American Queen Steamboat’s New All-Suite American Duchess To Join Fleet In June 2017

The American Queen Steamboat Company expects to add a third paddlewheeler to its U.S.-flagged fleet in June 2017.  Named American Duchess, the 166-passenger vessel, is not only the first all-suite river cruiser ever built for the Mississippi River, she will have the largest suites in every category on the river.

Memphis-based American Queen Steamboat Company (AQSC), owner and operator of the American Queen and American Empress, recently purchased the American-made hull (one of the several requirements of the Jones Act for boats sailing on U.S. waterways, along with U.S. made fittings and furnishings and U.S. staff).  AQSC expects to begin rebuilding its super-structure soon.  A paddlewheel will be added to her stern along with many of the features popular on her sister cruisers and will be laced with fanciful gingerbread trim, the trademark of AQSC cruisers.

The three-deck of the American Duchess will actually be somewhat smaller than her sister cruisers. Her suites will offer generous space with three 550 sq. ft. Owner’s Suites and four 550 sq. ft. Loft Suites, a first for a U.S. riverboat. The Veranda Suites and Interior Suites will measure approximately 250 sq. ft. The new vessel will offer open seating in two dining venues, the Grand Dining Room and the Grill Room, and will serve regionally inspired cuisine similar to that on the American Queen.  Complimentary wine and beer will be served with dinner.

Also included in the cruise price are coffee, soft drinks and bottled water throughout the cruise, as well as shore excursions in every port of call in the company’s own fleet of motorcoaches; one night deluxe hotel-stay before the cruise with breakfast; and taxes, porterage, and transfer to the vessel.

• By Guest Writer Kay Showker

Interested in cruising with American Queen Steamboat Company?  Cruises-N-More offers select benefits for their clients and is proud to be celebrating 18 years of dedicated service in the travel industry. To work with Cruises-N-More, a Travel Leaders Group President’s Club and Inner Circle top agency, please contact a Cruises-N-More cruise specialist at 800-733-2048 (toll-free USA/Canada), 0-808-189-1292 (toll-free U.K.), 800-076-002 (toll-free Australia) or +1-407-771-4454.