American Queen Voyages (AQV) has announced a series of deployment changes and updates for 2024 and ‘25 that will see the company drop its Great Lakes itineraries and refocus on river cruising. Consequently, owners the Hornblower Group will also sell its Ocean Navigator and Ocean Voyager vessels.
“Our primary commitment is to deliver a best-in-class cruise vacation with a focus on immersive culinary and destination experiences,” said Cindy D’Aoust, president of American Queen Voyages, said of the “strategic decision” which will also feature the introduction of new routes.
All current published voyages will continue to operate as planned through November 2023.
“Our customers consistently tell us our US River itineraries are exceptional and demonstrate this by returning again and again,” says D’Aoust, noting that a recent McKinsey market survey showed that American Queen Voyages enjoys the highest brand affinity amongst US river operators.
“All of our focus is being put into updating and enhancing our popular river product with strategic partnerships and an elevated culinary program, which we know have been very well received,” added D’Aoust.
Revised 2024 itineraries include:
Lower Mississippi: AQV will begin the season with its popular Lower Mississippi voyages through the cities and historic port towns of the South on the 417-guest American Queen, the largest steamboat ever built. Based on guest requests, new three- and four-day cruises will be introduced for time-pressed travellers.
Upper Mississippi: Back by popular demand will be the mighty Mississippi – from its headwaters in Minnesota all the way to the Gulf of Mexico. The epic, 16-day journey combines wildlife and intricate locks and dams, with Southern charms and the birthplaces of jazz and country music.
America’s Heartland: The 245-guest, paddle wheeler American Countess cruises the Ohio, Tennessee, and Cumberland rivers. New ‘Experiential Voyages’ include a bourbon-themed voyage with noted food and spirits experts, including Dickie Brennan, chef-owner of the legendary Bourbon House in New Orleans.
Snake & Columbia Rivers: Travellers can discover the unspoiled treasures of the Pacific Northwest aboard the 221-guest American Empress, including new wine-themed cruises. Depending on the voyage, guests can join a salmon excursion and bring their freshly caught and cleaned catch back to enjoy on the boat.
Alaska & British Columbia: AQV will return to Alaska for its third season. Aboard the environmentally friendly, 186-guest Ocean Victory, guests enjoy expeditions via Zodiac exploration boats and kayak excursions led by a team of naturalists and field guides in cooperation with California Polytechnic State University.