2 SUMMER 2019 | Volume 5, Issue 3 Diamond in the Rough t was a lovely week for a cruise. Beverley “I cannot tell you how thrilled I am that The Wilens showed their appreciation Wilen, along with her husband, Kerry, and Rita found my diamond!” Beverley stated personally to Rita, as did the rest of our Ione of their granddaughters, boarded the in an email exchange with corporate staff. American Queen Company American Queen® for a fun family voyage. “That is like finding a needle in a haystack.” team. She and the dozens of dedicated staff who go through each voyage with By week’s end, Beverley’s spirits had She noted her extensive background in service top of mind are the backbone of our dampened considerably. She realized she multinational human resources, being success, and are deeply appreciated. had lost a diamond from a cherished ring accountable for multiple thousands of of four stones of various sizes, symbolizing employees in a large number of countries. Great job, Rita! We are so thankful for your she and her husband’s two daughters and “I share this background … simply to give valued service. two grandchildren. All the stones had you a context for what I see as a good team come from family heirlooms, and were, to and a great team. In my opinion, you have Beverley, priceless. created a great team that truly gets what it takes to set American Queen [Steamboat Crestfallen, Beverley mentioned the loss Company] apart from other river cruise to the couple’s stateroom attendant, Rita experiences. These cruises are very much Franklin, asking her to keep an eye out for about how guest needs are met and the treasure, but holding out little hope of surpassed – your team does that!” ever seeing it again. Beverley went on to also compliment the Rita, however, conscientious and eagle-eyed, team who served their table at dinner, and spotted the precious gem the following the house ensemble, who entertained them week – not in the couple’s former stateroom, throughout the week. but in a hallway. Immediately remembering Beverley and her predicament, Rita booked “You will definitely be seeing the Wilens it down to the purser’s office to alert Chief again in the future, along with some of Purser Cynthia Goldstein. our friends,” she closed, including grateful Beverley Wilen, posing with the ring from which a diamond was lost. well wishes.

IN THIS ISSUE:

H 2020 Themed Cruises H American Countess Sneak Peek H 2019 Wave Award H Scrumptious Summer Recipe H SSOA Members Level Up on a Victory Voyage H American Queen’s Western Vacation 2020 Themed Voyages on the American Queen, American Duchess and American Countess

rom food to music to a true American spirit and beyond, 2020 is packed with a spectacular lineup of themed river Fcruises to enhance an already remarkable cruising season. On our authentic paddlewheel riverboats sailing through the nation’s heartland, several themes span the entire collection – our iconic flagship, the American Queen, the elegant boutique- style American Duchess™ and, new to the waterways next year, the charming American Countess.™ Choose any of those fabulous boats for trips focusing on regional barbeque, a literary legend or the bloodiest conflict in U.S. history. MARK TWAIN’S Each paddlewheeler also features its own unique themes. Mark Twain’s Mississippi reveals the upper reaches of the Fans of the American Queen could find the perfect post- through the lens of those who made steamboat holidays getaway in Mardi Gras on the River. Partake in the travel a way of life. Hidden gems around each bend fuel a sense of energy of New Orleans’ most extravagant celebration while discovery as the best of America’s heartland unfolds. enjoying your included pre-voyage hotel stay. AMERICAN QUEEN The American Duchess is brimming with exciting new themes, to go along with her new inclusions of an Unlimited Beverage Alton (St. Louis) to Red Wing (Minneapolis): Jul 26-Aug 3 Package and prepaid gratuities in 2020! Choose melodious Red Wing (Minneapolis) to Alton (St. Louis): Aug 2-10 memory-makers such as Music of America (April and Alton (St. Louis) to Red Wing (Minneapolis): Aug 9-17 September) or American Music Festival (two May cruises); AMERICAN DUCHESS get a taste of the nation with American Culinary Experience (April) or Bourbon: An American Spirit (August); feel the Red Wing (Minneapolis) to Alton (St. Louis): Jul 12-20 rush with Kentucky Derby (April) and Racing on the River Alton (St. Louis) to Red Wing (Minneapolis): Jul 19-27 (August); or ponder the pioneers’ lives with Heartland Alton (St. Louis) to Red Wing (Minneapolis): Oct 4-12 Heritage (July) or Lewis and Clark (September). Red Wing (Minneapolis) to Alton (St. Louis): Oct 11-19 The inaugural season of the American Countess offers her AMERICAN COUNTESS Maiden Voyage to Pittsburgh (June), Bourbon to Blues (July) Alton (St. Louis) to Red Wing (Minneapolis): Aug 30-Sep 6 and a magnificent opportunity to cruise with our chairman and CEO, John Waggoner, and his wife, Claudette, on Red Wing (Minneapolis) to Alton (St. Louis): Sep 6-13 our Chairman’s Cruise from the St. Louis area to John’s Alton (St. Louis) to Red Wing (Minneapolis): Sep 13-20 hometown – Louisville – in May. 2 SAVE up to $1,200* per stateroom. Call for details.

AMERICAN RIVER BBQ CHALLENGE CIVIL WAR American River BBQ Challenge pits regional culinary masters Civil War follows a journey through history to explore the against our talented culinary teams throughout the voyage, with legacy of that storied conflict, both on board and in ports. the winners determined by our guests. Competition never tasted Special guests bring the past to life through depictions, so good. interpretations and storytelling. AMERICAN QUEEN AMERICAN QUEEN

Memphis to Alton (St. Louis): Jul 19-27 Memphis to New Orleans: Mar 15-23 AMERICAN DUCHESS Memphis to New Orleans: Nov 15-23

Memphis to Alton (St. Louis): Sep 27-Oct 5 AMERICAN DUCHESS Alton (St. Louis) to Memphis: Oct 18-26 Memphis to Clarksville (Nashville): Apr 5-13 AMERICAN COUNTESS Louisville to Clarksville (Nashville): Sep 13-21

Memphis to Alton (St. Louis): May 24-31 AMERICAN COUNTESS Memphis to Alton (St. Louis): Aug 23-30 Memphis to Chattanooga: Oct 25-Nov 1 Chattanooga to Memphis: Nov 1-8

*Offer expires 10/31/19or when no valid cabins remain. Offer is only valid on new, paid-in-full bookings. Not valid on group bookings or existing reservations. Additional terms and conditions may apply. Call for details, and mention Offer Code 2020 EBD2. FOR RESERVATIONS, CONTACT YOUR PROFESSIONAL TRAVEL AGENT OR: (888) 749-5280 H WWW.AQSC.COM 3 Hook, Line and Sailor t the end of May, on Victory Cruise Lines’ discovery-designedA small ship M/V Victory I sailing our 10- or the second time this day, most popular itinerary – year, we are pleased Toronto to Chicago – a number of frequent cruisers gathered for Fto be chosen by travel the first Steamboat Society of Lorraine (left) and Dennis (right) industry professionals as America Captain’s Presentation Staton with Cruise Director being the best at what we to be held on a Victory ship. Katharine Boelter, receiving their do – cruise America’s rivers. They were there to welcome Sapphire-level SSOA certificates. We appreciate receiving three members to the Sapphire level. TravelAge West’s 2019 It was just the ship’s third voyage under American Queen Wave Award for Best Jim Unger accepting the TravelAge Steamboat Company ownership and operation. River Cruise Line for U.S. West 2019 Wave Award for Best Joe Baldwin and Dennis and Lorraine Staton were inducted to Sailings on behalf of each River Cruise Line for U.S. Sailings. the elite level, welcomed to dinner with Capt. Gary Kerr and guest who has given us the received certificates of achievement and framed, signed paintings opportunity to be part of a uniquely American river by maritime artist Michael Blaser. cruising journey. Lorraine retired from teaching, and Dennis, semi-retired, still does In June, our Vice President of Hotel Operations, Jim Unger, part-time tax preparation and works on his hometown’s zoning traveled to Marina del Rey, California, to represent us at the board. They have one daughter and three grandchildren. black-tie awards gala. Joe had done corporate financial executive work for publicly traded “It was certainly a great honor to accept the 2019 Wave Award companies. He has three daughters and six grandchildren. on behalf of American Queen Steamboat Company for the Dennis and Lorraine began cruising on the American Queen in category of Best River Cruise Line for U.S. Sailings,” Jim her inaugural season, 2012, after 20 years of ocean cruising. They said. “What made this evening extra special was the 50-year had never visited New Orleans, and thought a domestic river anniversary celebration of TravelAge West. Kudos to TravelAge voyage would be a fun way to get there. “Hooked,” said Dennis. “Absolutely. We have cruised every year since the company started.” West for supporting our amazing travel industry over all of these years!” Joe and his wife met a doctor from Cleveland while across Canada on the now-defunct luxury passenger train the American Orient DID YOU KNOW Express. She recommended they try paddlewheel cruising, having that cruise nights on Victory herself sailed on the a whopping 26 times. Intrigued, Cruise Lines’ discovery-designed small ships, sailing the Great they returned home to find an offer from a travel agent in their Lakes, the Canadian Maritimes, New England and the coastal mailbox – an American Queen voyage departing from Nashville. “We Southeast United States, count toward your Steamboat Society jumped on it, and the rest is SSOA history,” said Joe. “Hooked!” of America membership level? We’re thrilled to join in the celebration when our longtime guests reach their next level of membership, and we wish Joe, Dennis and Book an unforgettable voyage on either the M/V Victory I Lorraine many more bon voyages, on both our classic authentic or M/V Victory II, and enjoy the same stellar service and paddlewheelers and nimble small ships. inclusions you love while on board any of our paddlewheelers – along with complimentary non-premium beer, wine and spirits, afternoon teas, daily cocktail hours and more. Those cruise nights will get you closer to your next membership level in comfort and style! Contact your travel agent, call (888) 907-2636 or visit www.VictoryCruiseLines.com to learn Captain’s Dinner celebrating Ruby- and Sapphire-level SSOA members. about these thrilling itineraries. From left to right: Charles (Corky) and Vonda (Kay) Edwards, Joe Baldwin, Lorraine Staton, Capt. Gary Kerr and Dennis Staton. Cover Image: The M/V Victory I docked at Mackinac Island, Michigan

GET SOCIAL WITH US FACEBOOK TWITTER Follow American Queen Steamboat Company and connect with fellow PINTEREST YOUTUBE Steamboat Society of America members. DON’T MISS OUR BLOG AT AQSC.COM/BLOG

4 COMING IN 2020 – The American Countess™ he latest addition to our fleet of authentic paddlewheelers – the American Countess™ – offers many of the same exciting heartland and deep South itinerariesT as her sisters the American Queen and American Duchess. Enjoy the signature distinctions that have made American Queen Steamboat Company the most award-winning river cruise line in America.

The exterior of the American Countess echoes the classic steamboat-style lines of ENHANCE YOUR EXPERIENCE her sisters. The stylish interior spaces of this elegant vessel hark back to a time when well-heeled travelers boarded regal vessels to journey to sophisticated The best way to experience this new boat may be destinations. Relax with your favorite cocktail in the airy Grand Lobby, on her own Mighty Mississippi cruise – an epic with pockets of lounge seating situated along the full wall of floor-to-ceiling 15-day voyage in the tradition of the American windows, offering stunning views at every point along the journey. The Grand Queen and American Duchess. This journey takes Dining Room features a soft glow from uplighted ceiling coves, and offers guests from the genesis of the mighty river at Red equally sweeping river views. Destination-themed artwork graces clean, light Wing along the Upper Mississippi, all the way to stateroom walls accented by rich wood and crown molding. New Orleans, with thrilling stops. The American Countess’s four decks, including a Sun Deck, and 123 comfortable, Travel through extensive lock-and-dam systems, inviting staterooms, will make cruising on this gorgeous paddlewheeler a see indigenous wildlife, visit river museums, enjoy truly unforgettable experience. Cabins feature a sleek and modern design that regional culinary specialties and explore Mississippi will provide the perfect place to relax after heading out on an included shore Delta heritage and authentic Southern culture. A excursion or taking in an evening Broadway-caliber performance in The Theater Mighty Mississippi voyage is an incomparable way on board. to experience a wide swath of America in a single travel experience. As our award-winning culinary team takes full advantage of each region’s diverse bounty of fresh, local ingredients to fashion authentic dishes, our You may also choose a phenomenal pre-cruise gracious staff charms with friendly, courteous attention to your needs in the City Stay Package for your Mighty Mississippi Grand Dining Room. A more casual atmosphere is offered in the River Grill, adventure. Discover the rich history of which allows guests to dine at their own pace. Minnesota’s Twin Cities – Minneapolis and St. Paul. Our deluxe motorcoach weaves through It’s easy to stay active on board the American Countess in her well-appointed the downtown skyscrapers of Minneapolis and Fitness Center, while the Card Room provides a perfect spot for guests to historic Summit Avenue in St. Paul as a local mingle with fellow travelers and newfound friends. guide introduces the vibrant culture, architecture Whichever beautiful authentic paddlewheel riverboat you choose, on a river and history for which the cities are known. The cruise with American Queen Steamboat Company, you are sure to make package includes a premium hotel stay, breakfast memories that last a lifetime. and priority boarding. 5 PADDLEWHEELER SUMMER RECIPE

Tomato-and-Roasted Garlic Pie Adapted from Bon Appétit Preheat oven to 475 degrees Fahrenheit. Arrange tomatoes on a rimmed baking sheet, overlapping slightly to cover entire surface. Drizzle with oil, and season with salt and pepper. Roast until tomatoes begin to look dry on top, 25 to 30 minutes. Let cool. Meanwhile, cook garlic and butter in a small saucepan over medium- low heat, swirling often, until butter foams and milk solids turn golden, 5 to 8 minutes. Strain butter through a fine-mesh sieve into a heatproof measuring cup. Transfer garlic and toasty bits to a cutting board. Finely chop, and set aside. Photo by Laura Murray Reduce oven temperature to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. Pulse crackers Make the most of one of summer’s most beloved fruits with this tart-like and ¼ teaspoon salt in a food processor until fine crumbs form pie, which manages to be both rich and light. Fontina is an excellent cheese (should be about 2 cups). Add eggs and 6 tablespoons garlic butter, choice for this dish. Pecorino-Romano or Asiago could be used in place of and pulse until consistency of wet sand. some of the Parmesan for a sharper flavor. Transfer mixture to a 9-inch springform pan. Using a flat-bottomed 2½ pounds mixed heirloom tomatoes, cored and sliced ¼-inch thick cup, press crumbs firmly onto bottom and 1½ inches up sides of pan. Poke holes in crust with a fork, a bake until fragrant and edge is just 3 tablespoons olive oil starting to take on color, 8 to 10 minutes. Transfer pan to a wire rack ¾ teaspoon kosher salt, divided, plus more as needed and let crust cool. ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper, plus more as needed Mix cheeses, mayonnaise, chopped thyme, remaining ½ teaspoon salt, 6 cloves garlic remaining ¼ teaspoon pepper and reserved chopped garlic in a medium bowl. Gently dollop half of cheese mixture over bottom of crust, then ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter gently spread into an even layer with an offset spatula (don’t press too 9 oz. stone-ground wheat or other whole-grain crackers hard, or you will break the crust). Layer half of tomato slices over and 2 large eggs press to even out layers. Repeat with remaining cheese mixture and tomatoes. Brush remaining garlic butter over tomatoes. Top with shallot, 10 oz. fontina, coarsely grated (about 1½ cups) then scatter thyme leaves over. 2½ oz. Parmesan, finely crumbled (about ½ cup) Bake until filling bubbles vigorously and crust is browned, 60 to 75 ½ cup mayonnaise minutes. Let cool 1 hour before serving. 2 teaspoons chopped fresh thyme, plus ½ teaspoon leaves for garnish Note: Pie can be made a day ahead. Cover cooled pie loosely and 1 small shallot, thinly sliced chill, bringing to room temperature before serving.

American Queen’s Western Vacation If you have browsed in the American Queen’s gift shop, perhaps you’ve spied an adorable carved-wood replica of the mighty steamboat, complete with working lights. The charming little paddlewheelers are made by Ginger Stacks – a subsidiary of Virginia-based TRC Designs Inc., which has manufactured high- quality, hand-assembled souvenirs for more than 40 years. One of our replicas recently accompanied guests on a tour far off her usual course – cruising through the Pacific Northwest on her splendid sister the American Empress! The little boat turned up in some unexpected locations, and by all accounts was beloved wherever she went. Look for one for your own souvenir collection the next time you board the American Queen, and if she accompanies you on your travels, please share your photos with us on our Facebook page, at www.facebook.com/americanqueensteamboatcompany/. Follow us there to see news, videos and fun facts that will keep you in the loop with America’s river cruising leader. 6 MEMBERSHIP BENEFITS

ACTIVATE YOUR MEMBERSHIP TODAY Take advantage of all the benefits that await you by registering for our loyalty program. There are three ways to register: 1: ONLINE: www.AQSC.com/SSOA 2: ON BOARD 3: CALL: (888) 749-5280

Steamboat Society of America RUBY (35-69 cruise nights) he Steamboat Society of America, our guest loyalty program, was All Classic benefits, plus: “Members only” luggage tags; a membership created to recognize our past guests and offer the opportunity status name badge; a dedicated reservations toT enjoy exclusive benefits and incentives for cruising frequently with line; a $50 onboard credit per member; us. In addition to our Classic membership, earned after completion pre-boarding privileges* of your first cruise on any of our vessels, we offer four levels of SAPPHIRE elite membership – Ruby, Sapphire, Emerald and Diamond. Each (70-139 cruise nights) level brings additional benefits, and is reached after cruising the All Ruby benefits, plus: designated number of qualifying nights with us. Preferred reserved dining room seating; an additional $50 onboard credit ($100 per member); complimentary laundry service**; After membership activation, all Classic members will receive: a “welcome back” signed card from the H captain, plus a set of exclusive notecards The Paddlewheeler quarterly newsletter H EMERALD Advance information on new itineraries (140-209 cruise nights) H All Sapphire benefits, plus: Exclusive invitations and promotions A one-cabin-category upgrade at time H of booking (subject to availability); a 10% A designation pin mailed after activation and upon reaching discount in the onboard gift shop each level milestone DIAMOND H A cocktail party hosted by the captain and senior (210+ cruise nights) All Emerald benefits, plus: officers on board An additional $50 onboard credit ($150 H per member); a two cabin-category upgrade An invitation for friends and family to board for a tour and at time of booking (subject to availability) breakfast or lunch while in port when member is a cruise guest H Access for breakfast or lunch when the American Queen, After reaching Sapphire, Emerald or Diamond status, members will receive a deluxe official wall certificate American Empress, American Duchess or American Countess and onboard captain’s presentation and a framed painting are in port near member’s hometown signed by maritime artist Michael Blaser.

For questions or more information about the Steamboat Society of America, please visit our website at www.aqsc.com/ssoa, email [email protected] or call us at (888) 749-5280.

*Benefit not available on American Empress voyages. **Complimentary laundry service is limited to one in-room laundry bag per 7-day cruise.; no dry cleaning services available. Only sailings operated by American Queen Steamboat Company® (as of April 2012) and Victory Cruise Lines® (as of May 2019) count toward membership level. Membership benefits are non-transferable, combinable with other applicable promotional offers and must be applied to future cruise travel; hotel nights do not count toward membership; cruise nights are calculated after completion of a cruise. Additional rules and conditions apply. Cabin-category upgrades are subject to availability. Vessel access and onboard visits by members: capacity-controlled on a daily basis, not available in ports of embarkation/disembarkation, reservations and government guest security information is required, guests must be accompanied by member and visits are limited to four per calendar year. American Queen Steamboat Company reserves the right to change Steamboat Society of America program rules, benefits, terms and/or conditions at any time without notice. ©2019 American Queen Steamboat Operating Company, LLC 070119 7 222 Pearl St. New Albany, IN 47150

(888) 749-5280 www.aqsc.com

2