AMERICAN QUEEN VOYAGES™ RENEWS BUSINESS FOCUS ON CORE RIVER PRODUCTS 

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 Itineraries for 2024 Showcase Immersive Experiences Throughout North America

FORT LAUDERDALE, FL (June 20, 2023) – In a strategic decision to refocus its business on its award-winning river cruises, American Queen Voyages® (AQV), part of Hornblower® Group, has announced a series of deployment changes and updates set to commence in early 2024 and extend into 2025. New routes are now open for early bookings with early savings available on key dates. 

Our primary commitment is to deliver a best-in-class cruise vacation with a focus on immersive culinary and destination experiences,” said Cindy D’Aoust, president of American Queen Voyages. “Our customers consistently tell us our U.S. River itineraries are exceptional and demonstrate this by returning again and again.”  A fact recently supported through a McKinsey market survey where participants noted American Queen Voyages enjoys the highest brand affinity amongst U.S. river operators. “All of our focus is being put into updating and enhancing our popular river product with strategic partnerships and an elevated culinary program, which we know have been very well received,” added D’Aoust.

Revised 2024 Itineraries Include:

Lower Mississippi: AQV will begin the season with its popular Lower Mississippi voyages through the cities and historic port towns of the South on the 417-guest American Queen, the largest steamboat ever built. Based on guest requests, we will offer new three- and four-day cruises for time-pressed travelers.

Upper Mississippi: Back by popular demand, we will be traversing the mighty Mississippi from its headwaters in Minnesota all the way to the Gulf of Mexico. This epic, 16-day journey combines wildlife and intricate locks and dams, with Southern charms and the birthplaces of jazz and country music.

America’s Heartland: The 245-guest, paddle wheeler American Countess cruises the Ohio, Tennessee, and Cumberland rivers. New Experiential Voyages include a bourbon-themed voyage with noted food and spirits experts, including Dickie Brennan, chef-owner of the legendary Bourbon House in New Orleans.

Snake & Columbia Rivers: Travelers can discover the unspoiled treasures of the Pacific Northwest aboard the 221-guest American Empress, including new wine-themed cruises. Depending on the voyage, guests can join a salmon excursion and bring their freshly caught and cleaned catch back to enjoy on the boat.

Alaska & British Columbia: AQV will return to Alaska for its third season. Aboard the environmentally friendly, 186-guest Ocean Victory, guests enjoy expeditions via Zodiac exploration boats and kayak excursions led by a team of naturalists and field guides in cooperation with California Polytechnic State University.

As part of its new focus, AQV will not return to the Great Lakes next season and as a result has announced its intent to sell its Ocean Navigator and Ocean Voyager vessels. All current published voyages will continue to operate as planned through November 2023. 

For more information about American Queen Voyages or to make a reservation, contact your travel professional or call 833-598-0119 or visit www.AQVoyages.com.

We found a better way to renew our passports!

American Queen Voyages™ Will be the First Cruise Line with an Entire Fleet Running SpaceX’s Starlink and Connected 5G Networks 

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ocean victory

Fort Lauderdale, FL – Feb. 9, 2023 – American Queen Voyages™,  part of Hornblower® Group, has announced SpaceX Starlink upgrades to the entire fleet of seven, including the award-winning cruise lines Rivers, Lakes & Oceans, and Expedition vessels. American Queen Voyages is the first cruise line with an entire fleet to be fully upgraded with the fastest internet, including Starlink antennas and 5G cellular back-up.

“Upgrading our included Wi-Fi to Space X’s Starlink will enhance the guest and crew experience on all of our vessels,” says Cindy D’Aoust, president, American Queen Voyages. “This new internet service will now allow guests to stay connected while deeply discovering North America, enjoying the comforts of at-home Wi-Fi at sea.”

Starlink will be installed, tested, and ready to use on all vessels before they sail in 2023. American Queen®, American Countess®, and Ocean Navigator™ have already undergone Starlink installation, and the technology is ready for guests and crew to enjoy. Each vessel will have multiple maritime Starlink grade kits, providing significant bandwidth in partnership with the FMC Global Sat 5G solution, which will be an included amenity in American Queen Voyages' luxurious all-inclusive offerings.     

Emmanuel Cotrel, Chief Executive Officer of FMC, commented: "FMC’s innovative solutions integrated with Starlink’s connectivity enables applications and services that require low latency and significant Mbps of bandwidth, that were, until now, considered unrealistic or cost prohibitive. We are pleased to help provide American Queen Voyage passengers and crew with best-in-class internet connectivity wherever they travel." 

SpaceX’s Starlink is a satellite internet constellation that provides internet access and coverage on a global scale. Starlink is the fastest and most powerful internet service and allows American Queen Voyages and their guests to enjoy reliable Wi-Fi no matter where they sail. The Wi-Fi capabilities will also enhance the crew experience, allowing for quick communication and the ability to stay in touch with loved ones back home.

For more information on American Queen Voyages, contact your travel professional or call 833-598-0119 or visit www.AQVoyages.com.

The tech gear we travel with when we cruise.

American Queen Voyages™  Premieres  “The Field of Dreams Experience” on Upper Mississippi River Voyages 

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American Queen Voyages™  Premieres  “The Field of Dreams Experience” on Upper Mississippi River Voyages 

American Queen Voyages

photo credit: Travel Dubuque 

Fort Lauderdale, FL (July 5, 2022) – American Queen Voyages™, part of the Hornblower® Group, is now offering an extraordinary experience on its Upper Mississippi River sailings that’s certain to be a home run for sports fans and movie buffs alike. The new Field of Dreams Experience premium shore excursion is available beginning with the American Countess® arrival in the Iowa port of Dubuque on July 22, 2022.  Starring the iconic baseball diamond in nearby Dyersville, made famous by the 1989 film starring Kevin Costner, James Earl Jones and the late Ray Liotta, the Field of Dreams Experience is available on eight, nine-day voyages between St. Louis (Alton) and Minneapolis (Red Wing) through October 2022. Additional ports include Hannibal, MO; Bettendorf, IA; La Crosse, WI; and Burlington, IA. 

“Our guests always enjoy strolling in the footsteps of Mark Twain’s classic characters in Hannibal and spotting bald eagles near Red Wing,” said Isis Ruiz, chief commercial officer, American Queen Voyages. “Adding the Field of Dreams Experience premium excursion in Dubuque promises to create even more memorable moments on this popular Upper Mississippi River itinerary.” 

Upon docking in the city of Dubuque, where much of the movie was filmed, a local guide will point out many iconic locations from Field of Dreams, including the local elementary school, University of Dubuque, and Central Avenue, which was transformed into Boston for the film. Departing the city with countryside views of cornfields and farmlands weaving through the Iowa bluffs, guests will arrive at the “If You Built It” exhibit to explore the story that inspired the film and view behind-the-scenes photos that delve into the making of Field of Dreams. 

At the actual Field of Dreams baseball diamond and farm from the film, guests may walk the bases like Shoeless Joe Jackson, emerge from the corn and take a break on the bleachers for an Instagram moment. The Field of Dreams Experience is available on Upper Mississippi River itineraries of the American Queen®, American Duchess® and American Countess® between St. Louis (Alton) and Minneapolis (Red Wing) embarking July 18, 30, Aug. 28, Sept. 10, 11, 24, 26 and Oct. 16, 2022. 

“Dubuque has played an important part in the rich history of riverboating in the U.S. and we are proud to be hosting American Queen Voyages’ paddlewheelers this season,” said Keith Rahe, president and CEO, Travel Dubuque. “A visit to Field of Dreams adds even more to the experience for American Queen Voyages guests, and we look forward to welcoming the fleet starting with the American Countess on July 22.” 

To recreate the ballpark dining experience at home for the upcoming Field of Dreams game with the Chicago Cubs and Cincinnati Reds on Aug. 11, American Queen Voyages Culinary Ambassador, Chef Regina Charboneau, is sharing a pair of special hot dogs celebrating the two cities with the recipe found at blog link.

The Field of Dreams Experience premium shore excursion is $99 per person. Independence Day Sale fares from $1,350 per guest are available on nine-day voyages between St. Louis (Alton) and Minneapolis (Red Wing) when booked by July 14,  by contacting a travel professional, 833-598-0119 or visit  www.AQVoyages.com.

My review of Viking Ocean Cruises’ Viking Orion

American Queen Voyages™ Launches New Website and Flexible Booking Program for 2022 Sailings

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FORT LAUDERDALE, FL – June 6, 2022 – American Queen Voyages™, part of the Hornblower® Group, has unveiled a new website www.aqvoyages.com for consumers and travel advisors to create, plan and book an extraordinary experience exploring North America.  Bringing together the cruise line’s Rivers, Lakes & Oceans and Expedition products under one digital umbrella for the first time, the new American Queen Voyages website design delivers an inspiring and functional experience across all platforms. The compelling layout embraces the tagline “Discovery Runs Deep™,” and emphasizes the beauty of comprehensively exploring North America. 

On the new website, travelers can filter their searches to hone in on desired dates, ships, types and destinations under the Voyage feature. Now, the site incorporates the ability to buy a voyage online, another first in the company’s history. Guests are able to secure their cruise directly in the booking engine, including the specific stateroom through an interactive deck plan, which allows passengers to explore what the vessel offers on each deck and in each cabin.

“American Queen Voyages has transformed from the great American rivers to include lakes, oceans and expedition experiences over the last 10 years, and the reimagined website is a critical tool to tell the next chapter in our story,” shares Isis Ruiz, chief commercial officer, American Queen Voyages. “Evolving the way we present the brand digitally is a key pillar of our go-to-market strategy.  The new American Queen Voyages website design now delivers an inspiring and functional experience across all platforms that focuses on meeting our customers where they are, leaning into our brand positioning and enhancing our guest experience to reach and surpass expectations.”

For those new to the vast North American experiences available from the cruise line, detailed descriptions of regions, iconic cities and quaint ports, are featured in a comprehensive cruise calendar complemented by stunning photography. Additional sections including the new loyalty program, American Queen Voyages blog and more will grow with content in the coming weeks. There is also the ability to select a pre-or post-cruise City Stay Package such as a tour of Montana’s Glacier National Park from the American Empress or the Ultimate New Orleans Experience before embarking on the American Queen, American Duchess or American Countess. 

American Queen Voyages collaborated with MRM/McCann on the overarching brand creation and the internal marketing team supported by Hornblower Group developed a digital guest experience that captures the onboard guest experience. 

New Flexibility on 2022 sailings

In addition to unveiling the new www.aqvoyages.com,  American Queen Voyages is offering a new Risk-Free Booking program to give guests added flexibility for 2022 bookings made by June 30, 2022. Guests booking a sailing departing by December 31, 2022, have the flexibility to move to another 2023 voyage penalty free up to 14 days prior to departure.  

For more information on American Queen Voyages’ 10th anniversary season, sailing dates, and to book a reservation or order a brochure, contact your travel professional, call 833-598-0119 or visit www.AQVoyages.com. 

My review of Viking Ocean Cruises’ Viking Orion

American Queen Voyages™ Celebrates Inaugural Expedition Season with Ocean Victory ™

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Photo Caption (from left): Kathy DeLisser, regional vice president, Canada, Ceres Terminals Canada; Tom Corsie, vice president of real estate, Vancouver Fraser Port Authority; John Waggoner, founder & chairman, American Queen Voyages; Rosalind Campbell, councilor, Musqueam Indian Band; Karen Soyka, vice president of strategy & business development, Destination Vancouver; Carmen Ortega, trade development manager, Vancouver Fraser Port Authority; and Dean Wendt, dean, College of Science and Mathematics, California Polytechnic State University.

VANCOUVER, B.C., May 9, 2022 – American Queen Voyages™, part of the Hornblower® Group, is debuting the cruise line’s first-ever Expedition experience with the inaugural sailing of Ocean Victory, which departed Vancouver, B.C. May, 7, 2022. Ocean Victory marks the arrival of the seventh vessel to the American Queen Voyages fleet, which also includes Rivers, Lakes & Oceans experiences. The new 186-guest vessel, created for intimate access with an innovative X-Bow design, will sail between Vancouver, B.C., and Sitka, Alaska, on 12- and 13-day cruises May through September. Guests can expect up-close encounter travel experiences in The Last Frontier, working closely with the seasoned expedition and award-winning American Queen Voyages shore excursions teams, in addition to naturalists guiding hands-on learning opportunities, and more. 

“Alaska is a unique destination that to even begin to understand its vastness demands immersion with an expedition experience,” said Shawn Bierdz, chief operating officer, American Queen Voyages. “Ocean Victory will deliver guests an intimate sailing experience that really allows them to become captivated by the destination’s many natural wonders. We’re thrilled to have welcomed our first guests onboard as we embark on our journey to Alaska’s Inside Passage.”

Created for intimate access with an innovative X-Bow design, the vessel sails the less-traveled regions of Alaska’s Inside Passage where like-minded explorers will deploy kayaks and Zodiacs with expedition leaders, view wildlife from sliding observation platforms, witness marine research by California Polytechnic State University students in real-time and have engaging discussions with native Alaska leaders. 

“As we celebrate the debut of Ocean Victory, I am inspired by our growth from a one paddlewheel cruise line, the American Queen, to a fleet of vessels this very day sailing Mississippi, Kentucky, Washington, Prince Edward Island and Quebec,” shared John Waggoner, founder and chairman of American Queen Voyages. “Today we call on over 125 ports with seven vessels, employing over 670 teammates – far exceeding even the dreams of this boy of just one boat.”

As part of the American Queen Voyages expedition experience, the line has partnered with Dr. Michelle Fournet, director of the Sound Science Research Collective, for the inaugural Alaska expedition season of Ocean Victory.  The acclaimed acoustic ecologist is a leading expert in the communication of North Pacific humpback whales, and was profiled along with her Sound Science Research Collective team in the acclaimed documentary “Fathom.”

Fournet and the Sound Science Research Collective will collaborate with the American Queen Voyages expedition team as the ship becomes an extension of their research lab. Hydrophones will be used onboard Zodiacs to listen to the voices of Alaska’s whales in real-time. Guests will also learn about and participate in whale tracking through fluke identification by uploading their own photos from the vessel to a scientific database following their seasonal movements.

In port, inclusive shore excursions with knowledgeable experts and expedition guides provide meaningful opportunities to uncover the rich history, unique wildlife and fascinating cultures of each destination. Equipped with a fleet of Zodiacs and  kayaks, the itineraries will provide guests with in-depth explorations of Alaska’s natural, historic and cultural treasures.

The Ocean Victory inaugural Alaska season program highlights include: 

Anan Creek Bear and Wildlife Observatory: Guests venture into the Alaskan wilderness for a once-in-a-lifetime look at the forest’s wildlife in their natural habitat. They will travel by jet boat from Wrangell through the Eastern Passage to the Anan trailhead. Here, Anan Creek provides the perfect landscape for an observatory, as it is one of the largest salmon runs in Southeast Alaska. This makes it a prime location for the local bear population to feed, as well as bald eagles and harbor seals. At the Anan Bear and Wildlife Observatory, guests will experience up-close views of these majestic creatures.

Five Finger Lighthouse: The historic Five Finger Lighthouse is located at the confluence of Stephen’s Passage and Frederick Sound in Southeast Alaska. The island on which it sits and the surrounding waters are a home to nesting seabirds, foraging songbirds, bald eagles, Steller sea lions, harbor seals, sea otters, harbor porpoise, transient killer whales and large numbers of humpback whales.

Kake Tlingit Village: Experiencing the traditional culture of Kake, guests will be warmly welcomed by the Tlingit residents and encouraged to participate in their long-standing traditions. Just a short walk from the dock is the community hall, where a carving or weaving demonstration will take place. Then, guests can step onto the dancefloor where locals will perform traditional songs and dances. Finally they will see the world’s largest one-tree totem pole. 

Petersburg: In Petersburg, the Ocean Victory docks right beside Alaska’s largest home-based halibut fleet, which call this shallow, protected harbor home. These abundant waters, and an endless supply of ice from nearby LeConte Glacier, led Norwegian fisherman Peter Buschmann to build the region’s first cannery and invite his fishing countrymen to join him -  hence the town’s name and its strong Norwegian culture. Large cruise ships cannot come into Petersburg, so guests will be among a privileged few to dock in this charming, authentic Alaskan village.

Waterfall Coast: Guests will challenge themselves to keep track of the number of waterfalls encountered along Baranof Island’s beautiful eastern coast, the little known “waterfall coast.” Some can be seen from any of Ocean Victory’s observation perspectives, or right at water level by kayak or Zodiac. This almost hidden shoreline is perfect for discovery with seals, deer, and tidepools ready to reveal secret treasures.

The brand new expedition ship Ocean Victory will sail between Vancouver, B.C. and Sitka, Alaska on 12- and 13-day journeys including a pre-cruise hotel stay in Vancouver, B.C. or Sitka, and calling on: Canadian Inside Passage; Fiordland (Kynoch Inlet); Ketchikan; Misty Fjords National Monument; Wrangell/Stikine River Wilderness; Waterfall Coast/Baranof Wilderness; Petersburg/Le Conte Glacier; Tracy Arm/Endicott Glacier; Kake/Frederick Sound/Five Finger; and Sitka, Alaska. Sailings are available May through September 2022.

For more information on American Queen Voyages’ 10th anniversary season, sailing dates, and to book a reservation or order a brochure, contact your travel professional, call 833-598-0119 or visit www.AQVoyages.com. 

My review of Viking Ocean Cruises’ Viking Orion

American Queen Voyages™ Ocean Navigator™ Welcomed to Flynn Cruiseport Boston on Eastern Seaboard Sailing

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-Great Ameri-Cation Sale Revealed to Cruise North America Now-

Photo (From Left): Lauren Gleason, deputy port director, Massachusetts Port Authority and Ocean Navigator  Captain Gary Kerr

Boston – April 22, 2022 – American Queen Voyages™, part of the Hornblower® Group, celebrated another company milestone calling on Flynn Cruiseport Boston, marking the first time a Lakes & Oceans vessel has visited the historic New England port. Ocean Navigator™, the final Lakes & Oceans vessel returning to the cruise line’s fleet, is currently sailing the Eastern Seaboard on a 17-day Savannah to Halifax voyage enroute to the Great Lakes, where she will make her exclusive downtown Chicago Navy Pier debut on May 18. The 202-guest boutique coastal ship was greeted by Massachusetts Port Authority Deputy Port Director Lauren Gleason, who toured the vessel, visiting with guests, officers and crew. 

“New England is ideal for cruisers to explore by boutique coastal vessel due to our smaller waterways and quaint towns, and we are delighted to welcome Ocean Navigator to Flynn Cruiseport Boston,” said Gleason. “Boston is the epicenter of the region, and our rich history offers the encounter travel experiences American Queen Voyages passengers seek during their journey.”    

While visiting Boston, American Queen Voyages guests explored the North End, Boston Common and other iconic parts of the city. Sister ship Ocean Voyager™ will visit Flynn Cruiseport Boston on April 24.   

Marking Ocean Navigator’s  visit to Boston,  American Queen Voyages is rolling out the Great Ameri-Cation Sale, encouraging travelers to Deeply Discover North America now. The sale is available for booking on 24 select voyages that depart between May and July 2022, across Rivers, Lakes & Oceans and Expedition experiences. The offer includes companion sails free with fares from $1,200 per guest. Applicable sailings are available here for new bookings by May 31, 2022. 

“This is a special week in Boston celebrating Patriot’s Day, The Boston Marathon and the return of the Red Sox to Fenway Park, and its the most appropriate moment to announce our Great Ameri-Cation offering, ” said Shawn Bierdz, chief operating officer, American Queen Voyages. “Many travelers are staying domestic this summer and limited availability remains to deeply discover North America now.”  

The month of April marks the 10th anniversary of American Queen Voyages and the debut of expedition ship Ocean Victory on May 6, sailing between Vancouver, B.C. and Sitka, AK. 

In June, Founder and Chairman, John Waggoner, and Culinary Ambassador, Regina Charboneau, will celebrate the company’s 10th anniversary with four newly added Lower Mississippi River itineraries on the flagship American Queen®. The nine-day itineraries will sail between Memphis and New Orleans with departures on June 5, 12, 19 and 26, 2022. Ports of call include Cleveland (Terrene Landing), Vicksburg, Natchez, St. Francisville, Baton Rouge and Nottoway. Celebrating the 10th anniversary season, American Queen Voyages Founder and Chairman John Waggoner will join the June 12 American Queen sailing from New Orleans to Memphis to serve as host and special guest Riverlorian. As special guest Riverlorian, Waggoner will host exclusive lectures and share tales on the history of the company, memories from ports along the rivers, the making of the newest paddlewheeler American Countess®, and more. 

Adding to the anniversary festivities, on the American Queen June Lower Mississippi River sailings will be newly added experiences with Culinary Ambassador Regina Charboneau. Guests booking a Luxury or Owner’s Suite will receive a complimentary exclusive cooking class and brunch hosted by Regina Charboneau at her Natchez cooking school while in port. All guests will also be joined onboard by Charboneau for a special pre-sail biscuit demonstration and champagne toast before departing Natchez. 

For more information on American Queen Voyages’ 10th anniversary season, sailing dates, and to book a reservation or order a brochure, contact your travel professional, call 833-598-0119 or visit www.AQVoyages.com. 

My review of Viking Ocean Cruises’ Viking Orion

New June 2022 American Queen® Lower Mississippi Sailings to Host Exclusive Experiences: Celebrate the 10th Anniversary with Guest Favorites

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Limited Availability Remains

Fort Lauderdale, Fl. – March 3, 2022 – American Queen Voyages™,  part of Hornblower® Group, has added exclusive experiences hosted by company Founder and Chairman, John Waggoner, and Culinary Ambassador, Regina Charboneau, to celebrate the company’s 10th anniversary. These new experiences will kick off the summer season on four newly added Lower Mississippi River itineraries on the flagship American Queen®. The nine-day itineraries will sail between Memphis and New Orleans with departures on June 5, 12, 19 and 26, 2022. Ports of call include Cleveland (Terrene Landing), Vicksburg, Natchez, St. Francisville, Baton Rouge and Nottoway.

Celebrating the 10th anniversary season, American Queen Voyages Founder and Chairman John Waggoner will join the June 12 American Queen sailing from New Orleans to Memphis to serve as host and special guest Riverlorian. As special guest Riverlorian, Waggoner will host exclusive lectures and share tales on the history of the company, memories from ports along the rivers, the making of the newest paddlewheeler American Countess®, and more. 

Adding to the anniversary festivities, on the American Queen June Lower Mississippi River sailings will be newly added experiences with Culinary Ambassador Regina Charboneau. Guests booking a Luxury or Owner’s Suite will receive a complimentary  exclusive cooking class and brunch hosted by Regina Charboneau at her Natchez cooking school while in port. All guests will also be joined onboard by Charboneau for a special pre-sail biscuit demonstration and champagne toast before departing Natchez. 

“As we mark the 10th Anniversary of American Queen Voyages with added June Lower Mississippi River sailings, I look forward to joining guests on this iconic itinerary to share stories from our decade on the water,” shares John Waggoner, founder and chairman, American Queen Voyages. “The addition of Chef Regina for special culinary experiences both onboard and in Natchez will delight our guests and will be quite a treat for everyone.” 

Per guest fares on the June American Queen sailings begin at $2,599;  Luxury and Owner’s Suites begin at $7,699. For more information on American Queen Voyages’ Anniversary Savings Offer and Spring Savings Event, sailing dates, and to book a reservation, contact your travel professional or call 833-598-0119 or visit www.AQVoyages.com. 

My review of Viking Ocean Cruises’ Viking Orion

American Queen Voyages™ Celebrates Presidents’ Day with Milestones 

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First U.S. Lakes & Oceans Sailing and Kickoff of American Queen 10th Anniversary Season  

Photo Caption (From Left): Shawn Beirdz, Chief Operating Officer of American Queen Voyages; Frederick Wong, COO of JAXPORT; Captain Geir Lileeng, Captain of Ocean Voyager; John Waggoner, Founder & Chairman of American Queen Voyages; and Bill Annand, Vice President of American Queen Voyages.

Jacksonville, FL – Feb. 21, 2022 – American Queen Voyages™, part of the Hornblower® Group, celebrated Presidents’ Day by marking two company milestones. Ocean Voyager™, the first Lakes & Oceans vessel to return to U.S. waters with guests in over two years, was welcomed at Jacksonville Port Authority (JAXPORT) after completing her maiden Southeast U.S.A. voyage. Not to be overshadowed, today the grand American Queen departed New Orleans for Memphis marking the beginning of the company’s 10th anniversary season on the Mississippi River. American Queen Voyages executives celebrated both milestones with JAXPORT Chief Operating Officer Frederick Wong at the new homeport of Ocean Voyager’s Southeast U.S.A. season.

“Our location in the heart of the Southeast U.S. makes Jacksonville an ideal host city for passengers looking to explore the region,” said Wong. “From beaches and history to world-class golf, shopping, and dining, Northeast Florida has so much to offer passengers before and after their cruise. We are proud to welcome American Queen Voyages passengers and thank them for beginning and ending their journey in Jacksonville.”

The Southeast U.S.A. season on Ocean Voyager began February 11 and runs through mid-April before returning in November. The 12-day round trip itineraries sail from Jacksonville through mid-April visiting the region’s many historic ports including Amelia Island (Fernandina Beach), FL; Brunswick, GA; Savannah, GA; Charleston, SC; Port Canaveral, FL; and Freeport, Bahamas. 

On the same day of Ocean Voyager’s maiden Southeast U.S.A. voyage return to Jacksonville, the first guests of the American Queen Voyages’ 2022 Rivers season set off on the flagship American Queen from New Orleans on a nine-day Lower Mississippi River sailing. The voyage kicks off the 10th anniversary river season with the cruise line’s most popular itinerary connecting two of the Mississippi’s most iconic ports – Memphis and New Orleans. In response to unprecedented demand for the itinerary in 2022, new departures of June 5, 12, 19 and 26, 2022 have been added. Ports of call include Cleveland (Terrene Landing), OH; Vicksburg, Natchez, and St. Francisville, MS; Baton Rouge and Nottoway, LA. 

“As we celebrate American Queen Voyages’ 10th anniversary season with multiple milestones throughout the year, I want to thank the JAXPORT team for their warm hospitality welcoming guests on this new portion of our Lakes & Oceans season,” shared John Waggoner, founder and chairman, American Queen Voyages. “I look forward to many more milestone moments across North America in 2022, with the largest fleet deployment in our history, including the inaugural Alaska expedition season on Ocean Victory ™.” 

Ocean Navigator ™, sister vessel to Ocean Voyager, will return to service in Savannah, GA. on  April 11 and make her way up the Atlantic coast and through the St. Lawrence Seaway for the Great Lakes season. Boutique paddlewheeler American Duchess ™  sets sail from New Orleans for the Ohio River on March 6, while the newest riverboat in the fleet American Countess ™ returns to service from New Orleans on March 8 and Pacific Northwest paddlewheeler American Empress departs from Vancouver, WA on March 13. The brand new expedition ship Ocean Victory will debut on May 6 sailing between Vancouver, B.C. and Sitka, AK.

For more information on American Queen Voyages’ 10th anniversary season, sailing dates, and to book a reservation or order a brochure, contact your travel professional, call 833-598-0119 or visit www.AQVoyages.com. 

About American Queen Voyages

American Queen Voyages™, a leader in encounter travel, offers the most varied and comprehensive portfolio of North American itineraries and experiences, comprised of American Queen Voyages River, American Queen Voyages Lakes & Ocean and American Queen Voyages Expedition, which includes new Alaska and Central America expedition experiences beginning 2022. To book or for more information on American Queen Voyages, contact your travel professional or call 833-598-0119 or visit www.AQVoyages.com. 

About Hornblower Group

Hornblower Group is a global leader in world-class experiences.  The corporate entity of Hornblower Group is comprised of American Queen Voyages® and City Experiences.  Seaward Services, Inc., a marine services company specializing in the operation, maintenance and repair of government and privately owned vessels, is also a subsidiary of Hornblower Group, operating and maintaining U.S. Navy Ranges and port facilities, including local oil spill response.  Today, Hornblower’s footprint spans 111 countries and territories, and 125 U.S. cities, with offerings including water-based experiences, land-based experiences, overnight cruise experiences, ferry and transportation services and full-service support via Hornblower Shipyard at Bridgeport Boatworks in Connecticut.   Hornblower Group is headquartered in San Francisco, California, with additional corporate offices in Boston, Massachusetts; Chicago, Illinois; Fort Lauderdale, Florida; London, United Kingdom; New Albany, Indiana; New York, New York; and across Ontario, Canada.  For more information visit hornblowercorp.com.

My review of Viking Ocean Cruises’ Viking Orion

American Queen Voyages™ Announces Expedition Team for Inaugural Alaska Season

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New Ocean Victory to Sail 13-Day Vancouver to Sitka Cruises Starting May 2022

Fort Lauderdale, FL – Feb. 3,  2022 – American Queen Voyages™,  part of Hornblower® Group, announces the expedition team for the inaugural Alaska season of Ocean Victory™. The new 186-guest vessel will sail between Vancouver, B.C., and Sitka, Alaska, on 12 and 13-day cruises beginning May 7, 2022, marking the cruise line’s entry into expedition cruising. The team, led by previously announced Director of Expedition Peter Szyszka, will create unique expedition experiences for guests working closely with the award-winning American Queen Voyages shore excursions team, researchers from California Polytechnic State University, naturalist interpreters and Alaska Native and First Nations leaders.  

“This skilled team of expedition leaders we’ve assembled for Ocean Victory’s inaugural season provides a wealth of experience in Alaska’s wilderness as well as a deep passion for the destination itself,” said Szyszka. “Our team has been drawn to American Queen Voyages to share Alaska’s beauty up close through encounter travel experiences with this world-class expedition vessel.” 

The American Queen Voyages’ Ocean Victory inaugural expedition leadership team includes:

Pamela Navis (Expedition Manager) brings over 40 years of professional experience in the maritime industry.  She has overseen expedition operations and product development in the waters of Southeast Alaska, Pacific Northwest, Canada, Hawaii and Central America.   Pam is a certified US Coast Guard 100-ton boat captain who has dedicated her life to all aspects of the sea which has led to various adventures including fishing from an Alaskan troller, restoring vintage vessels and being a guest speaker at the Wooden Boat Festival, sailing around the Hawaiian Islands, and guiding/captaining from small expedition vessels in Prince William Sound and Southeast Alaska. Her personal pursuits never take her far from the water either as she is an avid sailor, surfer, sea kayaker, scuba diver and proud captain of a 15’ vintage runabout named Opakapaka after a favorite Hawaiian fish.

Jessika Picinich (Expedition Leader) joins the Ocean Victory team after delivering wilderness experiences for guests in Southeast Alaska, Hawaii, Moab, Arches National Park, Zion National Park and the Sea of Cortez. She has a strong passion for Alaska, where she has led shipboard expeditions over multiple seasons including sea kayaking, bushwhacking, snorkeling and skiff tours with an emphasis on her personal passions of geology and natural history. Holding a Master of Science from University of Miami, she is also a skilled photographer with special interests in both underwater stills and drone photography. 

Liz Gifford (Expedition Leader) is a passionate environmental educator and photographer with extensive expedition experience in the wilderness terrains of Alaska, Antarctica, Greenland, the high Canadian Arctic and Svalbard, Norway. She has served as lead naturalist for a non-profit outdoor educational program in Juneau since 2016 and as a sea kayak guide and expedition photographer in Antarctica since 2012. In addition, Liz has worked as a USFS wilderness ranger in Southeast Alaska, a sea kayak and yoga instructor, and as an expedition guide. A graduate of the University of Alaska Southeast with a Masters degree in teaching and a certificate in Outdoor Leadership Skills, she enjoys hunting, harvesting and backcountry skiing from her home trails when she is not kayaking and leading adventures. 

The American Queen Voyages Ocean Victory expedition team is led by Director of Expedition Peter Szyszka who adds more than two decades of expedition experience across the globe including over 60 journeys in Antarctica. He brings a depth of knowledge of the new Ocean Victory vessel, overseeing the 2019 build and fit-out of expedition areas of the Greg Mortimer, a sister ship featuring a unique X-Bow design. Szyszka has played a key role in program development and delivery for multiple leading expedition brands. An expert divemaster and Zodiac captain trainer, he has also overseen kayaking, snorkeling, diving, expedition landings, skiing, snowshoeing, camping, mountaineering and photography programs throughout his career.  

Created for intimate access with an innovative X-Bow design, Ocean Victory will sail 12- and 13-day journeys through the less-traveled regions of Alaska’s Inside Passage led by a seasoned expedition team. Like-minded explorers will deploy stable double sea kayaks and Zodiacs with expedition guides, view wildlife from sliding observation platforms, participate and witness marine research by California Polytech University students in real-time and have engaging cultural experiences with Alaska Native and First Nation leaders.  

Itineraries will feature destinations that larger ships cannot access, including Baranof Island’s sparsely uninhabited eastern coast. Ports of call include: a pre-cruise hotel stay in Vancouver, B.C.; Canadian Inside Passage; Fiordland (Kynoch Inlet); Ketchikan; Metlakatla on Annette Island; Misty Fjords National Monument; Wrangell and the salmon rich transboundary Stikine River; the Waterfall Coast of South Baranof Wilderness; Petersburg/LeConte Glacier in the Stikine-LeConte Wilderness; Tracy Arm and Ford’s Terror Wilderness Area including South Sawyer and Dawes Glaciers; the village of Kake on Kupreanof Island; Frederick Sound; Five Finger Lighthouse; and Sitka, AK. Sailings are available May - Sept. 2022. 

My review of Viking Ocean Cruises’ Viking Orion

American Queen Voyages’ Extends Wave Season Offering with Additional Savings Celebrating 10th Anniversary 

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New Lower Mississippi River American Queen® Sailings Added

Fort Lauderdale, FL – Jan. 27, 2022 – American Queen Voyages™,  part of Hornblower® Group, just announced the launch of their 10th Anniversary Savings Offer. The new promotion offers guests an additional 10% off already reduced Winter Savings Event pricing for select sailings booked by Feb. 28, 2022. Sailings dates in 2022 eligible include Memphis to St. Louis on the American Duchess™,  Detroit to Montréal on Ocean Navigator™  and Vancouver to Sitka on Ocean Victory ™ . The full list of eligible sailings is available here. 

“We have seen tremendous interest from guests ready to deeply discover America now, an AMERICA-tion™, less-complicated and without uncertainty, across our Rivers, Lakes & Oceans and Expedition experiences,” said Shawn Bierdz, chief operating officer, American Queen Voyages. “As we celebrate the 10th  Anniversary of American Queen Voyages, we wish to thank our loyal guests and those new to us with additional savings to travel in 2022.”  

In addition to newly announced savings, American Queen Voyages is also adding four Lower Mississippi River itineraries on the American Queen® to kick off the summer season. The nine-day itineraries will sail between Memphis and New Orleans with departures June 5, 12, 19 and 26, 2022. Ports of call include Cleveland (Terrene Landing), Vicksburg, Natchez, St. Francisville, Baton Rouge and Nottoway. Per guest fares begin at $2,599 when booked by Feb. 28, 2022. 

“Throughout our 10-year history Lower Mississippi River itineraries have attracted cruisers new to paddlewheelers to discover U.S. river cruising for the first time, ” said John Waggoner, founder and chairman, American Queen Voyages. “We look forward to rolling out these additional sailings and are confident they will fill quickly with such high demand.” 

For more information on American Queen Voyages’ Anniversary Savings Offer and Winter Savings Event, sailing dates, and to book a reservation, contact your travel professional or call 833-598-0119 or visit www.AQVoyages.com. 

My review of Viking Ocean Cruises’ Viking Orion