Taking a Slow Boat to Mardi Gras

Wondering where to get a room in New Orleans during Mardi Gras? You might consider a boat. There are still berths left on three paddle-wheelers that will visit the February carnival: the Mississippi Queen, Delta Queen and American Queen.

All the packages include a Mississippi cruise with all on-board meals and activities; rooms at the Sheraton New Orleans Hotel; reserved grandstand seats for the Endymion Parade (Feb. 8), the Rex and other parades on Mardi Gras itself (Feb. 11); a city tour and other extras. Prices start at $1,737 to $2,079 per person and include five to six nights on-board and four to five nights at the Sheraton, depending on the cruise. Air fare is not included.

For reservations, see a travel agent or call (800) 543-1949.