American Queen Voyages (AQV) has unveiled its plans to shift its focus to river cruises, implementing a series of changes and updates that will commence in early 2024 and extend into 2025.
As part of this strategic shift, AQV has decided not to return to the Great Lakes region in the upcoming season and has announced its intention to sell the ships Ocean Navigator and Ocean Voyager.
Here is a summary of AQV's revised itineraries for 2024:
Lower Mississippi: AQV will continue the popular voyages along the Lower Mississippi with the 417-passenger ship American Queen. In response to guest requests, AQV has introduced new 3- and 4-day cruises tailored to time-constrained travelers.
The Upper Mississippi program starts in Minnesota and concludes in the Gulf of Mexico. This 16-day itinerary combines encounters with wildlife and intricate locks and dams, infused with Southern charm and visits to the birthplaces of jazz and country music.
America's Heartland: The 245-passenger ship American Countess will cruise the Ohio, Tennessee, and Cumberland Rivers. AQV plans to offer new Experiential Voyages, including a bourbon-themed voyage featuring culinary and spirits experts such as Dickie Brennan, the chef-owner of the renowned Bourbon House in New Orleans.
Snake & Columbia Rivers: Passengers can embark on a voyage through the Pacific Northwest sailing on the 221-passenger ship American Empress and enjoying new wine-themed cruises. AQV will also provide opportunities for guests to participate in salmon excursions, allowing them to bring their freshly caught and cleaned fish back onboard to savor.
Alaska & British Columbia: AQV's third Alaskan season is based on the 186-passenger ship Ocean Victory. Guests can partake in expeditions using Zodiac boats, join kayak excursions led by a team of naturalists and field guides, and engage in other enriching activities.
Although AQV will not offer Great Lakes cruises in 2024, the line brand intends to continue all currently published voyages until November 2023.