2019
SHORE EXCURSIONS ROUNDTRIP NEW ORLEANS December 30th Voyage
American Duchess
NOW ACCEPTING RESERVATIONS! www.reservemyexcursions.com or 1-888-966-0938
Table of
Contents Shore Excursions Information........................................... 4
Hop-On Hop-Off Information......................................... 6
Pre-Cruise Ports of call
New Orleans.......................................................... 9
Ports of call
Nottoway Plantation............................................. 16
St. Francisville....................................................... 22
Post-Cruise Ports of call
New Orleans........................................................ 27 Not all Ports of Call and American Select Premium Excursions are offered on every voyage. Be certain to check online for the most up-to-date information for your voyage.
Shore Excursions Department
Dear American Queen Steamboat Company Guest, Mankind has always been drawn to the river, not only for sustenance, but as a landmark. ‘Down by the river’ was not just a necessity, it was a way of life. And for us who decide to experience river travel, it still is. These parts unknown were so malleable that they transformed rapidly into cultures of their own, so different even from the ideals and origins of their settlers. Regional traditions, like those of the Cajuns, were formed and still continue strongly with their own food, history and way of life. The Scandinavian influence is still prevalent on the Upper Mississippi. Steel workers and coal miners still tell stories of loading their goods onto barges on the Ohio and Tennessee rivers. Travel in America is well within our comfort zones, but it is still a frontier with much to be experienced. It’s time not just to vacation, it’s time to experience. As a country, America is still so very new. We will not see medieval castles around every river bend. Instead of centuries old Gothic cathedrals, we will see 20th century white clapboard local parishes that are the center of communities. We may see the efforts of revitalization in a river city’s downtown as they struggle with the remnants of the 1950’s boom and the effect that suburbanization and shopping malls have had on their Main Streets. We will not hear many foreign languages, but rather dialects and accents of which we may not be familiar. We are not showing off a royal spectacle, we are immersed in real life. On board, please allow us to indulge and spoil you in what a vacation is all about. But as you dock onto shore, allow yourself to think differently and take in, even become part of, the communities we visit. We hope you chose to sail with us, not only to escape and vacate your everyday lives, but to appreciate seeing the country (the good, bad and challenged) from the perspective of the river and all there is to learn. Vacation is to escape. American river travel is to engage, educate and appreciate the diversity of this great country.
This is real. This is America.
Thank you,
James J Palmeri Vice President of Product Development American Queen Steamboat Company
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Shore Excursion Promise American Queen Steamboat Company prides itself on
the satisfaction of our guests. We constantly strive to surpass your expectations. We promise to always provide you with our best. If there is anything that did not meet your highest expectations, we will make it right! With all of the options and competition in today’s travel industry, it is human nature to search for the best value. We understand you worked hard in your profession and are appreciative that you spend your time with us. We vow to provide you with our best selection, for the best value, every time!
Pre-Booking
Premium Shore Excursions If you wish to book your premium excursions, please visit our website. www.r es erv em y exc u rs i o n s.c o m o r Ca ll 1-8 8 8-9 6 6-0 93 8
Pre-Booked reservations for Shore Excursions will be available until 11:00 AM EST, the Wednesday prior to embarkation.
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Shore Excursion Highlights About
I N C L U D E D E XC U RS I O N S . . . Of fered at most por ts Includes admission to select attractions Completely at your leisure Freedom to craft your own experience
About
P R E M I U M E XC U RS I O N S . . . Optional in-depth experiences Customized to appeal to dif ferent interests Culturally enhancing itineraries Capacity controlled Advanced reservations required
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HOW TO"HOP-ON HOP-OFF"
Kiosk is located on the Main Deck on the side by the Purser’s desks. Departure tickets can be printed each night, beginning at 5:00 PM.
#1
WA KE IT U P!
Tap anywhere on the screen to wake it up.
H OW M A NY? #3 Select number of
#2 W HAT TI M E?
Choose your desired departure time.
#4 PR I NT!
guests in your party by selecting + or -
Catch passes as they fall from below the screen.
M EET O UTSI D E!
To ensure your departure, arrive 15 minutes before your chosen departure time. Please gather by the River Coach near the dock! BOARD THE RIVER COACH
Hand your tickets to the Shore Excursion Specialist as you board the River Coach. EXPLO R E AT YO U R LEISU R E!
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“Hop-Off” wherever you wish - and “Hop-On” again whenever you feel ready! The River Coach will depart approximately every 15-30 minutes.
HOP-ON HOP-OFF MAPS Each evening, the Hop-On Hop-Off map for the following day will be placed in your stateroom during turn-down service. Use this helpful tool to get the most of your next day’s experience in port!
INCLUDED STOPS BUS ROUTE
FEATURED RESTAURANTS Front
TOWN HISTORY ATTRACTION INFORMATION
PREMIUM EXCURSIONS
Back For a live feed of buses and Hop-On Hop-Off Maps download the AQSC Maps app to your mobile device!
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PRE-CRUISE PORT OF CALL
New Orleans, Louisiana Pages 9 - 13
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For booking and information visit our website www.reservemyexcursions.com
Pre-Cruise Port of Call
New Orleans, Louisiana Home to a truly unique melting pot of culture, food, and music, New Orleans is one of America’s most culturally and historically-rich destinations. Head on over to the French Quarter to experience some street performers and the finest galleries in the city. If you’re looking for some history, be sure to visit Treme, the city’s oldest African-American neighborhood, with colorful creole cottages and shotgun homes. If you need a break from the hustle and bustle, New Orleans offers that too in their Lakeview neighborhood!
Docking Date December 30th
For booking and information visit our website www.reservemyexcursions.com
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AMERICAN SELECT PREMIUM PRE-CRUISE EXCURSION
Hidden History: World War II in New Orleans Today, we will visit the National WWII Museum, voted number one among all attractions in the city! Guests will be escorted inside, welcomed with an exclusive presentation illustrating the story of Andrew Higgins, the man said to have won the war with his boat manufacturing. Learn how Higgins’ “secret weapon” allowed for a surprise attack that made New Orleans stand out during the war. Guests are then free to explore the museum at their leisure. Experience the war through the eyes of those who fought and lived it.
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D epa rts : 1 0: 0 0 A M R et u r n s: 3:3 0 P M $ 6 9 p e r g u e st
HIGHLIGHTS A r r i v e at t h e n at i o n a l w w i i m u s e u m
Guests will be escorted inside, welcomed with an exclusive presentation illustrating the story of Andrew Higgins, the man said to have won the war with his boat manufacturing.
A n d r ew H i g g i n s P r es en tat i o n
Learn how Higgins’ “secret weapon” allowed for a surprise attack that made New Orleans stand out during the war.
Ex p lo r e t h e m u s eu m at yo u r le i s u r e Guests are then free to explore the museum at their leisure. Experience the war through the eyes of those who fought and lived it. This extraordinary perspective is portrayed through the museum’s interactive exhibits, personal memoirs, and over 100,000 artifacts.
V i e w t h e f i l m b eyo n d a ll b o u n da r i es
Guests will be guided to the Solomon Victory 4-D Theater, where the remarkable film, Beyond All Boundaries, about the war will be shown. Watch as breathtaking effects and computer generated images are paired with the powerful stories from the past, featuring narrations by executive producer Tom Hanks and guest readings from celebrities, such as Brad Pitt and Tobey Maguire!
T r eat yo u rs el f to a s n ac k o r s o u v e n i r Before we head back to the river coach, you may want to indulge yourself with snack or a treat at one of the museum’s exclusive dining areas, or pick up a final souvenir at the gift shop.
D epa rt fo r t h e A m er i ca n D u c h e ss We will make our way to the American Duchess for embarkation.
For booking and information visit our website www.reservemyexcursions.com
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“Such a humbling experience. What a great way to start our cruise “ - Scott AD, March 2019
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Enjoy your voyage on the American Duchess!
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PORTS OF CALL
Nottoway Plantation, Louisiana Pages 16 - 21
St. Francisville, Louisiana Pages 22 - 25
For booking and information visit our website www.reservemyexcursions.com
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Port of Call
Nottoway Plantation, Louisiana Enjoy an included tour of Nottoway Plantation, the South’s largest remaining antebellum mansion. This stunning historical plantation lies between Baton Rouge and New Orleans and offers a view of a truly grand plantation. The mansion flaunts three-floors, 64-bedrooms, and displays an incredible 22 white square columns which contribute to its nickname, the “White Castle of Louisiana.” Enjoy a guided walking tour of an American Castle as we explore within the pristine walls of Nottoway followed by a stroll through the lush grounds and gardens.
Docking Date December 31st
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For booking and information visit our website www.reservemyexcursions.com
I n c l u d e d N o t t o way P l a n tat i o n T o u r
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AMERICAN SELECT PREMIUM EXCURSION
Oak Alley Plantation Tour
Disembark the American Duchess and head through the southern Louisiana sugarcane fields to one of the south’s most prestigious and iconic plantations, Oak Alley. The breathtaking Greek-Revival home got its name from the most distinguishing feature, a quarter-mile walkway lined in 300-year-old live oak trees spanning from the levees of the Mississippi River to the entrance of the home.
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D epa rts : 1 2:0 0 P M R et u r n s: 3:3 0 P M $ 6 9 p e r g u e st
HIGHLIGHTS A r r i v e at Oa k A l l ey This breathtaking Greek-Revival home invites us in through its 300-year-old alley of live oak trees. There are 28 trees in total, one for each column of the Big House.
G u i d e d T o u r o f Oa k A l l e y Discovery the majesty of the home, as our guide leads us inside. Learn the history of Jacques and Celina Roman, the original plantation owners, whose rich and lavish lifestyle drastically changed over the years they resided in the mansion.
F r ee t i m e After our guided tour of the Big House, explore the reconstructed slave quarters to understand the lives of the workers whose labor made plantation life and its luxuries possible. Stroll the historic grounds and visit the gift shop for the perfect souvenir.
d e pa rt oa k A l l ey P l a n tat i o n Reboard the River Coach as we make our way back to the American Duchess.
For booking and information visit our website www.reservemyexcursions.com
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AMERICAN SELECT PREMIUM EXCURSION
Life in the Bayou: Cajun Swamp Tour
Enjoy a true Cajun experience on an unforgettable journey into the 250-acre ecosphere called Manchac Swamp. As our knowledgeable Cajun captain guides us through the backwaters of southern Louisiana, we will learn about the Louisiana Wetlands, the inhabitants of the area, as well as the unique history of the Cajun town of Frenier within the Manchac Swamp. Enjoy the picturesque sights of moss-draped cypress trees, lush vegetation, and abundant wildlife on this exciting exploration in one of America’s most unique ecosystems.
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D epa rts : 1 2:4 5 P M R et u r n s: 4:3 0 P M $ 7 9 p er g u e st
HIGHLIGHTS A r r i v e at Ca j u n P r i d e Swa m p T o u rs
We will board a personal pontoon swamp boat with a Cajun captain to explore the Manchac swamp and view its wildlife!
To u r t h e M a n c h a c Swa m p As your boat drifts through the waterways, you will learn about the Louisiana Wetlands, the inhabitants of the swamp, particularly the life and habits of the American Alligator, as well as the unique history of the Cajun town of Frenier within the Manchac Swamp.
S e e w i ld li fe! Swamp creatures, seeing our boats daily, recognize them as part of their normal environment. Unafraid and responsive to their boat captain’s call, they peak out from underbrush and between moss-draped trees and shrubs, frequently coming directly to the boat. In the safety and comfort of the boat, you can actually come within a few feet of alligators.
Fr ee T i m e
After our swamp tour you will have free time on your own to visit the gift shop and take home something uniquely Cajun!
d epa rt Caj u n P r i d e Swa m p T o u rs Reboard the River Coach as we make our way back to the American Duchess. *While Louisiana’s Manchac Swamp is uniquely beautiful year-round, it is possible that alligators and other native wildlife may not be as active throughout the colder months. Please take this into consideration while booking this tour on dates from October through March.
For booking and information visit our website www.reservemyexcursions.com
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Port of Call
St. Francisville, Louisiana It is no secret that the South is known for their food, with some areas specializing in Cajun, others in Creole, and some just plain fried and glorious. However, St. Francisville has a style of its own. Because of the rich history and culture within this river town, the food reflects notes of many different regions’ traditional cuisines but with a completely original spin. Many meals have hints of Creole, Cajun, Italian, German, Spanish, Native American, and African qualities.
Docking Date January 2nd
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For booking and information visit our website www.reservemyexcursions.com
I n c lu d ed St. Fr a n c i sv i lle Hop-On Hop-Off Old Market Hall The structure was built in 1819 and has a beautiful open layout. Now, the building is used as a market center for the towns’ local artisans and craftsmen to showcase their products and host their small businesses. Every day is different, you may see anything from jewelry and makeup, scarves and dresses, or snacks and produce! Suggested Visit: 30 - 45 Minutes
Roya l S t r eet Take a stroll down historic Royal Street at any of the shops or just to admire the beautiful trees and homes. Or stop into Grandmother’s Buttons – a unique boutique that offers jewelry made of 100-year-old buttons. Inside the store, you can visit the button museum to learn the history of the business and the inspirations of the art. The store is located inside of a former historic bank lobby with 16-foot ceilings and a bank vault. Even if jewelry is not in your plans, the architecture is beautiful! Suggested Visit: 30 - 45 Minutes
W est Feli c i a n a H i s to r i ca l S o c i e t y M u s e u m This museum is dedicated to the history, people, and architectures of West Feliciana Parish. Inside a former hardware store, built in 1896, the Historical Society Museum displays many artifacts, photos, costumes, and articles all portraying the history of St. Francisville. Just across the street, you can stop in one of the fine boutiques and shops! Suggested Visit: 30 Minutes - 1 Hour
G r ac e E p i s c o pa l C h u r c h Built in 1860 and rebuilt in 1893 after the Union caused heavy damage in 1863, Grace Episcopal Church stands tall in St. Francisville. Enjoy a selfguided tour of the church and the grounds and make sure to check out the organ located inside – it dates all the way back to 1860! The church is one of the state’s oldest Protestant churches that still stands today. Suggested Visit: 15 - 30 Minutes
Complete round trip Time: 45 Minutes For booking and information visit our website www.reservemyexcursions.com
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AMERICAN SELECT PREMIUM EXCURSION
Redemption and Rehabilitation at Angola Prison
Join us for an exclusive look inside the gates of one of America’s most infamous prisons as we embark on a tour of second chances, rehabilitation and redemption. Experience the struggles of life-term inmates inside Angola Prison, formerly America’s most dangerous penitentiary. We’ll take you inside the barbed-wire fences for an up-close look that may change what you thought you knew about life inside.
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D epa rts : 8: 0 0 A M R et u r n s: 1 2: 0 0 P M $ 7 9 p er g u e st
HIGHLIGHTS A r r i v e at A n g o l a M a x i m u m s e c u r i t y P e n i t e n t i a ry Prepare to explore this maximum-security prison, focused on spiritual reform. This truly eye-opening and enlightening experience is sure to leave an impact!
To u r A d e at h r ow c el l b l o c k Step off the River Coach for an exclusive tour of Angola’s first and most famous cell block, the Red Hat Cell Block. Listed on the National Registry of Historic Places, the penitentiary’s first cell block was home to the escape artist Charlie Frazer and was the site of eleven executions by electric chair. Hear stories of the prison’s dark past before its unbelievable transformation.
Ex p lo r e t h e fa r m l a n d s As we ride through the facility, see the crop fields, which are prisoner maintained and are harvested to feed the inmates.
I n D ept h C o n v ersat i o n w i t h p r i s o n i n m at e
Arrive at the penitentiary’s largest chapel where you will have a once-in-alifetime opportunity to hear enlightening stories from current inmates. Learn about their journey and transformation into the inspirational and well-rounded people they are today.
Fr ee t i m e i n A n g o l a M u s e u m After the inmate presentation enjoy some free time on your own in the museum or gift shop!
d epa rt A n g o l a M u s eu m Reboard the River Coach as we make our way back to the American Duchess.
For booking and information visit our website www.reservemyexcursions.com
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POST-CRUISE PORT OF CALL
New Orleans, Louisiana Pages 27 - 31
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For booking and information visit our website www.reservemyexcursions.com
Post-Cruise Port of Call
New Orleans, Louisiana Home to a truly unique melting pot of culture, food and music, New Orleans is one of America’s most culturally and historically-rich destinations. Head on over to the French Quarter to experience some street performers and the finest galleries in the city. If you’re looking for some history, be sure to visit Treme, the city’s oldest African-American neighborhood, with colorful creole cottages and shotgun homes. If you need a break from the hustle and bustle, New Orleans offers that too in their Lakeview neighborhood!
Docking Date January 3rd
For booking and information visit our website www.reservemyexcursions.com
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AMERICAN SELECT PREMIUM POST-CRUISE EXCURSION
Post-Cruise New Orleans Highlights Tour
Embark on an adventure through a city radiating an eccentric and authentic atmosphere. On an exclusive New Orleans narrated driving tour, experience a city filled to the brim with history and culture from an intimate, first-person perspective. Relax in the comfort of our River Coach as we glide past some of the most iconic attractions in the city. Enjoy a stop to St. Louis Cemetery #3 before heading to City Park, where historic oaks and picturesque moss canopies are found throughout.
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D epa rts : 8: 3 0 A M R et u r n s: 1 2: 3 0 P M $ 7 9 p er g u e st
HIGHLIGHTS N a r r at e d j o u r n e y t h r o u g h t h e " B i g E a sy "
Including key sights throughout the city such as the French Quarter, Jackson Square, and the Garden District.
A r r i v e at S t . L o u i s C e m e t e ry # 3
After your guided tour of the “Big Easy,” take in the scenery that surrounds you at St. Louis Cemetery #3.
G u i d e d t o u r o f S t . L o u i s C e m e t e ry # 3 Known as the “City of the Dead,” enjoy a guided walk-through of the cemetery where you will learn about these peaceful above-ground burial places.
A r r i v e at C i t y Pa r k
From St. Louis Cemetery #3, you will arrive at the beautiful City Park, one of the nation’s oldest urban parks.
A r r i v e at L a k e P o n t c h a r t r a i n
Enjoy the views of stunning, historical Lake Pontchartrain which provides the essential habitat for countless species of fish, birds, mammals, reptiles, and plants.
D e pa r t f o r t h e A i r p o r t & P o s t - C r u i s e H o t e l
We will make our way to the New Orleans International Airport and the American Duchess Post-Cruise Hotel.
For booking and information visit our website www.reservemyexcursions.com
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“Great tour for an overall view of New Orleans, we got to see so much of the city “ - Bernedette AD, May 2018
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Uniquely American River Cruises
For information or to book your Shore Excursions, please call 1-888-966-0938 or visit www.ReserveMyExcursions.com (For an instant confirmation)
Reservation Agents are available Monday - Friday from 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM EST Disclaimer American DuchessÂŽ included shore excursions are available to all American Duchess guests and are capacity controlled and subject to availability. All included and premium shore excursions are subject to availability and may not be available at time of booking. All tours are subject to maximum and minimum capacities and tours may be canceled in the event that minimum capacities are not met. Total passenger counts for each tour are required for logistical reasons. Cancellations within 48 hours of tour departure are not refundable. Tour departure times, inclusions, prices and activity level are subject to change; please reference your ticket, the departure kiosk and the daily TV presentation for more information on your specific tour. In most cases, tours will operate in all weather conditions and refunds will not be offered for inclement weather. During local and national holidays or weekends some attractions and facilities may be operating under modified hours of operations or may not be open to the public. In such instances, American Duchess shore excursions will make every effort to minimize negative impact on guests and will offer an alternative when applicable or if available. Early pre-booking is strongly encouraged. Tours are generally available 6 months prior to cruise departure and not all premium excursions are available for pre-booking online. Check with your Shore Excursion Specialist when onboard for any additional tours or changes to pre-booked tours. American Duchess shore excursions has made every effort to notify guests with mobility issues of handicapped accessibility at the stops and attractions along the Hop-on Hop-off route as well as premium excursions. Because of the historic and general nature of some of the attractions, handicapped accessibility may be limited to the first floor or outside grounds only. In some instances there is no handicapped accessibility to the attractions. Complete or partial refunds will not be issued for portions of tours or attractions with accessibility limitations. Post-Cruise tours may include more than one final destination. In some instances guests will experience up to three stops to allow guests to exit the River Coaches at a second hotel or airport. By participating in Shore Excursions of any kind (Included or Premium), you grant Shore Excursions of America (SEA) and American Queen Steamboat Company (AQSC), and all its agents and employees the irrevocable and unrestricted right to reproduce photographs and/or video images taken of you, or members of your family, for the purpose of publication, promotion, illustration, or trade, in any manner or in any medium. You therefore release Shore Excursions of America and American Queen Steamboat Company and its legal representatives for all claims and liability relating to said images or video. Furthermore, you grant permission to use your statements that were given during an interview or guest lecture, with or without your name, for the purpose of advertising and publicity without restriction.You waive your right to any compensation.
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