American Queen Holiday Cruises in the U.S.

All the fun of a European Christmas market. None of the crowds.

Unlike the large and crowded European markets, Southern Holiday Plantation Markets feature a cozier, more intimate and authentic experience. As the American Queen Steamboat Company riverboat navigates the Mississippi waters, guests will visit Nottoway Plantation, Louisiana; Natchez, Mississippi; and St. Francisville, Louisiana, where the festivities will be located. Each port features an opulent, Southern plantation, each unique in their own way.

The American Queen Steamboat Company, operator of the most opulent riverboats in the world, invites guests to enjoy the holiday season aboard the elegant American Queen and her sister ships the American Empress and the American Duchess. With itineraries along the Lower Mississippi River and its largest tributaries beginning in mid-November and lasting through the New Year, the American Duchess and American Queen offer one-of-a-kind tours through America's festive river ports.

Holiday sailings this season will again include the popular Christmas markets along the Lower Mississippi River as well as special onboard entertainment, strolling carolers in St. Francisville, Louisiana and departure serenades from the levees of Vicksburg and Natchez, Mississippi. This year guests will have the option of enjoying the autumn splendour along the Cumberland River with holiday voyages departing between Nashville and Chattanooga. In addition, for the second year in a row, American Empress cruises in the Pacific Northwest will be included in this offer, showcasing the stunning scenery along the shores of the Columbia River and visiting the heart of the Pacific Northwest wine country.

"Our holiday cruises offer a special opportunity for our guests to experience the magic of the season in some of the most storied riverports in America" said American Queen Steamboat Company President and COO Ted Sykes. "Our itineraries this year provide an excellent combination of exciting onboard entertainment and unique shore excursions that showcase the best of what our cruises have to offer."

Holiday Sailings on the American Queen, the American Duchess and the American Empress include these themed voyages:

Memphis to New Orleans Nov. 25 - Dec. 3, Dec. 9 - 17, , Dec. 23 - Dec. 31

Float through living history and soak in the romantic spirit of the Antebellum era on the Lower Mississippi. Guests will enjoy festive enrichment activities, delight in fabulous nightly entertainment and so much more. Picturesque natural backdrops provide the sights and sounds of Southern history.

New Orleans to Memphis Nov. 18 - 26, Dec. 2 - 10 , Dec. 16 - 24

Explore the jewels of the Lower Mississippi during a magical time of year and experience the best of old-world Southern opulence. Guests will be transported back in time as they visit the enchanting ports of Vicksburg and Natchez, Miss. while taking in the dramatic scenery of a region unspoiled by the passage of time.

Nashville to Chattanooga, Tenn. Nov. 18 - Nov. 26

Celebrate Thanksgiving on the Cumberland River and enjoy the beautiful autumn landscape from scenic river ports throughout the heart of the South. Guests will enjoy the unique history of the Tennessee Valley as they celebrate the holiday in style with themed entertainment, events and tours.

Chattanooga, Tenn., to Nashville Nov. 25 - Dec. 3

Visitors will explore the legacy of the Civil War from some of the most scenic ports of the Cumberland River. Guests will experience authentic Southern culture as they journey through living history and explore the legacy of the Civil War both onboard and in ports of call. Distinguished guest speakers will be onboard to captivate you with astounding Civil War presentations.

Nashville to Memphis Dec. 2 - Dec. 10

The sights and sounds of America's rivers sprang from a variety of musical genres. From Rhythm and Blues to Country and Rock, this voyage covers the early history of American music. Special onboard musical performances will enhance this journey through some of the most storied ports of the South.

Portland, Oregon Round Trip Nov. 16 - 20, Nov. 20 - 24

This voyage on the American Empress exposes guests to the beauty and bounty of nature as well as the history and heritage of the people who inhabited this region. Stunning scenery of the Cascade Range will highlight a journey that takes guests through the heart of wine country in the Pacific Northwest. This special trip introduces guests to some of the best wine to be found in Oregon and Washington.

New Orleans Round Trip, Dec. 16 - Dec. 24, Dec. 23 - Dec. 30, Dec. 30 - Jan. 3

These voyages offer guests the ability to experience authentic Southern culture in the Big Easy and along the charming ports of the Lower Mississippi. The special New Year's cruise will give travellers the opportunity to toast a glass at midnight after a memorable voyage back to New Orleans.

Offering the most inclusive river cruise experience in North America, holiday fares with American Queen Steamboat Company begin at $1,099 USD per guest. All 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. To order a brochure, request additional information or make reservations, kindly contact the American Queen Steamboat Company at 888-749-5280, visit http://www.AmericanQueenSteamboatCompany.com or call a professional travel agent.

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