American Queen Steamboat Company

American Queen Steamboat Company offers multinight cruises of the Mississippi River and its tributaries, as well as the Columbia and Snake rivers in Washington and Oregon. Passengers travel in paddle-wheel steamboats that resemble classic riverboats of the past yet provide all the comforts of contemporary cruising. Mississippi itineraries bring Mark Twain’s America to life, from the vibrant cities of St. Louis and St. Paul to the Southern charm of Natchez and St. Francisville. Pacific Northwest sailings showcase ruggedly beautiful scenery, Native American heritage and the stories of explorers Lewis and Clark.

The company’s three ships sport red paddle wheels, fluted smokestacks and lacy filigree along the decks. The atmosphere on board is casual. Meals feature regional specialties, and entertainment can range from piano sing-alongs and cabaret acts to performances of jazz, blues, and country music. An onboard “Riverlorian” shares the histories and legends of the waterways.

Themed voyages explore topics as varied as the Civil War, fall foliage and America’s music traditions. During port calls at riverfront cities and towns, hop-on/hop-off motorcoaches allow guests to explore at their own pace.