The entire continent is now open for a deeper discovery. Places where traditions come alive and Discovery runs deep™. https://www.aqvoyages.com
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From the mighty American Rivers to the Great Lakes & Ocean, and Expedition voyages to the wilds of Alaska. The waters of North America once served as the great highways of early exploration. Today, we’re recreating the same sense of discovery with all the convenience and comfort of modern luxury cruising aboard some of the most elegant vessels in the world.
21/02/2024
We are saddened to share that American Queen Voyages (AQV) has made the difficult decision to shut down. The overnight cruise industry was especially affected by the COVID-19 pandemic and related changes in travel preferences. Despite great efforts by our team, Crew and partners, demand has not recovered, and AQV has become financially unsustainable.
We are deeply proud of our Crew and the outstanding travel experiences and service we have provided to our guests. As we reflect on our journey, we are filled with gratitude for the privilege of serving our guests, partners and agents and for being part of our incredible local communities. Thank you for letting us be a part of your lives.
Effective immediately, all future AQV cruises have been cancelled. We sincerely regret any inconvenience this decision causes, and guests should expect to have their cruise deposits refunded in full.
After a day of exploring, enjoy an evening of world class entertainment. From live music to dazzling shows, there's never a dull moment on our river cruises.
Experience Alaska's natural wonders like never before! Customize your adventure with kayaking, hiking, science, cultural immersion, and so much more. Your expedition awaits!
We have got something exciting on the horizons. Keep your eyes peeled in the next few weeks for an extra special American Queen Voyages video in partnership with Empowered Hosted by Meg Ryan.
24/01/2024
Embark on a gastronomic journey like no other as we continue with our Six Recipes, Six Rivers series, a symphony of flavors inspired by the diverse cultures and landscapes spanning six rivers. In this blog, we present Soy Glazed Salmon, a tantalizing dish inspired by the vibrant culture of the Columbia & Snake Rivers.
From Regina “It was difficult to not choose one of my favorite recipes from America’s Test Kitchen, which is the Braised White Beans, Linguica and Clams… although this ...
20/01/2024
Join us onboard one of our river or expedition vessels and indulge in the epitome of all-inclusive luxury. Our amazing Crew is dedicated to providing you with unparalleled service, ensuring your experience is nothing short of extraordinary. With our Sail Away & Save offer, save up to $3,500 and enjoy a FREE shore excursion.
Embark on a journey with us and discover the iconic St. Louis Arch like never before! Our voyages offer a unique perspective as we visit the architectural marvel before embarking on an Ohio or Mississippi River cruise, where we delve into the region's rich culture and history.
Embark on a journey to the Pacific Northwest and witness the mesmerizing juxtaposition of majestic mountains and serene waters. Prepare for an immersive experience where nature's captivating contrasts come alive.
Curious about our recipe for amazing experiences? Beyond the delicious flavors and exciting adventures, it's the incredible locals in every community we explore who add that extra sprinkle of magic, making each moment unique, special, and truly authentic. Join us on a journey where every encounter is the secret ingredient to an unforgettable adventure.
We are excited to announce that American Queen Voyages is in the running for the USA TODAY 10Best Readers' Choice Awards in the Best River Cruise Line category. Voters can cast their vote once per day up until February 5, 2024.
Discover the hidden treasures of North America's rivers, where cultural and historical gems eagerly await your exploration. Dive into a unique adventure by booking your next river cruise with American Queen Voyages. Uncover the stories along the riverbanks and create memories on a journey like no other.
In the festive spirit of the holiday season, the team at American Queen Voyages extends heartfelt gratitude to you, our esteemed guest. Each and every one of you has played a role in making this year a journey of wonderful discoveries.
As we approach 2024, we extend our warmest wishes for a joyous holiday season and a New Year brimming with happiness. Thank you for being a part of our journey.
24/12/2023
Earlier this week, AQV was featured on the Today Show! Jacqueline Gifford, Travel + Leisure's Editor-in-Chief, talked about river cruising and the Mississippi River being a trending destination in 2024.
Discover the stunning Pacific Northwest, with its towering waterfalls, historic vineyards, and stunning scenery. Sail from Portland to Spokane, exploring captivating destinations along the Columbia & Snake Rivers.
Have you heard the news? Our Christmas markets made it on to Fodor's Travel list of the world's 10 most unique holiday markets!
"American Queen Voyages offers Christmas Markets Experiential Voyages, which sails guests along the Mississippi River, stopping in various ports of call to wander through European-style craft stalls and enjoy bonfires, holiday carols, and local traditions."
Explore the icy depths of Alaska on the purpose-built Ocean Victory. Learn from naturalists as you traverse the open waters to lesser-visited ports of call.
Embark on a journey along the majestic rivers of North America aboard the American Countess! Immerse yourself in luxury as you cruise through picturesque landscapes, savor gourmet cuisine, and indulge in top-notch entertainment.
East-West News Service: "Soon after embarking on the American Queen for a Mississippi River voyage from New Orleans to Memphis, I realized the symbiotic relationship of this vessel – the world’s biggest steamboat – to locals living beside the river. Along the way, I came to appreciate the river’s power, its impact on the South’s history and the pride it engenders in the 32 U. S. states that comprise its watershed."
Great article by Toby Saltzman.
East-West News Service covers travel and in-depth cultural analysis from around the world, edited by journalist and author David DeVoss.
28/11/2023
Join us on a Lower Mississippi River cruise for a unique Delta blues experience in Tracy and Amy Alderson-Allen's charming parlor. Enjoy a drink, snack, and an exclusive performance by Amy Allen, a renowned singer-songwriter. Immerse yourself in Mississippi blues history and explore The Big Muddy Inn's charm.
This Thanksgiving, the American Queen Voyages team is thankful for moments shared with all of you. Wishing you a day filled with warmth, joy, and all the delicious moments life has to offer. Happy Thanksgiving!
21/11/2023
Our wine cruises offer the perfect blend of elegance and indulgence, taking guests on a sensory journey through wine country. Between stunning vineyards, enriching seminars, and delicious wine tastings, oenophiles and those new to the world of wine are in for a treat.
Get a sneak peek at our wine themed cruises with our latest video.
17/11/2023
Have you heard the news? The Mississippi River earned a spot on Travel + Leisure's list of the 50 best places to travel in 2024. Don't miss out—secure your Lower or Upper Mississippi river cruise today!
"New ships are bringing fresh interest to one of America’s most storied waterways, meaning now’s the time to consider river cruising closer to home."
Where to go in 2024, according to Travel + Leisure editors — for cultural immersion and major travel bragging rights.
16/11/2023
We're thrilled to announce that we have been awarded two bronze TRAVVY Awards! One in the Best Cruise Line - U.S. Waterways category and another in the Best River Cruise Line - U.S. Waterways category. This recognition emphasizes our commitment to excellence. We're grateful for the continued support from our wonderful community of travel partners.
11/11/2023
Honoring our veterans today and every day. Thank you for your sacrifice, courage, and service.
09/11/2023
Memories are often made over shared meals, and when traveling, it's the local flavors that leave a lasting impression. We're introducing '6 Rivers, 6 Recipes,' featuring dishes curated by America's Test Kitchen and handpicked by Regina Charboneau. Stay tuned for our blog series featuring these delicious recipes that connect you with the culture of America's rivers.
07/11/2023
Experience a journey of cultural immersion on our Mexico and Costa Rica sailings. Discover the vibrant soul of destinations like Playas del Coco, Puerto Vallarta, Manzanillo, and more.
Can you tell how excited we are about our new Experiential Voyages? In 2024, we're launching our Mardi Gras, Baseball Legends, and Salmon Fest themed sailings.
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Cruise, Sip, Repeat: Elevate Your Experience with Our Wine Cruises
Our wine cruises offer the perfect blend of elegance and indulgence, taking guests on a sensory journey through wine country. Between stunning vineyards, enriching seminars, and delicious wine tastings, oenophiles and those new to the world of wine are in for a treat.
Get a sneak peek at our wine themed cruises with our latest video.
#AmericanQueenVoyages #DiscoveryRunsDeep #AQVoyage
Hear more about our groups program from Ilan Biran, Senior Director of Group Sales.
Experiential Voyages with American Queen Voyages!
Welcome to our themed voyages.
AQV x ATK
Have you heard about our delicious partnership with America's Test Kitchen? We have teamed up to create a culinary experience like no other. Join us on a voyage where the flavors of the Mississippi River meet the expertise of renowned chefs, bringing you mouthwatering dishes of the place. Bon appétit!
Book your voyage today: https://bit.ly/AQ102923?utm_source=social&utm_medium=organic&utm_campaign=Facebook_AQVxATK_7.10.23
#AmericanQueenVoyages #DiscoveryRunsDeep #AQVoyages
Facebook Live with Cindy D'Aoust
AQV Updates
American Queen Voyages Update with Cindy D'Aoust
Update with Cindy
The Largest Steamboat in the World: American Queen
Experience all that American Queen, the largest steamboat in the world, has to offer on a Lower Mississippi river cruise. Travel to iconic destinations, including New Orleans, Memphis, and Nottoway, an AQV-exclusive port.
Plan your voyage today: https://bit.ly/NewOrleanstoMemphis
Happy New Year from American Queen Voyages! We look forward to deeply discovering North America with you in 2023.
#AmericanQueenVoyages #DiscoveryRunsDeep #AQVoyages
Season's Greetings from AQV!
Happy Holidays from American Queen Voyages! Enjoy the holiday season with your loved ones and we look forward to deeply discovering North America with you in 2023.
Holidays on the River
Spread holiday cheer with a Holidays on the River voyage. Embark on a sailing where the spirit of the holiday season rings through every street corner and bend of the river. Enjoy steaming hot chocolate and delicious gingerbread cookies while exploring quaint river towns transformed into winter wonderlands.
Learn more: https://bit.ly/HolidaysontheRiverBlog
#AmericanQueenVoyages #DiscoveryRunsDeep #AQVoyages
American Queen Voyages operates more sailings on the Ohio River than any other cruise line in response to guest demand for less-traveled routes contrasting the Mississippi River headliner.
View itineraries: https://bit.ly/OhioRiverCruises
#AQVoyages #DiscoveryRunsDeep #AmericanQueenVoyages
AQV Seatrade Finalist
Ocean Victory is a finalist for Seatrade Cruise "Expedition Cruise Initiative of the Year" to be awarded at Seatrade Cruise Med in Málaga Spain, on September 14.
View a video message from American Queen Voyages™ Founder and Chairman John Waggoner below and visit https://bit.ly/AlaskaBritishColumbia to learn more about our expedition experiences.
#AmericanQueenVoyages #AQVoyages #DiscoveryRunsDeep
American Queen Voyages recently partnered with local student-athletes in Pittsburgh to raise awareness about jobs on the world’s largest paddlewheeler.
Available shoreside and shipboard positions are listed at: www.aqvoyages.com/careers/
#AQVoyages #AmericanQueenVoyages #DiscoveryRunsDeep
The engine room of American Queen® might be one of its most historic and interesting rooms. First assembled in 1932, these engines are still running strong and pumping out steam at 300 pounds per square inch. Has anyone seen them in person?
📸 by IG: @ninemusestravel
#AmericanQueenVoyages #DiscoveryRunsDeep
Ocean Victory™ Inaugural Celebration and Sailing Recap
Today is World Oceans Day, a day we are reminded of the role oceans have in everyday life. We are also celebrating our first month in Alaska, where our dedicated expedition team has turned Ocean Victory into an extension of the classroom, educating guests on our oceans and much more. Check out the video celebrating our inaugural sailing.
#WorldOceansDay #AmericanQueenVoyages #DiscoveryRunsDeep
We’re celebrating our 10th anniversary by giving you an additional 10% that’s combinable with our Summer of Discovery Savings Event. Discover North America from the Great Lakes and Pacific Northwest to the mighty Mississippi and scenic Ohio River. Book before June 30 with offer code: 10ANV #AmericanQueenVoyages #DiscoveryRunsDeep
Meet the Ocean Victory™
Discover the untouched wilderness of Alaska’s Inside Passage aboard the Ocean Victory™—the most environmentally sensitive vessel ever to sail these pristine waters. Every detail of it was designed to get you closer to nature without disturbing it—including anchorless stabilizers that allow exploration in remote fjords without damaging fragile sea beds. ⚓️ 🚢 #AmericanQueenVoyages #DiscoveryRunsDeep
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Our Story
At American Queen Steamboat Company, our guiding principle has always been dedication to our customers through outstanding service from a knowledgeable, enthusiastic team, with top-of-mind safety awareness and a focus on environmental and social responsibility. From our flagship vessel, the American Queen, to the rest of our growing fleet, we are deeply proud of our boats and the amazing journeys they provide.
My lifelong love of sailing led to a bachelor’s degree in marine biology – and later an MBA – from California Polytechnic State University. As director of marine operations for Hornblower Dining Yachts’ fleet of 29 dinner-cruise vessels, I longed to start my own business, and opening Hornblower Marine Services in 1994 gave me a deep sense of accomplishment and personal pride.
That business, now called HMS Global Maritime, has grown over the decades from one employee to more than 860 and we are pleased to have been recognized numerous times for that sustained growth. We were named among Louisville Business First’s Fast 50 and a finalist for its Business of the Year Award for several consecutive years. HMS Global Maritime has also made the Inc. 5000 list a number of times, won a One Southern Indiana ONE Award for Business of the Year, secured various Travvy Awards – most recently 2019 Best River Cruise Line, U.S. – and acquired numerous other accolades, each of which we appreciate and cherish.
Being able to purchase and renovate the American Queen – a true icon of this nation’s rivers – and launch her in April 2012 made this lifelong mariner’s dream a reality. The successive launches of her sisters, the American Empress, American Duchess and, coming in 2020, the American Countess, mean just as much, and the dream continues to flourish through the hard work and dedication of some of the most talented people in the industry.
My team and I do what we do because we love boats, and genuinely relish the opportunity to allow people to experience cruising in the most elegant and comfortable accommodations with attentive, personal service that will leave them with memories to last a lifetime. With a variety of itineraries and sailing dates, a river cruise on any of our gorgeous vessels offers a perspective of this great country like no other. Give us a call or contact your travel agent to learn what amazing opportunities await out on those rivers, and come to share our passion for this unique and enriching travel experience.
Sincerely,
John W. Waggoner,
Chairman and CEO,
American Queen Steamboat Company
