2019
SHORE EXCURSIONS ROUNDTRIP VANCOUVER November 25th Voyage
American Empress
NOW ACCEPTING RESERVATIONS! www.reservemyexcursions.com or 1-888-966-0938
Table of Contents Shore Excursions Information........................................ 5
Hop-On Hop-Off Information..................................... 6
Pre-Cruise Ports of call
Vancouver........................................................... 9
Ports of call
Stevenson........................................................... 16
The Dalles........................................................... 20
Astoria..................................................................26
Post-Cruise Ports of call
Vancouver......................................................... 31
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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
Vancouver, Washington Page 9 - 13
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For booking and information visit our website: www.reservemyexcursions.com
Included Excursion
Vancouver, Washington Nestled between the Pacific Ocean and the Cascade Mountains, on the north bank of the Columbia River, Vancouver, Washington is as naturally beautiful as it is diverse. For thousands of years, the Vancouver area was home to native people who flourished on the bounty of forest and river. Vancouver has a colorful history which includes Fort Vancouver. Created in 1825 as the headquarters for the Hudson’s Bay Company’s interior fur trade, the fort was the largest non-indigenous settlement in the Pacific Northwest.
Docking Dates November 25th
For booking and information visit our website: www.reservemyexcursions.com
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Pre-Cruise AMERICAN SELECT PREMIUM EXCURSION
Pre-Cruise: Portland “The Rose City” Tour
Explore Portland, Oregon on this narrated journey through the “City of Roses.” Find some inspiration at the tranquil Lan Su Chinese Botanical Garden before continuing through downtown. At the Oregon History Mural, stand in awe at the hyperrealistic mural depicting some of the most influential moments in the state’s history. Then at the International Rose Test Gardens, see the collection of over 10,000 roses in all shapes, sizes, and colors. Stroll the grounds and enjoy a doughnut from the iconic Voodoo Doughnut, located in Portland.
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D epa rts : 1 2:3 0 P M R et u r n s: 4:0 0 P M $ 7 9 p er g u e st
HIGHLIGHTS Ex p lo r e La n S u C h i n es e B o ta n i ca l G a r d e n Enjoy the scenic views of this beautiful town, lined with expansive decorative murals and flowers before arriving at the Lan Su Chinese Botanical Garden. This peaceful garden is a treasured site to many Portland visitors. Feel a sense of inspiration as you explore the 2,000-yearold art traditions, architecture, designs, and nature all in absolute harmony.
Po rt la n d H a as M u r a l St o p After exploring the Lan Su Chinese Botanical Garden, we will discover the vibrancy of Portland as we explore the uniquely sculpted walls at the Haas Mural.
A r r i v e at I n t er n at i o n a l R o s e T e st G a r d e n s Our next stop is the International Rose Test Garden, where you will experience the oldest official and continuously operating public rose test garden in the United States.
To u r Ro s e T es t Ga r d en s Stroll the 10,000 rose bushes which represent more than 650 rose varieties. Here, in the warmer months, over ten thousand blooms create a colorful frame for a panoramic view of Portland.
D e pa rt f o r t h e A m er i ca n e m p r e ss
We will make our way to the American Empress for embarkation.
For booking and information visit our website: www.reservemyexcursions.com
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“The rose garden and Lan Su were absolutely stunning “ - Carol AE May 2017
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Your voyage on the American Empress
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PORTS OF CALL
Stevenson, Washington Pages 16 - 19
The Dalles, Oregon Pages 20 - 23
River Cruising Pages 24 - 25
Astoria, Oregon Pages 26 - 29
For booking and information visit our website: www.reservemyexcursions.com
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Port of Call
Stevenson, Washington On the banks of the scenic Columbia River, the port of Stevenson is in the heart of the Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area. It is also the eastern entrance to Mount St. Helens or the spectacular Lewis River Valley. A stroll along the Rock Cove pathway or the Columbia River waterfront is a great way to take in surroundings. Downtown Stevenson is home to unique shops, art galleries, and restaurants. This quaint town has something for everyone!
Docking Dates November 26th
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For booking and information visit our website: www.reservemyexcursions.com
Included Stevenson Hop-On Hop-Off C o lu m b i a G o r g e I n t er p r e t i v e C e n t e r
This highly interactive museum is a favorite for many along the river. Enjoy a day of discovering the many unique exhibits and artifacts that fill the museum. The mission of the Columbia Gorge Interpretive Center Museum is to share the story of Skamania County and the Columbia River Gorge. Make sure to visit “First People,” an exhibit focusing on the history of native people of this area – the cascade chinook. Then stop over at the “Grand Gallery” which is the largest gallery in the museum. Suggested Visit: 45 Minutes - 1.5 Hours
Bonneville Dam The Bonneville Dam is located 40 miles east of Portland, Oregon. It received its name from Captain Benjamin Bonneville – a soldier, trader, and explorer. It consists of a navigation lock (raises and lowers river traffic 60 feet), Powerhouse 1 (completed in 1938), a spillway (moves excess water and provides for downstream migration of young fish), fish ladders (for upstream migrating adult fish), and Powerhouse 2 (completed in 1983). Bonneville Dam can produce 1,227,000 kilowatts of electricity when needed, and moves over 10 million tons of cargo through its lock annually. Suggested Visit: 45 Minutes - 1 Hour
Please note: Bonneville Dam’s regulations state that bags of any kind larger than 12” x 8” x 4“ will not be permitted inside Bonneville Dam. Unfortunately, there won’t be any storage spaces available for bags exceeding these dimensions.
Downtown Stevenson Make a stop in Downtown Stevenson, where you can get a slice of what Stevenson is all about. Enjoy the many antique shops, historic buildings with vintage interiors, and beautiful, abundant gardens. Visit the boutiques and shops, restaurants, cafes, and convenience stores to treat yourself to a souvenir or a taste of the fine cuisine before heading to your next stop! Suggested Visit: 30 Minutes - 1 Hour
C o m p l e t e r o u n d t r i p T i m e: 4 5 M i n u t es For booking and information visit our website: www.reservemyexcursions.com
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AMERICAN SELECT PREMIUM EXCURSION
Multnomah Falls and Vista House: Including the Old Scenic Highway
As we travel down the famous Old Scenic Highway stretching itself across some of America’s most beautiful landscapes, excite in the stunning views of the Pacific Northwest. Travel the “King of Roads” and capture a photo of Crown Point, one of the most photographed views of the region. Explore the Vista House, which sits over 700 feet above the Columbia River before arriving at Oregon’s tallest and most mighty waterfall, Multnomah Falls. Plummeting 611-feet, this powerful beauty is the perfect conclusion to the day.
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D epa rts: 8:3 0 A M R et u r n s : 1 2:0 0 P M $ 6 9 p er g u est
H I G H LI G H T S A r r i v e at M u lt n o m a h Fa lls Begin your journey with this roaring 611-foot natural wonder, as it demonstrates the power and beauty of nature in her rawest form.
Ex p lo r e M u lt n o m a h fa l ls
Watch in awe as this mighty waterfall crashes down on the rocky cliffs below, spraying a peaceful mist on all those surrounding. Then head on over to the Multnomah Falls gift shop to purchase a souvenir for you or a loved one.
Sto p at V i s ta H o u s e At the height of the bluff sits Vista House, perched above the Columbia River. Vista House offers a panoramic view of the breathtaking Columbia River more than 700 feet below.
O l d S c e n i c h i g h way D r i v e We’ll then continue on the Old Scenic Highway, to get a picture-perfect view of more waterfalls as they spring from the bluffs along the picturesque roadway and offer rare glimpses of these geological wonders.
d e pa rt f o r t h e em p r es s Re-board the River Coach as we make our way back to the
American Empress.
For booking and information visit our website: www.reservemyexcursions.com
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Port of Call
The Dalles, Oregon At the end of the overland Oregon Trail, The Dalles holds a unique place in history as a jumping-off spot for pioneers, soldiers, gold miners, gunslingers, floozies, and scallywags. Oregon Trail pioneers ended their overland journey at The Dalles, forced to build rafts and take the “river road” west to Fort Vancouver, then into the Willamette River Valley. The town was located at the foot of a series of dangerous rapids which the Hudson’s Bay Company fur traders called “The Dalles of the Columbia.”
Docking Dates November 27th
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For booking and information visit our website: www.reservemyexcursions.com
Included The Dalles Hop-On Hop-Off C o l u m b i a G o r g e D i s c o v e ry C e n t e r / M u s e u m The Discovery Center is located in a beautiful and unique ecosystem native to the area. Exhibits focus on the volcanic upheaval and raging floods that shaped the gorge, the unique region, and 11,000 years of cultural history. In addition to touring the many fascinating exhibits, visitors can view the museum’s Raptor Program or take the pond walk and view native plants. Suggested Visit: 45 Minutes - 1 Hour
o r i g i n a l c o u rt h o u s e m u s e u m In 1854, The Dalles was designated by the Territorial Legislature as the county seat of one of the largest counties ever formed in the United States. This small courthouse was used as a public meeting place, church services, as well as the seat of law for the county. It is the oldest courthouse west of the Mississippi River. Suggested Visit: 30 Minutes - 1 Hour
F o rt D a lles M u s eu m
The Fort Dalles Museum opened in 1905, making it one of Oregon’s oldest history museums. Take a tour of the unique collection of pioneer and military artifacts and enjoy the historic collection of over 30 antique wheeled vehicles. Explore the Anderson Homestead, including the pioneer house, granary, and barn. Suggested Visit: 30 - 45 Minutes
C i ty H a ll a n d Fi r e M u s e u m This quaint museum offers a collection that’s packed with fascinating tidbits about the area’s fire fighting history. There are two preserved fire engines, an original fire pole from the old fire house, and a collection of photographs that show the firefighters who served in the early 1900s. Suggested Visit: 15 - 30 Minutes
G r a n a d a T h eat r e
The Granada Theatre was built in the rare Moorish Art Deco architectural style, the color of the desert sands, an ‘oasis’ for gathering and entertainment, opened in 1929 with tremendous state-wide fanfare. The Granada was the first theatre west of the Mississippi designed and built to present the ‘talkies’ movies! Suggested Visit: 15 - 30 Minutes
N at i o n a l N eo n S i g n M u s e u m Brand new in The Dalles, the National Neon Sign Museum is a walk through the evolution of light, from the earliest of light bulb signs to the introduction of neon to the United States. The museum provides a dynamic and entertaining environment that promotes the unique role of advertising and signage in American history. Suggested Visit: 30 - 45 Minutes
C o m p l e t e r o u n d t r i p T i m e: 4 5 M i n u t es For booking and information visit our website: www.reservemyexcursions.com
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AMERICAN SELECT PREMIUM EXCURSION
Vintage America: Classic Planes, Automobiles, Antiques and More!
Today’s tour takes guests back in time‌Time when flight was a novelty rather than a daily mode of transportation, when power steering was almost a century away. We will take you on an exclusive tour to the Western Antique Aeroplane and Automobile Museum. Enjoy a guided tour of this facility offering an extensive collection of over 130 antique cars, motorcycles, and hangers full of meticulously restored airplanes from as far back as 1917. After taking a step back in time you will have the opportunity to do some shopping in the downtown Hood River area!
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D epa rts: 1: 0 0 P M R et u r n s : 4: 3 0 P M $ 6 9 p er g u est
H I G H LI G H T S A r r i v e at T h e WA A A M Enjoy a guided tour of this facility offering an extensive collection of over 130 antique cars and hangers full of meticulously restored aeroplanes from as far back as 1917.
To u r t h e r es to r at i o n w o r ks h o p
Available exclusively to American Empress guests, enjoy an included tour of the restoration work shop where these antique modes of transportation are brought back to life. Take the opportunity to ride around the property in an authentic Model T!
H o o d R i v e r S h o p p i n g O p p o rt u n i t y Depart the WAAAM and head to the downtown Hood River to take advantage of the many boutique shops!
d epa rt T h e H o o d R i v er Reboard the River Coach as we make our way back to the
American Empress.
p r i vat e p la n e r i d e e n h a n c e m e n t pac k a g e
$ 2 9 9 p e r g u est Enjoy the full tour of the Western Antique Aeroplane and Automobile Museum with an added twist—a private ride in a Cessna aircraft over Mt. Hood and the American Empress!
For booking and information visit our website: www.reservemyexcursions.com
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River Cruising on the Columbia
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River Cruising on the Columbia Take advantage of this relaxing day along the Columbia by exploring the beautiful American Empress. Be certain to take in the scenery or enjoy the activities available onboard. Stop by the Shore Excursions Desk at your leisure, where our knowledgeable Shore Excursions Specialist will be able to help you plan the remainder of your vacation by laying out the available Premium Excursions, making recommendations for stops during the Included Excursions, and further explaining the disembarkation process. And if you have no questions, you can always just stop by to say hello!
River Cruising Dates November 28th
For booking and information visit our website: www.reservemyexcursions.com
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Port of Call
Astoria, Oregon In 1811, the Pacific Fur Trading Company settled in Astoria, making it the oldest American settlement west of the Rocky Mountains. For thousands of years, Clatsop Indians inhabited the lands that are now known as Astoria. In 1805, Lewis and Clark led their expedition through the area, spending the winter at Fort Clatsop. There is no doubting the rich history and deep roots grounded in this Columbia River town. When the history combines with the town’s scenery, an incredible harmony is created.
Docking Dates November 29th
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For booking and information visit our website: www.reservemyexcursions.com
I n c lu d ed ASTO R I A H o p-O n H o p-O ff R i v e rwa lk A six-mile paved walkway overlooking the beautiful Columbia River, the Riverwalk offers remarkable views, statues, shops, cafes, docks, and historic canneries dotting the path. Guests, who wish to, can choose to board the riverfront trolley that runs along the banks for an extra fee. Suggested Visit: 1 - 2 Hours
Flav e l H o u s e & C a r r i a g e H o u s e As one of the best preserved examples of Queen Anne architecture in the Northwest, the Flavel House survives today as a landmark of local and national significance. The house was built as a retirement home in 1885 for Columbia River bar pilot, Captain George Flavel, and his family. The Flavel House has been restored and furnished to portray the elegance of the Victorian period and the history of the Flavel family. Suggested Visit: 30 Minutes - 1 Hour
As to r i a C o l u m n This magnificent monument stands 600 feet above sea level and gives the perfect view to Young’s Bay, the Coast Range, the Columbia River, and in the distance, even the Pacific Ocean. Ralph Budd initiated the project to celebrate Astoria’s early settlers. Suggested Visit: 15 - 30 Minutes
H e r i ta g e M u s e u m Astoria’s Old City Hall building, a neoclassical structure designed by prominent Portland architect Emil Schacht in 1904, the Heritage Museum is home to the Historical Society’s collection and archive. Clatsop County’s rich and exciting history is featured in the museum’s permanent and changing exhibit galleries. Suggested Visit: 30 Minutes - 1 Hour
D o w n t ow n S h o p p i n g Enjoy a shopping opportunity down one of Astoria’s main streets in Downtown. Pay a visit to some of the many boutique shops or local eateries. Suggested Visit: 30 Minutes - 1 Hour
C o m p l e t e r o u n d t r i p T i m e: 4 5 M i n u t es For booking and information visit our website: www.reservemyexcursions.com
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AMERICAN SELECT PREMIUM EXCURSION
The Lewis and Clark Experience
Trace the journeys of Lewis and Clark as we begin the day traveling to Middle Village - Station Camp, the location that Lewis and Clark and the Corps of Discovery camped for ten days in November of 1805. Then watch as the powerful waves of the Pacific crash into the bluffs below and take in breathtaking views of the Columbia River at Cape Disappointment, the location Lewis and Clark concluded their two year exploration. Next, at Fort Clatsop, you can become an explorer as well – discover extensive exhibits and replicas outlining the journeys of this famous duo.
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D epa rts: 1 2: 3 0 P M R et u r n s : 4: 3 0 P M $ 7 9 p e r g u est
H I G H LI G H T S B r i ef st o p at M i d d l e v i l l ag e - Stat i o n Ca m p Retrace history at Middle Village - Station Camp, where the Corps of Discovery spent 10 days in November of 1805 on their journey to the Pacific Ocean.
Ca p e D i sa p po i n t m en t & t h e Le w i s A n d C la r k I n t er p r et i v e C en t er Discover the next stages of the Lewis and Clark Expedition as we set off for Cape Disappointment overlooking the confluence of the Columbia River and the Pacific Ocean. Explore the Interpretative Center’s extensive and thorough timeline that documents the entire journey of these intrepid frontiersmen. Experience the beauty and power of the Pacific Ocean from the enclosed overlook as the waves crash along the banks below. In addition to being home to the Lewis and Clark Interpretive Center, these rocky banks were also the set of The Guardian, a 2006 Coast Guard blockbuster starring acclaimed actor Kevin Costner.
E x p lo r e F o rt C l ats o p Enjoy exhibits in the interpretive center, exhibit hall, book store and gift shop, view films outlining the historic journey and explore a replica of the forts built by the Corps of Discovery in their attempts to maintain shelter during the harsh winters.
d e pa rt F o rt C l ats o p Re-board the River Coach as we make our way back to the
American Empress.
For booking and information visit our website: www.reservemyexcursions.com
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POST- CRUISE PORT OF CALL
Vancouver, Washington Pages 31
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For booking and information visit our website: www.reservemyexcursions.com
Port of Call
Vancouver, Washington Nestled between the Pacific Ocean and the Cascade Mountains, on the north bank of the Columbia River, Vancouver, Washington is as naturally beautiful as it is diverse. For thousands of years, the Vancouver area was home to native people who flourished on the bounty of forest and river. Vancouver has a colorful history which includes Fort Vancouver. Created in 1825 as the headquarters for the Hudson’s Bay Company’s interior fur trade, the fort was the largest non-indigenous settlement in the Pacific Northwest.
Docking Dates November 30th
For booking and information visit our website: www.reservemyexcursions.com
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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 EmpressÂŽ included shore excursions are available to all American Empress 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 Empress 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 Empress 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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