American Queen Voyages Hones Focus on River, Puts Two Ocean Ships Up for Sale

In a move to better define its core product, American Queen Voyages has announced a series of deployment changes to its 2024 and 2025 itineraries. As part of the changes, the line will not return to the Great Lakes next year and will be putting its Ocean Navigator and Ocean Voyager vessels up for sale.

All current published voyages will continue to operate as planned through November 2023.

“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.”

Revised 2024 itineraries include:

Lower Mississippi: AQV will begin the season with its popular Lower Mississippi voyages through the cities and port towns of the South on the 417-guest American Queen. Based on guest request, itineraries will include new three- and four-day cruise options.

Upper Mississippi: Back by popular demand will be an epic 16-day journey from the headwaters of the Mississippi in Minnesota all the way to the Gulf of Mexico.

America’s Heartland: The 245-guest American Countess will cruise the Ohio, Tennessee, and Cumberland Rivers, with new Experiential Voyage options like a bourbon-themed cruise with noted food and spirits experts.

Snake & Columbia Rivers: Guests can explore the Pacific Northwest aboard the 221-guest American Empress. New offerings include a wine-themed itinerary.

Alaska & British Columbia: The only non-river region that AQV plans to return to, the cruise line will sail in Alaska for its third season onboard the 186-guest Ocean Victory.