Hey everyone! I’m thrilled to share some amazing news with all of you.
American Queen Steamboat Company is launching a brand-new vessel called the American Duchess. This boutique paddlewheeler is purpose-built to provide an intimate experience as it cruises through America’s heartland.
With a capacity of 166 guests, the American Duchess will navigate the mighty Mississippi and its tributaries, offering overnight stays in port and shorter round-trip itineraries from Nashville and New Orleans.
Get ready for a luxurious, all-suite experience with regionally inspired cuisine.
Let’s dive in and explore this amazing addition to the fleet!
Key Takeaways
- American Duchess is a purpose-built boutique paddlewheeler joining the American Queen Steamboat Company fleet in June 2017.
- The 166-guest vessel will sail the mighty Mississippi and her tributaries, offering an intimate experience through America’s heartland.
- The itinerary highlights include overnight stays in port, shorter round-trip itineraries from Nashville and New Orleans, and departures from Chicago for the first time.
- American Duchess features various suite options, two dining venues offering regionally inspired cuisine, and aims to deliver a new boutique, all-suite experience.
The Newest Addition to the American Queen Steamboat Company Fleet
I’m excited about the newest addition to the American Queen Steamboat Company fleet, the American Duchess. This magnificent vessel is set to make a big impact on the river cruising industry and will surely appeal to luxury travelers seeking a unique and intimate experience.
The American Duchess is a purpose-built boutique paddlewheeler, designed to offer a luxurious and comfortable journey through the heartland of America. With its 166-guest capacity, it will navigate the mighty Mississippi and her tributaries, providing guests with breathtaking views and unforgettable experiences.
The ship’s itinerary includes overnight stays in ports like Nashville, shorter round-trip itineraries from Nashville and New Orleans, and even departures from Chicago for the first time. The American Duchess is truly a game-changer in the world of river cruising, offering spacious suites, regionally inspired cuisine, and a commitment to meeting the needs of river cruisers.
Get ready to embark on a truly exceptional voyage with the American Duchess.
A Purpose-Built Boutique Paddlewheeler
Excited to offer a unique river cruising experience, the American Duchess is a specially designed vessel that will provide an intimate journey through America’s heartland. With the ability to accommodate 166 guests, this boutique paddlewheeler offers a truly intimate experience on the mighty Mississippi and her tributaries.
What sets the American Duchess apart is its flexibility and variety. It offers overnight stays in port, including Nashville, and shorter round-trip itineraries from both Nashville and New Orleans. For the first time, it even departs from Chicago, providing even more options for travelers.
The American Duchess features generous space ratios, with various suite options, including Owners Suites and Loft Suites. With two dining venues offering regionally inspired cuisine, guests will have plenty of choices to satisfy their palates.
Discover the charm and beauty of America’s heartland on the American Duchess, where an intimate experience, flexibility, and variety await.
Exploring America’s Heartland on the Mighty Mississippi
Exploring the mighty Mississippi and its tributaries offers an opportunity to immerse oneself in the charm and beauty of America’s heartland.
As you cruise along the river, you’ll have the chance to discover the rich local culture that defines this region. From the lively music scene in Nashville to the historic landmarks in St. Louis, there is so much to explore and learn.
Visit the iconic Graceland estate in Memphis, where you can delve into the life of the legendary Elvis Presley.
Step back in time as you explore the antebellum homes in Natchez, Mississippi, and gain a deeper understanding of the area’s history.
Take a stroll through the historic French Quarter in New Orleans, where you can indulge in delicious cuisine and experience the vibrant atmosphere that makes this city so unique.
Embarking on a journey along the Mississippi is not only a scenic adventure but also a chance to immerse yourself in the local culture and discover the historical landmarks that shape America’s heartland.
Overnight Stays in Port, Including Nashville
During my river cruise along the Mississippi, I can look forward to spending overnight stays in various ports, including the vibrant city of Nashville.
Nashville, also known as Music City, offers unique cultural experiences and a wealth of local attractions and landmarks. From the iconic Grand Ole Opry and the Country Music Hall of Fame to the historic Ryman Auditorium and the vibrant honky-tonk bars on Broadway, there is something for everyone in Nashville.
The city is also known for its thriving food scene, with delicious Southern cuisine and famous hot chicken. As I explore Nashville during my overnight stay, I will immerse myself in the rich musical heritage and vibrant atmosphere that make this city truly special.
Shorter Round-Trip Itineraries From Nashville and New Orleans
I can’t wait to experience the shorter round-trip itineraries from Nashville and New Orleans on my river cruise along the Mississippi.
These shorter itineraries offer increased flexibility, allowing me to explore more of the beautiful heartland of America within a limited time frame.
Whether I choose to embark from Nashville or New Orleans, I will have the opportunity to immerse myself in the rich history and vibrant culture of these iconic cities.
From the moment I step on board the American Duchess, a purpose-built boutique paddlewheeler, I know I will be in for a truly intimate and unforgettable experience.
With its generous space ratio and various suite options, including the luxurious Owners Suites and Loft Suites, I am certain that my journey along the Mississippi will be nothing short of extraordinary.
Departures From Chicago (Ottawa, Illinois) for the First Time
Departing from Chicago for the first time, the cruise will offer a unique opportunity to experience the charm of Ottawa, Illinois, while embarking on a journey along the mighty Mississippi River. Ottawa, known as "The Friendly City," is a picturesque town nestled along the banks of the Illinois River. As we set sail on the American Duchess, we will have the chance to explore Ottawa’s attractions, such as the historic Reddick Mansion and Washington Square Park. The riverboat cruising on the Illinois River will provide breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside, with its rolling hills and lush greenery. This journey promises to be a delightful blend of relaxation and adventure, as we navigate the iconic waterways and immerse ourselves in the rich history and natural beauty of the Heartland.
| Ottawa’s Attractions | Riverboat Cruising on the Illinois River |
|---|---|
| – Reddick Mansion | – Breathtaking views of the countryside |
| – Washington Square Park | – Iconic waterways |
| – Charming downtown area | – Rich history and natural beauty |
Luxurious Suite Options on the American Duchess
Featuring a generous space ratio and a variety of suite options, the American Duchess offers a luxurious and comfortable onboard experience. With its spacious and well-appointed suites, passengers can enjoy the ultimate in relaxation and indulgence.
Each suite is designed with passenger comfort in mind, providing a private retreat after a day of exploring. The American Duchess boasts three 550-square-feet Owners Suites, four 550-square-feet Loft Suites (a U.S. riverboat first), as well as spacious Veranda Suites and Interior Suites. These suites are equipped with all the modern amenities one would expect, including plush bedding, a private bathroom, and a sitting area.
With a passenger capacity of 166 guests, the American Duchess ensures that each guest receives personalized attention and a truly unforgettable experience.
Regionally Inspired Cuisine and Open Seating
As I settle into the luxurious suite options on the American Duchess, I can’t help but anticipate the delightful dining experience that awaits me on this boutique paddlewheeler. The open seating arrangement allows guests to choose from two dining venues, each offering regionally inspired cuisine. The thought of savoring delicious dishes made with fresh, local ingredients fills me with excitement. To give you a taste of what to expect, here is a glimpse of the culinary offerings aboard the American Duchess:
| Venue | Cuisine | Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| Main Dining Room | Southern Comfort | Indulge in classic Southern dishes, such as shrimp and grits, fried green tomatoes, and pecan pie. |
| River Club & Terrace | Farm-to-Table | Enjoy farm-fresh flavors with dishes featuring seasonal produce and locally sourced meats and seafood. |
With such a diverse array of flavors and dining options, the American Duchess promises to provide a truly unforgettable culinary journey. I can’t wait to embark on this delicious adventure!
Excitement for the New Vessel From Company President and COO
I’m thrilled by the enthusiasm expressed by Ted Sykes, president and COO of the American Queen Steamboat Company, for the arrival of the new vessel. It’s exciting to see how the American Duchess will make an impact not only on the company but also on local economies along the Mississippi River.
Here are some discussion ideas about the vessel’s potential impact:
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Boosting tourism in the heartland: The American Duchess will attract more visitors to cities and towns along its itinerary, bringing a significant economic boost to local businesses.
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Job creation: The addition of the American Duchess will create job opportunities for locals, both on the vessel itself and in supporting industries such as hospitality and transportation.
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Environmental sustainability measures: It would be great to hear more about the company’s efforts to minimize the vessel’s impact on the environment, such as reducing emissions and implementing waste management practices.
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Supporting local suppliers: The American Duchess could work with local farmers, artisans, and vendors to source food, products, and services, which would further contribute to the local economy.
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Cultural preservation: The vessel’s itineraries can help preserve and promote the region’s unique culture and heritage, allowing guests to experience the heartland in an authentic way.
It’s important to consider these factors when discussing the arrival of the new vessel, as they have a significant impact on local communities and the environment.
Meeting the Demand for More Capacity on the Mississippi River
Meeting the overwhelming demand for more capacity on the Mississippi River, the American Duchess will provide guests with a unique and intimate river cruising experience. With its purpose-built boutique paddlewheeler design, the American Duchess is set to make a significant impact on the river cruising industry.
The 166-guest vessel will sail the mighty Mississippi and her tributaries, offering overnight stays in port, including Nashville, and shorter round-trip itineraries from Nashville and New Orleans. Departures from Chicago will also be available for the first time, providing flexibility and variety for guests.
The American Duchess features a generous space ratio with various suite options, including three Owners Suites and four Loft Suites, which are a U.S. riverboat first. With its open seating and two dining venues offering regionally inspired cuisine, the American Duchess is committed to meeting the needs of river cruisers and delivering an unforgettable experience on the Mississippi River.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Many Passengers Does the American Duchess Accommodate?
The American Duchess accommodates 166 passengers, offering a boutique paddlewheeler experience through America’s heartland. With its spacious suites and two dining venues, the ship ensures an intimate and enjoyable journey. Onboard entertainment options are diverse and cater to all tastes.
Are There Any Special Amenities or Features on the American Duchess?
The American Duchess offers a range of special amenities and unique features. From the generous space ratio and various suite options to the regionally inspired cuisine and two dining venues, there is something for everyone.
What Is the Duration of the Round-Trip Itineraries From Nashville and New Orleans?
The round-trip itineraries from Nashville and New Orleans on the American Duchess offer a delightful experience. Explore the attractions along the route, including overnight stays in Nashville, and enjoy the flexibility and variety of these shorter trips.
Can You Provide More Details About the Departure From Chicago (Ottawa, Illinois)?
Sure, I’d be happy to provide more details about the departure from Chicago, Illinois. The departure from Chicago offers a unique opportunity to explore this vibrant city before setting sail on an unforgettable journey along the mighty Mississippi.
How Does the American Duchess Compare to Other River Cruisers on the Mississippi River in Terms of Size and Amenities?
The American Duchess sets itself apart from other river cruisers on the Mississippi River with its generous size and luxurious amenities. It offers spacious suites, multiple dining venues, and a boutique, all-suite experience that is sure to impress.
Conclusion
As the sun sets on the mighty Mississippi, the American Duchess glides through America’s heartland. It is a boutique paddlewheeler that offers an intimate experience like no other. With its luxurious suites and regionally inspired cuisine, this new vessel is a floating oasis.
From overnight stays in port to shorter round-trip itineraries, the American Duchess caters to every traveler’s desires. It is designed to meet the overwhelming demand for more capacity on the Mississippi River. As the president and COO of American Queen Steamboat Company, I am thrilled to introduce this magnificent ship.
Get ready to embark on a journey like no other.
Alfons is the visionary leader and driving force behind Voyager Info’s success. As the Editor in Chief, he brings a wealth of experience and an unwavering passion for travel to the helm of our cruise-centric platform.
With a lifelong fascination for exploring new horizons, Alfons discovered his love for the ocean and cruising at a young age. From sailing across pristine Caribbean waters to embarking on daring expeditions to far-flung destinations, he has amassed a treasure trove of first-hand experiences in the world of cruising.
