who owns american river cruises

2 of the biggest cruise companies specializing in US sailings are merging

Note: American Queen Voyages ceased operations in February 2024, following financial difficulties stemming from the COVID-19 pandemic. Booked passengers seeking refunds can request them by filling out a form on the dedicated website American Queen Voyages set up to handle claims.

Two of the five biggest cruise companies specializing in small-ship voyages in U.S. waters are merging.

The parent company of American Queen Steamboat Company and Victory Cruise Lines on Tuesday announced it would combine the two brands into a single cruise entity that offered a far wider mix of itineraries than either of the two brands have offered individually.

American Queen Steamboat Company until now only has operated U.S. river cruises with a fleet of four paddlewheelers. Victory Cruise Lines until now only has operated lake and ocean trips in North America with a fleet of two small ocean-going vessels.

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In the wake of the merger, the company will be known as American Queen Voyages and offer an expanded mix of river, lake and ocean trips.

"We will pull [all the vessels] all under one company, one fleet, one brand and one experience," Shawn Bierdz, the executive who will serve as president of the combined company, said Tuesday at a press conference in Miami to announce the merger.

The press conference took place Tuesday afternoon at Seatrade Cruise Global, the cruise industry's annual meetup.

In announcing the new brand, Bierdz said its combined fleet would include two new expedition ships that are scheduled to debut in 2022 and 2023, respectively. That'll bring the total fleet size to eight vessels. The two expedition ships originally were scheduled to join the Victory Cruise Lines fleet.

American Queen Steamboat Company and Victory Cruise Lines are both owned by San Francisco-based Hornblower Group, which owns a wide array of ship-related businesses around the world including day-tour boats in many U.S. cities and a marine services company that operates, maintains and repairs government and privately owned vessels.

Founded by marine industry veteran John Waggoner in 2011 with just one vessel, American Queen Steamboat Company over the past decade has grown into one of the largest operators of overnight riverboat cruises in North America. It became part of the bigger Hornblower Group when Waggoner and a longtime partner combined a number of marine-related businesses together three years ago. Hornblower then bought Victory Cruise Lines.

Related: Peek inside American Queen Steamboat's newest river ship

Waggoner, who also was at the press conference, will serve as chairman of the new American Queen Voyages brand.

Waggoner is credited with almost singlehandedly bringing back the overnight river cruise business on U.S. rivers after he and his wife, Claudette, purchased American Queen Steamboat Company's original vessel -- the iconic, 436-passenger American Queen -- in 2011.

At the time, the 1995-built paddlewheeler was in mothballs after a previous owner had gone out of business, and other overnight river cruise vessels that had operated on U.S. rivers for years also had shut down operations.

Many industry watchers thought at the time that a successful comeback of river cruising in U.S. waters was unlikely.

"When Claudette and I purchased it we could have sworn that was going to be the only boat that we were going to purchase, but we were wrong," Waggoner said, drawing laughter from an audience of cruise industry insiders who were familiar with the rapid growth of his company over the past few years. "It's been an interesting 10 years, and we're only getting going."

Company executives at the press conference on Tuesday said the new American Queen Voyages brand would operate cruises under three sub-divisions:

• American Queen Voyages River: This division of the brand will include the four river vessels that previously made up the American Queen Steamboat Company brand. Led by the company's namesake, the American Queen, it'll offer river trips on the Mississippi River complex and in the Pacific Northwest.
• American Queen Voyages Lakes & Ocean: This division of the brand will include the two 202-passenger coastal cruise vessels that, until now, have made up the Victory Cruise Lines fleet. Formerly called Victory I and Victory II, they are being renamed Ocean Voyager and Ocean Navigator. The vessels will offer voyages to Canada, the Great Lakes, New England and the Eastern Seaboard, and Mexico and the Yucatán Peninsula.
• American Queen Voyages Expedition: This division will focus on expedition cruises to Alaska and Central America using two new, 186-passenger expedition ships that will debut in 2022 and 2023, respectively. The ships will be called Ocean Victory and Ocean Discoverer. In Alaska, the vessels will focus on travel to less-visited parts of the state's Inside Passage region with a seasoned expedition team leading adventurous outings. The ships will carry kayaks and Zodiac boats for exploring.

The combined company will offer voyages to 127 different ports, Bierdz said at the event.

In response to a question from TPG, the executive who will oversee the combined brand's sales and marketing said the merger will make it easier to talk to customers about all the things that the previously separate brands offer.

"Now there's the opportunity to talk about them all together and [to talk about] the breadth of offerings that we have," said senior vice president of sales and marketing Kari Tarnowski.

Tarnowski also noted that customers now will know that "the product delivery whether you're on river, lakes and ocean, or expedition [trips] will be the same."

Bierdz added that the company would be merging the two separate websites that it now has for the two brands, which would "be more efficient." In another plus, Tarnowski added that the company soon would be launching a new loyalty program that covered all of the vessels in the combined brands.

American Queen Steamboat Company and Victory Cruise Lines have been two of the five largest cruise brands with a particular focus on U.S. river, lake and coastal voyages. The others are American Cruise Lines, UnCruise Adventures and Alaskan Dream Cruises.

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American Queen Voyages shuts down, cancels future cruises amid reported service issues

American Queen Voyages has shut down.

An automated voice message on its customer information hotline said the cruise line "has made the difficult decision" to suspend operations, and all future cruises have been scrapped. “Guests and customers should expect to be fully refunded for canceled cruises,” the message said.

The message directed listeners to www.aqvrefunds.com “to begin the refund process,” and said they could find more information at www.aqvinfo.com .

"Despite our best efforts, demand for overnight cruises has not recovered following the pandemic, and AQV has become financially unsustainable," a guest FAQ section on the second website reads. "We thank you for your support and deeply regret any inconvenience this causes you."

No ships were sailing at the time of the closure. Adam Peakes, president of the line's owner Hornblower Group, said it plans to "sell the company, or, if a sale cannot be achieved, its operations will be wound down."

"Please know this decision was not made lightly," he said in an emailed statement shared with USA TODAY. "We are deeply proud of our employees and crew for the outstanding services they have provided our guests over the years. As the backbone of the AQV experience we extend our deepest appreciation to our team for their unwavering commitment, passion and hard work, which has been exceptional. We would also like to express our heartfelt gratitude to our guests, partners, agents and the local communities where we call who have each been integral to our journey."

Your cruise was canceled: Now what?

The news comes after the line reportedly canceled three season-opening sailings set to take place on the Mississippi River later this month, attributing the changes to an extended layup schedule. Multiple industry groups previously suspended sales of American Queen Voyages cruises because of service issues, including delayed commission payments, Travel Weekly reported in January.

The line began sailing as American Queen Steamboat Company in 2011 and was rebranded as American Queen Voyages in 2021 after merging with Victory Cruise Lines.

Nathan Diller is a consumer travel reporter for USA TODAY based in Nashville. You can reach him at [email protected].

Hornblower Group

We are Hornblower Group, the global leader in world-class experiences and transportation.

The brand heritage of our organization dates back nearly 100 years, with the establishment of Boston Harbor Cruises in Massachusetts in 1926; on the west coast of the United States, Hornblower Group began in 1980. Across our growing portfolio, we have a long-standing history of expertise and innovation and have continually redefined the marine hospitality industry. Today, our footprint spans 111 countries and territories, and 125 U.S. cities, with offerings including water-based experiences, land-based experiences, overnight cruise experiences, and ferry and transportation services and marine consulting & services.

Notably, we designed and built the first hybrid ferry in the United States which reduces fuel consumption by 75%; it is part of Alcatraz City Cruises. City Ferry operates the first zero-emission, all-electric passenger/vehicle ferry in the U.S.

Our Hornblower Group global headquarters is in San Francisco, California, with additional corporate offices in Boston, Massachusetts; Chicago, Illinois; London, United Kingdom; New York, New York; and Ontario, Canada.

Core Leadership Team

Kevin M. Rabbitt

X Kevin M. Rabbitt is Chief Executive Officer and Board Director at Hornblower Group, a global experiences and transportation leader. The group’s expansive portfolio includes land-based experiences (City Experiences), water-based experiences and dining and sightseeing cruises (City Cruises), ferry and transportation services (City Ferry), and small ship overnight cruises (American Queen  Voyages ). Hornblower is owned by management and private equity firm, Crestview Partners.

In addition to his role at Hornblower, Rabbitt serves as Operating Executive in the media portfolio for Crestview Partners. Rabbitt serves as a Board Director on behalf of Crestview for investments at Congruex Networks, Viad Corp and Framestore/Company 3. Additionally, Rabbitt serves on non-profit boards for Pittsburgh Children’s Hospital Foundation and Jerome Bettis “The Bus Stops Here” Foundation.

Prior CEO roles for Rabbitt have included NEP Group, the worldwide leader of technical outsourced production services operating in 24 countries; 3 Day Blinds, a leading manufacturer and retailer of custom window coverings; and Global Experience Specialists (GES), a global face-to-face events and tradeshow services company.

Early roles for Rabbitt included consulting stops at Bain and Company and Deloitte Consulting; running a small entertainment business; time with the Houston Rockets basketball organization; and an Assistant Men’s Basketball Coach at Texas State University.

Rabbitt holds an MBA from the Harvard Business School (2001), and a BA in Managerial Studies from Rice University (1995). While at Rice, Rabbitt was captain and point guard for the Men’s Basketball team.

Rabbitt enjoys spending time with his wife Emily (Rice 1994; Jones School 1995) and their four children. Rabbitt is an avid sports fan including Rice Owls as well as his native Kansas City teams the Chiefs, Royals and Jayhawks. Rabbitt is an active supporter of college basketball programs including Pitt, Robert Morris University, UT-San Antonio, and Henderson State. In his free time, Rabbitt enjoys coaching youth sports and playing golf.

Adam C. Peakes

With Hornblower’s overarching goal of becoming a Global Experiences and Transportation Leader, Peakes works in partnership with the division leaders to enable the strategic business plans across the organization.

Peakes comes to Hornblower from Merichem Corporation,   a large private industrial services company, serving as the company CFO, and previously as CFO at Noble Corporation,   one of the largest publicly traded offshore drilling contractors in the oil and gas industry. Prior to that, he had a nearly 20-year career as an Investment Banker, serving as a Managing Director at Goldman Sachs, then as a Partner at the boutique investment banking firm of Tudor, Pickering, Holt & Company. Peakes additionally spent time working in the sports industry, including playing professional basketball in Europe and later as a member of the Houston Rockets management team.

Peakes graduated from Rice University where he played Division I basketball and was a two-time Academic All-American, and the Southwest Conference Scholar Athlete of the Year.    He gained his MBA from Harvard Business School.   Additionally, Peakes serves on the Board of Directors for Trecora Resources (NYSE: TREC) and Diamond Offshore Drilling (NYSE: DO), and he is Chairman of the Board of Advisors for Rice University Jones School of Management (Rice MBA).

Outside of work, Peakes enjoys spending time with his wife and four children as well as traveling, reading, and playing golf.  He currently resides in Houston, Texas.

Karen DiFulgo

X Coming Soon.

Francesca Merlino

X Coming soon.

Frank Dunsford

X As Hornblower Group’s Chief Financial Officer, Dunsford provides strategic financial insight, supports growth plans, and drives value creation while overseeing all financial and accounting matters related to the company. Dunsford’s background is in private equity-backed companies and public companies, driving value creation in M&A acquisition, integrations, and change management initiatives.

Dunsford came to Hornblower Group from Youth Enrichment Brands, a private equity-backed youth activities company, serving as the company CFO. Prior to that, he spent over three years with Hornblower Group as the interim CFO and Vice President Corporate Controller. Prior to his first stint with Hornblower Group, Dunsford spent more than 18 years with KPMG Audit and Accounting Advisory.

Dunsford enjoys spending time with his wife Pramoda and their two children as well as traveling, hiking, listening to music, and playing cricket. He currently resides in the San Francisco Bay Area, California.

Stewart Alpert

Currently serving as Hornblower’s Chief Information Security Officer and Head of Technology, Stewart has extensive experience and expertise at the nexus of technology and business. Well versed in security, engineering and IT, he’s held leadership roles in top companies such as VMware and Walmart Labs as well as several start-ups. Stewart holds a master’s degree in software engineering, and a bachelor’s degree in computer science.

Mitch Randall

X Mitch Randall is the General Counsel of Hornblower Group, the holding company for City Experiences and American Queen Voyages. He is responsible for all of Hornblower’s legal matters, including litigation, mergers & acquisitions, human resources, real estate and permitting, commercial contract negotiations, finance, risk management, corporate governance, and management of external counsel.

Mitch was previously the President and Chief Legal Officer of PureGen Power, a clean power company focused on the acquisition, improvement and operation of utility scale solar projects. Prior to joining PureGen in January 2017, he was the President of Recurrent Energy, one of North America’s largest solar project developers.

Mitch has more than 20 years of legal experience in hospitality, energy, project development, regulatory, finance, and mergers & acquisitions. Prior to serving as President of Recurrent Energy, Mitch served as its General Counsel, overseeing the company’s legal strategy across its operations. Prior to joining Recurrent Energy, Mitch was a partner with Morrison & Foerster LLP, where he represented energy, real estate, development, health care and technology companies in complex transactional, permitting and regulatory matters.

Mitch received a JD from University of California’s Hastings College of the Law and a BS from the University of Colorado at Boulder.

X A graduate of the University of Chicago Booth School of Business (MBA) and the University of Colorado Leeds School of Business (BS Finance), Phil is an experienced travel and hospitality professional specializing in customer experience, service operations, and strategy. From his time consulting with McKinsey & Company, Deloitte, and Hitachi Consulting, he has wide industry knowledge and practice across airlines, hotels, casinos, airports, OTAs, transportation companies, and experience operators. Prior to consulting, Phil started his career with The Walt Disney Company and Six Flags. Today, as Chief of Staff, Phil works across Hornblower’s businesses to set their long-term strategy and lead key strategic initiatives.

Michael K. Burke

X Mike joined Statue City Cruises as VP & COO at the start of 2008. Statue City Cruises carries 4.5 million passengers annually to the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island and on harbor cruises & charters. He directs all operations and fiscal affairs of Statue City Cruises. Commitment to safety & security, hospitality, guest service, innovation, and environmental initiatives has enabled Statue City Cruises to achieve results far exceeding industry standards. Mike is responsible for relationships with the National Park Service, U.S. Coast Guard, NYC Parks & Recreation, and numerous government agencies and not-for-profit partners.

In August 2020, Mike was promoted to COO, of Concessions & Park Services to direct Alcatraz City Cruises as well as Statue City Cruises. In addition to an expanded role with NPS and USCG matters, Mike is the liaison with the Port of San Francisco and the Golden Gate National Parks Conservancy.

Prior to his current position, Mike served as CFO at BillyBey Ferry Company from 2005 to 2008. Mike was President and CEO at Circle Line-Statue of Liberty Ferry in 2000 and 2001, where he served as its first non-owner chief executive. He was also advisor and consultant to Circle Line from 1982 to 2000.

Mike is an active Board and Committee Member of NYC & Company, the Friends of Governors Island and various other organizations. He holds a US Coast Guard 100 GRT Captain License and is a Certified Public Accountant.

Mory DiMaurizio

X Mory DiMaurizio joined Hornblower Canada in 2014. As Vice President & General Manager, he oversaw the successful startup, development and operations of Hornblower Niagara City Cruises. At the helm of Canada’s most iconic tourist attraction, Mory oversees the safe passage of over 2.4 million visitors per year. He is responsible for ensuring that his highly skilled team is focused on guest services, safety and environmental goals and objectives. As key liaison with the Niagara Parks Commission, an operational enterprise agency for the Ontario Ministry of Heritage, Sport, Tourism and Culture Industries, Mory ensures compliance with all financial and operating agreements.

With 25 years of experience in the hospitality industry, Mory sits on the Board of Directors for Niagara Falls Tourism as Treasurer and the Tourism Partnership of Niagara.

Prior to joining Hornblower, Mory was General Manager for Medieval Times Entertainment overseeing the Toronto operations at the Canadian National Exhibition from 2005 to 2013. Mory was General Manager for the Ontario Lottery & Gaming Corporation participating in Casino development, operations and 14 successful casino startup operations on time and budget within the Canadian gaming industry from 1996 to 2005.

Mory is a Certified Engineering Technologist (OACETT), is a graduate of Electrical Engineering with a double minor in Computers and Electronics from Niagara College.

Stephen Oddo

Stephen is a serial travel industry entrepreneur and founded multiple companies in the tours & activities sector since 2005. He founded WalksofItaly.com, an online travel company for visitors to Italy offering sightseeing tours and travel activities, in 2009. Walks of Italy soon became one of the largest operators of experiential travel services in Italy.

Walks is now a global brand and one of the largest operators of guided tours in the world, handling hundreds of thousands of passengers annually. Walks operates travel experiences in 20 cities across 9 countries. During the pandemic, Stephen led development of Walks’ virtual tour program “Tours from Home,” receiving tens of thousands of paid bookings and widespread acclaim in Travel + Leisure, Forbes, Skift, Boston Globe, and more. In early 2021, Walks joined City Experiences (Hornblower Group) to start the next chapter of growth and expansion. He also led the acquisition of Devour Tours, a leading global food tour company, closing in late 2021.

Rinat Glinert

Rinat Glinert serves at the Chief Operating Officer of Venture Ashore ,  the largest independent shore excursion company in the world, delivering thousands of shore excursions, tours and activities led by professional guides in hundreds of ports worldwide. Venture Ashore is part of the City Experiences portfolio of brands as its newest addition, supporting the company’s overall business strategy as the leader in amazing experiences. As Chief Operating Officer, Glinert leads the team in growing the Venture Ashore offerings on a global basis and establishing strong functionality of the business to drive extensive and sustainable growth through designing and implementing business strategies, plans and procedures.

Glinert’s career spans more than 18 years in the cruise and travel industry beginning with Royal Caribbean International in operations aboard the Vision of the Seas . She then proceeded to hold several progressive leadership positions at the corporate headquarters, culminating in overseeing guest services operations for over 22 ships and nearly 5,000 employees. As head of the strategic projects group, she was responsible for identifying and implementing onboard staffing efficiencies to better serve both employees and guests, as well as launching new services throughout the fleet. As a part of the newbuild hotel operations team, Glinert was instrumental in the design, buildout, and launch of the largest ships in the world, including the Oasis of the Seas and Allure of the Seas cruise ships, as well as overseeing the creation of Royal Caribbean’s VIP suite operations in Labadee, Haiti. In 2012, Glinert left Royal Caribbean to launch her own company, ShoreFox, which created technology tools for independent tour guides for nearly 2,500 tours in more than 220 destinations worldwide. Glinert shares a deep passion for travel and loves the connectivity it provides for people to take part in new experiences and broaden their horizons.

Glinert is a graduate of Cornell University with a degree in Hotel Administration. She resides in Rockville, Maryland with her husband and 2 children. She is an avid scuba diver and her favorite excursions include swimming with the pigs in Nassau, Bahamas, hiking Mendenhall Glacier in Juneau, Alaska and sailing aboard a catamaran in the azure waters of Bora Bora.

Scott Thornton

X Scott Thornton is the COO, City Ferry, where he leads the operations of all ferry systems it operates, including NYC Ferry, Puerto Rico Ferry, and more.

In his more than three decades with Hornblower, Scott has served at every level of the organization, beginning as a bartender onboard the California Hornblower in Los Angeles. In his time at Hornblower, Scott has exemplified the leadership and creativity that drives our growth and success, helping to lead each Hornblower start-up operation and ensuring the highest level of operational standards and focus on safety, quality, and crew development.

Prior to serving as COO of Hornblower Group’s Ferries & Transportation Division, Scott served as Chief Operating Officer of NYC Ferry. Since its launch in 2017, NYC Ferry – a new public transit option serving Manhattan, Queens, Brooklyn, and The Bronx – has served more than 17.5 million riders.

Before leading NYC Ferry, Scott was General Manager and Vice President of Operations of Alcatraz City Cruises, which, under his leadership, introduced the first ever hybrid ferry in 2009. Soon after Alcatraz City Cruises became the first triple ISO-certified passenger maritime operation, Scott also led the Alcatraz City Cruises crew to their highest level of annual ridership while maintaining a dedication to safety and quality which led to Alcatraz City Cruises being named the No. 1 landmark in the U.S. in TripAdvisor’s Traveler’s Choice award. In addition to this experience, Scott spearheaded Hornblower’s Statute City Cruises launch in New York City.

Scott is a certified Captain and resides in New York City.

Dan Russell

X Dan Russell currently serves as Co-Chief Operating Officer of the City Cruises U.S. division, overseeing all areas of the business in 16 ports across the country.

Dan has been a Crew member of City Cruises for over 20 years and has lead teams in operations, sales and marketing, product development and general management.

Dan holds a BBA from Notre Dame and is a certified public accountant. He works out of the Chicago port and resides in the suburbs with his wife and two teenage children.

Christine Metivier

X Christine Metivier is Co-Chief Operating Officer of the City Cruises U.S. division, overseeing all areas of the business in 16 ports across the country.

Christine has over two decades of sales and operations experience. She began her career at the Boston port of City Cruises before transferring to the New York City port. Christine held various positions throughout the organization including a position in Event Management, Sales Director, General Manager, and Regional Vice President.

Christine received her Bachelor of Science degree from UMASS Amherst and works out of the New York City office. She resides in New Jersey with her husband and labradoodle.

Nasi Peretz

X A graduate of the University of Southern California’s Viterbi School of Engineering in Computer Engineering & Computer Science for both undergrad and grad. Created WestsideRentals.com along with Mark Verge and Kevin Miller, 70+ employees which after 15 years was sold to Apartments.com/Costar (CSGP on Nasdaq). Then created Ticketmob.com with Scot Richardson which was acquired in December of 2012 by Cvent (CVT on Nasdaq) and after 6 years of expanding that ticketing company moved to Ticketmaster/LiveNation where he created Taylor Swift’s ticketing platform for the largest concert series in Ticketmaster history. Now Chief Technology Officer at the Hornblower Group after serving as the Vice President of Engineering for two years.

History of the Company

• 1926 – Boston Harbor Cruises is founded in Boston, Massachusetts
• 1951 – Gananoque Boat Lines is founded in Gananoque, Ontario, Canada
• 1974 – Potomac Riverboat Cruises is founded in Alexandria, Virginia
• 1978 – Spirit Cruises is founded in Norfolk, Virginia
• 1980 – Hornblower Tours purchased by Terry MacRae in Berkeley, California
• 1980 – 1987 – The company is known as Hornblower Party Yachts
• 1984 – The company moves its headquarters to San Francisco, California
• 1986 – City Cruises is founded in London, England
• 1987 – 1993 – The company is known as Hornblower Dining Yachts
• 1987 – Mariposa Cruises is founded in Toronto, Canada
• 1991 – Odyssey Cruises is founded in Chicago, Illinois
• 1993 – 2020 – The company is known as Hornblower Cruises & Events
• 1993 – The company spins off Hornblower Marine Services (HMS), a marine management company focused on the operation of casino boats and ferries. HMS Ferries, Inc. expands to government contracting work and the development of high-speed ferry systems.
• 1996 – City Cruises develops the first new purpose-built sightseeing boat on the River Thames in London
• 1996 – Seadog is founded in Chicago, Illinois
• 1997 – The company acquires Lake Tahoe Cruises, Inc. and adds ferry services across Lake Tahoe
• 1998 – Mystic Blue Cruises is founded in Chicago, Illinois
• 2004 – Hornblower Group acquires Adventures at Sea and becomes the largest private yacht fleet in Southern California
• 2006 – Alcatraz Cruises, a Hornblower subsidiary, is awarded National Park Commission contract for Alcatraz Island in San Francisco
• 2007 – Entertainment Cruises acquires Baltimore Harbor Cruises
• 2008 – Hornblower Group awarded National Park Service contract for Statue of Liberty National Monument and Ellis Island Immigration Museum
• 2009 – Seaward Services is founded in New Albany, Indiana
• 2009 – Alcatraz Cruises designed and built the first hybrid ferry in the United States which reduces fuel consumption by 75%
• 2011 – Cruising Excursions is founded in London, England
• 2014 – Niagara Cruises begins tours in Niagara Gorge with two state-of-the-art catamarans
• 2015 – Hornblower Group awarded the NYC Ferry contract by the New York City Economic Development Corporation
• 2016 – Entertainment Cruises is formed with the merger of Odyssey Cruises and Spirit Cruises
• 2016 – Entertainment Cruises acquires Potomac Riverboat Company
• 2017 – NYC Ferry by Hornblower begins operations on May 1, 2017
• 2018 – Entertainment Cruises acquires Mariposa Cruises
• 2019 – The Gee’s Bend Ferry operates the first zero-emission, all-electric passenger/vehicle ferry in the U.S.
• 2019 – Hornblower Group acquires Entertainment Cruises, Boston Harbor Cruises, Gananoque Boat Lines, and UK-based City Cruises under the Cruises & Events division
• 2020 – The company is known as Hornblower Group, with Cruises & Events becoming one of the company’s four divisions
• 2020 – HMS Ferries Inc. named operator of Puerto Rico Ferry Service
• 2021 – Cruising Excursions is added to the company’s portfolio of businesses in January, expanding our footprint globally to 70 countries
• 2021 – Shore Trips is added to the company’s portfolio of businesses in February, expanding our global footprint to more than 110 countries and territories
• 2021 – In April 2021, Hornblower Cruises & Events, City Cruises, and HMS Ferries, Inc. rebrand as one master company, City Experiences. City Cruises and City Ferry are named sub-brands of the division
• 2021 – As part of the expansion of land based activities Walks was brought on board in Q1 along with Devour Food Tours in Q4. The Walks platform brought in not only Guides from around the world but a technology platform to elevate the Hornblower Group.
• 2022 – Venture Ashore launches as the newest addition to the City Experiences portfolio of brands in February, becoming the largest independent cruise excursions provider in the world

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This U.S. River Cruise Line Just Shut Down — What to Know If You Have a Trip Booked

“American Queen Voyages unfortunately has been unable to rebound from the effects of the pandemic.”

River cruise line American Queen Voyages has shut down, canceling all future cruises and instructing future guests to apply for refunds.

The cruise line posted the news to an official website created to provide information in the aftermath of the shut down. Travelers who were set to go on a now-canceled voyage with the company were instructed to request a refund online by filling out a claim form. 

“Despite great efforts by our team, crew and partners, American Queen Voyages (AQV) unfortunately has been unable to rebound from the effects of the pandemic,” the company shared with Travel + Leisure on Wednesday. “The overnight cruise industry was especially affected by changes in travel preferences and, as a result, AQV has become financially unsustainable.”

The company added: “We sincerely regret any inconvenience this decision causes. Our goal is to ensure a smooth process for all AQV stakeholders.”

Before the shutdown, American Queen Voyages operated the overnight cruise division of the Hornblower Group, which will be acquired, according to a press release shared with T+L.

The cruise line first adopted the name American Queen Voyages in 2021 after changing it from the American Queen Steamboat Company. Under the new name, the company sailed river cruises, lake, and ocean cruises, along with expedition voyages to destinations like Alaska. In fact, the company was known for having some of the best river cruises in the United States , journeying along the Mississippi, Ohio, and Cumberland rivers on board classic paddle wheelers.

Now, American Queen Voyages has declared bankruptcy. Travelers who request a refund are warned they will first receive a denial notice since “AQV has filed for Chapter 11 to conduct its business shutdown and is not making reimbursement payments directly.” Customers must then submit the refund request to Argo Surety, which has insured the cruise line.

“You should expect to be fully refunded for deposits you have paid on cancelled AQV cruises,” the company wrote.

'Financially unsustainable': American Queen Voyages shuts down, cancels all cruises

American Queen Voyages , a riverboat cruise line that operated in Memphis, has shut down.

In an FAQ on it website, the Fort Lauderdale, Florida-based company said that "despite great efforts," the operation of American Queen Voyages has become financially untenable, attributing that to the pandemic.

"The overnight cruise industry was especially affected by changes in travel preferences and, as a result, AQV has become financially unsustainable," the site reads.

All cruises have immediately ceased and future rides have been cancelled. AQV is now offering refunds to customers who had their cruise canceled.

BUSINESS NEWS: Shelby County layoff notices in 2024: 3 employers plan to cut 378 jobs in Memphis

Among American Queen Voyages' cruises was a trip on the Mississippi River between Memphis and New Orleans.

This is not the end of river cruises in Memphis. Locally based line Memphis Riverboats continues to operate in the city, offering sightseeing cruises, private events and live music.

The fate of the AQV-owned American Queen, considered the largest steamboat ever built, is unknown. The ship's port of registry remains in Memphis.

Jacob Wilt is a reporter for The Commercial Appeal. You can reach him at [email protected] .

American Serenade Review

Launched in 2023, American Serenade is the sixth member of American Cruise Lines' fleet of modern riverboats. Eschewing the Mark Twain-era paddlewheeler look sported by so many U.S. river cruise lines (including ACL), American Serenade is sleek and spacious, channeling a European-style river cruise ambiance and bringing it to the waterways of America.

To that end, passengers will find cabins that all feature full private balconies and plenty of living space, with passenger corridors anchored by a four-story atrium topped by a skylight that lets in plenty of natural light. ACL has also started partnering with Miami-based Studio DADO on its interior design, and the results can be easily seen aboard American Serenade, which sports high-end furniture and fixtures along with soft lighting and elegant décor touches throughout that add a sense of style and personality to American Serenade that was missing from the line's more classic river vessels.

The ship's secret weapon -- also found aboard sister-ships American Harmony , American Jazz , Victoria Sophia , and American Symphony -- is a hydraulic bow that opens to reveal a retractable steel gangway. This allows passengers to disembark the vessel with ease in ports without traditional docking facilities.

In a nod to American Cruise Lines' passenger base, which does skew older, the ship also carries its own onboard golf cart that can ferry passengers between the ship and the motorcoaches in the event of steep inclines between landing sites and roadways.

American Serenade offers a river cruise experience that is quietly charming, thanks to the abundance of open deck space onboard and unexpected touches, like two main lounges, two onboard dining venues (a main restaurant and a casual café offering up breakfast sandwiches and burgers, among others); an unexpectedly large fitness center; and several cozy mini-lounges tucked away behind the ship's two elevators that traverse from Deck 1 to Deck 4, but which do not reach the uppermost Sun Deck.

The ship runs smoothly, with very little vibration unless maneuvering into a lock or alongside in port. In most cases, the ship is so quiet you won't even know it's moving. Soundproofing is also excellent, cancelling out the rolling thunder from a vicious storm one evening as we departed Savannah, TN.

American Cruise Lines builds its ships entirely within the United States at its own shipyard ( Chesapeake Shipbuilding ), and American Serenade is crewed with entirely American crewmembers, some of whom hail from the big-ship cruising world.

American Serenade Itineraries Sail the Tennessee, Ohio, Cumberland and Mississippi Rivers

American Serenade primarily sails American Cruise Lines' upper and lower Mississippi itineraries, along with its newest itinerary, "Tennessee Rivers", that traverses the Cumberland, Ohio and Tennessee rivers from Nashville to Chattanooga or reverse.

It is perfectly designed for these waterways, in particular the Tennessee River, thanks to its hydraulic bow that lifts up to reveal a retractable bow ramp. This allows the ship to tie up and put passengers ashore in ports without traditional docking facilities -- which is nearly every port of call on American Cruise Line's "Tennessee Rivers" voyage.

Ports on both itineraries range from big-name cities like Nashville and New Orleans to smaller towns like Paducah, Kentucky and Florence, Alabama that may be noteworthy in their own right, or be located within relative proximity to another major site of interest.

Itineraries aboard American Serenade typically include a complimentary pre-cruise hotel stay in the port of embarkation.

American Serenade Deck Plans Offer Plenty of Space to Spread Out

American Serenade's deck plans are structured around an abundance of space to kick back and relax and watch the rivers go by.

Most passengers will gravitate to the forward-facing River Lounge on Deck 3 forward. Functioning as the ship's main social space, the River Lounge plays host to informative and engaging lectures; fun diversions like Name that Tune; and evening Cocktail Hours that take place before dinner each night. Post-dinner, the lounge offers vocal entertainment by onboard or local performers -- our voyage included a fantastic tribute to Patsy Cline and even a full-blown Elvis impersonator who embarked in Paducah, Kentucky.

But for those looking for a bit more serenity, the Sky Lounge on Deck 4 aft is a quiet bar and lounge concept adorned with a large skylight that bathes the room in sunlight at all hours of the day. The Sky Lounge is situated next to the adjacent aft deck terrace, and offers easy access to the spacious Sun Deck on Deck 5.

In addition, American Serenade offers a series of small, quiet lounges tucked around on the aft side of the elevator banks on the port side of the ship. Located on Decks 2, 3, and 4, these lounges (named Lyric Lounge, The Study and High Note Lounge ) are great places to escape with a book, or perhaps play a game of chess or utilize one of the lounge's included boardgames.

American Serenade has two small Fitness Centers located on Deck 2 aft that seemed lonely and neglected on our voyage, though passengers did make use of the Jogging Track on Deck 4. There is no spa onboard, and American Serenade does not have either pools nor hot tubs -- so leave the bathing suit at home.

For those who like to be in the heart of the action, forward-facing observation decks are located on Deck 2 (the Bow Terrace ) and on Deck 3 in front of the River Lounge. Passengers can also admire the ship's wake from a series of open decks all the way aft on Decks 2, 3 and 4.

Bottom Line

Included with your cruise fare:.

· All onboard beverages, alcoholic and non-alcoholic

All gratuities

Pre-cruise hotel stay

All onboard lectures and entertainment

Most shore excursions

Not included with your cruise fare:

· Premium shore excursions

Gratuities for local guides and coach drivers

Fellow Passengers

Who is on board american serenade.

Passengers aboard American Serenade tend to be predominantly 70+ and exclusively American. The line's itineraries appeal to Americans who want to see more of their own country with ease, and thus, appeal to folks with mobility issues who may not be able to travel in comfort any other way. The ship has two elevators that traverse all decks but the uppermost Sun Deck, and one wheelchair-accessible motorcoach is available to passengers who require it for shore excursions.

Passengers tend to be well travelled within their own country and have led interesting and successful careers. American Serenade does not offer scheduled LGBTQ+ meetups and has a fairly homogenous passenger base.

Find a cruise

A delightful time in the Southern USA

many 10+ Cruises

River Cruise on the Snake and Columbia Rivers on the Route of Lewis and Clark

couple 2-5 Cruises

First American (USA) River Cruise almost right with room to improve

© 1995— 2024 , The Independent Traveler, Inc.

Who Owns American Cruise Lines

• 20 April 2023
• Vehicle , Yacht

American Cruise Lines is a privately owned company based in Guilford, Connecticut. The company was founded in 1991 and is currently owned by CEO Charles A. Robertson and his family. American Cruise Lines owns a fleet of small cruise ships that carry passengers along the eastern seaboard, the Mississippi River system, Alaska, Hawaii, Canada & New England as well as many other destinations throughout North America. It also has riverboats on several rivers including Columbia River Gorge and Snake River in Washington State; the Hudson River Valley between New York City and Albany; Maine’s Kennebec & Penobscot Rivers; Ohio’s Maumee & Sandusky Rivers; Illinois’ Fox & Des Plaines Rivers; Tennessee’s Cumberland & Harpeth Rivers plus many others within U.S borders offering vacationers scenic routes to explore history-rich towns with unique culture experiences..

American Cruise Lines is the largest and most experienced cruise line in the United States, owned by Larry Pimental. With over 35 years of experience in the cruising industry, American Cruise Lines has become a leader in providing quality small-ship cruising experiences for their guests. The company offers unique cruises that take passengers on journeys along rivers and coastlines throughout America’s most beautiful destinations. Onboard amenities include spacious staterooms, gourmet dining options, entertainment programs, complimentary Wi-Fi access and more. Whether you’re looking for an Alaskan adventure or a relaxing trip down the Mississippi River, American Cruise Lines will ensure you have an unforgettable experience!

Table of Contents

FDA warns American Cruise Lines ahead of spring travel | GMA

Charles B Robertson American Cruise Lines Email

Charles B. Robertson, American Cruise Lines’ CEO, can be reached by emailing [email protected]. He is an experienced business leader and has been with American Cruise Lines since 2010 when he took the position of President and Chief Operating Officer. Under his leadership, the company has grown to become one of the largest cruise lines in North America, offering a variety of Caribbean cruises as well as East Coast river cruises along the Hudson River and other waterways throughout New England and Canada.

Who Owns America Cruise Line?

America Cruise Line is owned by American Cruise Lines, Inc., a leading cruise and travel company that has been in business since 1991. The company is based in Guilford, Connecticut and operates more than two dozen small ships—including the America-class vessels—that offer cruises to ports across the United States as well as Canada and Alaska. American Cruise Lines also owns Victory Cruise Lines, which provides short trips along the Great Lakes region of North America. In addition to its vessels, American Cruise Lines owns several assets including three marinas on both coasts of the United States; The Dining Room at Mystic Seaport Museum; Waterways Experiences; Great Lakes Schooner Company; Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum Cruises; and several other riverboat companies operating out of various ports in Europe. The company employs approximately 750 people and has offices located throughout the continental United States.

Is American Cruise Lines a Public Company?

American Cruise Lines is a family-owned cruise line that has been operating for more than 35 years, offering an extensive selection of small ship cruises up and down the East Coast, Pacific Northwest, Mississippi River, Alaska and other destinations. As one of the most well-known riverboat and coastal cruising companies in America today, American Cruise Lines is not a publicly traded company but rather one that operates as a private business. It is owned by parent company Chesapeake Holdings LLC which also owns different branches of hotels and resorts around the United States. This allows them to offer customers personalized experiences on their ships with experienced crew members who are passionate about sailing. American Cruise Line’s commitment to customer service and quality standards makes it stand out from its competitors who are often public companies focused more on profits instead of delivering unique experiences for their guests.

Does Carnival Own American Cruise Lines?

Carnival Corporation is the world’s largest cruise company, owning over 100 ships across 10 different brands. While some of these brands are global and known around the world, such as Carnival Cruise Line and Princess Cruises, others cater to specific geographical regions or markets. One of those regional lines is American Cruise Lines (ACL). ACL operates a fleet of small cruise ships that sail along rivers and coastlines in the United States, offering itineraries for travelers looking for an intimate cruising experience. Although it does not use the Carnival name or branding on its vessels, ACL is owned by Carnival Corporation & plc – making it one of many subsidiaries under the Carnival umbrella.

Who is the Ceo of American Cruise Lines?

The CEO of American Cruise Lines is Charles A. Robertson, Jr., a veteran in the cruise industry and an experienced executive leader. He has been at the helm of American Cruise Lines for more than two decades and continues to be instrumental in driving company growth and innovation. With his guidance, American Cruise Lines has grown from its humble beginnings with five small ships to become one of North America’s leading providers of riverboat cruises. He believes that providing exceptional service and experiences are key factors in creating memorable vacations for guests—something he takes great pride in delivering time after time. Under Mr. Robertson’s leadership, American Cruise Lines now operates more than 30 luxury vessels throughout the United States on rivers such as the Columbia River Gorge, Alaska Inside Passage, Mississippi River System, Florida Intracoastal Waterway, Maine Coast & Islands and Chesapeake Bay among others.

Overall, American Cruise Lines is a great example of the power and potential of private ownership in America. Through their commitment to excellence and innovation, they have provided countless guests with memorable experiences on the waterways of the United States. With their extensive fleet of luxury vessels and award-winning service, it’s no wonder that American Cruise Lines has become one of the most popular cruise companies in North America. The company’s dedication to providing a unique experience for each guest makes them an ideal choice for anyone looking to explore some of America’s most beautiful destinations by sea.

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The 9 top river cruise lines for 2024.

Sail through Europe, Asia, the U.S. and more on one of these exquisite river cruise lines.

The Top River Cruise Lines

Courtesy of Viking River Cruises

Not one for the high seas? Explore the world along its rivers instead.

If you'd like to take a cruise but aren't interested in the hustle and bustle of a massive ocean liner, consider a river cruise. River cruises offer the chance to visit lesser-known ports around the world, thanks to the small size and maneuverability of the vessels. These sailings are known to provide exceptional, personalized service, as most welcome fewer than 200 guests at a time. On top of that, you'll spend the majority of your trip exploring a different port each day, as most destinations along the waterways are fairly close together.

Read on to discover the best river cruise lines around the world, with details about where they sail, the number of passengers you can expect onboard, a snapshot of amenities and experiences, and sentiment from recent travelers.

Viking River Cruises

Uniworld boutique river cruises, american cruise lines, amawaterways, avalon waterways, emerald cruises.

• Scenic Luxury Cruises and Tours

CroisiEurope Cruises

Number of passengers: 75 to 250 Sails to:  Europe, Asia, Africa, U.S.

Viking's 60-plus ships – known as longships – traverse major rivers across Europe, including the Danube , the Rhine, the Douro and more. Other popular routes sail Egypt's Nile River as well as the Mississippi River , and newer options include a series of Great Lakes itineraries.

What to expect: Travelers may be familiar with Viking Ocean Cruises , which operates larger ocean voyages with an emphasis on opulent accommodations and diverse enrichment activities. Viking's river cruises follow a similar road map, with meals, daily walking tours and Wi-Fi access (where applicable) included in the base fare. Other amenities and activities span guest lectures, cooking demonstrations, musical performances, libraries, outdoor decks and more. Select Viking riverboats are also equipped with swimming pools, while cabins feature minibars, premium toiletries, purified water and TVs.

On board, you can expect to find mostly English-speaking passengers. Viking's price point generally attracts older crowds in the 55-plus age group, and travelers must be at least 18 years old to cruise on the line.

What travelers say: Recent cruisers thoroughly enjoyed their experience with Viking, praising the scenic shore excursions, top-notch service and comfortable rooms. Some, however, expressed disappointment with the service as well as the food.

Book a Viking River Cruise on GoToSea, a service of U.S. News.

Courtesy of Uniworld Boutique River Cruises

Number of passengers: 32 to 159 Sails to:  Europe, Asia, Africa, South America

Uniworld offers luxurious sailings in historic cities across central Europe, France , Italy , Portugal , India, Egypt and Peru.

What to expect: Its 17 ships aim to create the feel of a boutique hotel with stylish decor, antique artwork and specialty restaurants. The ships hold an average capacity of 120 cruisers, and the company boasts one of the highest staff-to-guest ratios in the industry: about one crew member for every two travelers.

Stateroom amenities vary by vessel but may include marble bathrooms, Egyptian cotton linens, French balconies, iPod docking stations, Nespresso coffee machines, rainfall showers and more. The line's all-inclusive rates cover meals, alcoholic beverages, select excursions, gratuities, onboard fitness classes and Wi-Fi access, on top of entertainment and enrichment classes. Uniworld prides itself on its top-notch cuisine, which is made with local ingredients sourced from the ports on your itinerary and also includes vegetarian and vegan options.

Uniworld's typical clientele tend to be in their 50s or 60s and reside in North America, the U.K. and Australia . The river cruise line has select itineraries aimed at families, LGBTQ cruisers and solo travelers.

What travelers say: Recent cruisers offered abundant praise for Uniworld's voyages, complimenting the stylish accommodations, attentive staff and fascinating excursions. Though complaints were few and far between, a handful of past travelers felt the experience was not worth the high price point.

Compare Uniworld Boutique River Cruises on GoToSea.

Courtesy of American Cruise Lines

Number of passengers: 90 to 180 Sails to:  U.S.

As the name suggests, American Cruise Lines sails exclusively on the rivers and coastlines of the United States. Popular cruises visit destinations along the Mississippi River, on the Hudson River, throughout New England , and lining the Columbia and Snake rivers in the Pacific Northwest. The line also tours Alaska , the Southeast coast including Florida , and the Puget Sound between Washington state and the Canadian border.

What to expect: American Cruise Lines operates 19 relatively new small ships and river vessels (the average ship is about 5 years old), ranging from modern riverboats to small coastal ships to authentic paddlewheelers. Comfortable cabins can accommodate up to three people per room, and all ships offer single staterooms designed exclusively for solo travelers . Each room boasts picture windows, a spacious bathroom and – in some cases – a private balcony. In the ships' public spaces, cruisers can enjoy daily onboard entertainment like jazz and blues performances, as well as presentations by historians and area experts.

The line promises an all-American experience. As such, you can expect to find American staff aboard the American-built ships as well as food that pays homage to the destinations you will visit, from New Orleans -style andouille sausage gumbo to New England-inspired seafood boils. Complimentary cocktails and hors d'oeuvres are served every night prior to dinner; all meals, snacks, and wine and beer are included in the base fare. Shore excursions are not typically included in the rate.

Passengers on American Cruise Lines tend to lean North American and are typically mature retired travelers.

What travelers say: Recent cruisers enjoyed their experience, particularly on the line's themed cruises.

Read:  Cruise Packing List: Essentials for Your Next Cruise

Courtesy of AmaWaterways

Number of passengers: 28 to 196 Sails to:  Europe, Asia, Africa, South America  

Consider a river cruise with AmaWaterways, whether you're looking to sail through the heart of Europe or seeking a once-in-a-lifetime adventure touring destinations like Vietnam, Egypt, South Africa or (beginning in 2024) Colombia. A family-owned business founded in 2002, AmaWaterways operates 29 river cruise boats that welcome 150 passengers on average.

The cruise line aims to provide excursion-rich experiences and offers unique themed sailings for passengers with certain interests. Wine-themed voyages are perfect for oenophiles wishing to explore some of Europe's most popular wine regions, while a concierge golf program will transport passengers from one famous golf course to the next. Or, opt for a holiday river cruise to visit magical Christmas markets around Europe. In 2024, AmaWaterways will offer three new Black history-themed itineraries.

What to expect: On board, guests can expect cabins suitable for couples or single travelers, as well as a set amount of connectible rooms designed for multigenerational families. Staterooms are spacious, with perks like bathrobes, slippers and plush bedding. Cabins can feature up to two balconies with AmaWaterways' twin balcony design, which allows for a full, step-out balcony alongside a French balcony with sliding glass doors. In-room Wi-Fi is complimentary, and guests will have access to movies and music on demand.

Outside of their cabins, passengers can enjoy amenities spanning small pools, sun decks, fitness equipment, a hair salon, massage services and more.

AmaWaterways primarily attracts North American travelers in their 50s who enjoy taking part in active shore excursions that involve walking or cycling. Passengers from the U.K. and Australia sail on this river cruise line as well. You can expect to find a mix of couples, families and solo cruisers – including a growing number of millennial travelers – on your vessel, thanks to AmaWaterways' diverse cabin offerings. Adventures by Disney charters AmaWaterways ships for select sailings each year as well.

What travelers say: Recent travelers say AmaWaterways exceeded their expectations, with many noting it was especially enjoyable for families. Still, some were disappointed, particularly with the food.

Find AmaWaterways cruises on GoToSea.

Courtesy of Avalon Waterways

Number of passengers: 16 to 166 Sails to:  Europe, Asia, Africa, South America

Avalon Waterways sails 19 riverboats along popular thoroughfares like the Danube, the Rhone, the Seine, the Nile, the Rhine, the Moselle, the Mekong, the Ganges and more. In 2024, it will also sail the Douro River in Portugal.

What to expect: Launched in 2004, Avalon stands out for its spacious vessels – known as Suite Ships – which feature some of the largest rooms in the river cruise industry and beds that face wall-to-wall, floor-to-ceiling windows, providing panoramic views. Additional stateroom perks include complimentary breakfast in bed, L'Occitane toiletries, sitting areas, ample storage space and mattress toppers.

Across the ship, passengers can enjoy amenities like a sun deck with lounge chairs, whirlpools and a game area, in addition to numerous restaurants and bars and a 24-hour self-serve coffee station. You will also have your pick of Classic, Active or Discovery shore excursions – ranging from standard tours with a local guide to hiking outings along a hilltop castle – depending on your interests and physical abilities.

Avalon Waterways attracts English-speaking cruisers from a variety of countries, typically in their 50s and 60s. However, children ages 8 and older are welcome on board (though there are no designated kids clubs), and some voyages draw younger or older passengers.

What travelers say: Most recent reviews are positive, with travelers highlighting the friendly, knowledgeable staff and tasty food.

Explore Avalon Waterways cruise deals on GoToSea.

Courtesy of Tauck

Number of passengers: 84 to 130 Sails to:  Europe

Travel company Tauck wears multiple hats: It operates small-ship voyages around the world, land tours across seven continents, small group journeys for an average of 24 travelers at a time, family tours and – finally – European river cruises. Six new river itineraries in Europe are on the docket for 2024. Take your pick from nine river vessels to explore popular waterways like the Douro, the Moselle, the Rhine, the Danube and the Rhone.

What to expect: All-inclusive fares cover shore excursions, onboard activities and entertainment, gratuities, beverages and more. Plus, Tauck offers exclusive access to unforgettable experiences like wine tastings at private vineyards and gala dinners in historic castles.

More than 80% of the staterooms feature French balconies and floor-to-ceiling windows, allowing for excellent views. Other in-room amenities may include adjustable climate controls, satin linens, pillow-top mattresses, terry cloth robes and more. Outside of your cabin, you'll find perks such as a sun deck, a putting green, enrichment programs like cooking demonstrations, a fitness center and complimentary bikes for onshore exploring.

Tauck caters to affluent, English-speaking cruisers – primarily Americans in the 55-and-older age group – though you may also find families with adult children on board. The line appeals most to travelers who prefer all the details of their trip to be taken care of for them, versus those who like to plan activities independent of the cruise line.

What travelers say: Recent passengers generally speak highly of their Tauck river cruise experiences, pointing to the exceptional level of organization and spacious, luxurious accommodations. Others said they were underwhelmed for the price.

Getty Images

Number of passengers: 84 to 180 Sails to:  Europe, Asia

Previously known as Emerald Waterways, Emerald Cruises transports travelers across some of the most popular rivers in Europe and Asia, including the Danube, the Rhine, the Douro and the Mekong.

What to expect: The cruise fare covers all meals, beverages with lunch and dinner, daily shore excursions − which include more physically rigorous options called EmeraldACTIVE – Wi-Fi access and gratuities.

Emerald operates nine river vessels, all of which boast luxurious public spaces and accommodations with en suite bathrooms and flat-screen TVs. Common-area amenities span heated indoor pools, sun decks, spa and wellness facilities, and a variety of eateries. Onboard fitness classes are available, as are other forms of entertainment. On shore, cruisers can borrow bicycles to explore historic city centers.

Typical clientele aboard Emerald Cruises' voyages includes American and British passengers around retirement age, though some younger travelers may make an appearance as well. Children 12 and older are permitted on board and on tours, but there are no kids clubs or designated activities for younger cruisers. Special rooms and dinner reservations are available for solo travelers.

What travelers say: Cruisers on recent sailings – especially first-time sailors – enjoyed their experiences on Emerald Cruises. High points included the attentive crew members and the stress-free booking and planning process. However, some felt that customer service and communication were subpar.

Gillies Zaiser | Courtesy of Scenic Luxury Cruises and Tours

Number of passengers: 68 to 163 Sails to: Europe, Asia

From the Danube to the Mekong, Australian travel company Scenic Luxury Cruises and Tours offers lavish, all-inclusive river sailings with an emphasis on customization. The more upscale sister brand of Emerald Cruises, Scenic affords travelers the opportunity to do as much or as little as they want while on board and ashore.

What to expect: Enrichment activities are hand-picked by the line's "Journey Designers," and vessels provide a top-notch level of service thanks to their high crew-to-passenger ratios. In fact, each passenger receives a designated butler who can complete nightly turndowns and make laundry arrangements, among other tasks.

Spacious suites on board are larger than those on most other riverboats (ranging from 160 to 510 square feet). High-tech balcony controls allow lodgers to let in as much air as they'd like with the touch of a button. Cruisers will also enjoy special in-room touches like pillow menus, slippers and robes.

When it comes to dining, Scenic sources local ingredients and culinary inspiration from the ports visited on the itinerary to provide an authentic experience. All meals are included in the base cruise fare, along with beverages, gratuities, Wi-Fi access, shore excursions and electric bicycle usage in select destinations.

What travelers say: Recent cruisers were pleased with their experiences aboard Scenic's vessels, praising the spacious cabins, pampering butler service, and knowledgeable crew members and tour guides. However, some travelers were particularly disappointed with the food.

Helwin Goetzinger | Courtesy of CroisiEurope

Number of passengers: 22 to 200 Sails to:  Europe, Asia, Africa

CroisiEurope is a family-run French cruise line that has been in business since 1976. This line has more than 50 ships and barges that sail to countries around the world, including Egypt, Cambodia and Spain . Unusual in river cruising, the line operates two custom-built ships that sail on Lake Kariba in southern Africa. Additionally, CroisiEurope has a division that sells barge cruises throughout France on six different canals, such as Burgundy or Provence.

What to expect: CroisiEurope is known for its wide range of destinations and is one of the only river cruise lines that operates custom-built ships on Germany 's Elbe river, the Guadalquivir and Guadiana rivers in Spain and Portugal, and Venice 's canals. Onboard accommodations are relatively basic, which keeps the cruise fare to a budget-friendly minimum. The cruise line aims to provide the best value for money in the cruise industry. Cuisine is focused on French food with some local flair in the main dining room, which is included in the cruise fare.

The passenger mix on a CroisiEurope cruise is relatively international, featuring large contingencies from France, Germany, the U.K. and North America. Announcements are typically given in both French and English. The cruise line sees a mix of older couples and groups as well as younger families, depending on the itinerary and time of year.

What travelers say: Several cruisers echoed that some of CroisiEurope's river ships are due for a refurbishment and that internet connectivity leaves a lot to be desired, while others maintain that the experience was superb.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Size: River cruise ships are smaller in size and the number of passengers they can accommodate, with one lounge and one main dining room being a typical setup.
• Atmosphere: The overall vibe on a river cruise is more relaxed and far less busy than that of an ocean liner.
• Onboard entertainment: River cruising is notoriously sleepy at night, with a focus instead on local enrichment like cooking demonstrations or liqueur tastings. Due to the busy schedule of port calls and excursions, most passengers are tired after a long day of sightseeing and don't mind a lack of nightlife.
• Excursions: Most of your time on a river cruise is spent out exploring the destinations, which can sometimes be two stops in a single day. Passengers can choose from a variety of activities in port – including biking, kayaking and hiking – or explore the destination at a leisurely pace.
• Cuisine: Cuisine tends to be focused on local specialties but is prepared to accommodate predominantly American tastes. Not every river cruise line offers unlimited drinks, but the majority include beer and wine at lunch and dinner, often showcasing regional varieties.
• Price: River cruising typically comes at a much higher price point than ocean-based itineraries.
• American Queen

Note that inclusions can vary by cruise line. For example, Viking rates – while not fully all-inclusive – cover beer and wine at meals and one tour per day, while gratuities and other drink packages are left to the discretion of the guest.

Avalon Waterways, on the other hand, offers a number of included tours in every port on select itineraries that range from cultural or culinary-focused to active.

In terms of inclusions and service ratios (the number of crew on board to guests), the following river cruise lines are considered the most luxurious:

You might also be interested in:

• The Top Cruises on Small Ships
• The Top Adults-Only Cruises
• The Best Cruise Insurance Plans
• The Best Annual Travel Insurance Plans
• The Best Travel Insurance for Seniors and Retirees

Vacation Ideas for Every Traveler

Tags: Travel , Cruises

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What's the hype behind Uniworld River Cruises? A 2024 review

Booking a cruise is similar to an investment in your travel experiences. It might be worth it, and it might not. Wondering if Uniworld River Cruises are one of the worthy cruises to book for your travels? Keep reading to find everything to know for you to make your decision.

Going on a cruise of some kind is probably on most people's bucket lists. For a good reason too! Who doesn't want to be traveling while sipping margaritas aboard a large floating luxury ship? With cruises taking it further enhancing entertainment onboard, you can now watch movies, go on waterslides, or even gamble in casinos aboard some cruises.

Of course, it's no surprise that cruise lines are some of the most expensive travel experiences out there.

How do you know which cruises are worth the money? It can be hard deciding on which cruise to book with. After all, you're spending a considerable amount of money on a travel experience that you're not sure will deliver.

If you're more into yachts, make sure you check out our review of  The Yacht Week ! 

Today, we'll be reviewing Uniworld River Cruises, one of the more popular river cruises operating mainly in Europe but having cruises worldwide. Uniworld River Cruises have truly made a name for themselves in the world of luxurious voyages. They're voted the world's best river cruise line in  Travel + Leisure's global awards .

But, do they live up to the expectations owing to the hype around this prestigious company? Let's find out.

What are the Uniworld River Cruises?

Since 1976,  Uniworld River Cruises  have held a superior position in the world of luxury cruise lines. They describe their tours as a luxurious experience. Their one-of-a-kind River Boutique Cruises are an intimate experience and incomparable grandeur.

With Uniworld River Cruises, you don't just live the 5-star lifestyle for the cruise period but also an adventure of its own while traversing through the cities. Plus, you get to dive into the culture of your destinations before you set foot on them even, with the carefully crafted ship designs mirroring the artistic traditions.

From 8-days to even month-long cruises, they have a package designed to meet each individual's vacation duration needs.  

Visit their website and click on 'Request a Quote' to book your next cruise with them. Once you've filled in the necessary details, their customer service will contact you soon. You'll get the required information, upcoming trips for your desired locations, and special offers. Look through the packages, and you'll find that some of them have Uniworld's newest feature – railway trips alongside the cruise!

Who Owns Uniworld?

Uniworld River Cruises is as American as possible. Acquired by The Travel Corporation (TTC), a company owning 40 award-winning international travel-related companies, its acclaimed position doesn't come off as a surprise. A prized possession of the power couple – Stanley Tollman and Beatrice Tollman, TTC has been handed down over four generations of this family and continues to live up to its reputation. 

With 100 years of TTC and 46 of Uniworld, the cruise line operates worldwide throughout the year.

Where Do Uniworld River Cruises Go?

With Uniworld, there's an endless list of possibilities for your next dream vacation! Think of Europe, South America, Asia, and a small part of Africa, too. Those are the continents you can sail through luxuriously on these cruises. 

Let your tastebuds experience an out-of-world deliciousness of authentic Italian cuisine, or lose yourself in the rich history of the sacred Ganges in India. With 20+ countries on the list, a tour on this cruise might be everything you could've wanted for a perfect holiday escape! 

What Do Uniworld Cruises Include?

Onboard or onshore, Uniworld vows to take care of each and every need of their travelers. If you feel like you're breaking the bank with an  oh-so-oh-so-average  cruise, you'll be having the tour of a lifetime on this cruise. 

Beginning with the necessity- food, they offer fine dining, nothing less than five-star restaurants. 

With a range of foods on the menu thrice a day, you're free to choose whatever suits your tastebuds. The exclusive alcohol variety is a must-have, in addition to your meals! Note that alcohol-serving policies differ from region to region, for instance, in Egypt. No need to fret about "what could you possibly do for an entire month on a cruise?" because the onboard activities and cultural enrichments will keep you busy. 

The gym and fitness classes keep active travelers in shape. Let's not forget something as essential to us as oxygen nowadays, Wi-Fi! The signals will be available no matter which corner of the ship you walk towards.  

That's the onboard amenities; what about onshore, then? Travelers get a tour guide included in the package who knows every nook and cranny of the destinations. They'll definitely help you explore the spot to its fullest. While keeping the energy high, the tours also come with the option of an onshore bicycle trip.

Has Uniworld Cancelled Any River Cruises?

Due to the prevalent pandemic and worldwide lockdown policies, the cruise line had to suspend their tours indefinitely in 2021. They canceled the pre-scheduled tours starting from March 2020 to June 2021.

When will Uniworld River Cruises Resume?

The company had already resumed its tours in June 2021 when countries started to reopen their borders for international traveling. Uniworld River Cruises adopted a wait-and-see tactic once the operations had resumed, too, in case of another episode of rising in COVID cases and lockdowns. 

For now, rest assured that Uniworld is currently operating to its full potential. With more and more countries going back to the way things were, the cruise line is ready to embark on multiple journeys in 2022. 

How Much Do Uniworld River Cruises Cost?

You may find several estimated quotes on the internet for Uniworld river cruises. Still, it's best to get an exact quote from the team. 

There's no set price for these cruises, and it depends on the time of the year, destination, number of days, add-on amenities, and the ship, to name a few factors. You'll find packages as low as $1799 and as high as up to $20,000! 

To save a few bucks, you can visit their ' current offers'  section and browse through the sales on upcoming trips. 

Are Uniworld River Cruises worth it?

A cruise line that's luxurious as ever, and reviews that speak the same about it. Uniworld has an established name in the industry. It never tires of the high praises it attains from its travelers. 

Safe to say, only a handful of people rated it anything below a 4-star service, and those, too, mainly because of the canceled trips during peak COVID season. Besides that, occasional reviews added upon the unfriendly behavior of the staff. Overall, we found the reviews of their services to be friendly, professional, and above most people's expectations!

Our Rating: 4.7/5

• 20+ Countries with Multiple Destinations
• All-Inclusive Luxurious Amenities
• Pre-Scheduled Bookings
• Special Offers
• Immersive Cultural Insight
• High Crew-to-Passenger Ratio
• Unpredicted Cancelled Trips
• Occasional Occurrence of Unfriendly Staff

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7 best US river cruises

W hether you're fascinated by American history, culture and cuisine, or you've enjoyed river cruising in Europe but are now looking to explore closer to home, U.S. river cruises are an easy and enjoyable vacation option.

Choose from two main waterways for your U.S. river cruise: the Mississippi River — which flows through nine states from St. Paul, Minnesota, to New Orleans — or the Columbia and Snake rivers in Oregon and Washington. Some cruise lines also venture onto three smaller, lesser-known rivers: the Ohio, the Cumberland and the Tennessee. You can also explore New York's Hudson River on a fall foliage cruise.

For cruise news, reviews and tips, sign up for TPG's cruise newsletter .

Your choice of cruise line is equally limited. Just two companies offer multiple itineraries on U.S. rivers. American Cruise Line sails all the waterways mentioned above, while Viking offers itineraries solely on the Mississippi. Additionally, Lindblad Expeditions has introduced a food-and-wine-centric river cruise on the Columbia and Snake rivers.

Read on for our picks of the seven best U.S. river cruises. They range from seven to 15 nights and visit destinations in 16 states; itineraries take you through the colonial-heritage-rich Northeast, America's agricultural heartland and the pioneer routes of the Pacific Northwest.

American Cruise Lines' 8-night Music Cities Cruise

From Memphis blues and Elvis Presley's "Blue Suede Shoes" to Kentucky bluegrass and New Orleans jazz, American Cruise Lines' eight-night Music Cities Cruise sails you through a chronology of the U.S. music scene. You'll traverse three rivers (the Mississippi, Ohio and Cumberland) en route from Memphis to Nashville, or vice versa.

In Tennessee's two famous music cities, you'll have a chance to visit Elvis Presley's Graceland, stroll blues club-lined Beale Street and check out the Grand Ole Opry. You'll also visit Paducah, Kentucky, and Dover and Clarksville in Tennessee, where experiences include whiskey and bourbon tasting, tours of landmark art murals and, of course, Civil War history.

While cruising, you'll enjoy nightly entertainment that celebrates the region's musical heritage. American Cruise Lines offers this itinerary on four ships from April to October 2024, 2025 and 2026. Three of the ships — American Melody, American Symphony and American Serenade — are 180-passenger modern river ships launched in 2021, 2022 and 2023, respectively. The fourth, American Splendor, is a 180-passenger paddlewheeler that debuted in 2016.

Related: Booking your first river cruise? Here's what you need to know

Viking's 14-night America's Great River Cruise

Want the total Mississippi experience? You can cruise the entire length of this mighty river as you visit 14 cities in seven U.S. states on Viking's two-week sailing.

Available three times a year (in July, September and October), the America's Great River cruise begins in Minnesota (either St. Paul or Red Wing) and concludes in New Orleans, allowing you to experience an intricate tapestry of American history and culture.

There's eagle spotting in Red Wing and agricultural innovation in Quad Cities, Iowa. You'll enjoy Mark Twain lore in Hannibal, Missouri, and architectural landmarks, such as the soaring Gateway Arch, in St. Louis. As you cruise the lower Mississippi, you'll delve into civil rights history in Memphis; Civil War battles and historic architecture in Mississippi's Vicksburg and Natchez; Cajun and Creole music in Baton Rouge; and the legendary culinary treats and jazz of New Orleans.

All sailings are aboard the 386-passenger Viking Mississippi. Launched in 2022, it's currently the largest river ship in the U.S. and features three restaurants and an aft infinity pool.

American Cruise Lines' 8-Night Columbia & Snake River Cruise

If your vacation preferences favor mountain landscapes, wine tasting and pioneer lore, consider American Cruise Lines' eight-night Columbia & Snake River Cruise . You'll explore the Pacific Northwest from Portland, Oregon, to Clarkstown, Washington (or vice versa).

On the Pacific end of your voyage, you'll visit Astoria, Oregon — the oldest American settlement west of the Rocky Mountains. This coastal city at the mouth of the Columbia River is known for its Victorian homes, wineries, brew pubs, and Lewis and Clark heritage. Next, from Kalama, Washington, you can join an excursion to visit the remnants of the area around Mount St. Helens, which suffered a devastating eruption in 1980.

In The Dalles, you can enjoy a sommelier-led tasting of Columbia Valley wines, visit Multnomah Falls or get adventurous on a river kayak tour. During a call on Richland, Washington, you can admire the scenic beauty around the confluence of the Columbia and Snake rivers at Sacajawea State Park. More wine tasting or outdoor adventure awaits on the way to Clarkstown.

American Cruise Line offers this itinerary on five ships from April to October 2024, 2025 and 2026. Three of the ships (American Song, American Jazz and American Harmony) are 180-passenger modern river ships launched from 2018 to 2020. American Pride is a 150-passenger paddlewheeler launched in 2012, and American West is a 110-passenger veteran paddlewheeler launched in 1995.

Related: Best river cruise lines around the world

Viking's 7-night New Orleans & Southern Charms

If you've never visited New Orleans, or it's been a while, take a Mississippi River cruise that sails round-trip from the Big Easy. They offer time before or after the cruise to enjoy the city's food, music and iconic architecture — plus the ease of a round-trip flight booking. Viking's seven-night New Orleans & Southern Charms itinerary focuses solely on ports in Louisiana and Mississippi, with an emphasis on historic architecture, Cajun culture and Civil War landmarks.

From Darrow, Louisiana, you'll stroll beneath canopies of towering live oak trees to visit historic mansions or glide through the bayou. More historic architecture, along with bird-watching, awaits in St. Francisville, Louisiana, and Natchez, Mississippi. Vicksburg, Mississippi, is home to one of the Civil War's most famous battlefields. Baton Rouge, Louisiana's capital, has something to satisfy every interest, from Cajun cuisine to tours of the restored World War II-era USS Kidd.

The cruise, which is available in November and December 2024 and January, November and December 2025, ends with a full day of exploration back in New Orleans before one last night aboard the 386-passenger Viking Mississippi.

American Cruise Lines' 7-night Hudson River Fall Foliage Cruise

Not only is the autumnal landscape in New York's Hudson Valley visually captivating, but the small cities and towns that line the river's shores are filled with fascinating early American history dating back more than 400 years.

Cruise the Hudson round-trip from New York City on American Cruise Lines' seven-night Hudson River Fall Foliage Cruise . You'll visit Catskill, home to the Hudson River School Art Trail and the Olana Historic Site, or explore more actively at the Hudson River Skywalk and Kaaterskill Falls. In Albany, founded in 1609, you can tour the newly renovated New York State Capitol building, built in the late 1800s; you can also visit the New York State Museum, which dates to 1836. Feel like apple-picking? That's an option here, too.

Next, during a call at Kingston/Hyde Park, you can tour the Franklin D. Roosevelt National Historic Site, home to the 32nd U.S. president's library and museum. You can also head to the Vanderbilt Mansion National Historic Site, featuring an American Beaux-Arts mansion completed in 1899. The United States Military Academy at West Point, founded in 1802, is also on the itinerary, as is Sleepy Hollow. The Sleepy Hollow legend comes to life during a tour of the local cemetery where author Washington Irving is buried. Back in the Big Apple on day seven, you'll have time to explore before saying farewell to your ship.

Sailings are available from late September to early November 2024, 2025 and 2026. Sailings are onboard either the 100-passenger American Eagle, American Liberty, American Glory or American Legend (all built in 2023 or 2024), or the older 90-passenger American Star and American Independence, launched in 2007 and 2010, respectively.

Related: River cruise packing list: What to pack when traveling by riverboat

Lindblad Expeditions' 7-night Columbia & Snake Rivers: Food, Wine and History Cruise

Nature-focused cruise line Lindblad Expeditions has partnered with Food & Wine magazine to offer a new seven-night Columbia & Snake Rivers: Food, Wine and History cruise on multiple dates in April, September and October 2024; there are also sailings in March, April, September and October 2025. The voyages will sail between Portland, Oregon, and Clarkston, Washington.

Complementing the itinerary will be gourmet Pacific Northwest cuisine and more than 40 regional wines curated by an onboard culinary team. All ingredients will be sourced from within 250 miles of the ship's route. A naturalist, historian and geologist will be on hand to guide you on excursions by foot, kayak, Zodiac and jet boat.

Off-ship experiences include sampling local beer and oysters in Astoria, Oregon; visiting Multnomah Falls or hiking Beacon Rock; and having a private vineyard visit and downtown wine walk in Walla Walla, Washington.

These sailings occur on two identical Lindblad ships: the 62-passenger National Geographic Sea Lion and National Geographic Sea Bird.

American Cruise Line's 15-night Grand Ohio River Cruise

Did you know that you can cruise from Pittsburgh to St. Louis? If exploring the central U.S. — Pennsylvania, Ohio, West Virginia, Kentucky, Indiana, Illinois and Missouri — without driving is appealing, consider the 15-night Grand Ohio River Cruise offered by American Cruise Lines. You'll enjoy regionally inspired dining and eclectic landmarks along the Ohio and Mississippi rivers as you sail.

Over two weeks, you'll visit Native American burial grounds and archeological sites in West Virginia and learn about the underground railroad in Ohio. You can taste bourbon and explore the Louisville Slugger Museum & Factory or the Kentucky Derby Museum & Horse Park in Louisville. Take time to appreciate American artistry at the National Quilt Museum in Paducah, Kentucky. Rest up from your portside adventures during five days of scenic river cruising.

This itinerary is available from June to August 2024, 2025 and 2026 on the 180-passenger modern river ship American Melody and the 150-passenger paddlewheeler American Heritage.

Planning a cruise? Start with these stories:

• The 5 most desirable cabin locations on any cruise ship
• A beginners guide to picking a cruise line
• The 8 worst cabin locations on any cruise ship
• The ultimate guide to what to pack for a cruise
• A quick guide to the most popular cruise lines
• 21 tips and tricks that will make your cruise go smoothly
• Top ways cruisers waste money
• The ultimate guide to choosing a cruise ship cabin

Editorial disclaimer: Opinions expressed here are the author’s alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, airline or hotel chain, and have not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of these entities.

Who Owns American Cruise Lines

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In mid-December 2021 were announced details on AQV’s 2024 program, marking it the company’s ever furthest season open for booking.

“American Queen Voyages River” 2024 season is on the Lower Mississippi and based on the boats Duchess, Countess and Queen. The three boats also sail on the rivers Ohio and Cumberland.

“American Queen Voyages Lakes and Ocean” itineraries are along the USA-Canada coasts, America’s Great Lakes, Yucatan Mexico. Signature cruisetours visit Niagara Falls, Chicago, , Bar Harbor, Newport.

“American Queen Voyages Expedition” 2024 Alaskan season is based on two newbuilds – Ocean Victory and Ocean Discoverer .

Which Company Owns Your Favorite Cruise Line

Head to the grocery store and you might be surprised that a number of your favorite brands are actually owned by much larger companies.

For instance, Ben & Jerrys ice cream is actually owned by Unilever. Tide laundry detergent is owned by Procter & Gamble. Kool-Aid is owned by Kraft.

Its the same thing for automobiles. Acura is part of Honda. Lexus is part of Toyota. And Audi is part of Volkswagen.

Believe it or not, its a similar model in the cruise business. Three major companies: Carnival Corporation, Royal Caribbean Cruises LTD., and Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings LTD., own the majority of lines out there.

Below, weve put together an infographic that shows exactly which cruise lines are owned by which companies. Check it out:

Who Owns Princess Cruise Lines

It was previously a subsidiary of P& O Princess Cruises, and is currently under Holland America Group within Carnival Corporation & plc, which holds executive control over the Princess Cruises brand. The line has 18 ships cruising global itineraries that are marketed to both American and international passengers.

Also Check: Do Walkie Talkies Work On Cruises

American Cruise Lines Ceo Talks American Melody Return To Cruising

When American Cruise Lines became the first to resume operation in the U.S.A this past March 13th, it marked an important milestone for not just the cruise line, but the industry itself. Now, a few months later, more ships are starting up all over the country and many bear the American Cruise Lines name.

Porthole Cruise and Travel Magazine founder and Editor-in-Chief Bill Panoff spoke with American Cruise Lines President and CEO Charles B. Robertson about their resumption of service, the brand new ship in their fleet and why an American river cruise is a preferable vacation option right now.

Passenger Shipping Pause 2020

Due to the Coronavirus crisis , AQSC suspended its entire fleet’s passenger shipping operations canceling all voyages with pre-scheduled departures in the period March 14, 2020, through May 2021. Fleet operations resumed on the following dates in 2021 .

• American Duchess
• American Empress
• American Countess
• American Queen
• Victory I and Victory II
• Note: Under CERTS , in August 2021 the company received USD 64 million grant from the USA’s government. The CERTS provides grants to eligible passenger transportation companies that have experienced 25% or more annual revenue losses due to the COVID crisis.

Previously, passenger shipping operations were planned to resume on August 2 , August 8 and August 16 . All affected bookings received a full refund or 125% refund as FCC with rebooking. Any booking may move to another departure date in 2020 and their current cancellation penalty applies to the new departure date. The new booking must be of equal or greater value and the customer is responsible for any increase in fare. AQSC covers flight change fees for all immediately rebooking customers.

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American Cruise Lines Ceo Details Continued Expansion Plans

The CEO and President of American Cruise Lines, Charles B. Robertson, has announced the companys continued expansion plans with new boats, itineraries, and health protocols.

While the operators ships remain inactive due to the recent CDC No Sail order extension, American has not had an idle year, Robertson said in a Monday press conference.

The two new riverboats announced are the American Jazz and the American Melody, which will both sail on the Mississippi River.

This will give us 14 ships operating in more than 30 states from coast to coast, the CEO said.

Robertson also promised three new itineraries for 2021: the Cape Codder, the Music Cities cruise, and the Alaskan Explorers cruise.

The Cape Codder will be visiting a variety of small New England ports, including an exclusive partnership with the Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution. The Music Cities cruise draws on American musical influences as it cruises from Nashville to Memphis. While the 11-day Alaskan Explorers cruise will visit more Alaskan ports than weve ever been to before including spending two days in Glacier Bay, Robertson said.

Fifty new shore experiences have also been announced by American.

While the company has come up with many exciting plans for the future, they do not lose sight of the present, Robertson said.

He explained that since spring 2020, the cruise operator adopted the slogan of ready to operate, prepared to wait.

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Cruise Lines Owned By Carnival Corporation & Plc

Many people know that Carnival Corporation is big, but dont realize quite how large they are. Carnival Corp. of course owns the famous Carnival Cruise Line, but they also own luxury brands like Princess and Holland America.

Want even more luxurious offerings? Carnival Corp. is the owner of Cunard and the ultra-luxury line Seabourn. It also owns lines that arent heavily promoted in the United States, including Costa, P& O Cruises, and AIDA.

Where Is My Cruise Line Based

Although most cruise passengers hail from the United States, it’s common for cruise lines to register their ships in foreign countries — often referred to as “flags of convenience” — while headquartering themselves in America.

Below, we tell you where several of the most popular cruise lines’ ships are flagged and where you can find their headquarters.

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Does Carnival Own Disney Cruise Lines

Speaking of independents, that only leaves those lines that may be owned by a larger corporation but are not affiliated with any other cruise brands. These include Disney Cruise Line, MSC Cruises, Silversea Cruises, Star Clippers, Viking Cruises and Windstar Cruises, which was formerly owned by Carnival Corp.

Itinerary Of American Queen Voyages

NOTE : Since 2021, the brand “American Queen Voyages”/AQV combines the old travel brands “American Queen Steamboat Company” and “Victory Cruise Lines” . Both companies are owned by Hornblower Group Inc via its subsidiary Hornblower Cruises and Events .

Memphis TN is an important homeport for AQV. American Queen docks there regularly – at the city attraction Beale Street Landing. In April 2014, a second riverboat joined the fleet after a major refurbishment. The second ship formerly sailed under the name “Empress of the North” – another famous USA steamboat ship.

AQSC/AQV owns and operates only three paddle-wheeler riverboats sailing on some of the biggest rivers in the USA:

• American Empress on Snake and Columbia
• American Queen on Mississippi, Ohio and Tennessee.
• American Countess on Mississippi River

Into the subsidiary Victory Cruise Line merged the new brands “American Queen Voyages EXPEDITION” and “American Queen Voyages LAKES & OCEAN”). The fleet currently includes two pairs of sisterships – Ocean Voyager and Ocean-Navigator , as well as the chartered from SunStone Ships Inc newbuilds Ocean Victory and Ocean Discoverer .

The following AQV cruise itinerary map shows the company’s destinations and all itineraries as rivers and ports of call. The company’s main departure ports are with capital letters and bolded. These are Minneapolis-St Paul , Chicago , St Louis , Nashville , Memphis and New Orleans .

Also Check: What Cruise Lines Sail Out Of Port Canaveral

Aqv Cruise Itineraries 2023

Due to “unprecedented demand” for 2022 voyages, in mid-February 2021 AQSC and Victory Cruise Lines announced the brands’ 2023 ship deployment and itineraries. The season’s highlight is the introduction of the chartered ship Ocean Discoverer .

American Queen has scheduled for 2023 a total of 28 departures on itineraries between Memphis and New Orleans. American Duchess has scheduled for 2023 a total of 6 itineraries between Louisville KY and Pittsburgh PA .

American Countess operates on Mississippi River and on Ohio-Cumberland-Tennessee rivers. American Empress operates 9-day itineraries between Portland OR and Spokane WA .

Ocean Discoverer’s Maiden Voyage is planned as a repositioning cruise from Puerto Caldera to San Diego CA . The inaugural 2023 season is based on 11-12-day Alaskan itineraries Sitka AK – Vancouver BC and Sitka- Seattle . Ocean Victory’s Alaska 2023 program also offers seasonal relocation cruises between Puntarenas and San Diego.

The sisterships Ocean Voyager/ex Victory 1 and Ocean Navigator/ex Victory 2 have scheduled for 2023 itineraries leaving from homeports Chicago, Toronto, Detroit, Montreal. The itinerary’s call ports include Marquette, Mackinaw Island, Sault-Ste Marie , Savannah, Charleston, Fernandina Beach FL. Ocean Navigator also operates in the Western Caribbean with roundtrips out of Cozumel .

American Cruise Lines Destinations & Itineraries

In addition to cruises on the Mississippi, American Cruise Lines also operates voyages on the Columbia and Snake Rivers, shown here. Photo courtesy of American Cruise Lines.

American Cruise Lines currently offers river cruise itineraries on the Mississippi River , and the Columbia and Snake Rivers that wind through the Columbia River Valley in Oregon and Washington State.

Though its a hybrid ocean-river voyage, the line does offer a limited number of fall cruises along New Yorks Hudson River , departing roundtrip from New York aboard one of American Cruise Lines coastal vessels.

Read Also: Alaska Cruise Best Time To Go

No Vaccine Mandate On Board

Other than some select cruises in Alaska, American Cruise Lines doesnt currently have a fleet-wide vaccine mandate on board their ships. Robertson was asked what the embarkation process was like for unvaccinated guests.

We very, very strongly encourage the vaccine. Lets be clear about that first. Weve been running between 95 and 100% vaccinated by default but in those cases where a guest is unvaccinated, they have to take a PCR test before they travel and send us the negative results and theyre included with all the other guests who have to take at the gangway before they board the ship. So theyre still double testing if theyre unvaccinated, said Robertson.

Who Owns My Cruise Line A Guide To Cruise Line Parent Companies

If you’re confused about which companies own which cruise lines, you’re not alone. There are so many brands these days, it can be difficult to keep track of which ones are part of the same family. You might even be surprised to discover that budget-friendly lines and super-pricey luxury lines share the same parent companies.

When it comes to ownership, most cruise lines — with the notable exceptions of MSC Cruises, which is privately owned by the family of Italian billionaire Gianluigi Aponte Viking Cruises, which is privately held and overseen by founder Torstein Hagen and Windstar Cruises, owned by Xanterra Parks and Resorts, a division of the Anschutz Company — are publicly traded, which means they are owned by their parent companies’ shareholders. Below, we break down which cruise line parent companies own which cruise line brands, as well as where those parent companies are domiciled. We also list the stock symbols and presidents or CEOs for each.

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Cruise Lines Owned By Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings Ltd

Of the Big Three cruise companies, the smallest is Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings LTD. Even so, it still owns several lines under its umbrella.

First is the namesake Norwegian Cruise Line, which has soared in popularity as it has continually launched new and bigger ships like the Norwegian Encore .

Also within the parent company are two luxury lines known for their smaller ship experience: Regent Seven Seas Cruises and Oceania Cruises.

Yes, just how Toyota has its namesake Toyota brand and then the luxury Lexus brand, Norwegian offers both mass-market and luxury offerings in its lines.

Newest Riverboat In Usa Launched By American Cruise Lines

Sundeck on American Cruise Lines’ American Melody

American Cruise Lines

American Cruise Lines newest riverboat, American Melody , has begun sailing 22-day cruises on the Mississippi River.

Americans domestic itineraries will appeal to cruise lovers who may be skittish about booking a European river cruise amidst the uncertainty of the pandemic. Passengers dont have to worry about booking international flights or face the daunting prospect of changing EU travel restrictions and quarantine requirements.

This is the first time a U.S. cruise line is offering such a long itinerary, too most itineraries on U.S. waters are 7-8 days long.

Also Check: Best Time Of Year To Go On An Alaskan Cruise

Aqv Cruise Itineraries 2022

New offers include the following itineraries: 12-13-day “Scenic Gorges in Autumn” and 9-day “Roundtrip Cincinnati” .

Starting February 2022, AQV’s “Special Edition Voyages” include the themed itineraries “Exploring Haunted History”, “Quilting the Fabric of America” and “Celebrate the 70s”.

Starting April 2022, AQV offers 3 new itineraries – 17-days Savannah to Halifax , 11-days “Montreal to Detroit” and 16-days “Boston to Nassau” .

Masks Will Be Required Onboard In Public Spaces

Shore excursion sizes have been reduced, and coaches will be operated at reduced capacity to ensure distancing. Cabins on board have been kept aside for isolation if need be. Each cabin has its own HVAC system, and there is no shared air. The second departure for the line will be on its 2021 newbuild American Jazz, sailing on the Lower Mississippi River from New Orleans to Memphis. That trip departs Sunday. American Cruise Lines is also one of the few small ship lines that will be able to sail in Alaska this summer, given that they don’t need to stop in Canada to satisfy the Passenger Vessel Services Act. That season begins in early June.

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$427 Million For American Cruise Lines From Us Government

Under the Coronavirus Economic Relief for Transportation Services Act , American Cruise Lines has received a $42.7 million grant from the U.S. government.

Last week it was revealed in an SEC filing that

The CERTS Act provides grants to eligible motorcoach companies, school bus companies, passenger vessel companies, and pilotage companies that have experienced annual revenue losses of 25 percent or more as result of COVID-19.

Other cruise-related parties getting grants include Hornblower Group, which owns American Queen Steamboat Company, Victory Cruise Lines and a host of other marine transportation companies. Hornblower received $64 million.

Allen Marine, which has significant shore excursion infrastructure in Alaska that the big-ship lines use, and also owns Alaskan Dream Cruises, received $5.7 million.

Innerseas Discoveries Alaska, Inc., essentially the parent company to UnCruise, received $8.7 million.

The grants must be primarily used for payroll costs, though grants may be used for operating expenses and the repayment of debt accrued to maintain payroll.

American Cruise Lines Founder Passes Away Son Named Ceo

• Passenger Vessels

The board of directors of American Cruise Lines , Guilford, Conn., announced Monday that Charles B. Robertson will be appointed as the companys new chief executive officer , effective immediately. The appointment follows the recent death of Robertsons father, Charles A. Robertson, who was the companys founder, chairman, and chief executive.

My father was a visionary and pioneer of the cruise industry, and it is an honor to lead the organization he created, Robertson said in a prepared statement. My brothers and I have followed in his footsteps and will remember him as a tremendous leader, mentor, and father. We have prudently worked toward this transition, and with the support of our executives and employees, will continue our dedication to our guests and commitment to growth.

Charles B. Robertson joined American Cruise Lines in 2003 and was named a vice president in 2014. His direction at the company has been instrumental to Americans recent growth. Both his leadership and history with the Line make him ideally suited to the chief executive role, the statement said.

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American Cruise Lines American Queen Steamboat Co Are First Lines To Resume Sailing In Us Waters

Two U.S. small ship lines are quietly resuming cruising this weekend, marking the first 2021 sailings back on the water and among the few that have cruised at all in North America since the global pandemic shut down cruising last March.

Both lines, American Queen Steamboat Co. and American Cruise Lines, have ships that are small enough to bypass the current Centers for Disease Control and Prevention orders against sailings. The lines are also American flagged , with American crew, and are thus able to sail in American waters without a stop in Canada or another foreign port.

Because their size gives them more flexibility, both lines had made plans to return to service at various points in 2020, but the unpredictability of the pandemic quashed those efforts.

The only cruises that sailed last year in North America were a few voyages on the St. Lawrence River in Canada by St. Lawrence Cruise Lines a truncated Maine summer and fall season on two schooners, Stephen Taber and Ladona and an attempt at a Caribbean season out of Barbados by SeaDream Yacht Club , which was cut short by COVID-19 cases. Here is the return plan for both lines:

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