2021 paddlewheel collection COME TO THE HEARTof america Long before people made their mark on our continent, rivers shaped it. Carved paths from Northern forests through mountain gaps and deep cliff-lined gorges, winding thousands of miles to join the oceans. From these rivers, America first looked West. And it is here, on her great rivers, that America found her unique national rhythm. The mesmerizing beat of jazz...the pulsing cadence of commerce...the gentle tempo of the rivers’ own currents. Join us on a journey that will open your mind – and your heart – aboard America’s most beautiful and most authentic paddlewheel riverboats. American-owned and American- operated. Beckoning you to explore America’s spirit. “Rivers run through our history and folklore, and link us as a people... We are a nation rich in rivers.” ~ Charles Kuralt, American journalist There’s nothing in the world quite like the feel of a real paddlewheeler. That’s why I hope you’ll take time now to explore our wonderful collection of riverboat voyages for 2021. You’ll find all the classic routes that make paddlewheeling America’s favorite river pastime, as well as exciting new itineraries you’ll want to consider. You might enjoy cruising the length of the mighty Mississippi River, where the story of an entire nation unfolds. Or encounter the magnificent beauty of the Pacific Northwest. Or experience the thrill of being at Churchill Downs on Derby Day. Your options are endless. No matter which voyage you choose, each of our four beautiful paddlewheelers brings her own character to your journey... • The royal grandeur of the American Queen®­­ – America’s only steam-powered paddlewheel riverboat • The natural elegance of the American Empress® in the true tradition of the West • The indulgent luxury of the American Duchess™ • The contemporary charm of the American Countess™ – the newest lady in our collection Rivers truly are the very heart of America, and we invite you to come explore them with us. We all look forward to welcoming you on board – again, or for the very first time. John Waggoner Founder and CEO COME DISCOVER THE rivers of america 6 Brand Experience 18 The Queen's Collection™ Itineraries 22 Mississippi River Cruises 40 Ohio and Tennessee River Cruises 52 Mississippi and Ohio River Cruises 58 Columbia and Snake River Cruises 64 City Stay Packages 66 Deck Plans and Voyage Calendars 98 Terms and Conditions 99 Travel Protection THE RHYTHMof THE RIVERS™ The flow of the rivers is strong. Compelling. Constant. Even their names ignite the imagination – the mighty Mississippi, the Ohio, the Cumberland, the Tennessee, the Snake and the scenic Columbia. Time moves forward, cultures change and evolve, the world becomes a new and different place. But the rivers remain, as old as Earth itself, as new as the sunrise greeting you around each bend. 6 FEEL THE RHYTHM OF THE RIVERS CALL (888) 749-5280 OR YOUR TRAVEL PROFESSIONAL AQSC.COM FEEL THE RHYTHM OF THE RIVERS 7 THE FLAVORS of SavorTHE RIVERS 8 SAVOR THE FLAVORS OF THE RIVERS CALL (888) 749-5280 OR YOUR TRAVEL PROFESSIONAL Regionally inspired food is a way of life on the river. Wild salmon, so fresh it might have been swimming this morning, grilled to perfection. Moonshine bread pudding that evokes echoes of the Tennessee hills. A succulent dumpling that reminds you why Washington apples are the world’s favorite temptation. While the dress code is country-club-casual, the delectable cuisine and gracious ambiance of your dining room are Savor warm and welcoming. LOOK FORWARD TO... Fresh, local ingredients | Intricate and artful plating Extensive American wine selections | Regionally inspired fare Tantalizing, freshly prepared desserts Cajun and Creole cuisine | Homegrown, homemade flavors 24-hour room service...and more AQSC.COM SAVOR THE FLAVORS OF THE RIVERS 9 THE CHARMS of THE RIVERS Step on board and enjoy entertainment as congenial as a friendly pub and as lively as a cabaret. Since the days of the legendary showboats, America’s riverboats have been centers of music, folklore and theatrical delight. From the American Queen’s spectacular Grand Saloon to intimate venues throughout every boat, you’ll find so much to see, hear and do that your only problem will be fitting it all in. Entertainment for your mind is abundant, as well, with fascinating storytelling, enlightening lecturers and engaging Riverlorians. 10 CELEBRATE THE CHARMS OF THE RIVERS CALL (888) 749-5280 OR YOUR TRAVEL PROFESSIONAL LOOK FORWARD TO... Tasteful harmonies, mastered in world-class performances Dancing – ballroom, swing and country Motown, R&B and soul | Regional musicians River lore and legends | Captivating storytelling Intimate request sessions…and more AQSC.COM CELEBRATE THE CHARMS OF THE RIVERS 11 THE WONDERS of DiscoverTHE RIVERS Comprehensive, guided shore excursions are the highlight of every day in port. Expect to connect with people who have made the rivers their home, to learn firsthand how the rivers shape their past and future. Each experience has been thoughtfully designed for you, whether you’re INCLUDED EXCURSIONS visiting a historic home, losing yourself in a local museum or Convenient and complimentary access to historic and cultural attractions delving into unique regional traditions and cultures. Freedom to choose your own adventure | Exploration at your own pace Glimpses into American rivertown life PREMIUM EXPERIENCES One-of-a-kind exclusive access | New insight on thought-provoking destinations Award-winning, handcrafted experiences | More than just going there – being there 12 DISCOVER THE WONDERS OF THE RIVERS CALL (888) 749-5280 OR YOUR TRAVEL PROFESSIONAL Discover LOOK FORWARD TO... INCLUDED EXCURSIONS Convenient and complimentary access to historic and cultural attractions Freedom to choose your own adventure | Exploration at your own pace Glimpses into American rivertown life PREMIUM EXPERIENCES One-of-a-kind exclusive access | New insight on thought-provoking destinations Award-winning, handcrafted experiences | More than just going there – being there AQSC.COM DISCOVER THE WONDERS OF THE RIVERS 13 EnLIFE on joyTHE RIVERS The moment you step aboard, you know this is something special. You’re surrounded by world-class art, beautiful furnishings and perfectly selected amenities. You’re welcomed by crew and staff whose sole desire is your comfort, enjoyment and safety. And beyond that, you’ll connect with new sights, dialects, cultures and traditions. You’ll meet like-minded travelers who share stories and invite you to do the same. The familiarity of the space grows by the day – with every “good morning,” with each new friendship formed. Memories made on board are the finest souvenirs you’ll take home. Warm hospitality | Riveting conversation with fellow travelers Expanded horizons | Enlightened perspectives from new friends Shared stories of both past and present | Endless opportunities for laughter Adventures that tomorrow might bring...and more 14 ENJOY LIFE ON THE RIVERS CALL (888) 749-5280 OR YOUR TRAVEL PROFESSIONAL Enjoy LOOK FORWARD TO... Warm hospitality | Riveting conversation with fellow travelers Expanded horizons | Enlightened perspectives from new friends Shared stories of both past and present | Endless opportunities for laughter Adventures that tomorrow might bring...and more AQSC.COM ENJOY LIFE ON THE RIVERS 15 A A Q D AMERICAN QUEEN AMERICAN DUCHESS Our flagship is the largest overnight passenger steamboat Smaller, more intimate and offering unprecedented views ever built. Welcoming 417 guests, her authentic design from her two-story loft suites, she is the only riverboat of and style can never be duplicated. Her melodic steam her kind. She welcomes just 166 guests on each voyage. calliope can be heard along the full length of the Enjoy her fashionable charm, authentic Murano glass Mississippi, from Red Wing to New Orleans. She truly and grand spaces as you explore the Mississippi, Ohio and is the queen of the river. Cumberland Rivers. 16 THE RIVERS ARE CALLING CALL (888) 749-5280 OR YOUR TRAVEL PROFESSIONAL the rivers are calling America’s most authentic paddlewheel riverboats move you forward in relaxation and backward in time. Soak up the view as the wonders of the rivers gently slide by. Enjoy the admiration of bystanders who gather to appreciate the beauty of your riverboat’s design. Explore your vessel’s stunning art collection throughout the boat. Share your experience with fellow guests who, like you, have come not only to see, but to experience these magnificent rivers. A A C E AMERICAN COUNTESS AMERICAN EMPRESS The newest gem in America's premier riverboat fleet's Showcasing the art and culture of her Pacific Northwest sleek contemporary styling welcomes 245 guests along the origins, she will dazzle you with her art collection alone. Tennessee, Ohio, Cumberland, Illinois and Mississippi Unique paintings, wildlife and Native American art and a rivers. With plenty of open space for gathering and sharing collection of exclusive pieces are rivaled only by authentic the fun, you’ll love the great forward-facing windows and Fabergé eggs. You’ll experience all U.S. climate zones on the portside bar with an 80-foot view. a seven-day Columbia and Snake river cruise. AQSC.COM THE RIVERS ARE CALLING 17 Welcome to The Queen’s Collection. These thoughtfully planned cruises feature unique and special voyage programming. Lively onboard events pair with exclusive shore excursions to create meaningful, in-depth and unforgettable memories. 18 THE QUEEN'S COLLECTION CALL (888) 749-5280 OR YOUR TRAVEL PROFESSIONAL the QUEEN’S COLLECTION Rhythm of the Rivers Holidays & Special Events Explore the roots of iconic American Celebrate a plantation Thanksgiving, a music where it all began. Jazz, blues, Creole Christmas, a riverfront New Year’s country and more await you. Eve and an all-American Fourth of July on the river. Thrill to the hoofbeats of Culinary & Cocktails the Kentucky Derby from special seating at Churchill Downs — or travel with our Learn firsthand with onboard lessons founder and CEO, John Waggoner, on a from our talented team.