US riverboats

[riverboater]

Hi, I'm hoping someone knows the fate of American Queen riverboat. I know it was purchased by American Cruise Line during the Hornblower bankruptcy proceedings along with American Duchess and American Countess. The last two are on Cruising Earth's decommissioned list, which I consider authoritative. The Queen is not and the information I have found on the internet is either old or inconsistent. I appreciate any information including pointing me towards reliable sources. Thanks and wishing storm free cruising for all.

 

[Greg]

We were under the impression that American Cruise Line (ACS) originally planned on restoring American Queen after buying out all 4 vessels from American Queen Voyages after its bankruptcy in Spring of 2024. In short time thereafter, the American Queen was deemed to be unprofitable with the money it would take to bring it back into service as a river cruise ship. At the age of 35 years now (built in 1995) most river ships are retired or retiring, not being rebuilt. ACS's next oldest ship is 10 years newer.

As a tax right off, in hopes to recoup some of its purchase cost, American Cruise Line has been offering the ship to municipalities along the Mississippi River and tributaries to the North in hopes that one may take it over as a floating venue, hotel, or casino. Whoever ends up with it, even if it is donated to them, will have a hefty bill to get the vessel back into shape for any operation.

American Cruise Lines is looking at a minimum of 10 new ship builds over the next 3 years. Their focus is on more modern vessels and unfortunately at this time the fate of the American Queen does not look good. We have neither seen nor heard of any new news or updates on the American Queen since last spring.

American Cruise Lines scraps two former American Queen Voyages vessels

Luxury riverboat cruise operator American Cruise Lines confirmed that it has scrapped the American Countess and American Duchess vessels, formerly owned by the now-defunct American Queen Voyages.

www.wpsdlocal6.com

Mayor: American Queen offered to Red Wing

Mayor Mike Wilson said he received an unusual question last week: Is Red Wing interested in owning a paddlewheeler that sleeps 400 people?

www.republicaneagle.com

 

[riverboater]

This YouTube link is conclusive:

As a friend said: "sinnin’ shame"

 

[kaatebryann]

This YouTube link is conclusive:

As a friend said: "sinnin’ shame"


We were under the impression that American Cruise Line (ACS) originally planned on restoring American Queen after buying out all 4 vessels from American Queen Voyages after its bankruptcy in Spring of 2024. In short time thereafter, the American Queen was deemed to be unprofitable with the money it would take to bring it back into service as a river cruise ship. At the age of 35 years now (built in 1995) most river ships are retired or retiring, not being rebuilt. ACS's next oldest ship is 10 years newer.

As a tax right off, in hopes to recoup some of its purchase cost, American Cruise Line has been offering the ship to municipalities along the Mississippi River and tributaries to the North in hopes that one may take it over as a floating venue, hotel, or casino. Whoever ends up with it, even if it is donated to them, will have a hefty bill to get the vessel back into shape for any operation.

American Cruise Lines is looking at a minimum of 10 new ship builds over the next 3 years. Their focus is on more modern vessels and unfortunately at this time the fate of the American Queen does not look good. We have neither seen nor heard of any new news or updates on the American Queen since last spring. This is a fairly common practice for older ships when it is not practical to restore them for full-fledged cruise service. Such ships can be refitted for use as unique floating platforms. Later, due to hotels and entertainment, the ship quickly pays for itself and brings in profit. I have only been on similar entertainment ships a couple of times, mainly I read about the best platforms on https://gamblizard.ca/best-canadian-online-casinos/casino-payment-options/paysafecard-casinos/ and play there. Of course, if there was an opportunity, I would spend my whole life on cruises, play there, visit cities, etc. I think it would be ideal.

I heard that such ships are often minimally restored and turned into hotels with casinos (as already mentioned).