This year marks the return of the classic paddle wheel-driven steamboat to America’s great inland rivers.

Great American Steamboat Company has revived the “American Queen” while American Cruise Lines is introducing the brand new “Queen of the Mississippi”.

Both of these vessels will be steaming on the Mississippi, Ohio, and Tennessee rivers with a variety of specialty themed cruises. Discover our country’s past as you enjoy a leisurely cruise down the river.

The first brand new overnight sternwheeler built for the Mississippi in nearly 20 years, the “Queen of the Mississippi” will be the grandest ever boasting oversized staterooms larger than those of all former Mississippi riverboats, private balconies and all of the amenities today’s travelers expect.

This new paddle wheeler will recreate the grandeur of past riverboats while possessing the latest safety, environmental and construction technologies.

The ship will have the look of a traditional riverboat along with more amenities, a faster speed, and an unmatched level of comfort. Features include six unique lounges, a library, an elegant dining salon, elevator service to all decks, and exceptionally large staterooms.

The “Queen of the Mississippi” is a historically accurate riverboat carrying only 150 passengers. Designed to navigate America’s inland waterways and rivers, she will dock in the heart of each port, taking you where larger ships could never go.

Comfortable lounges and large observation decks are the perfect place for guests to relax and enjoy the company of fellow travelers who share their interest in American heritage.

Glass enclosed dining salons provide an amazing, panoramic view to passing scenery. The spacious staterooms feature large opening picture windows and roomy baths; many also have private balconies.

The largest steamboat ever built, the grand “American Queen” is a gracious and elegant triumph of American ingenuity. Although filled with today’s modern amenities, her rooms and accommodations display all the opulence of the American Victorian era.

Glistening woodwork, fresh flowers and antiques adorn her interior spaces. Outside, lacy filigree evokes memories of the many stately river steamers that preceded her and so inspired her designers.

While on board, you can select a volume from the vast collection in the Mark Twain Gallery, the boat’s library. Or enjoy a sing-along in the Main Deck Lounge, and then tap your toes to a lavish show in the two-deck-tall Grand Saloon, the most elegant showplace on the river.

Combining the best of the old and the new, these beautiful ladies of the river epitomize the grace and grandeur that has made “steamboating” a cherished American tradition for more than two centuries. Just take one voyage and you’ll see why there are so many “steamboating” fans!

Are you ready for some “steamboating”? Here’s a Kentucky Derby Riverboat cruise on the “American Queen” departing from nearby Cincinnati.

You’ll depart on Friday May 4 from Cincinnati and the festivities kick off with a special “Welcome Aboard” dinner. After this enjoy the ship board amenities as you steam towards your first port Louisville Ky.

On Saturday May 5 it’s the “Run for the Roses” at Churchill Downs. Cheer your favorite horse across the finish line at the 137th running of the Kentucky Derby and see the champion crowned in the Winner’s Circle. A Churchill Downs admission ticket makes being here on the first Saturday in May an important part of a unique vacation.

Sunday May 6 is just “Steamboating”! Settle into a rocking chair and just let the scenery glide by. Or join in the fun of the numerous onboard activities.

Your full day of leisurely steamboating on the Ohio River sets the tone for an unforgettable vacation.

Madison, Indiana is your port stop on Monday. Today you can tour family owned and operated businesses from Schroeder Saddletree Factory and the Madison Vineyard to Betty Mundt’s Candies. A stroll through town takes in the highlights of this beautiful city in southern Indiana.

There will be some shopping time before you’ll visit the Thomas Family Winery for an evening of wine tasting and Celtic music. Then it’s time to head to the “Queen” for your last night on the river.

It’s time to head back upriver for your arrival in the Queen City on Tuesday the 8th. Time to say goodbye to the new friends you’ve met on board and head for home. But I’m sure you’re already looking forward to your next “steamboating” journey.

For more details on this journey or any other “Steamboating” departures contact your favorite cruise vacation planner.

All Aboard!

 

Got travel? E-mail Steve Call at the travelprofessor@gmail.com or dial 740.550.9540.