American Queen Voyages
Fodor’s Expert Review
EDITOR’S NOTE: American Queen Voyages shut down in February 2024. The company is no longer operating or offering cruises. Read More
In 2021, after almost a decade in the river cruise business, The American Queen Steamboat Company merged with Victory Cruise Lines to form American Queen Voyages. While the former was best known for its authentic paddlewheel steamboats, in joining forces with the latter cruise company, American Queen Voyages has emerged as a multi-faceted cruise line, offering river, lake, ocean, and expedition sailings across its seven-vessel fleet.
Ships accommodate anywhere between 150 to 417 guests. Intimately designed, the ships, some of which nod to the Victorian era with period-appropriate details, are designed for discovery and adventure. All have an abundance of outdoor spaces in the form of porches, sundecks, and terraces where guests can read and relax while watching the world go by.
American Queen Voyages cruises’ comprehensive portfolio of itineraries and experiences will appeal to a wide range of travelers. The small size of the ships enables stops at less-trodden towns and ports with locally-inspired, immersive onshore excursions. Themed cruises designed around cultural events, historical sites, and culinary fare take place throughout the year. So whether you want to drink mint juleps at the Kentucky Derby (the theme includes an option to upgrade to a special package that consists of VIP access and premium seating at Churchill Downs) or sip some of the finest wines in the Pacific Northwest, they’ve got you covered.
Their iconic riverboats (modeled after the grand Mississippi river steamboats of yesteryear with distinctive red paddle wheels on the aft) navigate North America’s legendary waterways with cruises on the Mississippi, Ohio, Cumberland, Tennessee, Columbia, and Snake Rivers. The two exploration ships, the Ocean Navigator and the Ocean Voyager sail through the Southeastern part of the USA, and the Yucatan Peninsula in the winter and operate in the Great Lakes and Canada in the spring and summer. Ocean Victory, the newest ship, spends most of her time sailing in Alaska between Sitka and Their riverboats are modeled after the grand Mississippi river steamboats of yesteryear with distinctive red paddle wheels on their aft. Vancouver.
Top Reasons to Cruise
Is This Line Right for You?
What to Expect on Board
Helmed by Culinary Ambassador Regina Charboneau, American Queen Voyages boasts regionally inspired cuisine and uses the freshest ingredients, trying to source locally whenever possible.
Cruises include unlimited beverages, including an extensive wine list, choice spirits, local craft beers, and specialty coffees. Complimentary in-room dining is available, and chefs can accommodate passengers with dietary restrictions.
Theaters, lounges, and card rooms are at the heart of the social spaces on board American Queen Voyages ships.
These places are where guests gather for shows, games, lectures, and enrichment talks. Riverlorians and Lakelorians are always talking about the history of the waterways you’re sailing on. In the evenings, the river ships offer broadway style shows in theaters and dancing in lounges, while the lake, ocean, and expedition ships feature enlightening talks, hosted games, or piano players. Take a step back in time on the flagship, the American Queen, and retire to the Victorian era Ladies’ Parlor or Gentleman’s Card Room.
Onboard fitness and recreation facilities are not a focus on American Queen Voyages ships.
However, except for the American Empress, they all have small gyms that get the job done for exercise fanatics. And only one ship, the American Dutchess, has an outdoor walking track. Pools aren’t a standard amenity, though they can be found on both American Queen Riverboat and Ocean Victory. Additionally, several, but not all, ships have spas and offer salon treatments.
Key cruising tips
Your Shipmates
Most of American Queen’s passengers are mature travelers (ages 50+) looking for a comfortable and convenient cruising experience. Many are repeat guests that are loyal to the brand. These former river cruise customers are now curious to check out the newer lake, ocean, and expedition cruises.
Dress Code
American Queen recommends resort-casual attire; however, expedition cruises tend to be more informal. During the day, passengers wear comfortable and casual clothing, including jeans, shorts, T-shirts, and sundresses. In the evening, men wear polo shirts, slacks, and the occasional jacket, as they are optional and not required. Ladies will be dressed in sweaters, nice pants, or a skirt paired with a blouse or sweater, and dresses. Shorts, T-shirts, hats, and flip-flops are not appropriate for dinner in the dining room. Most excursions require comfortable and sturdy walking shoes.
Junior Cruisers
Children under 18 are welcome but must be accompanied by an adult 25 years or older. Although there are no specific programs, entertainment, or kids club, American Queen Voyages may be a good option for multi-gen trips – especially for grandparents looking to spend time with their grandchildren.
Service
With American Queen Voyages emphasizing deep exploration on their cruises, their lecture and expedition teams are highly trained and very informative. The rest of the staff exude genuine hospitality and a dedication to ensuring you are well looked after during your time on board. Passengers who book Commodore Services on the River Ships can expect VIP service and attention from their butlers.
Tipping
Daily gratuities are $19.50 per day per person on river voyages, $17.50 on lakes and ocean voyages, and $20.20 for Expedition voyages and will be automatically added to your bill. Guests are also encouraged to tip local tour guides $5 per day and bus drivers $2 per day.
Past Passengers
American Queen Voyages does not currently have a loyalty program. TK