The American Queen Steamboat Company recently announced its second vessel, the American Empress, will make Vancouver, Wash. her home port. Additionally, the company’s Pacific Northwest office will be headquartered in the southwest Washington city of Vancouver.
The 223-guest boat, the largest riverboat west of the Mississippi, will officially join the American Queen on April 5, 2014. “We are delighted to welcome the American Empress to Vancouver U.S.A. and our unique Northwest paradise on the banks of the mighty Columbia River,” shares Vancouver U.S.A.’s Rosemary Arruda Cooke, director of sales and destination services. “The style and service for which the American Queen Steamboat Company is known comes as a welcome addition to the region and we are thrilled for her to call our community home.”
The maiden voyage will be a nine-day journey where guests can enjoy the Columbia and Snake Rivers with stops including Astoria, Ore.; Stevenson, Wash.; The Dalles, Ore.; Sacajawea State Park, Wash.; and Clarkston, Wash. Daily lectures will be provided by the Riverlorian, a history and culture expert onboard and a variety of Premium Experience Excursions are available, such as the Walla Walla Wine Trail and a journey to the volcanic crater of Mount St. Helens.
