American Duchess Bookings are Off to the Races

American Queen Steamboat Company, operator of the world’s most opulent riverboats, continues to see unprecedented demand for its U.S. river cruises aboard the American Queen, American Empress, and new American Duchess, debuting later this summer. The all-suite American Duchess, scheduled to be christened on Aug. 14, 2017 in New Orleans, recently sold out her 2018 Kentucky Derby Cruise within 24- hours of going on sale. Very limited space remains on the inaugural season of the American Duchess, the only purpose-built boutique paddlewheeler, designed for sailing America’s heartland.

“Reviewing the Kentucky Derby Cruise itinerary our team created, we knew this would be one of the most popular 2018 American Duchess sailings and suites would fill up quickly,” shares American Queen Steamboat Company President & COO Ted Sykes. “Selling out the cruise in less than 24-hours completely exceeded our expectations. It is yet another example of the continual demand for U.S. river cruising.”

Beginning April 29, 2018, the Kentucky Derby Cruise celebrates the “greatest two minutes in sports” with an exciting, themed cruise full of Derby festivities. Guests aboard the American Duchess will discover an abundance of time-honored traditions and wonderful new surprises at enchanting port towns. Stops in Madison, IN, Louisville, KY, Brandenburg, KY, Owensboro, KY, and Cincinnati, OH, will offer exclusive premium shore excursions including a pre-cruise private tour of Churchill Downs and a tour of Maker’s Mark Distillery. The option of a premium Kentucky Derby Day Ticket Package will offer the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to experience the thrilling final stretch of the Kentucky Derby from the famous Churchill Downs Grandstand.

The American Duchess will feature a generous space ratio showcased by three 550 sq. ft. Owner’s Suites, four 550 sq. ft. Loft Suites (a U.S. riverboat first), two 450 sq. ft. Deluxe Suites, spacious Veranda Suites and sliding glass doors to private balconies; in addition to substantial Interior Suites. The new vessel will deliver the highest standards of service, entertainment and shore excursions that customers have come to expect from the cruise line, along with enhanced pre-cruise hotel nights at iconic boutique properties. Open-seating dining will be available in two venues, The Grand Dining Room and The River Club & Terrace, showcasing regionally inspired, epicurean cuisine tailored from the finest local ingredients.

Offering the most inclusive river cruise experience in North America, all 9-day journeys include a one-night pre-voyage hotel stay, shore tours in all ports, complimentary wine and beer with dinner, and a host of other amenities. For additional information, to order a brochure, or make reservations, visit online at AQSC.com.

Image Courtesy American Queen Steamboat Company