the Nazis, who embarked on an effort to exterminate the ancient community of Mountain Jews in the area (unsuccessfully), plus a 2005 Islamic militant attack on Russian security forces.

These days Nalchik is known as a clean city, a place for relaxing, and the starting point of expeditions to summit Mt. Elbrus, the tallest mountain in Europe, which lies within Kabardino-Balkaria.

Kabardians make up the largest ethnic group at just under 50% of the city’s population, followed by Russians, Balkars, other Caucasian nationalities as well as Ukrainians, Mountain Jews still live in the area but in very small numbers now, most having emigrated to Israel.

Arriving/Departing

Nalchik Airport (NAL) is a small one but is fully functional for getting in and out, usually the foreigners arriving here will be mountaineers heading for Elbrus.

The Airport is only 3km from the city centre so you could even walk into town from here, otherwise, there are taxis and marshrutkas waiting for arrivals. Flights arrive only from Moscow and St. Petersburg usually, the Caucasus has other larger airports for other international flights (such as those to Sochi). Nalchik has a railway station, dating from 1915, with links to Moscow and across the Caucasus. A good option for travelling around the region in a relaxing manner (usually slower than taking a marshrutka between cities though) For getting around inside Nalchik there are public buses all over the place, easy to use and very cheap. Otherwise most of the centre is very walkable, the main ‘high street’ is Lenin Avenue, which runs for several km through the centre of the city.

Concord Square

The centre of Nalchik and a good place to start a walking tour of the city, with the Kabardino-Balkaria parliament building on one side and Lenin stands at the other, fountains in the middle and Lenin Avenue cutting through the square

Religious Buildings

The central buildings of the main religions practised in Nalchik are both fine examples of their respective architectural styles; the Central Mosque and the Cathedral of Mary Magdalene are both worth visiting. Dress codes apply.

Not actually in Nalchik, but only 50km or so away so the city is the ideal base for starting an expedition. This is Europe’s highest mountain and a dormant volcano. There are cable car/chairlift options to get t the top for those who don’t wish to do it the hard way. It is possible to get up and down this mountain n a single day, making it certainly the simplest of the 7 continental highest peaks to climb.

Museum of the Kabardino-Balkar Republic

Great for explaining where you are and the history of the area. Mostly in Russian only though and does tend to assume some knowledge in advance. Still a good stop to get some intro into the complex history of this city and area in general.

Atazhukin Garden

A large park complex running for more than 2km along the eastern side of the city, alongside the Nalchik River. A very pleasant place with so much to see and do. The basic Nalchik Zoo is here, walking trails, restaurants and cafes, theatres, a very retro funfair, and a rickety but reliable cable car running up to a lovely viewpoint to see over the city and out to Mt. Elbrus.

Topped by a restaurant building built in the shape of a Kabardian warrior. An excellent few hours can be spent exploring this park and mingling with the locals of all ages who do their relaxing here.

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Frequently Asked Questions

When will the Delta Queen sail again?

Like many cruise vessels, the Delta Queen was deeply impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. The Delta Queen Steamboat Company is currently securing the necessary funds and resources to begin the extensive renovation process. While we don’t yet have an estimated date for the vessel to return to overnight cruise service, we look forward to welcoming you aboard as soon as it’s possible to do so.

What kind of renovations is the Delta Queen undergoing?

Once funding is secured, the Delta Queen will undergo many exciting renovations. One of the most significant upgrades will be replacing the boilers, which are original to the boat and constructed in 1919. The generators, main steam line, heating and air, plumbing and galley will also be either upgraded or replaced entirely. Common areas and staterooms will see various cosmetic updates.

When will you begin booking cruises for the inaugural season?

We are currently in the process of creating the itineraries for the inaugural season. We will announce cruise dates and destinations several months before the Delta Queen sets sail. To be the first to know about upcoming cruises, sign up for updates  here and follow us on Facebook and Twitter .

Where will the Delta Queen cruise?

The Delta Queen will travel the Mississippi, Ohio, Tennessee, Cumberland, Kanawha and Arkansas Rivers, to name a few. For more information on upcoming voyages, please click  here .

What stops will the Delta Queen make?

The Delta Queen will make more than 80 stops while traveling the rivers of America’s Heartland and Deep South! The Delta Queen Steamboat Company is still in the planning stages, but ports will include New Orleans, Memphis, Minneapolis, Cincinnati, Pittsburgh, Galveston and Nashville, to name a few. Each stop will have at least one excursion to learn more about the river cities and towns that make each port special and unique.

How much does it cost?

Staterooms aboard the Delta Queen will vary based on size and location aboard the vessel. The Delta Queen Steamboat Company is still in the process of establishing prices, but they will be consistent with offerings from other overnight river voyages.  Pricing will not include on-board alcohol, shore excursions, or gratuities.

Will there be live entertainment on board?

Absolutely! We look forward to announcing the exciting lineup of musicians, curators, riverlorians, historians, comedians, authors and more that will join us on the Delta Queen!

What can we bring on board?

Don’t forget your camera and binoculars! Feel free to bring the comforts of home with you onboard the Delta Queen, including books and games.

What safety policies are in place aboard the Delta Queen?

The Delta Queen Steamboat Company is committed to providing a safe and memorable experience for all passengers and is held to rigorous safety and security standards outlined by the United States Coast Guard. The vessel is equipped with life rafts and preservers, state-of-the-art fire detection and suppression technology and 1,200 sprinklers located throughout the entire vessel. In addition, members of the crew have received professional firefighting and safety training.

Are there life boats on board?

Yes, the Delta Queen is equipped with life rafts and preservers in case of an emergency requiring evacuation of the vessel.

Does the Delta Queen offer day trips or dinner cruises?

Unlike many other vessels operating on the inland rivers, the Delta Queen is equipped with overnight accommodations in 88-staterooms.  As a result, the vessel is not configured for daytime “sight-seeing” or evening dinner cruises.

Are there televisions on board?

We believe the era of Mark Twain is best relived without television. For that reason, we do not furnish staterooms and common areas with televisions. However, we do offer Wi-Fi onboard so you can stay connected to friends and family while traveling.

Are you hiring?

The Delta Queen will begin hiring full-time and part-time decisions as we get closer to cruising. Please continue to check our  Careers  page for updates.

Don’t miss the boat!

We appreciate your patience as the Delta Queen secures the necessary funds and resources to begin our extensive renovation process. We look forward to welcoming you aboard as soon as it’s possible to do so.

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