the american queen riverboat

American Queen

Discover the heritage and culture of America with a cruise onboard the elegant American Queen, an authentic paddlewheel steamboat. Luxurious amenities display the opulence of the American Victorian era while also featuring every modern convenience. Each stateroom features lush bedding and fine linens as well as in-room bottled water and fresh fruit. Onboard cuisine is gourmet and something to satisfy every craving is available 24 hours a day, from grand meals in the Dining Saloon to American favorites in the Front Porch of America. Complimentary wine and beer are available with dinner. There is always something to enjoy onboard during your leisure time. Enjoy a swim or a workout in the pool or athletic club or borrow a book in the Mark Twain Gallery; after a day of exploring, enjoy nightly entertainment that includes everything from showboat style performances to calliope concerts to swing dancing.

• Detailed Information
• Dining Info

“The American Queen is the largest, most opulent paddlewheel ever built in the entire world, so, you know, we call it a floating time capsule.”

John Waggoner Founder & CEO American Queen Steamboat Company

The largest steamboat ever built, the grand American Queen is a graceful and elegant triumph of American ingenuity. Built in 1995 as the third sister vessel to the Mississippi Queen and Delta Queen , the paddlewheeler is a six-deck recreation of a classic Mississippi riverboat.

She was built by McDermott Shipyard, 90 miles west of New Orleans in Morgan City, Louisiana for the Delta Queen Steamboat Company at a cost of $80 million. The vessel was christened in New Orleans on June 2, 1995 with a four foot tall container of Tabasco sauce instead of the traditional champagne bottle. She is 418 feet long and 89 feet wide and has 222 state rooms for a capacity of 436 guests and a crew of 160. The American Queen Steamboat Company purchased the vessel in April 2011 and continues to offer paddlewheel cruises traversing the Mississippi as well as the Ohio and Tennessee rivers.

The American Queen, with her bright red paddle wheel, towering fluted stacks and abundant fretwork, looks as though she just sailed out of the Victorian era. Glistening mahogany woodwork, flowery carpets, Tiffany glass and antiques enhance her interior spaces. Outside, lacy filigree, a steam-powered calliope and open verandas evoke memories of the stately riverboats that preceded her and inspired her design.

“What we try to do as philosophy is keep things like it was in the 1900s. This is just how it was when Mark Twain was onboard,” says John Waggoner, Founder and CEO of the American Queen Steamboat Company.

As history plays such a large part of the experience, Riverlorians, the resident history and culture experts, are onboard every cruise to impart the legends and lore of the river on which passengers are cruising. Passengers are invited to attend an enlightening lecture, relive a tale from Mark Twain or enjoy a recounting of the Lewis & Clark Expedition.

“We want you to experience the thump-thump-thump-thump-thump of the paddlewheel. We want you to stand on the stern. We want you to get muddy Mississippi water spraying your face, and we want you to sit in a rocking chair, and watch the river go by and relax,” says Waggoner.

This American Queen inspires crowds of onlookers in each port in which she docks. In true royal fashion, she glides gracefully along the river and courteously greets onlookers with the wave of her flags as she passes by.

American Queen Steamboat Company

Cruising The Mighty Mississippi

Cruising the Mighty Mississippi

American Queen Steamboat Company / www.AQSC.comAmerican Queen Steamboat Company / www.AQSC

First impressions of a US river cruise on American Queen

Note: American Queen Voyages ceased operations in February 2024, following financial difficulties stemming from the COVID-19 pandemic. Booked passengers seeking refunds can request them by filling out a form on the dedicated website American Queen Voyages set up to handle claims.

I've taken several river cruises in my time as a cruise writer, but until this summer, they were all on foreign rivers like the Rhine and the Mekong. I thought I knew what to expect on U.S.-based American Queen river cruises — I researched the ports, pored over facts about the boat and even looked up local attractions in advance — but nothing prepared me for the sheer splendor of seeing American Queen Voyages' most iconic vessel in person.

My first glimpse of the boat in the wild (or, rather, docked in Pittsburgh, on the Ohio River near Acrisure Stadium, where the Steelers play) left me impressed. Not only was it a lot bigger than I expected, but it immediately made me feel like I had stepped back in time — or, perhaps, onto a ride at Disney World.

A quintessential American paddlewheel steamboat, American Queen looks every bit the part. Its crisp white exterior, bright red paddlewheel and black smokestacks topped with festive crowns befitting a queen complete the picture of grandeur. Wherever the boat goes, it draws curious, awestruck stares, and locals line up along the riverbanks to greet it when it arrives and wave goodbye when it leaves.

From its lacy gingerbread trim to its shrill-but-wholesome calliope music, the boat evokes an air of southern Gilded Age luxury so strong I fully expected to bump into Mark Twain in one of the onboard lounges.

Here's what I loved and what I didn't during my voyage.

What I loved

The boat's size.

Designed to carry about 400 passengers, American Queen is the largest paddlewheeler in the U.S. river cruise industry. The fact that there were only about 250 cruisers on board during my sailing was an added bonus. The vessel's size means that it has some amenities — like a plunge pool, fitness center, spa, a navigational chart room and theater with a stage — not found on other riverboats. But the low capacity meant most areas didn't feel crowded.

Another pleasant result was that we frequently ran into the same people over and over again, which added to the jovial and somewhat familial onboard vibe.

The ports of call

While ocean vessels often focus on large cities or beachy destinations, the small towns found along American rivers are replete with charm and hospitality that are hard to come by elsewhere. The locals I met were exceptionally welcoming, and American Queen's daily tour schedule directed me to hidden-gem attractions I might have otherwise overlooked.

Free for the vessel's passengers in all ports, buses run along a predetermined route at regular 15- or 30-minute intervals. Designated stops along the way feature points of interest where passengers can hop off for a visit before catching the next bus to another attraction or back to the boat.

Highlights for me included the Schroeder Saddletree Factory Museum — where a local family spent two generations making the inner frames for horse saddles — and the historic mansions in Madison, Indiana, as well as the Augusta Distillery in Augusta, Kentucky. There, we deviated from the suggested activities and stopped in for an excellent tasting where we were allowed to draw or "thief" our own bourbon from barrels where it was aging.

The focus is largely on smaller stops, but that doesn't mean there aren't big cities on the list, too. The most powerful place I visited was the Underground Railroad Museum during our call on Cincinnati. Exhibits covered everything from the history of slavery to modern-day human trafficking and implicit bias. It was a sobering look at the amount of work we still have left to do.

As I grow older, I've noticed I prefer to slow down a bit when I cruise. I'm no longer at an age where I want to see and do everything at a break-neck pace . Given that most U.S. river cruise passengers tend to be in their golden years, the pace of onboard life is as leisurely as a float down a river. I found plenty of ways to relax, from joining low-key hosted trivia and doing self-led puzzles during the day to listening to live music at night.

I spent many an evening on the boat's outer decks, taking in the sights from passing towns, riverside factories and locks, which often left mere inches on either side of the vessel during transit.

While ashore, I enjoyed leisurely strolls along the riverbank whenever I wasn't lazily making my way between points of interest.

The slower, more relaxed pace helped me to maximize my enjoyment because I felt like I was able to be in the moment instead of thinking about where I had to be next. Because I was traveling with my dad on our first father-daughter trip , that was especially important to me.

The historical elements

The entire American Queen experience — from the ship's exterior design and interior furnishings to the history of the places we visited — evokes the mid to late 1800s. Although it has backup engines that help with maneuvering, American Queen boasts a large wooden paddlewheel that's powered by a pair of 90-year-old steam engines rescued from a retired steamboat.

Elements like a steam-powered calliope (which one of the onboard musicians plays several times on each cruise, usually during sailaways) and the J.M. White Dining Room with its serious New Orleans ambiance add to the feeling of authenticity throughout.

Additionally, the lounges and cabins are largely furnished with antiques that fit with the time period the boat represents. My personal favorite is the Mark Twain Gallery, a rich, warm, dark lounge that's great for working, reading, lounging with a cup of coffee or anachronistically checking email at the provided bank of computers. Bonus: Display cases filled with antique oddities flank both sides of the lounge, and the windows in between offer both cozy seating alcoves and views into the dining room below.

A resident "riverlorian" — a historian who is well-versed in the history of the rivers on which the vessel sails — also gives several talks during each voyage. Ours provided lots of fun facts about the efficiency and capacity of cargo riverboats, which far exceed those of semi-trucks and trains.

The outdoor spaces

True to its name, the Front Porch — the boat's main outdoor lounge area — was just that but on a grand scale. Rocking chairs and swings often made me feel like I was on the covered front porch of a southern farmhouse as we glided past small towns and made our way through a fascinating system of locks along the way.

When we were underway, I spent a lot of time there, either writing or reading. Plus, with the Front Porch Cafe buffet attached, it was easy to enjoy alfresco lunch or dinner, weather permitting.

Other great areas included the River Bar, which affords spectacular views of the paddlewheel in action (but beware of the calliope, which is extremely loud and will startle you if you're not expecting it) and the boat's two sun deck areas — one near the plunge pool and one just outside the Chart Room.

Also, keep your eye out for hidden outdoor areas that will allow you to view the paddlewheel up-close.

The surprises

Hidden outdoor areas aren't the only surprises on American Queen sailings.

I thoroughly enjoyed poking around the vessel and discovering new areas, including The Theater, which is used only a few times per voyage to show movies.

I'm also a fan of the Engine Room Bar, where I enjoyed nightly music and views of the boat's paddlewheel. But the secret lies behind a door in the bar with a sign that's barely noticeable. Pop inside, and you can make your way down to the engine room, which is open to passengers interested in learning more about how the vessel operates.

Another surprise came when I stumbled on a series of doors in the same hallway that leads to the Engine Room Bar. On each was a list of cabin numbers, indicating that my cabin — 505, an open-veranda suite — had access to the Grand Saloon's private balcony boxes. As a result, my dad and I had fantastic views of the shows we saw there.

However, the quirkiest surprise was that, at least once during every voyage, passengers are allowed to play the calliope. Under the guidance of the boat's pianist — calliope keys are similar to keys you'd find on a piano — any cruiser who was able to play at least five notes would receive a certificate from the captain, declaring them official calliopists.

What needs work

The staffing issues.

I would be remiss if I didn't start this section by saying that every crew member I met on the sailing was friendly, helpful and eager to please. They always gave me passing smiles, waves and greetings, no matter how busy they were, and it was obvious they were all working hard.

Like the rest of the U.S. hospitality industry, American Queen Voyages acknowledged that it is experiencing staffing shortages. Most of the things that could have been improved on my American Queen sailing were likely caused by a lack of workers. With more crew, they are almost certain to disappear.

The day I boarded, I couldn't help but notice that the back of the boat was looking kind of dingy. I saw quite a bit of dirt and grime around the paddlewheel area, with the red paint on the wheel itself looking faded. That night, while I was outside watching the stars as we sailed, I noticed the outer decks were overrun by an alarming number of spiders and their webs.

It took several days, but during our call on Cincinnati, I returned to the boat to find a crew member hard at work scrubbing each of the decks and climbing up into the eaves to wipe down the cobwebs with rags. (I'm unsure if it was part of the regular schedule, but I suspect it might have had to do with the fact that John Waggoner, the line's founder and chairman, was booked on the next voyage.) The engine room crew also worked diligently to repair paddlewheel boards and power wash the structure to restore the wheel to its bright red color before our cruise was up.

Another place where the experience fell short was the onboard dining. Overall, the food was decent. I'm a picky eater, but on American Queen I was able to find something I enjoyed at every meal. However, on the second morning, during breakfast, I cut into my pancakes and was dismayed when raw batter oozed out.

Not wanting to make a big deal about it (particularly because we arrived 15 minutes prior to the closing time), I didn't say anything. Our waitress, who was experienced enough to see there was a problem without my saying a word, sent the head waiter over to ask what was wrong. I quietly told him, and he apologized, stressing that passengers should always speak up so the crew can do better next time.

That same head waiter sat us every night at dinner and always made sure we had what we needed. However, by the final night of the sailing, he looked frazzled and exhausted. All of the waitstaff did.

In fact, we hardly saw our dinner waiter. Every night, he greeted us, took our orders and brought each course, but there was virtually no following up in between courses to see how we were doing. I expect he was too busy juggling a large number of tables to have time to check in routinely with any of them.

One of our last nights at dinner, about halfway through, we noticed broken glass on the table. It's obvious something broke before we sat down. It was cleaned up, but why the table setting wasn't changed is a mystery. We did alert our waiter before we left, just so he wouldn't cut himself while cleaning up.

I found little requests were often met with lackluster service, too. My dad loves a banana with his breakfast each morning. On days when they weren't immediately available at the buffet, he would ask for one. It wasn't a problem until one morning when a particularly haggard waiter went to grab one for us and came back a few minutes later with an apology that he "just can't find them right now."

There were other incidents, too. From our cabin, per instructions from the in-room literature, we called the front desk twice to request an ironing board, which never showed up. Neither did our room service breakfast order, despite our having put the menu card outside our door well before the deadline the previous night. We didn't pursue the ironing board further and instead simply wore rumpled clothes to dinner, but a call to the front desk about the breakfast meant food showed up at our door within 20 minutes.

These are, of course, small niggles that didn't greatly affect my enjoyment of the cruise overall. But, for such a luxurious ship, they were a bit unexpected and certainly not reflective of an experience that starts at about $3,000 per person for weeklong cruise.

It's impossible to talk about the heyday of riverboating without also broaching some painful subjects. While wealthy, white travelers were busy enjoying themselves on riverboats up and down U.S. waterways in the early part of the 1800s, enslaved people fought for freedom throughout the country — particularly in the pre-Civil War south.

With that in mind, the fact that — even on my recent 2022 sailing — American Queen's onboard guest population is predominantly white while the crew is predominantly Black struck me as particularly poignant.

When I asked about the line's demographics, a representative from American Queen Voyages told me that the company is actively looking to expand its customer reach.

"Like all cruise lines, we are always seeking guests new to cruise and new to U.S. river cruising," said Michael Hicks, a spokesperson for American Queen Voyages.

AQV also prides itself on hiring from the local communities along the rivers it travels. Given that American Queen usually sails the Mississippi and hires from the surrounding communities, many of its employees are Black.

"American Queen Voyages riverboat crew members come from across the United States," Hicks said. "An emphasis is placed on hiring from port partner cities, including St. Louis, Memphis, Cincinnati and New Orleans, as well as regional communities including Jackson, Mississippi; Metairie, Louisiana; and Owensboro, Kentucky."

Additionally, the line is working with local groups in the places it visits in order to make sure programming is historically accurate, even if it means telling stories that are sobering and difficult to hear.

"American Queen Voyages works with the ports [it visits] to select and curate experiences that tell the full history of destinations," said Hicks. "These include such rich and immersive experiences as the National Underground Railroad Freedom Center in Cincinnati; the Hotel Metropolitan in Paducah, Kentucky; The B.B. King Museum and Delta Interpretive Center in Cleveland, Mississippi; the Mississippi Delta Chinese Heritage Museum in Terrene Landing, Mississippi; and the Natchez Museum of African American History and Culture in Natchez, Mississippi.

"We are continually working with convention and visitors bureaus and [using] these organizations' local expertise to improve, as well as provide new and diverse experiences for our guests."

For some reason, the boat's garbage is stored forward on the main deck, where it sits in open dumpsters outside. My cabin, which was four decks up, was almost directly above it. Whenever I wanted to enjoy the veranda outside my cabin, I was met with the overpowering smell of rotting refuse baking in the 80-degree heat. For that reason, I didn't utilize my room's outdoor space as much as I would have liked.

One suggestion for fixing this would be to store the trash below deck or move it to an outdoor area at the back of the boat, where the wind would blow the smell back over the wake instead of into passenger areas.

The environmental impacts

In general, cruises aren't known for being particularly environmentally friendly, but at a time when other lines are making a big deal of becoming more fuel efficient and cutting back on single-use products — particularly plastics — I was surprised by some of what I saw on American Queen.

First, it's important to acknowledge that paddlewheel vessels are less fuel efficient than boats that operate with more modern engines. Part of the charm of American Queen is the paddlewheel itself, so some allowances are made by default. A bit of fuel efficiency is sacrificed in the name of nostalgia.

However, the line could try harder to make some smaller things greener. These were most noticeable in the boat's Front Porch Cafe buffet area, where plastic spoons and paper bowls were the only options available next to the soft-serve ice cream machine, and paper cups with plastic lids were put out for beverages, rather than reusable cups, glasses or mugs that could be washed between uses.

The other experience that made me cringe was when I boarded one of the line's free charter buses for a ride to town during one of our port stops. I was one of five people on a bus built for 50. It struck me as super wasteful. It's likely the ship has no way of knowing how many people will need the buses later in the day, but perhaps smaller vehicles could be considered as alternatives after the initial passenger rush dies down.

Bottom line

American Queen is a beautiful boat that allows modern-day travelers to experience some of what life on the rivers might have been like 200 years ago. It's an impressive ode to history, complete with comfortable and richly furnished accommodations, great service, delicious food and visits to some of America's small towns. Although American Queen Voyages, like the rest of the domestic travel market, is still struggling with staffing issues, the experience was superior overall.

The cruise experience is largely geared toward older travelers, but that shouldn't stop younger vacationers from checking it out. Anyone who has an appreciation for relaxation, old-timey vibes and the Americana associated with tiny riverside towns will likely enjoy a sailing on American Queen.

Planning a cruise? Start with these stories:

• The 5 most desirable cabin locations on any cruise ship
• A beginners guide to picking a cruise line
• The 8 worst cabin locations on any cruise ship
• A quick guide to the most popular cruise lines
• 21 tips and tricks that will make your cruise go smoothly
• 15 ways cruisers waste money
• 12 best cruises for people who never want to grow up
• The ultimate guide to what to pack for a cruise

• Skip to primary navigation
• Skip to main content
• Skip to primary sidebar
• Skip to footer

TravelAwaits

Our mission is to serve the 50+ traveler who's ready to cross a few items off their bucket list.

7 Reasons A Stay On The World’s Largest Steamboat Is My Favorite U.S. Cruise

• Cruises and Sailing
• River Cruises
• Types of Travel

I have been on several cruises and travel adventures around the world, but recently, I’ve felt the need to focus on discovering great destinations closer to home. The U.S. is filled with countless experiences that travelers can unlock, and a river cruise offers the chance to see so many things in an efficient, hassle-free, and fun way.

Our summer cruise on the Ohio River took us from Pittsburgh to Louisville, and the itinerary included stops in Marietta, Ohio; Huntington, West Virginia; Augusta, Kentucky; Cincinnati, Ohio; and Madison, Indiana, before reaching Louisville.

I had been on voyages on the Mighty Mississippi River and even a couple in the Pacific Northwest on the Columbia and Snake rivers that traverse through Idaho, Oregon, and Washington. These itineraries are fairly well known, but I was fascinated to see what an Ohio River cruise was all about. I was happy to accept an invite from American Queen Voyages to review this special itinerary.

As it turns out, it’s filled with memorable experiences and a range of fun ways to spend your days. The best part about our trip, though, was how we got there. American Queen owns a special charm and an incredible river cruise program that makes it a favorite way to cruise within the U.S. Here’s why.

1. An Itinerary With Small Towns And Big Cities

Pittsburg, pennsylvania.

American Queen Voyages offers a pre-cruise hotel stay in Pittsburgh, and it was nice to explore the City of Bridges for a day. We had lunch at the famous Primanti Brothers, diving into our hearty sandwiches — complete with fries stuffed onto the pastrami between slices of Italian bread. And we washed it down with a couple of Iron City beers.

The embarkation pier for the riverboat sits at the doorstep of the Pittsburgh Steelers’ football stadium, making for a scenic sail away from the confluence of the three rivers (Ohio, Allegheny, and Monongahela).

Cincinnati, Ohio

The cruise also features a stop in Cincinnati and wraps up in Louisville, so travelers have opportunities to explore these interesting big cities and all they have to offer. We went for a bike ride on the riverfront, explored the Cincinnati Reds Hall of Fame and Museum, and had lunch and craft beers at Moerlein Lager House.

Louisville, Kentucky

In Louisville, cruisers can explore city highlights like the famed Churchill Downs (Kentucky Derby track) or the Louisville Slugger Museum and Factory before catching flights back home.

These big cities are nice, but it’s the small towns that really make this trip shine. Residents gather along the banks of the river to cheer our arrival or give us a friendly sendoff each day. Each riverside destination, no matter how small, loves to show off its slice of American history and regional attractions, such as quirky museums, pretty churches, and, of course, its local shops and eateries.

Marietta, Ohio

In Marietta, Ohio, attractions included Mound Cemetery, one of the oldest in the original Northwest Territory, the Ohio River Museum, and the Childen’s Toy & Doll Museum.

Huntington, West Virginia

When I went ashore in Huntington, West Virginia, the hop-on, hop-off bus loop took us to the Touma Medical Museum, a delightful little open-air railroad museum (a yard filled with colorful old rail cars), Ritter Park Rose Garden, and the Marshall University Campus, which features a wonderful grounds filled with statues, sculptures, trees, and flowers.

Augusta, Kentucky

In Augusta, Kentucky, AQV passengers were able to walk just a few hundred steps from our spot on the river to explore the Rosemary Clooney Museum. This is the former home of actress, singer, and aunt to superstar George Clooney. Highlights of this charming town also include Bates Garden, the 1811 Jail, and Baker-Bird Winery.

Madison, Indiana

There was another railroad museum to see in Madison, Indiana, and the town also lists the Schroeder Saddletree Factory, the Broadway Fountain, and Lanier Mansion as top attractions for visitors to check out.

2. Enriching Entertainment

While each port stop features a variety of things for cruisers to explore, this fancy riverboat offers a daily program with a mix of musical performances, trivia competitions, movies, bingo, and variety shows. 

Music, trivia, and enrichment talks are held in American Queen’s majestic Grand Saloon theater space. During our cruise, we saw Phil Westbrook several times, as the singer and piano man performed a tribute to Frank Sinatra as well as entertained passengers at the intimate Captain’s Bar just outside the main J.M. White Dining Room.

We also dropped by the theater for shows by guitarist Logan Reeves and a song and dance variety production on TV theme songs from the American Queen Ensemble and the Steamboat Syncopators house band. The shows draw on plenty of nostalgia but definitely favor an era more familiar to cruisers 70 and older. However, the overall mood is quite fun.

A hip vibe can be found nightly at the Engine Room Bar, where the ship’s musicians get the crowd dancing with a great mix of blues and rock tunes.

3. Regionally Inspired Cuisine

The American Queen chefs kept us well-fed. Meals are served in the main dining room and in the casual eatery called the Front Porch, which offers wonderful views as you cruise on the river. When the weather is nice, it’s worth having at least one dinner outside there to enjoy the sunset and sailing.

The menu includes items like chicken fried steak, frog legs, and a variety of steak and fish preparations. The cuisine is more hearty than healthy, but you can find some fresh fruits and salads in the mix at the lunch buffets. We were always tempted by the mouth-watering selection of homemade pies and slices of chocolate cake set out each day at lunch. There always is a delicious soup, gumbo, or chili available, too.

If you need a snack, you can swing by the Front Porch for a bag of fresh popcorn, a couple of cookies, or a soft-serve ice cream cone or dish.

4. Set Your Own Pace

As a person who loves his daily workouts, I’m happy that a river cruise on American Queen makes it easy. Not only is there a well-equipped gym, but the ship carries a fleet of bikes. Colleen and I started several days with a run along the riverside trails through small towns or by grabbing a couple of bikes to go exploring independently.

In general, river cruising allows travelers the chance to explore on their own in a hassle-free way. It’s so easy to stroll onto and off of the ship at your leisure, and the towns and cities are mere steps away. You can go set your own schedule for the day if you’re not interested in rigorously following the ship excursion program.

Pro Tip: Ask crew members for their insight on nice places to eat or go shopping — or for their favorite places to get a coffee or craft brew. We received great insight from lead butler Adam, who is a coffee connoisseur and loves to find and frequent local cafes along all the river towns he visits.

5. Hop-On, Hop-Off Tours

American Queen Voyages provides a wonderful service in its hop-on, hop-off bus routes in each city and on each river itinerary that it operates. Passengers walk off the ship and straight onto waiting buses with clear signage at each stop along the route at the attractions in town.

Cruisers love being able to have peace of mind that they will see a nice mix of highlights in each port without worrying about transportation. You can get off at each spot or pick and choose what you are interested in on the loop.

6. Plenty Of Space Onboard

American Queen itself is an attraction. Built in 2012 and carrying up to 417 passengers, this is the largest steamship ever built. The décor takes you back in time to a golden era of steamship travel. The Grand Saloon resembles a 19th-century opera house with private boxes wrapped around the theater and hanging over the main level and the stage adorned with a large red curtain.

Chandeliers fill the main restaurant, rocking chairs line the railings on the front porch, and gingerbread ornamentation accents the staircases and stateroom patios of the bright white ship. The signature big red paddlewheel churns at the stern of the ship helping to power the voyage along the river.

American Queen features a large Mark Twain Gallery that serves as a reading room (with a small computer area). It’s outfitted with vintage lamps and antique chairs and all kinds of mementos of a bygone time, including river ship models, paintings, books, vases, and other collectibles.

There are two parlors at the very front of the ship ahead of the Main Twain Gallery, and these spots also are carefully decorated and ideal for working on puzzles, reading, or enjoying the river views while relaxing with friends.

7. Scenic Sailing

I found the periods of sailing from town to town one of the most relaxing and satisfying parts of this river cruise. It was fabulous to watch the world floating by, with the pretty evening sunsets, flowing waters, and subtle bends in the river. We would pass under a variety of bridge styles and see trains on adjacent tracks and tugboats pushing coal barges.

Cruisers also enjoyed the process of watching our big riverboat pass through the locks along the way.

Pro Tip: Make sure to head up to the top deck for sail aways each day. Crowds gather along the banks of the river to wave you off and wish you well on the journey. And one of the musicians will come out to play some tunes on the boat’s steam calliope. It’s a fun spectacle!

Related Reading:

• 9 Reasons You’ll Love A Princess Cruise In The Western Caribbean
• 7 Things People Always Forget To Take On A Cruise Plus 8 Things They Should Leave At Home
• I Just Sailed On Royal Caribbean With My Grandchildren — Here Are My 10 Key Tips

John loves to explore the world while prioritizing fitness and active adventures. He specializes in cruise travel, with more than 100 sailings of all types under his belt. His passion is deep exploration and connection. He loves talking sports and craft beer with people in every destination he visits. John has been a writer and travel journalist for more than 20 years, regularly contributing to top travel magazines and websites.

American Queen Doe

The largest steamboat ever built, the grand American Queen is a gracious and elegant triumph of American ingenuity.

Although filled with today’s modern amenities, her rooms and accommodations display all the opulence of the American Victorian era. Glistening woodwork, fresh flowers and antiques adorn her interior spaces. Outside, lacy filigree evokes memories of the many stately riverboats that preceded her and so inspired her designers.

While on board, you can select a volume from the vast collection in the Mark Twain Gallery, the boat’s library. Or enjoy a sing-along in the Main Deck Lounge, and then tap your toes to a lavish show in the two-deck-tall Grand Saloon, the most elegant showplace on the river.

Combining the best of the old and the new, this beautiful lady of the river epitomizes the grace and grandeur that has made River Cruising a cherished American tradition for more than two centuries. One voyage and you’ll see why.

Accommodation

Welcome to your home aboard the elegant American Queen where you can relax in a warm, inviting atmosphere of Antebellum charm without sacrificing modern conveniences. Fine linens and plush bedding will ensure you are well-rested to fully enjoy every included shore tour, historical lecture and toe-tapping musical performance. Open veranda categories afford neighboring guests the unique opportunity to enjoy a social atmosphere, swapping stories and forming lasting friendships with fellow travelers. From cozy staterooms to opulent suites, the American Queen has accommodations for a variety of lifestyles and budgets.

Food & Drink

Dining aboard the American Queen is as decadent as it is delightful. Their award-winning culinary teams take full advantage of each region’s diverse bounty of fresh ingredients to prepare uniquely exquisite dishes while our gracious, all-American staff charms you with friendly, attentive service so that you may enjoy each meal in a most relaxed atmosphere.

Life on Board

Each day and evening aboard the American Queen and the American Empress lends a splendid variety of entertainment to keep you fully engaged throughout your voyage. Whether it is a themed voyage special event, a captivating tale told by our onboard Riverlorian or an energised musical performance led by top entertainers, there is always an impressive line-up of entertainment that is sure to satisfy.

Get a feel for life onboard the American Queen by browsing through the image gallery. Click on any of the images above to get started.

American Queen Cruises

May we present you with a small selection of the wide range of cruises available on American Queen Steamboat' American Queen. For more details click on one of the links below.

Deck Plans American Queen

Browse American Queen's deck plans to get a feel of her layout. Explore cabins, restaurants, entertainment and shared spaces at your leisure.

The American Queen Steamboat Fleet

Climb aboard an iconic steamboat and explore a slice of American history on our Mississippi River cruises. Offering a unique on-the-river perspective, our voyages create the perfect getaway for nature and history lovers alike. Enjoy our richly appointed paddlewheelers and steamboats that offer beautiful staterooms and suites, restaurants and spacious decks for watching the river sights go by.

American Queen Steamboat Uniquely American river cruises

Experience the historic authenticity of the Mississippi River aboard the celebrated American Queen or the new American Duchess and discover America from the indescribable perspective of the river.

Find your perfect cruise

With dozens of cruise lines, hundreds of ships and tens of thousands of cruises to choose from, finding a cruise can be somewhat overwhelming. No matter what your budget is, how many passengers you're travelling with or the type of experience you're looking for, Exepectations travel can help you book the perfect cruise. With over a hundred years of combined experience in the travel industry, our experts take pride in getting to know our customers. We especially enjoy matching travelers up with cruises they may not have even considered. To get the ball rolling simply drop us a line or call 01202 544876 .

Test Voyage Our crew are working hard to get this website shipshape and Bristol fashion before our big launch. If you see anything that doesn't look quite right please let us know.

By continuing to use the site, you agree to the use of cookies. Learn more about our cookie policy .

American Queen

Mississippi River

The American Queen is the third “Queen” from the former Delta Queen Steamboat Company and is probably the largest steamboat ever built. She was built in 1994 by McDermott Shipyard and launched in 1995 at an approximate cost of $60 million. Her steam engine are from the U.S. dredge Kennedy. As the paddle wheels are too small to move the large boat in every situation, there are two additional propellers which can be used if necessary.

Modern technique and historic charm makes a cruise on the American Queen an unforgettable experience.

The American Queen is 418 feet long and 89 feet 4” high. Equipped with 222 staterooms the “Queen” gives room for up to 436 passengers. The American Queen has a calliope with 37 gold-plated brass pipes, specially built for the American Queen.

Due to the bankruptcy of the parental company of the Delta Queen Steamboat Co., the American Classical Voyages, the American Queen went out of service in October 2001. Fortunately, the Delta Queen Steamboat Co. finally was bought by Delaware North Companies, Inc. and went back in service in January 2003.

End of the 2008 season, Majestic America Line decided to discontinue its cruise business. The American Queen had been returned to the MARAD and was on idle on a lake near Beaumont, TX, until August 2011 when she has been acquired by Hornblower and moved to a shipyard in Louisiana for a refit. The new Great American Steamboat Company, later renamed in American Queen Steamboat Company , with their headquarters in Memphis, Tennessee, started operating the American Queen again as a river cruise ship, beginning in April 2012.

Her – so far – last cruise started on December 29, 2023, in New Orleans and ended there on January 6, 2024.

As part of Hornblower Group and under the new name “American Queen Voyages” with some additional boats in the fleet, the company filed for bankruptcy under Chapter 11 on February 21, 2024. The American Queen, as other assets of the company, went on auction and was bought by American Cruise Lines.

On May 21, 2024, the American Queen arrived at a scrapyard in Houma, Louisiana. While American Cruise Lines still claim they’re looking for alternatives, it seems like her life will end here, sadly …

Whistle of the American Queen

The sound of the original whistle of the American Queen (taken from the HERBERT E. JONES) was very weak, not that the whistle itself was inappropriate but the steam supply line’s diameter was too small so the whistle didn’t get enough steam needed to unfold her full power. Today the whistle (a Kahlenberg whistle) now obviously is operated with a mixture of steam and pressurized air and gives her a full, though not completely “steamy” sound. That’s the sound you her in the recording here. In addition, the American Queen has an air horn and unfortunately most pilots prefer the air horn now over the whistle so on some cruises you’ll only rarely hear the whistle blow.

Calliope of the American Queen

Privacy Overview

Matador Original Series

This over-the-top river cruise is the all-american trip you need to take.

F ew things feel more like a Southern cliché than sitting on a rocking chair with a glass of ice-cold sweet tea while looking at the Mississippi River from the deck of a paddlewheel steamboat. And I, a French, along with my partner, a Canadian, embraced it wholeheartedly. To add another layer of Americana, it was July 5, and the vessel, the iconic American Queen, and most of its passengers were still festooned in red, white, and blue the day after the Fourth of July.

Photo: Jesse Adams

The American Queen, a picture-perfect 1995 recreation of a Mississippi River paddlewheel steamboat, took us from Memphis to Nashville . The full journey took nine days to cover less than 200 miles. Granted, we stopped along the way, but still, this is slow travel taken to the extreme. Obviously, nobody on board would have it any other way — we had nine days of great food, free drinks, river lectures, music, excursions, and brand-new (to us, at least) scenery to look forward to — all in a luxurious time capsule. The pilots could take it as slow as they needed.

The American Queen steamboat is not your average river cruise ship

A cruise on the Mississippi River is one thing, but a cruise on the emblematic American Queen is another deal entirely — it is undeniably the largest and fanciest steamboat ever built. Modeled after two luxurious steamboats from the 19th century (the Grand Republic for the elegant exterior, and the J.M. White for the opulent decorations and furnishings inside) the American Queen is very grand. Yet, despite the Tiffany lamps, the grand pianos, and the dress code in the main dining room, the crew and the passengers are relaxed and appreciative of the beauty of the vessel rather than stiff-necked and uncomfortable at the lavish displays.

The Mark Twain room is the most opulent room on the American Queen. Photo: Jesse Adams

The cruise company, American Queen Voyages, has three more steamboats in its fleet: the American Countess, the American Duchess, and the American Empress. And while the boats may all look the part from afar, they cannot hold a candle to the American Queen. Passengers who had journeyed on several of the company’s steamboats made clear to us that they would not cruise on any other vessel than the American Queen, and after we got a good look at the American Countess while we were anchored in the port of Paducah, Kentucky, we agreed. It looked nowhere near as dignified or as old-timey as our boat. And I must admit that our feeling of superiority and pride at sojourning on the most sumptuous vessel to ever travel on the Mississippi was certainly reinforced by the people who stood on the banks to take photographs and wave at us everywhere we went.

The rooms and amenities on the American Queen

With 222 cabins spread out over six decks, the American Queen can accommodate 417 passengers and 172 crew members. While we were on board, the vessel was filled to only a little more than 50 percent of its capacity, making for a lot of room to roam and an extremely attentive crew.

Beyond having crew members devoted to your every need and whims, the vessel itself makes passengers feel at ease all the time. The relentless heat and humidity of the South is soothed by the constant AC; the food is ever present whether you feel like having soft serve ice cream, popcorn, biscuits, tea, coffee, or cocktails throughout the day; the pool and cozy lounge chairs on deck six seem always empty, ready to welcome you; and the rooms are cleaned to perfection twice a day. If it’s a restful vacation you’re after, there are fewer better options.

On vacation aboard the American Queen, you can do lots or do very little

You’re onboard this amazing vessel to chill out, and if you wish you can do that and only that. You can sit by the pool with a cocktail all day long and book an appointment at the spa when you feel like being pampered. But if you want to get to know the region you’re traversing, there are excellent excursions just about every day.

Excursions from the American Queen are done via comfy, air-conditioned hop-on hop-off buses with knowledgeable tour guides. That said, if the vessel sets anchors close to where the excursion takes place, you’re under no obligation to ride the bus or visit the places selected, you can just walk off using the gangway and do your own thing — as long as you’re back before the deadline given to you.

Photo: Murals on the New Madrid Museum. Photo: Jesse Adams

During our trip, we stopped at Ashport Landing, Tennessee, home to Fort Pillow State Historic Park where Confederate and Union soldiers fought during the Civil War; In New Madrid, Missouri, a tiny town whose claim to fame is having suffered the biggest earthquakes in American history in the early 19th century; the fun and artsy town of Paducah, Kentucky; and the small town of Dover, Tennessee, located in Stewart County, the most armed county in the United States and home to fewer than 15,000 people (but there are 57 churches).

Not all excursions are exciting. The towns of New Madrid and Dover are small and don’t have an awful lot to offer to passing tourists, yet visiting them allows passengers to peek into how people live, which is exactly what travel is all about.

Entertainment in the Grand Saloon on the American Queen. Photo: Jesse Adams

In between excursions and tanning sessions by the pool, there’s plenty of entertainment to be had aboard the American Queen. For music, there are jazz and blues concerts in the Engine Room Bar (from where you can see the paddlewheel doing its job), piano and sing-along sessions at the Captain’s Bar, and Broadway music in the highly decorated Grand Saloon. There are also bingo games and trivia during which you can win a big wad of dollar bills or items from the gift shop.

What to eat aboard the American Queen

There’s plenty of barbecue, as to be expected on the cruise in the American South, but it’s certainly not the only appetizing offer. You can get amazing ribs and roast beef and all sorts of classic sides like mashed potatoes, grits, Coca-Cola green beans, etc. from the Front Porch Café on the third deck. Vegans and vegetarians don’t need to worry about getting their fair share of scrumptious foods: Every meal offers a vegan option, whether that be breakfast power bowls and quinoa porridge in the morning, or cauliflower steak and a creamy rich vegetable curry for dinner. Every espresso machine on board is also equipped with non-dairy milk alternatives.

And it’s the same when it comes to beverages. There’s nothing outdated about what’s on the menu. Cocktails of the day — think Americanos, Moscow mules, and bourbon punches — are announced the evening before on the daily schedule deposited on your bed at turn-down service, so you can go to sleep assured you won’t go thirsty the next day. But if you don’t feel like having the daily highlighted beverage, you can ask for whatever drinks you want and the bartender will take care of it. My partner enjoyed all the daily cocktails (and some), and I asked for virgin versions, all of which were very well executed. And remember, when you’re onboard, all the drinks are included.

All the things you don’t want to miss aboard the American Queen

The excursions, the entertainment, and the food and drinks should keep you very busy during your time aboard the American Queen. That said, there are some activities that are less flashy but that passengers would be remiss to pass on.

Try your hands at the Calliope

Every time the American Queen leaves a port, one of the on-board pianists makes his way to the River Grill bar on the fifth deck and plays the Calliope, a steam-whistle organ. It’s a very loud and unusual instrument, which you can try if you wish. Just ask the musician in charge that day and they’ll give you a couple of tips so you don’t burst anyone’s eardrums. If you’d rather just look, make sure to take a peek at the whistle pipes releasing the steam on the sixth deck.

When a lock is coming, get on the deck

Going through the Kentucky Lock aboard the American Queen. Photo: Jesse Adams

A 418-foot-long vessel going through a lock is an impressive sight. It requires a lot of skills from the pilots and the crew for the American Queen to fit in the lock and be securely tied without any accidents. But not all locks are created equal — some are fun to witness, others are mind-blowing. Take Olmsted Lock on the Lower Ohio River, between New Madrid and Paducah. It has a chamber that’s 37 feet high and the water level increases by around 30 feet inside. It’s cool to see, but you won’t lose sleep over it. Going through the Kentucky Lock, however, is eerie and claustrophobic. At the confluence between the Tennessee River and the Cumberland River, the chamber is 94-feet-high and the boat is raised by about 90 feet in less than 30 minutes. It’s freakish and you should not miss it.

When a bridge is on the horizon, make your way to the prow

The American Queen is fitted with two 109-foot-tall smokestacks topped with a crown-like design. Those stacks, as charming and old-school as they look, are made with contemporary navigating in mind. When the vessel needs to pass below a bridge, the stacks are lowered, going from vertical to fully horizontal in the blink of an eye. Keep an eye on the horizon so you’ll know when to head to the prow and see the towering stacks being lowered.

Visit the engine room

More like this

Trending now, where to play, eat, and stay in springfield, missouri, missouri knows fine dining. here’s where to eat and drink on your trip., discover matador, adventure travel, train travel, national parks, beaches and islands, ski and snow.

We use cookies for analytics tracking and advertising from our partners.

For more information read our privacy policy .

Matador's Newsletter

Subscribe for exclusive city guides, travel videos, trip giveaways and more!

You've been signed up!

Follow us on social media.

American Queen Steamboat Company River Cruises Review: Cruise Ship Guide, Itineraries, Bookings & Deals

Step aboard an American Queen Steamboat Company vessel and be transported back in time to the romantic era of steamboat travel along America’s iconic rivers. With a fleet comprising the American Queen, the American Duchess, and the American Countess, this company has redefined luxury river cruising, offering guests a unique blend of nostalgia, elegance, and Southern hospitality. The American Queen, affectionately known as the “Grande Dame of the Mississippi,” is the largest steamboat ever built. Stepping onto her deck is like stepping back in time to the opulent days of Mark Twain and paddlewheel steamers. With her towering smokestacks, gleaming woodwork, and graceful lines, the American Queen exudes old-world charm from bow to stern. Guests are greeted by a warm and friendly crew dressed in period attire, setting the stage for an unforgettable journey.

In This Article...

• 1 In a Nutshell…
• 2 History of the American Queen Steamboat Company River Cruises
• 3 Destinations of American Queen Steamboat Company River Cruises
• 4 Conclusion
• 5 Pin to Pinterest

In a Nutshell…

Iconic Paddlewheelers : The cruise line operates three iconic paddlewheelers: the  American Queen  (the world’s largest riverboat),  American Empress , and  American Duchess . These vessels evoke a more elegant era, adorned with Victorian-period flourishes like fine filigree, scrolling woodwork, and sumptuous upholstery. Historic Heritage : Originally built in 1996 for the defunct  Delta Queen Steamboat Company , the  American Queen  sat dormant between 2008 and 2012. However, it was revitalized and relaunched in April 2012 after receiving a $6.5 million spruce-up. The ship now exudes classic Victorian decor, making it feel like a small, historic boutique hotel on the water. Delightful Steamboat Experience : The  American Queen  celebrates America’s river history, lore, traditions, music, and food. Whether docking in New Orleans, navigating river locks, or tying up in charming towns, it leaves a lasting impression. Watching its ornate black funnels lower to pass under a bridge is a unique experience. Cruise Routes : The  American Queen  cruises the upper and lower Mississippi, as well as the Ohio and Tennessee rivers. It offers theme cruises ranging from five to 14 nights. Departure cities include New Orleans, Memphis, St. Louis, St. Paul, Louisville, Nashville, and Cincinnati. All-Inclusive Amenities : Passengers enjoy a pre-cruise hotel stay, transfers to the boat, soft drinks, coffee, tea, beer, wine with dinner, complimentary shore excursions, and access to bicycles during port calls. The crew receives American wages and benefits like health insurance and 401K participation. Small Ship, Big Amenities : The  American Queen  combines the intimacy of a small ship with big-ship amenities. Features include spa services, a pool, and main theater entertainment. Passenger Demographics : Fellow passengers tend to be mature, with many having prior experience in Mississippi River cruising and ocean cruises. Elegance and Tradition : The service aboard the paddlewheelers is genteel, reflecting Southern tradition and an unabashedly All-American spirit. Exceptional Value : The cruise line offers voyage lengths from three to ten nights, emphasizing convenience with little or no flying required. Legacy and Continuity : While American Queen Voyages ceased operations in 2024, the legacy of these paddlewheelers endures, connecting travelers to America’s rich river heritage.

History of the American Queen Steamboat Company River Cruises

The history of American Queen Steamboat Company cruise ships is a captivating journey that celebrates the nostalgia and elegance of steamboat travel along the iconic rivers of the United States. With a focus on preserving American history and heritage, the company has become synonymous with luxury river cruising, offering passengers a unique blend of timeless charm and modern comforts.

The roots of the American Queen Steamboat Company can be traced back to 1995 when the Delta Queen Steamboat Company was formed. The company acquired the historic Delta Queen, a steamboat that had been navigating the rivers since the 1920s. The Delta Queen became the flagship vessel and symbolized the company’s commitment to preserving the grandeur of steamboat travel.

In 2011, the company evolved and rebranded as the American Queen Steamboat Company. This marked a new era for the company, expanding its fleet and offerings to provide passengers with a variety of luxurious river cruise experiences. The fleet now includes the American Queen, the American Empress, and the American Duchess, each with its own unique character and charm.

The American Queen, the largest steamboat ever built, is a majestic vessel reminiscent of the 19th-century paddlewheelers. With its striking red paddlewheel, ornate decor, and spacious accommodations, the American Queen captures the essence of a bygone era. Passengers step on board and are transported back in time, immersing themselves in the opulence and grandeur of a bygone era.

The American Empress, launched in 2014, offers a different perspective, cruising along the majestic Columbia and Snake Rivers in the Pacific Northwest. This elegant steamboat showcases the beauty of the region, with its panoramic views, spacious decks, and luxurious amenities. The American Empress combines classic charm with modern conveniences, providing passengers with a comfortable and immersive experience as they explore the scenic wonders of the Pacific Northwest.

The American Duchess, introduced in 2017, is a modern paddlewheeler that offers a more intimate and boutique cruising experience. With its sleek design, contemporary furnishings, and spacious suites, the American Duchess provides a luxurious retreat for passengers to relax and unwind. This smaller vessel allows for more personalized service and a sense of exclusivity, while still capturing the essence of steamboat travel.

One of the highlights of American Queen Steamboat Company cruises is the exceptional onboard experience. The company takes pride in providing impeccable service, ensuring that every guest’s needs are met with warmth and attentiveness. The staff members are knowledgeable, friendly, and passionate about creating unforgettable moments for passengers. From the moment guests step on board, they are greeted with genuine hospitality and a dedication to exceeding their expectations.

The itineraries of American Queen Steamboat Company cruises are carefully curated to showcase the rich history, culture, and natural beauty of the regions visited. Passengers have the opportunity to explore charming towns, visit historic landmarks, and immerse themselves in the local traditions and flavors. Whether it’s cruising along the mighty Mississippi River, discovering the Pacific Northwest, or exploring the heartland of America, every voyage offers a unique and enriching experience.

In addition to the captivating destinations and exceptional service, American Queen Steamboat Company cruises offer a range of amenities and activities to enhance the onboard experience. Passengers can enjoy world-class dining, with gourmet meals prepared by talented chefs using fresh and locally sourced ingredients. The ships also feature entertainment venues, lounges, and theaters, where guests can enjoy live music, theatrical performances, and educational presentations.

In conclusion, the history of American Queen Steamboat Company cruise ships is a tribute to the elegance, charm, and nostalgia of steamboat travel in the United States. With its fleet of beautifully appointed vessels, exceptional service, and immersive itineraries, the company continues to capture the hearts of passengers, transporting them to a bygone era while providing all the modern comforts and conveniences. Whether it’s cruising along the mighty rivers of America or exploring the scenic wonders of the Pacific Northwest, a journey with American Queen Steamboat Company promises a truly unforgettable experience filled with history, beauty, and timeless memories.

Destinations of American Queen Steamboat Company River Cruises

• The  American Queen  sails along the upper Mississippi River, meandering through picturesque landscapes. Passengers can explore charming towns like  St. Paul ,  St. Louis , and  Memphis . These cities resonate with history, from Mark Twain’s tales to the jazz rhythms of Beale Street.
• The riverbanks reveal lush forests, rolling hills, and quaint riverfronts. Shore excursions take travelers to historic sites, museums, and local markets.
• As the  American Queen  glides downstream, it unveils the soul of the South. Departing from  New Orleans , it cruises through the heart of the Mississippi Delta. Antebellum mansions, cotton fields, and live oak trees line the riverbanks.
• Stops in  Natchez ,  Vicksburg , and  Baton Rouge  offer glimpses into the Civil War era and the vibrant Creole culture. Culinary delights await, from gumbo to beignets.
• The  American Queen  also explores the Ohio River, connecting the Midwest to the South. Departures from cities like  Cincinnati  and  Louisville  lead passengers through rolling hills and river valleys.
• Quaint river towns like  Madison, Indiana , come alive with Victorian architecture, boutique shops, and friendly locals. The river locks add an element of adventure.
• The  Tennessee River  beckons with its musical heritage. Cruises departing from  Nashville  take guests to iconic sites like the Grand Ole Opry and the Country Music Hall of Fame.
• Along the way, passengers can immerse themselves in the rhythm of blues, gospel, and rock ‘n’ roll. The riverbanks reveal scenic beauty and historic battlefields.
• Beyond the heartland, the  American Queen Voyages  extends its reach to Canada and the Great Lakes. Passengers can explore cities like  Toronto ,  Quebec City , and  Montreal .
• The Great Lakes offer a different kind of majesty, with pristine waters, charming islands, and vibrant cultural scenes.
• From the rugged coastlines of Maine to the historic streets of Boston, the  American Queen Voyages  sail along the Eastern Seaboard. Fall foliage cruises are particularly enchanting.
• Passengers can relish lobster feasts, visit lighthouses, and explore the rich maritime history of this region.
• For a tropical escape, the  American Queen Voyages  venture south to Mexico. Departing from  New Orleans , the ships explore the Yucatán Peninsula.
• Ancient Mayan ruins, turquoise waters, and vibrant markets await travelers. It’s a fusion of history, culture, and relaxation.

The American Duchess and the American Countess, the company’s other two vessels, offer similarly luxurious experiences along the rivers of America’s heartland. While smaller in size, these ships boast all the amenities and comforts of their larger sister, including spacious suites, gourmet dining options, and onboard entertainment. Each vessel is meticulously designed to evoke the elegance and romance of a bygone era, with tasteful decor, antique furnishings, and modern conveniences seamlessly integrated throughout.

One of the hallmarks of an American Queen Steamboat Company cruise is the exceptional service and hospitality provided by the crew. From the moment guests step aboard, they are treated like royalty, with attentive staff catering to their every need. Whether it’s a friendly smile from the cabin steward, a personalized recommendation from the sommelier, or a warm greeting from the captain himself, guests can expect to feel pampered and well cared for throughout their journey.

But it’s not just the service that sets American Queen Steamboat Company apart—it’s also the unique destinations and experiences offered on each cruise. From the mighty Mississippi to the scenic Columbia and Snake Rivers, these vessels traverse some of America’s most iconic waterways, stopping at charming towns, historic sites, and cultural landmarks along the way. Guests can explore antebellum mansions in the South, visit charming wineries in the Pacific Northwest, or immerse themselves in the vibrant music and cuisine of the Mississippi Delta.

Onboard entertainment is another highlight of an American Queen Steamboat Company cruise, with a variety of live performances, lectures, and activities to suit every taste. Guests can enjoy nightly shows featuring live music, dancing, and theatrical performances, as well as enrichment lectures on topics ranging from history and culture to wildlife and ecology. There are also plenty of opportunities for relaxation and recreation, whether it’s lounging by the pool, indulging in a spa treatment, or participating in a shore excursion.

In summary, the American Queen Steamboat Company offers a truly unique and unforgettable cruising experience, combining the nostalgia of steamboat travel with the luxury and amenities of a modern cruise ship. With its exceptional service, carefully curated itineraries, and dedication to preserving America’s river heritage, it’s no wonder that this company has become synonymous with the golden era of river cruising. Whether you’re a history buff, a nature lover, or simply seeking a leisurely escape, an American Queen Steamboat Company cruise is sure to exceed your expectations and leave you with memories to last a lifetime.

– Reviewed by Contributing Author Silvester Thomson

Pin to Pinterest

Enjoyed this guide? Help others find it too! Share the following Pinterest pin to your Pinterest account, by simply clicking on the top left corner. And Remember: Sharing is Caring !

N.B. – The information on this review has been compiled by contributing author and Cruise Expert Silvester Thomson for thedigitalglobetrotter.com and is provided “as is” for the convenience of online readers. The Sources come from personal opinions, online research on official and unofficial websites, and in some cases with the help of AI generated content. It should not be taken as fact, as it can be mistaken or altered by future ship modifications from the cruise line done after review. Thedigitalglobetrotter.com does not and cannot verify all information and should not be taken as granted fact. All readers must take measures to find reliable facts by their travel agent or from the official page of the cruise line to verify any doubts.

• News & Articles
• Meet Heidi Sarna
• Awards, Press, Podcasts & Videos
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Destinations
• Expert Small Cruise Line Reviews
• Submit a Reader Review

Select Page

• River & Canal Cruises
• Coastal Cruises
• Sailing Cruises
• Expedition Cruises
• Oceangoing Cruises
• Micro Cruises

American Queen Review — Aboard the Queen of the “Western Rivers”

Jul 1, 2023 | 2

American Queen Review

By Karl Zimmermann

Update Feb 24, 2024: The three riverboats of American Queen Voyages, including the American Queen , ceased operations earlier this week as will the company’s pair of coastal ships. The bottom line is that the line never recovered from the COVID period, and the American Queen was the only member of the fleet that turned a profit.

The American Queen is indisputably the matriarch of the Mississippi, and the monarch too — the largest steamboat ever to ply what were once known as the “Western Rivers,” the Mississippi and its many tributaries.

Launched in 1995, she is the sole overnight ”true” steamboat on those waters, now that her one-time fleetmates have been scrapped (the 1976-built Mississippi Queen ) or idled but intact (the lovely Delta Queen , launched in 1927 along with consort Delta King for packet service on the Sacramento River Delta and essential to the American Queen’s origin story).

My wife Laurel and I boarded the American Queen in New Orleans on February 27 (2023) for a seven-night, 640-mile paddle up the Mississippi to Memphis.

This would be our squiggly journey north, against the current and therefore slower and thus disallowing the Baton Rouge call that the southbound itinerary includes. * Map: American Queen Voyages

It wasn’t our first time aboard this elegant, substantial, and traditional vessel — that had come nearly 28 years earlier, and it was quite an adventure.

That story will come later.

At Nottoway, Louisiana, our first port of call, these passengers eschewed the two golf carts the American Queen carried to provide lifts for those who wanted them and ambled down the levy back to the ship on a beautiful late-February afternoon. * Photo: Karl Zimmerann

Subscribe to our monthly small ship cruise email

Subscribe to QuirkyCruise.com for monthly curated newsletters highlighting our top small cruise ship reviews , round-ups & offers!

(adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({});

American queen review — new orleans is old but never grows stale.

Standard procedure for American Queen Voyages is to include a pre-cruise hotel overnight in the voyage package, and ours was at the Hilton New Orleans Riverside, ideally located right on the Riverwalk and just a few steps from where the American Queen docked.

Though we didn’t add time, we made good use of the evening of our arrival and the morning and afternoon of sailing day, revisiting places we’d enjoyed on previous trips; as is appropriate for New Orleans, we focused on meals.

For dinner we chose Tujagues , founded in 1856. It had recently moved a few blocks from its long-standing location across from the French Market but had taken its bar, its menu, its charm, and its enticing neon sign with it.

In the French Quarter of New Orleans, the traditional neon sign of Tujague’s, a long-time favorite restaurant of ours, was a beacon to help us find the establishment’s new location, just blocks away from where we first knew it. * Photo: Karl Zimmermann

After Sazeracs, the rye and absinthe-based cocktail created in New Orleans about the time Tujagues opened, we shared and mixed and matched starters for a meal : Oysters Bienville (cornmeal fried on a bed of Bienville filling with a drizzle of truffle oil), zesty Shrimp Remoulade, and the highlight, Escargot Orleans (tender escargot, leeks, oyster mushrooms and fennel in roasted-garlic butter).

Tujague’s is classic New Orleans: white tablecloths, delicious baguettes in monogramed sleeves, Sazerac cocktails. * Photo: Karl Zimmerann

In the morning, since the included buffet breakfast at the hotel was attractive, we skipped the long walk to (and long lines at) the Café du Monde for strong coffee with chicory and beignets. I was hoping to get an early taste of the week ahead by trekking down the Riverwalk to watch the Natchez (a genuine steam-powered sternwheel day boat, built in 1975 using a salvaged 1925 steam plant) sail amid calliope playing and whistling.

Sadly, I learned that the boat had been damaged in Hurricane Ida, was in dry dock, and that City of New Orleans was standing in. I wasn’t fooled by the red paddlewheel, seemingly de rigueur for excursion boats all over the country; it was diesel powered, like all the other would-be steamboats except the Natchez and Belle of Louisville.

Lunch at another old favorite, Acme Oyster House , in the French Quarter as is Tujagues, cheered me up. (Again, follow the neon.)

Laurel stands under the sign of Acme Oyster House, another of our French Quarter favorites, where we went for lunch on the day of sailing. This informal establishment’s specialty is obvious. * Photo: Karl Zimmermann

In the past we’d enjoyed sitting at the bar and watching the expert shuckers do their work, No seats for us there this visit, but we entered with virtually no wait, which was unusual. * Photo: Karl Zimmermann

Though there are plenty of other options, Acme’s specialty obviously is oysters: raw on the half shell, fried, and chargrilled. We skipped the last option but had plenty of the other two.

To get there we hopped a red Canal Street streetcar, an air-conditioned replica of the dark-green century-old Perley Thomas cars (air-conditioning by open windows) that ply the St. Charles Avenue line through the city’s Garden District.

Day transit pass for seniors is 80 cents but we didn’t expect change back when we put our dollars in the machine. If you’re not a senior a “Jazzy Pass” will cost you $3 for a day’s worth of travel.

New Orleans is famous for its streetcars, including the long-defunct one named Desire (for Desire Street, which really did exist and wasn’t a figment of Tennessee Williams’s imagination). We lacked time this visit to ride my favorite, the historic St. Charles Avenue line, but did use a Canal Street car to get to Acme, then returned on one that continued onto the Waterfront Line. * Photo: Karl Zimmermann

Exploring Our Boat, the First Part of My American Queen Review

Soon, however, the American Queen’s deep-throated steamboat whistle would send us on our way upriver, Memphis-bound, at 5 o’clock.

VIDEO: Below, the American Queen’s beautifully melancholic whistle.

A bit after 3 p.m. we were taken to the boat, docked less than a hundred yards from the Riverside Wing of the hotel, via motor coach by boarding group. A fleet of five of these spiffy vehicles — broad-windowed, skylighted, with relatively low seat backs for good visibility — would shadow us the entire voyage, operating the tours.

We found our room — number 405, forward on Observation Deck, auspiciously named “Mississippi River” — and were delighted with the location.

(The rooms on Observation and Promenade Decks are named for the Mississippi’s many tributaries, but ours was the mother river.)

When we walked around our deck for exercise, six circuits to the mile, it was fun to read the evocative and euphonious river names when we glanced inward from the ever-changing Mississippi views.

Beautiful though the American Queen’s interiors are, we did love to be on deck, and in classic steamboat style our cabin opened right onto this one, Observation Deck. * Photo: Karl Zimmermann

In classic steamboat style, our room’s double doors opened right onto the deck.

(The boat does have a few dozen premium rooms with private verandas, but we preferred our arrangement, partly for sociability. We became good buddies with our neighbors in “Atafalaya River,” Paula and Benny from California.)

We thought our cabin both comfortable and attractive. The passage to the right of the bed led to a closet area and the bathroom. An antique-style combination bureau-secretary desk stood next to the louvered doors to the deck. * Photo: Karl Zimmermann

Just steps away was the Chart Room, a woody library that also held charts and other navigation information. A screen there and in the cabins always showed a chart of the boat’s current location.

Just steps from our cabin was the Chart Room, looking cozy at night, warmly lit including its cupola. Seen through the window is the boat’s only wheel, as the “wheelhouse,” or “pilot house,” has none. Below the windows are bronze plaques listing the passengers from the boat’s inaugural season. * Photo: Karl Zimmermann

“Riverlorian” Lee, a Bonafide Pilot

We could often find Lee Hendrix, the “Riverlorian,” in the Chart Room. The term and concept of “Riverlorian” (a portmanteau word connoting historian and purveyor of the lore of the rivers) predates the American Queen , apparently being coined aboard the Mississippi Queen.

Lee has had a long career as a riverboat pilot and still sometimes fills that role, so his knowledge of the river is encyclopedic. His daily talks became part of our onboard routine. It was he who led me on a tour of the wheelhouse the first morning.

“I’m not good-looking, I’m not rich, but I’m accessible” he said early on, and that proved to be true.

Forward on our deck, in front of the Chart Room, was a welcoming row of rocking chairs, and right down the deck staircase was the Front Porch Café, an informal alternate spot for all meals, buffet style. There was a large, covered outdoor deck with a variety of seating, and an indoor space should it be too nippy outside.

The Front Porch, just down a staircase from our cabin, was our choice for breakfast most days and often lunch if the weather was temperate, which it mostly was. * Photo: Karl Zimmermann

Breakfast was similar every day and I kept coming back: eggs and omelets cooked to order, fluffy, buttery biscuits with sausage gravy, bacon, sausage, potatoes, alternating specialties, such as a burrito, along with fruit, yogurt, and pastries.

The buffet line in the Front Porch Café, serving food brought from the main kitchen below, is to the rear in this picture. We found ample tables for the few chilly days, but if the boat were full that might be a problem. * Photo: Karl Zimmermann

Our mornings routinely began with my bringing cappuccino from the machine there to the chairs on deck right by our cabin door. In addition to the three squares, a hot-dog stand appeared on the porch afternoons, buns and dogs and all the trimmings.

The Front Porch Café also held the all-important popcorn machine, popcorn being a must-have for Laurel, smiling here. She and Ted Scull first indulged their mutual addiction to popcorn on the Mississippi Queen in March 1996. * Photo: Karl Zimmermann

American Queen Review — Paddling Off as the Calliope Played

We’d hastily unpacked, briefly renewed our acquaintance with the vessel — over the week we’ll explore every nook and cranny — but knew exactly where to be for our five-o’clock sailing: aft on Promenade Deck, where we could watch the paddlewheel come to life and hear Phil Westbrook’s sendoff on the steam calliope, with its 37 gold-plated brass pipes.

Calliope concerts punctuated each sailing, and Phil Westbrook does the honors here as we leave New Orleans for our 640-mile adventure. * Photo: Laurel Zimmermann

This we quickly realized would be our happy spot every early evening. If it was a port departure Phil or Jay Chalmers, another pianist, would herald it on the calliope, playing traditional ditties redolent of river and patriotism.

Historically calliopes are very much a steamboat thing, a must-have, and of course steam to play them is readily available.

VIDEO: Below, a little taste of what the calliope sounds like.

They’re loud, meant to be heard ashore as well as on board, and some of the close-at-hand audience on Promenade Deck did cover their ears. Showboats used calliopes as advertising, notifying potential audiences that the show had come to town.

Later in the cruise passengers would be given the chance to play, and executing even a single note would qualify for a “Vox Calliopus” certificate.

But calliope or not we’d be there to sip a Manhattan or old fashioned obtained from the oddly named River Grill and Bar there (no food) and be mesmerized by that magical red paddlewheel and watch the river glow in sequential sunsets (we were very lucky with the weather).

The churn and splash of the paddle wheel was our evening symphony, whether as background to the calliope — the instrument was named for the Greek muse of poetry and song— or on its own. * Photo: Karl Zimmermann

We’d generally linger on deck before dinner to watch the sunset, seen here from right outside our cabin door. This one we shared with Taylor, who took care of our cabin and valued her time on the rivers. “I love it in the evening when the fog rolls in,” she said, “and the stars on a dark night when we’re away from cities.” * Photo: Karl Zimmermann

VIDEO: Below, the calliope plays as the red wheel turns.

American Queen Review — New Orleans, Port City

That first evening we marched up the river, paddlewheel churning, past maritime New Orleans, wharf after wharf: First Street, Harmony Street, Seventh Street, Nashville Avenue, Henry Clay Avenue Wharves — most wooden, redolent of a break-bulk era, when cargo was unloaded and reloaded, before ubiquitous containerization.

Any deck was our favorite place to be, and often serendipitous things occurred there.

It was dark that first night by the time we stepped out on deck from our cabin, headed to the dining room, and there on the eastern shore was the handsome Natchez that I’d hoped to see under steam in New Orleans, now floodlighted in dry dock.

Amazing serendipity: As we stepped from our cabin on the first evening, headed for dinner, there was my second favorite sternwheel steamer Natchez, in dry dock. Its presence there encouraged me to think that it would steam again. * Photo: Karl Zimmermann

With dinner, here again we were lucky as we would be with the weather. Normally the boat offers two-sittings and we’d been assigned the “main,” at 7:45, late for us. However, the “Daily Voyage” information sheet listed “open dinner seating 5:15-7:30,” which suited us just fine.

We thought it was only for the first night, but it continued through the voyage.

I later learned, the boat was roughly half full, 215 passengers of the 415 maximum.

Over 225 required two sittings, so we barely skinned through.

American Queen Review — The J.M. White Dining Room, Pluses & Minuses

The grand and elegant J. M. White Dining Room gets its name from the 1878 steamboat J. M. White , the primary inspiration for the retro American Queen’s design, though it was a side-wheeler rather than a sternwheeler.

The soaring, two-deck high side sections of J. M. White Dining Room are a splendid recreation of Victorian elegance. When full for dinner, however, it was auditorily challenging. * Photo: Karl Zimmermann

Of course it had plenty of open space on Main Deck to carry bales of cotton, its main revenue source. But the arcaded passenger decks above suggest the look of the American Queen , the AQ’s ornate pilot house is a virtual copy, and the tall fluted stacks, designed to keep smoke and sparks away from the passengers and cotton (the boats were mostly wood-fired in those days), were also borrowed. (Some etymologies of the term “highfalutin” cite such oversized fluted stacks as the source — a stretch, perhaps, but the word was a mid-19th-century American coinage so that would work.)

We were enjoying the early evening on deck and the froth of the paddlewheel so much that we were slow in getting to dinner, and table choices were slim. We were offered a spot for two in an adjacent, small, subsidiary dining room, only used for single-sitting dining, and that became our table of choice, because here’s the thing: the J. M. White Dining Room is majestic and impressive in its Victorian detailing and spacious feel but very loud, at least to my ears.

The center section has a low ceiling, but the two sides soar up a second deck, overlooked by windows in the Mark Twain Gallery. The second night we joined a table for eight and conversation was difficult. A compounding factor is the noisy generator lurking below deck on the starboard side.

Windows in the Mark Twain Gallery on Cabin Deck allowed nice views down into the J. M. White Dining Room. * Photo: Karl Zimmermann

Our first dinner in the small room, where we found the servers exemplary, was creative: coffee-rubbed filet for me and deep fried coconut lobster tail for Laurel. Shrimp remoulade on fried green tomatoes was a scrumptious starter. A few days later lobster tails would return, delicious, served on with creamed spinach and removed from the shell at table by Isaac.

We did find the dinner quality up and down, a highlight being succulent lamb chops.

Isaac, one of the excellent and personable servers in the small annex to the dining room that we preferred, removes a lobster tail from its shell for Laurel. * Photo: Karl Zimmermann

American Queen Review — The Tours

American Queen Voyages typically offers included tours at every port, plus at least one and usually two “Premium Experiences,” longer and more involved, for a fee.

We had learned from sailing the previous summer across the Great Lakes aboard the line’s Ocean Voyager that the included tours were just splendid, and that’s the route we took on the American Queen . Most were hop-on, hop-off with our captive buses and excellent local guides, and departures continued throughout the port calls, a flexibility that we liked.

However, Nottoway, the first port, was different. As I walked forward on our deck as we arrived, the lines were just being secured and the portside landing stage lowered into place. The boat’s two landing stages were emblematic of Mississippi River steamboats, allowing them to land anywhere, and tie off to whatever was handy.

The folksy term for this, “choking a stump,” described lines wrapped around a tree or stump, secured by a clamp called a “deadman.”

This is how to “choke a stump,” to tie up most anywhere along the rivers. The clamps securing the lines are called “deadmen,” one of the many bits of fascinating arcana I learned from Riverlorian Lee. * Photo: Karl Zimmermann

The object of today’s visit, heavily columned Nottoway Mansion, built in 1855 by John Hampton Randolph combining the Greek Revival and Italianate styles, had just emerged from the morning fog, a white, ghostly castle.

American Queen Review — First, the Pilothouse

Before disembarking at Nottoway, I took that pilothouse tour with Riverlorian Lee, where I was reminded that the tall, fluted stacks folded down to clear low bridges, and the wheelhouse could be hydraulically lowered into the Sun Deck and radar mast folded down.

In the pilot house, Hendrix, long a licensed pilot, explained aspects of the boat’s operations. Visible to the left are the controls that lower and raise the stacks, necessary when navigating under low bridges. The ornamental crown of the pilothouse can be removed as well, and radar masts folded. * Photo: Karl Zimmermann

The up and down dance of the stacks always attracted attention, including mine. It was a noisy process, and the starboard stack (actually a dummy, for show only) was right above our cabin. In the middle of a breezy night, pajama clad, I went on deck to watch, only to have the cabin door slam shut and lock. A good deal of pounding finally woke Laurel to let me in. * Photo: Karl Zimmermann

Lee also revealed a fact that may have surprised some. While the steam engine that drives the paddlewheel is 100 percent real, constructed in 1932 for the dredge Kentucky , diesel-electric “Z-drives” provide about half the power.

This didn’t diminish my pleasure in frequently visiting the engine room, the beating heart of the vessel, open to passengers at any time.

VIDEO: Karl has a look around the engine room, below.

It’s accessed through the Engine Room Bar, itself well worth a stopover.

There through rear-facing portholes patrons can watch the paddlewheel churn, floodlit at night.

VIDEO: Below, the view of the churning paddlewheel through the windows.

Aft on Sun Deck were some perhaps unexpected cruise-ship-type amenities: a small pool, lounge chairs, and, behind the windows, a small fitness center. The pilot house is wearing its tiara as no bridge is imminent. * Photo: Karl Zimmermann

American Queen Review — Touring Nottoway

After lunch I took the Nottoway mansion tour led by Nikki — a Texan who went to LSU, never left the state, and was married at Nottoway.

But she proved more than photogenic, offering a tour that was superb and polished, full of interesting tidbits, and — as is de rigueur these days — forthcoming about the role of slavery in the mansion’s past.

Nikki, standing here in the dining room of Nottoway, which claims to be the finest surviving antebellum mansion in the South, was an exceptional docent, knowledgeable and well-spoken. “Y’all are welcome to take pictures,” she said by way of introduction, “and they’ll be better if I’m in them.” No argument there. The house had many stories to tell, and she articulated them perfectly. * Photo: Karl Zimmermann

The American Queen Itself Has History

To fully appreciate the American Queen means to know its history, nicely presented in “Dare to Dream,” a 30-minute documentary about the boat’s building and inauguration, shown in the Grand Saloon, the performance space.

The American Queen’s Grand Saloon, home for Lee’s daily talks, the nightly shows, and more, is a stylish evocation of a Victorian-era small-town opera house, with some details modeled on Washington’s Ford’s Theater. It also recalls the showboats that once brought entertainment to the river towns. * Photo: Karl Zimmermann

The legacy goes back to the Delta Queen ; like its twin, the Delta King (now a hotel in Sacramento, the boats’ original destination from San Francisco), it was built too late for the packet service it originally filled, hauling mail, freight, automobiles, and passengers, and soon was made obsolete by a new highway.

Idled for a time, Delta Queen was bought in 1946 by Greene Line Steamers of Cincinnati, towed through the Panama Canal, and launched on its new career on the Mississippi River and tributaries two years later.

Imperiled in 1966 by a Safety at Life at Sea law prohibiting wooden superstructures on ships enacted after a devastating fire aboard an ocean-going ship, the Delta Queen  for years received a series of Congressional exemptions because a riverboat could “chock a stump” within minutes and unload passengers.

The Delta Queen, seen here in Maysville, Ohio, on October 17, 1990, was built in 1926 for overnight service between San Francisco and Sacramento. It lent its name to the company that would build the American Queen. * Photo: Karl Zimmermann

For political reasons, the exemptions finally stopped in 2008. Earlier, amid this climate of uncertainty, the owner (now named the Delta Queen Steam Steamboat Company) hedged it bets and in the mid 1970s built the all-steel Mississippi Queen , with an authentic steam plant but larger and thus more profitable.

The all-steel Mississippi Queen, shown here boarding passengers in March of 1996, was built in 1976 as a hedge against the Delta Queen falling victim to the 1966 SOLAS law disallowing wooden superstructures. The MQ’s passenger capacity of 422 was well more than double the DQ’s (the AQ’s would be only slightly higher), a key to profitability. * Photo: Karl Zimmermann

But after a 9/11-induced layup it deteriorated and was subsequently scrapped.

The American Queen , designed to incorporate the elegance and historicity of the Delta Queen and practicality of the Mississippi Queen , was launched in 1995, with Victorian elegance throughout and a plethora of antique furnishings.

The Mark Twain Gallery, richly woody, is flanked with cases displaying steamboat and other period memorabilia. * Photo: Karl Zimmermann

Located forward of the Mark Twain Gallery, the Ladies’ Parlor has a dainty Victorian elegance. * Photo: Karl Zimmermann

Across the hall from the Ladies’ Parlor is the Gentlemen’s Card Room. A taxidermist’s delight, it has a distinctly masculine vibe. * Photo: Karl Zimmermann

On the Upper Mississippi in July 1999, Delta Queen passengers wave to their counterparts on the American Queen. This was the heyday of the Delta Queen Steamboat Company, with three boats sailing. Note the AQ’s smokeless dummy starboard stack. * Photo: Karl Zimmermann

RELATED: Ted looks back at the debut of the American Queen.

RELATED: Ted interviews American Queen expert Bill Forsstrom about his many cruises.

We Choked a Stump

Laurel and I knew American Queen right from the beginning, since we were aboard a pre-inaugural run in 1995 destined from Memphis to Louisville for journalists and travel agents. Public relations had planned an aerial photo shoot midway through so, in order to be in just the right place for the morning sun, we pulled off and “choked a stump” overnight.

Problem was, unknown to the American Queen pilot, the Army Corps of Engineers, which managed the river and its locks and dams, dramatically dropped the water level.

On the morning of June 19, Laurel and I awoke to the roaring engines of an Ingram Marine towboat trying to pull us free. Its mates joined in over the next two days, but no dice.

A pair of Ingram towboats strive mightily but futilely to pull the American Queen out of the Ohio River mud at Hawesville, Kentucky, on the boat’s pre-inaugural cruise to Louisville. * Photo: Karl Zimmermann

Eventually we passengers were barged off and bussed to Louisville. Various expediencies, including pumping off ballast and fuel, freed the boat and it began its inaugural trip on schedule.

Eventually we gave up and hopped the offered barge ride from Hawesville across the Ohio to Troy, Indiana, and from there bused to our flight back to New Jersey. * Photo: Karl Zimmermann

(Not long after we arrived home, polo shirts with the logo “Choke-a-Stump Gang” appeared in the mail.)

I still have the “Choke a Stump Gang” polo shirt sent by the Delta Queen Steamship PR director after the 1995 stumble and wore it proudly on our 2023 voyage. * Photo: Laurel Zimmermann

However, according to Lee, who served as pilot for much of its inaugural year, the boat’s teething problems weren’t over, as its paddlewheel was hors de combat (out of action) all that time, and the boat soldiered on successfully with just its Z-drives.

“We’re built for comfort, not for speed,” Lee had said, bringing us back to 2023, and we thought that summed it up.

Over and over in chatting with passengers, we heard “peaceful” and “relaxing.” We personally were happy with our slower, up-bound, itinerary, though I believe more prospective passengers preferred the faster, down-bound run, which allowed an extra port, Baton Rouge.

The aft table by the paddlewheel was nirvana for Zimmermanns, the perfect place to watch the sunsets. * Photo: Laurel Zimmermann

Throughout the public rooms and corridors are 60-plus oils by marine artist Michael Blaser, each evocative of commerce on the Western Rivers. This one, “The Moonlight Above Memphis,” shows a towboat’s searchlight picking up the Delta Queen’s paddlewheel. * Photo: Karl Zimmermann

Passage by Baton Rouge came well after dark, but I thought the nighttime cityscape well worth waiting up for. * Photo: Karl Zimmermann

More Touring

The tours we made we liked a lot. The second stop, the town of New Roads in the parish of Pointe Coupée, was as unknown to us as had been Nottoway.

The river was shrouded in fog when we arrived at Pointe Coupée, Louisiana, our second port, and the barges of this southbound tow are barely visible. The short forward mast holds the “peep light,” which helps pilots steer in the dark. (Lee Hendrix’s memoir, Peep Light: Stories of a Mississippi River Boat Captain , will be published early next year by the University Press of Mississippi.) * Photo: Karl Zimmermann

The American Queen’s competition, the Viking Mississippi, not a stump-choker, was docked across the river from Point Coupée at St. Francisville. Its look was wildly different from the traditional AQ’s, and I gazed at it without a twinge of envy. * Photo: Karl Zimmermann

It’s on False River, a trapped former oxbow of the Mississippi, now a sport boating and fishing mecca. (In contrast, on our entire voyage we did not see a single recreational boat on the Mississippi nor facilities to serve one. What we did see were many “tows” — the oxymoronically named compendium of barges, often a lot of them — pushed by a “towboat.”)

In New Roads we were welcomed to look around the privately owned Lejeune House.

Our Pointe Coupée hop-offs were in New Roads, the Parish’s main town, The first was at LeJeune House, more than two hundred years old. * Photo: Karl Zimmermann

We then stopped at the visitor center, where the highlight for us was watching carver Henry Watson work and study his art, chiseled from reclaimed cypress wood from slave homes and barns and painted.

At the New Roads Visitors Center, we picked up some Mardi Gras beads with no obligations and browsed local artifacts on display, including an extensive collection of antique outboard motors. The highlight was seeing Henry Watson work and admiring some of his lovely creations. He first carves images from century-old cypress, salvaged from slave quarters and sharecroppers’ barns, then paints the carvings. * Photo: Karl Zimmermann

Next came Natchez. “Natchez under the hill,” where we landed, once the place for bars, brothels, and brawling, was sedate with a few tourist-friendly historic buildings.

Natchez-Under-the-Hill, where we landed in Natchez, Mississippi, had a misty, Brigadoon-like quality when we arrived. Our golf carts were ready to help if needed. This was once a brawling river spot with bars and brothels, but today its few remaining buildings are nicely restored and more than respectable.. * Photo: Laurel Zimmermann

Up on the bluff we briefly toured Rosalie, another antebellum mansion . From its grounds I had a fine view of our boat, then we were off.

Rosalie Mansion, one of three antebellum homes available on our hop-on hop-off route, was a classic example of the genre. * Photo: Karl Zimmermann

Rosalie Mansion’s grounds provided a splendid elevated view of the American Queen. * Photo: Karl Zimmermann

The Natchez Museum of African American History and Culture is a wide-ranging, jam-packed collection of displays and artifacts that fills multiple rooms in the old post office building. * Photo: Karl Zimmermann

In Vicksburg we hopped off first at the Vicksburg Civil War Museum , an excellent private collection that brought race relations into focus.

Another fine view of our boat came from Washington Street in Vicksburg, Mississippi, right across from the Vicksburg Civil War Museum and the Beidenharn Coca-Cola Museum, wildly different but both rewarding. Here you can see a pair of our spiffy buses and some of Robert Dafford’s wonderful murals. * Photo: Karl Zimmermann

The Vicksburg Civil War Museum was an extraordinary private collection of artifacts and displays that chronicled not only the War but, just as importantly, the African American experience of that era, antebellum, wartime, and Reconstruction. The “Hop-on Hop-off Highlights” suggests a 20-30 minute visit but I could easily have spent half a day there. * Photo: Karl Zimmermann

Then we wandered one block from serious to frivolous and perused the memorabilia at the Biedenharn Coca-Cola museum , where that ubiquitous beverage is said to have been first bottled, in 1894.

As a lover of collectables and ephemera, I naturally enjoyed the Biedenharn Museum, shared here with some of our fellow passengers. Everything Coke. * Photo: Karl Zimmermann

We couldn’t resist downing a Coke float before we went on to the Jesse Brent Lower Mississippi River Museum , where the highlight for me was to explore a retired tow boat similar to the ones we’d been watching on the river.

For me the unquestionable highlight of the Jesse Brent Lower Mississippi River Museum was the Mississippi IV, a working towboat that also served as the flagship for the Mississippi River Commission from the early 1960s until its retirement in 1993. This view from its pilot house shows its proximity to the American Queen. * Photo: Karl Zimmermann

Before re-boarding, I walked along the flood wall, admiring the 32 murals by artist Robert Dafford that depicted the city’s history.

Each of Robert Dafford’s seawall murals deserved attention, and this one combined two of my passions, steamboats and steam locomotives. Another favorite featured local bluesman Willie Dixon and his quote: “The blues are the roots, the rest are the fruits.” * Photo: Karl Zimmermann

Steamboating Aboard American Queen

For the next two days we were on the river, no port until Tunica in the late afternoon of the second. This suited us just fine, as we never tired of watching for tows, or hoping for a low bridge ahead that would require the stacks to be lowered, always an event that drew spectators.

The numerous tows we saw throughout our voyage provided a sense of riverine life and the commercial significance of the Mississippi. We knew from Lee that tows bound downriver like this one will let the current steer them around bends, a technique called “flanking.” * Photo: Karl Zimmermann

In addition to deck time, we headed to the J. M. White Dining Room for the jazz brunch held on the portless day, with the Steamboat Syncopators playing in the adjacent Captain’s Bar. We tried some a la carte items, Crab Benedict and Shrimp Creole with creamy grits, but were happier with the buffet, especially the charcuterie plate. Shrimp cocktail, and smoked salmon.

The jazz brunch in the J. M. White Dining Room on one of the “steamboating” days was great fun, though my Crab Benedict actually looked better than it tasted. Can’t remember the name of this specialty cocktail. No matter. I wouldn’t order it again. * Photo: Laurel Zimmermann

But the Syncopators, the brassy quintet that backed all the shows, were even better than the food.

The Steamboat Syncopators, playing here in the Captain’s Bar adjacent to the dining room during the jazz brunch, were a very talented group and a highlight of the voyage for us. * Photo: Karl Zimmermann

Lead by pianist Gary Peterson, whose jazz chops included not just New Orleans style but also bebop, this group swung behind an engaging quartet of singers and dancers, and we caught every show: music of the South, of the 70s, and, our favorite: “Curtain Up, Songs of Broadway.”

Here at the finale of the Broadway show, our favorite, are the cast, left to right: Brandon Janssen, Lainie Gulliksen, Alex Bernhardt, and Maggie McMurran. Alex also served as cruise director with Maggie as his assistant. * Photo: Karl Zimmermann

All the music heard aboard the American Queen was made aboard the American Queen , nothing taped, a claim few vessels in the cruise industry can make.

RELATED: Heidi writes about American Queen’s entertainment options for Travel Weekly.

Then the final day: packing, strolling the decks, one last “River Chat” in the Grand Saloon with Lee, a last dinner in the J. M. White Dining Room annex.

Before that, we passed up a brief look at the museum at Tunica (the already late arrival of 5pm had been pushed back even further by high water) and watched a last sunset from one of the balconies off the Engine Room Bar, where we could also see the crew improvising a repair to the “monkey rudder” behind the paddle wheel, one of two rudders (among the many things we learned from Lee).

In the Engine Room Bar the bartender pours a martini. On the wall opposite are portholes that look out on the paddlewheel. Not the least of the room’s charms are the stairs from there down to the engine room itself. * Photo: Karl Zimmermann

Redolent of steam and grease, the engine room was one of my favorite places and — in a longstanding Delta Queen Steamboat and now American Queen Steamboat tradition — it’s completely welcoming to passengers. In this view the engineer has his hand on the throttle as we begin to ease out into the Yazoo River, just off the Mississippi, where we’re staged for Vicksburg. In the engine room is a box of souvenirs, small red-tinged wooden squares cut from broken “bucket-boards” from a snag-damaged paddle wheel. One is now on my bureau in New Jersey, reminding me of a fine voyage. * Photo: Karl Zimmermann

The highfalutin stacks of the American Queen are arguably its most emblematic appurtenance. Here Laurel and I are framed by the port stack and the masts of the port landing stage as we gaze at the muddy Mississippi. * Photo: Karl Zimmermann

Eschewing a late visit to Tunica, we spent the final evening on the porch off the Engine Room Bar, watching the sun fall as the engine room crew jerry-rigged a broken connection to the “monkey rudder” so we could make our final lap to Memphis that night. (The monkey rudder is the second of two on the boat, behind the paddle wheel. Thanks again, Lee, for putting us in the know.) * Photo: Karl Zimmermann

The next morning we were in Memphis, where roughly 28 years earlier we had begun our first voyage aboard the American Queen , the one which ended with us “choking a stump.”

Interested in This Cruise?

The 7-night American Queen cruises between New Orleans and Memphis start at $3,729 per person and include open-bar and daily hop-on hop-off excursions.

We’re already looking forward to our next voyage on the American Queen , perhaps on the Ohio or Upper Mississippi, very different but equally wonderful experiences.

Don’t miss a post about small-ship cruising,  subscribe to QuirkyCruise.com  for monthly updates & special offers!  

© This article is protected by copyright, no part may be reproduced by any process without written permission from the author. All Rights Reserved. QuirkyCruise.com.

About The Author

Karl Zimmermann

Karl Zimmermann has written about ships, trains, and other travel subjects for newspapers across the country, from the New York Times and Washington Post to the Los Angeles Times, and for numerous magazines — hundreds of articles in all, to go with his 24 books.

Related Posts

Mythology Comes Alive on an Island Windjammers Greek Isles Cruise

June 17, 2024

American Cruise Lines’ New 100-pax American Eagle Doing Coastal Maine for Its Inaugural Season

April 12, 2023

Nile River Cruise Overview: Egypt & its Famous Antiquities

September 26, 2017

7 Good Reasons to Splurge on a Luxury Emerald Azzurra Cruise

October 3, 2022

This review, Karl, adds a profound stab to the heart given how well the American Queen looked when pulled from service. Just a terribly pity.

There’s good news on this, Alan, as American Cruise Lines has bought the American Queen and its river fleetmates. The American Queen should be steaming again next year. Best, Karl

Leave a reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Write A Review

Uncruise bf ad.

Heidi Booking Ad

2023 SATW Lowell Thomas QC Win

2023 SATW Lowell Thomas QC Win 2

SC & PK’s YT Channel

Sign Up box

Travel Without the Crowds

Satw proud member.

I'm up to 78 countries and 110+ cruises worldwide, and it's the small ship journeys that I love writing about most. And so QuirkyCruise.com was born, an excellent research tool for planning your own unforgettable small ship trip.

I have traveled between all continents by sea and cruised along three dozen rivers. Ships and travel are in my blood, and so is writing. My journeys have translated into many books and many hundreds of articles.

Our Small Ship Cruise Reviews & Articles

If you can imagine it, we’ve cruised it! With reviews, articles and destination overviews, we’ve got you covered.

AmaWaterways Soulful Experience Cruise on France’s Rhône River — Paul C. Thornton Reviews a 10-Night Cruise & Paris Combo

AmaWaterways Soulful Experience Cruise By Paul C. Thornton I recently checked a river cruise off my bucket list — a seven-night AmaWaterways sailing on the Rhône River in France on the AmaKristina culminating with a three-day excursion to Paris. In August, my wife...

East Greenland Ocean Albatros Cruises — Anne Kalosh Reviews a Glorious Adventure in an Immense, Wildly Beautiful Place Like No Other 

Ocean Albatros Cruises to East Greenland By Anne Kalosh Now is the time of year when a handful of expedition cruise ships flock to East Greenland, home to the world's largest national park. It offers breathtaking, otherworldly beauty on a grandiose scale. Gigantic...

Quasar Evolution Galapagos Cruise Adventure READER REVIEW by Holly Quinn

Quasar Evolution Galapagos Cruise Reviewer Holly Quinn from USA. Cruise Line Quasar. Ship 32-passenger Evolution. Destination Galapagos. # of Nights 7. Departure Port Baltra Island, Galapagos, Ecuador. Date of Cruise April 20, 2024. Ratings (5=excellent, 4=very good,...

Aqua Expeditions Amazon READER REVIEW by Holly Quinn

Aqua Expeditions Amazon Reviewer Holly Quinn from USA. Cruise Line Aqua Expeditions. Ship 40-passenger Aqua Nera. Destination Amazon-Peru. # of Nights 4. Departure Port Iquitos, Brazil. Date of Cruise May 4, 2024. Ratings (5=excellent, 4=very good, 3=good, 2=poor,...

Croatia Yacht Cruise with the Small Cruise Ship Collection — An Expert Review of a Cruise in the Adriatic Between Split and Dubrovnik

Croatia Yacht Cruise By Alison Abbott I must be one of the few visitors to Croatia without Game of Thrones on my mind. No, I was there for the pull of the pearls in the Adriatic’s azure waters. Being an island girl from way back, the names of Vis, Hvar, and Korčula...

3 Reasons a First Time River Cruiser Delighted in a Uniworld Douro River Cruise

Uniworld Douro River Cruise By Georgiana Verdonk-Sim When my best friend Heidi suggested a cruise along the Douro River, I jumped at the chance. I had never been on a cruise before, so I was excited for this new adventure. Plus, I would get to spend time with Heidi...

4 Nile River Cruises You Should Know About — From Viking, Nour El Nil & Lindblad

Nile River Cruises By Judi Cuervo & Heidi Sarna The Nile River IS Egypt. This 4,132-mile river, the longest in the world, inspired the ancient Egyptians to become experts in the areas of transportation, shipbuilding, farming, and engineering. It was also on this...

Riverside Mozart Danube River Cruise Cut Short by High River Levels — Navigating Unpredictable Waters on Europe River Cruises

Riverside Mozart Danube River Cruise By Sharon Kurtz Embarking on a luxurious river cruise along the enchanting Danube River in June with Riverside Luxury Cruises, a new line still largely unknown by many travelers, seemed like a dream come true. Little did my husband...

River Levels in Europe — Understanding the Causes & Implications of Fluctuating River Levels That Can Throw a Wrench into your Travel Plans

River Levels in Europe By Sharon Kurtz Navigating Europe's rivers is not without challenges, particularly concerning river levels. Variations in water levels can significantly impact river cruises, causing potential disruptions and alterations to itineraries. I know...

New River Line Transcend Cruises Is Building Its First Vessel to Focus Entirely on Group Travel

New River Line Transcend Cruises By Anne Kalosh. Transcend Cruises, the fledgling European river operator, toasted a newbuild contract in early August. You haven't heard of this line? Transcend burst on the scene a couple years ago with a concept unlike any other on...

Majestic Line Glen Rosa Review by James from Scotland

Majestic Line Glen Rosa Review Reviewer James from Scotland. Cruise Line Majestic Line. Ship 6-passenger Glen Rosa. Destination Tobermory, Scotland. # of Nights 6. Departure Port Oban, Scotland. Date of Cruise August 3, 2024. Ratings (5=excellent, 4=very good, 3=good,...

Quirky Cruise Contributors

Heidi & Ted and their team of curious travel writers explore the far corners of the world to share their experiences & insights about small-ship cruising.

Heidi M. Sarna

So far, I’ve explored 78 countries around the world by boat, road, plane, foot, bicycle and camel. My first big journey was a six-month trip around the world back in the days when…

Theodore W. Scull

I am happiest near water, over water or better still on a conveyance moving through water. When my brother Sandy and I were deemed old enough, mother took us to Europe by ship.

Anne Kalosh

Peter knego, john roberts, robin mckelvie, dana freeman, judi cuervo, lynn and cele seldon, elysa leonard.

Sign up for our monthly newsletter to get insider reviews, tips & deals on unusual & small-ship cruises.

• Name * First Last
• Countries * Afghanistan Albania Algeria American Samoa Andorra Angola Anguilla Antarctica Antigua and Barbuda Argentina Armenia Aruba Australia Austria Azerbaijan Bahamas Bahrain Bangladesh Barbados Belarus Belgium Belize Benin Bermuda Bhutan Bolivia Bonaire, Sint Eustatius and Saba Bosnia and Herzegovina Botswana Bouvet Island Brazil British Indian Ocean Territory Brunei Darussalam Bulgaria Burkina Faso Burundi Cambodia Cameroon Canada Cape Verde Cayman Islands Central African Republic Chad Chile China Christmas Island Cocos Islands Colombia Comoros Congo, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Republic of the Cook Islands Costa Rica Croatia Cuba Curaçao Cyprus Czech Republic Côte d'Ivoire Denmark Djibouti Dominica Dominican Republic Ecuador Egypt El Salvador Equatorial Guinea Eritrea Estonia Eswatini (Swaziland) Ethiopia Falkland Islands Faroe Islands Fiji Finland France French Guiana French Polynesia French Southern Territories Gabon Gambia Georgia Germany Ghana Gibraltar Greece Greenland Grenada Guadeloupe Guam Guatemala Guernsey Guinea Guinea-Bissau Guyana Haiti Heard and McDonald Islands Holy See Honduras Hong Kong Hungary Iceland India Indonesia Iran Iraq Ireland Isle of Man Israel Italy Jamaica Japan Jersey Jordan Kazakhstan Kenya Kiribati Kuwait Kyrgyzstan Lao People's Democratic Republic Latvia Lebanon Lesotho Liberia Libya Liechtenstein Lithuania Luxembourg Macau Macedonia Madagascar Malawi Malaysia Maldives Mali Malta Marshall Islands Martinique Mauritania Mauritius Mayotte Mexico Micronesia Moldova Monaco Mongolia Montenegro Montserrat Morocco Mozambique Myanmar Namibia Nauru Nepal Netherlands New Caledonia New Zealand Nicaragua Niger Nigeria Niue Norfolk Island North Korea Northern Mariana Islands Norway Oman Pakistan Palau Palestine, State of Panama Papua New Guinea Paraguay Peru Philippines Pitcairn Poland Portugal Puerto Rico Qatar Romania Russia Rwanda Réunion Saint Barthélemy Saint Helena Saint Kitts and Nevis Saint Lucia Saint Martin Saint Pierre and Miquelon Saint Vincent and the Grenadines Samoa San Marino Sao Tome and Principe Saudi Arabia Senegal Serbia Seychelles Sierra Leone Singapore Sint Maarten Slovakia Slovenia Solomon Islands Somalia South Africa South Georgia South Korea South Sudan Spain Sri Lanka Sudan Suriname Svalbard and Jan Mayen Islands Sweden Switzerland Syria Taiwan Tajikistan Tanzania Thailand Timor-Leste Togo Tokelau Tonga Trinidad and Tobago Tunisia Turkey Turkmenistan Turks and Caicos Islands Tuvalu US Minor Outlying Islands Uganda Ukraine United Arab Emirates United Kingdom United States Uruguay Uzbekistan Vanuatu Venezuela Vietnam Virgin Islands, British Virgin Islands, U.S. Wallis and Futuna Western Sahara Yemen Zambia Zimbabwe Åland Islands

* I would like to subscribe to the QuirkyCruise newsletters. QuirkyCruise.com will not sell your email. See  PRIVACY POLICY

quirkycruise

Never Miss A Post!

Sign up for our monthly newsletters for updates on our small-ship cruise reviews, news & exclusive offers!

• Full Name * First Last
• Country * Afghanistan Albania Algeria American Samoa Andorra Angola Anguilla Antarctica Antigua and Barbuda Argentina Armenia Aruba Australia Austria Azerbaijan Bahamas Bahrain Bangladesh Barbados Belarus Belgium Belize Benin Bermuda Bhutan Bolivia Bonaire, Sint Eustatius and Saba Bosnia and Herzegovina Botswana Bouvet Island Brazil British Indian Ocean Territory Brunei Darussalam Bulgaria Burkina Faso Burundi Cambodia Cameroon Canada Cape Verde Cayman Islands Central African Republic Chad Chile China Christmas Island Cocos Islands Colombia Comoros Congo, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Republic of the Cook Islands Costa Rica Croatia Cuba Curaçao Cyprus Czech Republic Côte d'Ivoire Denmark Djibouti Dominica Dominican Republic Ecuador Egypt El Salvador Equatorial Guinea Eritrea Estonia Eswatini (Swaziland) Ethiopia Falkland Islands Faroe Islands Fiji Finland France French Guiana French Polynesia French Southern Territories Gabon Gambia Georgia Germany Ghana Gibraltar Greece Greenland Grenada Guadeloupe Guam Guatemala Guernsey Guinea Guinea-Bissau Guyana Haiti Heard and McDonald Islands Holy See Honduras Hong Kong Hungary Iceland India Indonesia Iran Iraq Ireland Isle of Man Israel Italy Jamaica Japan Jersey Jordan Kazakhstan Kenya Kiribati Kuwait Kyrgyzstan Lao People's Democratic Republic Latvia Lebanon Lesotho Liberia Libya Liechtenstein Lithuania Luxembourg Macau Macedonia Madagascar Malawi Malaysia Maldives Mali Malta Marshall Islands Martinique Mauritania Mauritius Mayotte Mexico Micronesia Moldova Monaco Mongolia Montenegro Montserrat Morocco Mozambique Myanmar Namibia Nauru Nepal Netherlands New Caledonia New Zealand Nicaragua Niger Nigeria Niue Norfolk Island North Korea Northern Mariana Islands Norway Oman Pakistan Palau Palestine, State of Panama Papua New Guinea Paraguay Peru Philippines Pitcairn Poland Portugal Puerto Rico Qatar Romania Russia Rwanda Réunion Saint Barthélemy Saint Helena Saint Kitts and Nevis Saint Lucia Saint Martin Saint Pierre and Miquelon Saint Vincent and the Grenadines Samoa San Marino Sao Tome and Principe Saudi Arabia Senegal Serbia Seychelles Sierra Leone Singapore Sint Maarten Slovakia Slovenia Solomon Islands Somalia South Africa South Georgia South Korea South Sudan Spain Sri Lanka Sudan Suriname Svalbard and Jan Mayen Islands Sweden Switzerland Syria Taiwan Tajikistan Tanzania Thailand Timor-Leste Togo Tokelau Tonga Trinidad and Tobago Tunisia Turkey Turkmenistan Turks and Caicos Islands Tuvalu US Minor Outlying Islands Uganda Ukraine United Arab Emirates United Kingdom United States Uruguay Uzbekistan Vanuatu Venezuela Vietnam Virgin Islands, British Virgin Islands, U.S. Wallis and Futuna Western Sahara Yemen Zambia Zimbabwe Åland Islands

• Credit cards
• View all credit cards
• Banking guide
• Loans guide
• Insurance guide
• Personal finance
• View all personal finance
• Small business
• Small business guide
• View all taxes

You’re our first priority. Every time.

We believe everyone should be able to make financial decisions with confidence. And while our site doesn’t feature every company or financial product available on the market, we’re proud that the guidance we offer, the information we provide and the tools we create are objective, independent, straightforward — and free.

So how do we make money? Our partners compensate us. This may influence which products we review and write about (and where those products appear on the site), but it in no way affects our recommendations or advice, which are grounded in thousands of hours of research. Our partners cannot pay us to guarantee favorable reviews of their products or services. Here is a list of our partners .

American Queen Voyages: The Complete Guide

Many or all of the products on this page are from partners who compensate us when you click to or take an action on their website, but this does not influence our evaluations or ratings. Our opinions are our own.

American Queen Voyages is a cruise line catering mainly to a previously untapped market: river cruises in North America. With three types of vessels available — including riverboats — American Queen guests can enjoy sailing down the Mississippi as easily as in the Caribbean.

At American Queen, historical riverboats have been transformed into full-service, all-inclusive cruise ships capable of sailing the Mississippi, Columbia and Snake rivers, as well as excursions in the Great Lakes. The traditional routes are on the roster also, including sailings to Alaska, Costa Rica, the Gulf of Mexico and New England.

Here's a look at how American Queen Voyages is breathing new life into a part of the U.S. that features natural beauty and history.

About American Queen cruises

Here’s a quick overview of what to expect on an American Queen cruise.

Cabin types: Depending on the type of cruise you book, you can choose from a variety of room types. These include interior rooms, single rooms, rooms with a veranda and suites. 

Main U.S. routes: American Queen operates most of its routes on rivers in the U.S., with its main voyages cruising down the lower portion of the Mississippi. 

American Queen Voyages cruise destinations

American Queen cruise line operates almost exclusively in North America, but that doesn’t mean that its destinations are limited.

The majority of the departures it operates are American Queen river cruises and take place on the Mississippi, Columbia and Snake rivers. You’ll also find ships on the Ohio, Cumberland and Tennessee rivers, though that’s less common.

If you’re not aboard one of its riverboats, you’ll also be able to explore destinations such as Canada, New England, Alaska, British Columbia, Mexico and Costa Rica. Sailings generally last from seven to 16 days.

» Learn more: The best ways to book a cruise

American Queen Voyages cruise prices

Journeys on American Queen Voyages are all-inclusive and tend to be more expensive than other cruises. For example, the cheapest option we found rang in at $2,049 per person for a last-minute cruise from Portland, Oregon, to Spokane, Washington.

In contrast, rates for this same cruise in summer 2024 run as high as $5,369 per person.

» Learn more: The best travel credit cards right now

What is the best American Queen Voyages ship?

American Queen Voyages has seven ships in its fleet — four of these ships are riverboats, two are coastal vessels and one is purpose-built for expeditions.

What is the newest American Queen Voyages ship?

The newest American Queen Voyages ship is the American Duchess. As a riverboat, this ship will sail on American Queen Mississippi River cruises. With four guest decks and a capacity for 166 guests, the American Duchess features a boutique experience while still offering the amenities you’d expect from a cruise ship.

What’s included

American Queen Voyages bills itself as an all-inclusive experience, and that appears to hold up to scrutiny. While most cruises include food with your package, American Queen Voyages goes beyond that.

One-night pre-cruise hotel stay.

Ground transfers between the hotel and vessel.

Unlimited guided tours.

Unlimited alcohol.

Morning juice bar.

Gourmet dining.

In-room dining.

Prepaid gratuities. 

Port taxes and fees.

Live entertainment. 

Hiking sticks.

American Queen Voyages provides unlimited Wi-Fi to all its passengers for free.

American Queen Voyages trips are all-inclusive and will provide food and alcohol as part of your package. You’ll also be able to take advantage of guided tours, Wi-Fi, prepaid gratuities and a pre-cruise hotel stay with your fare.

American Queen Voyages cruises offer complimentary alcohol to all eligible passengers. This includes wine, beer and spirits. It also offers specialty coffees.

American Queen Voyages doesn't require passengers to have any type of COVID vaccine or test to board its ships.

(Top photo courtesy of American Queen Voyages)

How to maximize your rewards

You want a travel credit card that prioritizes what’s important to you. Here are some of the best travel credit cards of 2024 :

Flexibility, point transfers and a large bonus: Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card

No annual fee: Wells Fargo Autograph℠ Card

Flat-rate travel rewards: Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card

Bonus travel rewards and high-end perks: Chase Sapphire Reserve®

Luxury perks: The Platinum Card® from American Express

Business travelers: Ink Business Preferred® Credit Card

on Chase's website

1x-5x 5x on travel purchased through Chase Travel℠, 3x on dining, select streaming services and online groceries, 2x on all other travel purchases, 1x on all other purchases.

60,000 Earn 60,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.

on Bank of America's website

1.5x-2x Earn unlimited 2 points for every $1 spent on travel and dining purchases and unlimited 1.5 points for every $1 spent on all other purchases.

60,000 Receive 60,000 online bonus points - a $600 value - after you make at least $4,000 in purchases in the first 90 days of account opening.

American Queen

The largest steamboat ever built, the 428-passenger American Queen is a gracious and elegant triumph of American ingenuity. She is a gentle soul packaged within the ornate detailing that embellishes her exterior. Any traveler who chooses to cruise on this iconic riverboat will soon find that her steady heart beats to the rhythm of music and discourse that resound within her walls.

This paddleboat inspires crowds of onlookers in each port in which she docks. Pictures that capture this authentic American steamboat simply cannot do her justice. In true royal fashion, she glides gracefully along the river and courteously greets onlookers with the wave of her flags as she passes by.

A gracious host, American Queen offers both formal, upscale dining and relaxed, casual meals to each guest, depending on preference. She invites her guests into rooms to gather or spaces to sit in silence, and she charters connections among her passengers that flow into lifelong relationships. Linger on one of her decks, listen to the calliope sing of the river and fall in love with this stately spirit.

American Queen Details

Accommodations.

Welcome to your home aboard the iconic American Queen , where you can relax in a warm, inviting atmosphere of Antebellum charm without sacrificing modern convenience. Fine linens and plush bedding will ensure that you are well-rested to fully enjoy ll included shore tours, historical lectures, and toe-tapping musical performances. Open-veranda categories afford neighboring guests the unique opportunity to enjoy a social atmosphere, swapping stories and forming lasting friendships with fellow travelers. From cozy staterooms to opulent suites, the American Queen has accommodations for a variety of lifestyles and budgets.

Commodore Services

Guests holding reservations for select suite-level accommodations will receive American Queen Steamboat Company’s exclusive Commodore Services . This elite-level of service includes pre-boarding privileges, a fruit basket and bottle of wine in your suite upon arrival, preferred dining arrangements, reserved balcony seating in the Grand Saloon theater, and a private reception with Senior Officers of the American Queen .

Guests of Owner’s Suites and Luxury Suites will also receive the services of a friendly River Butler. River Butler services include a warm welcome with a tour of your suite, unpacking of luggage and hanging of clothes, preparation and packing of luggage, laundry and pressing service, shoe shine and conditioning, afternoon tea served in your suite, breakfast and dinner served on your private veranda upon request, in-suite pre-dinner canapés and in-suite post-dinner sweets and a personal escort to reserved balcony seating in the Grand Saloon theater. River Butler service is limited to suite categories OS and LS.

Specifications

About Sunstone Tours & Cruises

• About Sunstone Tours & Cruises
• Accessibility
• Privacy Policy

• Search Experiences
• Manage Booking
• Phone # SMS #
• My Offers 5

American Queen Steamboat Company Announces Re-Imagined Portfolio as AMERICAN QUEEN VOYAGES

Keep Exploring

United States

American Queen Voyages

Explore More

The Overnight Experience Provider Introduces American Queen Voyages™, The New Overarching Brand Name For Its Expansive River, Lake and Ocean Expedition Cruising Offerings

Fort Lauderdale, Florida (September 28, 2021) – American Queen Steamboat Company® , part of Hornblower® Group, is now American Queen Voyages™, the new overarching brand merging American Queen Steamboat Company and Victory Cruise Lines®. Offering a varied and comprehensive portfolio of North American itineraries, American Queen Voyages is comprised of American Queen Voyages River, American Queen Voyages Lakes & Ocean (welcoming the Victory Cruise Lines fleet) and American Queen Voyages Expedition, which includes new Alaska and Central America expedition experiences beginning 2022.

Embracing its new tagline “Discovery Runs Deep,” American Queen Voyages invites travelers to throw away the guidebook and go off the beaten path to discover the unscripted experiences of North America. New worlds and encounters await guests- from interacting with flinty New England oystermen while warming up over salty fish tales, docking next to Heinz Field, home of the Pittsburgh Steelers, to shadowing marine science researchers from California Polytechnic State University on a Zodiac approaching a secluded cove. New creative elements will also be unveiled in the coming months including a print and digital campaign, a reimagined loyalty program, onboard enrichment offerings and milestone moments.

“Through a decade of transformation, American Queen Voyages has surged from the great American rivers to include lakes, ocean and expedition experiences,” said Shawn Bierdz, president, American Queen Voyages. “Today, we are American Queen Voyages and embrace this simple but important expression – Discovery Runs Deep™. As we move into this new chapter and introduce our version of encounter travel, we uphold the originating vision of our company’s founder and chairman, John Waggoner and his unwavering belief in the renaissance of U.S. river cruising and close-to-home adventures.”

Integral to the creative rebrand effort is the interplay between data and creativity. The most iconic part of the legacy, is the paddlewheel, and it is deconstructed into individual paddles to establish a pattern that represents its movement. The creative team behind American Queen Voyages established an algorithm that is informed by measuring the distance traveled and varying nautical speeds on any given vessel. By visualizing the paddles through a generative system informed by the algorithm, an identity was created with endless possibilities of discovery – yet establishing memorable brand recognition. This identity system is being used to create various branding materials like the website, digital experience, posters, guidebooks, merchandise for staff, agents and passengers.

“To see America, you have to look beyond the roads, and American Queen Voyages embraces this notion with compelling travel encounters,” shares Kari Tarnowski, senior vice president marketing and sales, American Queen Voyages. “We celebrate 10 incredible years in business as American Queen Steamboat Company and embrace its legacy as we enter this new phase. We look forward to delivering American Queen Voyages to our guests, travel advisors and port partners across North America.”

Embracing its Mississippi River and paddlewheel roots, the newly imagined brand celebrates its growth from operating its singular namesake vessel, the American Queen , to expanding to a seven-vessel fleet with the acquisition of Victory Cruise Lines. Looking ahead, American Queen Voyages will offer eight vessels by 2023 and plans to deliver encounter-driven travel experiences throughout America’s heartland rivers, the Great Lakes and Pacific Northwest, as well as Canada and the Eastern Seaboard, Mexico and the Yucatán Peninsula and the wilds of Alaska.

American Queen Voyages River American Queen Voyages River is led by namesake U.S.-flagged American Queen® riverboat in the world. Longer than a football field, towering six decks in height and laced with fanciful, the largest, most opulent gingerbread trim, she is a marvel of modern engineering. Her journeys through the heartland offer a unique perspective on America’s history, culture and landscape with convenient departures from America’s river port cities, including Memphis, New Orleans, Cincinnati, Louisville, Pittsburgh, St. Louis and Minneapolis. In April 2014, American Queen Steamboat Company began serving the Pacific Northwest with the grandeur of the American Empress® , and added the American Duchess™ to the Mississippi River in August 2017. The newest and fourth boat to join the American Queen Steamboat Company fleet is the American Countess™ , which made her debut in March 2021 and sails the Mississippi, Ohio and Tennessee rivers.

American Queen Voyages Lakes & Ocean Formerly Victory Cruise Lines, American Queen Voyages Lakes & Ocean encompasses the brand’s voyages to Canada, the Great Lakes, New England and Eastern Seaboard and Mexico and the Yucatán Peninsula. Sailing on identical 202-passenger ships, formerly Victory I® and Victory II™ and to be renamed Ocean Voyager and Ocean Navigator to American Voyages Lakes & Ocean offers award-winning, small-ship cruising with immersive shore excursions and onboard programming. With itineraries widespread throughout coastal North America, American Queen Voyages Lakes & Oceans reveals the diverse cultures of the U.S. through some of its most historic ports including Mackinac Island and showcases a different perspective of New England’s leisure side. Cities like Charleston and Savannah offer a glimpse into coastal southern living, while the islands of the Bahamas feature a tropical oasis.

American Queen Voyages Expedition American Queen Voyages Expedition launches the brand’s advance into expedition cruising. Comprised of newly built 186-passenger vessels, created for intimate access with an innovative X-Bow design, American Queen Voyages Expedition will operate all-inclusive cruises to Alaska on the Ocean Victory™ in 2022 and the Ocean Discoverer™ in 2023. The brand new, expedition style Ocean Victory™ will traverse 12 and 13-day journeys through the less-traveled regions of Alaska’s Inside Passage led by a seasoned expedition team. Like-minded explorers will deploy kayaks and Zodiacs with expedition leaders, view wildlife from sliding observation platforms, witness marine research by California Polytech University students in real-time and have engaging discussions with First Nation leaders. Accommodating only 186 guests, the focus of the expedition program is exploring Alaska up close.

VIDEO & IMAGE LINK: https://spaces.hightail.com/space/t1BJtm4eCp

About American Queen Voyages American Queen Voyages™, the leader in close to home encounter travel, offers the most varied and comprehensive portfolio of North American itineraries and experiences, comprised of American Queen Voyages River, American Queen Voyages Lakes & Ocean and American Queen Voyages Expedition, which includes new Alaska and Central America expedition experiences beginning 2022. Visit www.AQVoyages.com .

About Hornblower Group Hornblower Group is a global leader in world-class experiences. The corporate entity of Hornblower Group is comprised of American Queen Voyages® and City Experiences. Seaward Services, Inc., a marine services company specializing in the operation, maintenance and repair of government and privately owned vessels, is also a subsidiary of Hornblower Group, operating and maintaining U.S. Navy Ranges and port facilities, including local oil spill response. Today, Hornblower’s footprint spans 111 countries and territories, and 125 U.S. cities, with offerings including water-based experiences, land-based experiences, overnight cruise experiences, ferry and transportation services and full-service support via Hornblower Shipyard at Bridgeport Boatworks in Connecticut. Hornblower Group is headquartered in San Francisco, California, with additional corporate offices in Boston, Massachusetts; Chicago, Illinois; Fort Lauderdale, Florida; London, United Kingdom; New Albany, Indiana; New York, New York; and across Ontario, Canada. For more information visit hornblowercorp.com.

Press Contacts: Contact: Elsbeth Pratt/Halley Autry LOU HAMMOND GROUP [email protected]

Download a PDF Version of this release

Be the first to get offers and news, shopping cart, find your experience.

American Queen Steamboat Company Cruises from New Orleans

The American Queen Steamboat Company has gone out of business. The ships were purchased by American Cruise Lines .

American Queen Steamboat Company offered cruises on the Mississippi River and its surrounding tributaries. The ships featured regional cuisine in two restaurants, a small pool, all-American staff, daily lectures by the Riverlorian, showboat-style entertainment nightly, and nightly dancing to swing, big band and Dixieland jazz music.

The video above is a tour of the American Queen. See the size and style of the ship. Tour staterooms, entertainment and dining.

The cruise fare included shore excursions in every port, one-night luxury hotel stay and transfers before the cruise, complimentary bottled water and soft drinks, and complimentary wine and beer with dinner.

• CruiseMapper

American Queen deck plans

Deck layouts, review of facilities, activities, amenities.

American 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 Scrapped Cruise Ships deckplan pdf (printable version).

Each of the American 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 American Queen staterooms (cabins and suites), including photos, cabin plans and amenities by room type and category.

American Queen (1995-built, extensive refurbishment in 2013, scrapped in 2024) was an authentic late-1800s-design Mississippi River steamboat. This paddle-wheele ship was similar by design to all fleetmates ( American Empress , American Duchess , American Countess ) and also to the American Cruise Lines riverboats America (2016), American Eagle , American Pride (2012), Queen of the Mississippi/American Heritage (2015) and Queen of the West/American West .

The ship was built for the “Delta Queen Steamboat Co”. In the period 2011-2024, the riverboat was owned by "Hornblower Marine Services" (aka HMSGM/ HMS Global Maritime) - parent company of American Queen Voyages/AQV/fka AQSC . This vessel was traditional for the region of Mississippi River paddlewheeler (aka "paddle steamer"). Widely known for being powered by its steam engine, the American Queen steamboat also had a secondary/alternative propulsion system (diesel-electric propellers). It is used only in emergency cases, and also for better maneuverability in areas where the steamboat’s paddlewheel (located at the stern) can't help the navigation.

American Queen cruise ship deck plan has a total of 222 staterooms for 436 passengers served by 174 crew/staff (all-American), with 6 passenger decks (all accessible via 2 elevators), 3 lounges, 3 restaurants, Spa, 1 swimming pool, plenty of porches and open deck/promenade areas, no medical facility/doctor on the ship.

American Queen itineraries offer USA cruise travel along the rivers Mississippi (upper and lower), Ohio and Tennessee.

American Queen deck plan changes 2013 refurbishment review

The latest 2013 half-a-million dollars refurbishment of the riverboat resulted in:

• All dining places and public areas and venues were extensively renovated and significantly expanded. All the onboard furniture was either replaced or reupholstered.
• Hallways decoration now features river scenery artworks by Michael Blaser.
• The Dining Room received new entryway (decorated with marble and granite), wallpapers and carpets were changed. The restaurant’s furniture now features Victorian-style chairs, and the walls show an artwork collection of famous US wineries. The buffet section was also upgraded and enlarged.
• “Front Porch of America” was transformed into “Front Porch Cafe” (alternative dining venue). All the furniture in its sitting area was replaced.
• A new cabin grade was introduced – the SO (“Single Balcony” rooms).

The 2012 multi-million refurbishment (USD 6,5 million) added the steamboat’s impressive Victorian-style decor in all public spaces, with all the classy chandeliers and the traditional upholstery and polished wood. Her passenger cabins were upgraded with luxury bedding sets and flat TVs. The “River Grill & Bar” was added. All passenger decks were repainted. Regina Charboneau (US celebrity chef) was recruited to oversee the onboard cuisine, and new food recipes were added in the process.

Deck layouts

Deck 01 - main, deck 02 - cabin, deck 03 - texas, deck 04 - observation, deck 05 - promenade, deck 06 - sun.

American Queen deck plans are property of Scrapped Cruise Ships . All deck layouts are for informational purposes only and CruiseMapper is not responsible for their accuracy.