American Song, touted as the newest and most modern of American Cruise Lines’ riverboats, made its initial stop Wednesday in Vicksburg on its maiden voyage from New Orleans to Memphis.

The riverboat also docked Tuesday in Natchez.

The ship, with lounges 40 feet above water and a four-story, glass-enclosed atrium, accommodates 184 passengers. Besides stops in Natchez and Vicksburg, the New Orleans to Memphis cruises are eight days and seven nights with daily shore excursions in ports of call that also include New Orleans and Baton Rouge.

The ship is expected to reach Memphis Friday.

A second ship from American Cruise Lines is expected to make the trek up and down the Mississippi River in 2019.

Vicksburg continues to be a regular port of call for Mississippi River boats, bringing thousands to the area and playing a significant role in the local economy.

“It is great to have the American Song also docking in our city,” Pablo Diaz, executive director of the Vicksburg-Warren County Chamber of Commerce, said. “These line of cruises are contemporary and appealing to a different market than some of the other lines that are already regularly visiting our community. I think this will be good for business, good for the city, and good for tourism in general.”

The American Song is the fifth cruise ship with a stop in Vicksburg.