2018
SHORE EXCURSIONS ROUNDTRIP VANCOUVER November 28th - December 2nd
American Empress
NOW ACCEPTING RESERVATIONS! www.reservemyexcursions.com or 1-888-966-0938
Table of
Contents Shore Excursions Highlights................................... 6
Hop-on Hop-off Information................................... 8
Ports of call
Astoria...................................................................... 12
Portland................................................................... 16
The Dalles .............................................................. 20
Post-Cruise Port of call
Vancouver............................................................ 27
Be certain to check online at www.reservemyexcursions.com for the most up-to-date information for your voyage.
Setting
Expectations 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 their on 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 Palmeri Vice President of Product Development American Queen Steamboat Company
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Shore Excursion Promise
HIGHEST QUALIT Y & B E S T VA L U E P R O M I S E
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 age, 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!
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Pre-Booking
Premium Shore Excursions If yo u wish to bo ok yo ur premium e xc ur sions ple ase visit o ur website www.re servemye xcur sions.com
or C all 1-888 -966 -0938
G uests also have the op tion to wait to Reserve premium e xc ur sions until the y arrive onboard, bu t ple a se note that e xcur sions are c apacit y con trolled a nd are subjec t to avail abilit y.
Please note: Pre-Booked reservations for Shore Excursions will be available until 11:00 AM EST, the Monday prior to embarkation. 5
Shore Excursion Highlights
Our Shore Excur sions are hand-crafted and completely unique; they offer the freedom to make your vacation as interactive as you want it to be. Included excur sions offer just a taste of the area, in the most simple and leisurely way possible.
About
I N C L U D E D E XC U RS I O N S . . . Offered at e very port Includes A dmission to Select at tr actions Completely at yo ur leisure Unlimited C apa cit y Freed om to cr af t yo ur own E xperience
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Shore Excursion Highlights
Our company has traveled to all cor ner s of Amer ica to develop one-of-a-king exclusive exper iences. Rather than the “cookie cutter� tour ist traps that are so frequently featured we go to the extra mile to uncover the tr ue essence of Amer ica.
About
P R E M I U M E XC U RS I O N S . . . Op tional in-dep th e xperiences C ustomized to appe al to different interests c ultur ally enhancing itiner aries C apa cit y contr olled Adva nced re servations req uired
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HOW TO “HOP-ON HOP-OFF” STEP 1 PRINT YOUR TICKET
Kiosk is located next to the Shore Excursions and Purser’s desk. Departure tickets can be printed each night, starting at 5:00 PM.
#2
#1
WAKE IT UP !
Tap anywhere on the screen to remove the screen saver.
#3
WHAT TIME ?
Choose your desired included tour departure time.
#4
HOW MANY ?
PRINT !
Catch passes as they fall from below the screen.
Select number of guests in your party by selecting + or -
STEP 2 BRING YOUR TICKET & HOP-ON! MEET OUTSIDE !
About 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.
EXPLORE AT YOUR LEISURE !
“Hop-Off ” wherever you wish - and “Hop-On” again whenever you feel ready! The River Coach will depart approximately every 15-30 minutes.
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HOP-ON HOP-OFF MAPS DELI V ER ED TO YO UR S TATER O O M !
Each evening, the Hop-On Hop-Off map for the following day will be placed in your stateroom during turn-down ser vice. Use this helpful tool to get the most of your next day’s experience in port!
A CLOSER LOOK INCLUDED STOPS BUS ROUTE
LOCAL ATTRACTIONS FEATURED RESTAURANTS
Front
PREMIUM EXCURSIONS
ATTRACTION INFORMATION TOWN HISTORY
Back
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Your voyage on the American Empress
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PORTS OF CALL
Astoria, Oregon Pages 12 - 15
Portland, Oregon Pages 16 - 19
The Dalles, Oregon Pages 20 - 25
Be certain to check online at www.reservemyexcursions.com for the most up-to-date information for your voyage.
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INCLUDED TOUR
Astoria, Oregon
In 1811, John Jacob Astor’s 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 and spent the winter at Fort Clatsop. In 1813, a British warship sailed into the Columbia River, gaining possession of the city and holding control until 1818, when they finally agreed to a joint occupation of the land. There is no doubting the rich history has deep roots grounded in this Columbia River town. When the history combines with the town’s scenery, an incredible harmony is created that will surely bring you back for more.
Docking Dates dat e s o f V i s i t November 29th, 2018 Be certain to verify the direction of your voyage by confirming the date on your voyage documents.
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Included Astoria Hop-On Hop-Off R i v e rwa l k A six-mile paved walkway overlooking the beautiful Columbia River. In addition to the remarkable views, guests can explore the 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. Approximate time: 1.5 - 2 Hours
F l av e l H o u s e & Ca r r i ag e H o us 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. Approximate time: 30 Minutes - 1 Hour
Asto r i a C o lu 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. Approximate time: 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, 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. Approximate time: 30 Minutes - 1 Hour
Columbia River Maritime Museum
Here, guests can experience interactive displays, galleries and collections representing the history of the mighty Columbia River throughout time. The museum was founded in 1962 when Rolf Klep returned to his birthplace after retiring from his art career on the East Coast. (Admission is additional) Approximate time: 30 Minutes - 1 Hour
F E AT U R E D S H O P P I N G O P PO RT U N I T I ES: Doe & Arrow Forsythea Lucy’s Books Purple Cow Toys Pat ’s Pantry Paramount Drug Co.
C o m p l e t e L o o p D r i v i n g T i m e: 4 5 M i n u t e s
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P r em i u m exc u rs i o n
Am erican Select
The Lewis and Clark Experience Trace the journey of Lewis and Clark as we begin the day traveling to Station Camp, the location where the Corps of Discovery spent ten days in November of 1805. Then watch as the powerful waves of the Pacific Ocean crash into the bluffs below at Cape Disappointment, the location Lewis and Clark concluded their two-year expedition. We’ll end the day at the Lewis and Clark National Historical Park, where you can explore the interpretive center, as well as the reconstructed Fort Clatsop.
VISIT OUR WEBSITE for the most accurate and up-to-date information about your American Select premium excursions! www.reservemyexcursions.com
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The Lewis and Clark Experience R eutrunrs: n s:4 :43:03 0P M PM R et
D eD pa rtrt s :s2: :1020: 3P0MP M e pa A r r i v e at S tat i o n Ca m p
A stop at Station Camp will start our journey on the Lewis and Clark Trail.
Discover Ca p e D i sa p p o i n t m e n t
Then we’ll discover the next stages of the Lewis and Clark Expedition at Cape Disappointment, which overlooks the confluence of the Columbia River and the Pacific Ocean. Explore the Interpretative Center’s extensive and thorough time line 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.
Ex p lo r e Fo rt C l ats o p
Here, guests can 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 Reboard the River Coach as we make our way back to the American Empress. Be certain to verify the direction of your voyage by confirming the date on your voyage documents.
$ 6 9 p e r g u e st
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INCLUDED TOUR
Portland, Oregon
When considering the history of Portland, many may jump straight to Lewis and Clark, or the pioneers of the Oregon Trail. However, the city’s history extends even further back to Native Americans who originally inhabited the area and have become the namesakes of many Portland landmarks such as Multnomah Falls. When settlers initially made their homes in Portland, they had given the area various names related to those of their hometowns back East. In 1845, two pioneers, Francis Pettygrove from Portland, Maine and Asa Lovejoy from Boston, Massachusetts decided the town’s official name in a coin-toss. The coin is known as “The Portland Penny” and is still on display in Oregon today.
Docking Dates dat e s o f V i s i t November 30th, 2018 Be certain to verify the direction of your voyage by confirming the date on your voyage documents.
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Included Portland City Tour
Explore Portland, Oregon, sister city to Vancouver, Washington. Embark on a narrated journey through this iconic Pacific Northwest Town. Our adventure will wind us past iconic attractions such as the Haas Mural, a Tromp L’oiel-style painting, French for “deceive the eye,” which will do exactly that – trick you into believing it is threedimensional! We will continue through Downtown Portland, where we will get a glimpse into the local art scene, which is visible throughout the colorful paintings and quirky store fronts. The International Rose Test Garden, creates a colorful panoramic view of Portland when its meticulously pruned roses are in bloom. Before returning to the dock, our driving tour will be certain to pass attractions such as the China Town, Alphabet District, Pearl District, Broadway Street, and more!
Be certain to check online for the most up-to-date information for your voyage.
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P r em i u m exc u rs i o n
Am erican Select
Multnomah Falls and Bonneville Dam: The Power of Nature Join us on an excursion that showcases the beautiful, yet powerful natural force of the Pacific Northwest region. Be amazed as you stand in awe of Multnomah Falls, a roaring 611-foot natural wonder demonstrating the might of nature in her rawest form. At Bonneville Dam, discover how man worked with Mother Nature, rather than against her, to benefit us both.
VISIT OUR WEBSITE for the most accurate and up-to-date information about your American Select premium excursions!
www.reservemyexcursions.com
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Multnomah Falls and Bonneville Dam: The Power of Nature R e t uRrents:u r4n: 3s:0 4P :M3 0 P M
D eD pa rtrt s :s2: :1020: 3P0MP M e pa A r r i v e at B o n n ev i l l e d a m
Begin your journey and discover how man worked with Mother Nature, rather than against her, to benefit us both at Bonneville Dam. On this selfguided experience, get a first-hand glimpse into the works of hydroelectricity, which can produce 1,227,000 kilowatts of power and move over 10 million tons of cargo through its locks annually
Ta k e a l o o k at t h e f i s h la d d e r Before you leave, be sure to get a look at the fish ladder, which provides passage to upstream-migrating fish!
A r r i v e at M u lt n o m a h Fa l ls Continue your journey at 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 lls 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.
d e pa rt fo r t h e em p r es s Reboard the River Coach as we make our way back to the American Empress.
Be certain to check online for the most up-to-date information for your voyage.
$ 4 9 p e r g u est
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INCLUDED TOUR
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, adventurers, gun-slingers, 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. Ten thousand years of Native American trading took place on the banks of the Columbia River, shaped by the Ice Age Missoula floods. 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 Dat es o f V i s i t December 1st, 2018 Be certain to verify the direction of your voyage by confirming the date on your voyage documents.
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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 Center/Museum
Enjoy the beautiful, paved walking trails, a pond, and scenic overlooks. The Discovery Center is located in a beautiful and unique ecosystem native to the area. The multimedia, interactive museum inspires appreciation and stewardship of the natural and cultural treasures of the gorge and Wasco County. Exhibits focus on the volcanic upheaval and raging floods that shaped the gorge, the unique flora and fauna of the region, and 11,000 years of cultural history. In addition to touring the many fascinating exhibits, visitors can spend time viewing the museum’s incredible Raptor Program, with live birds of prey presented daily or take the pond walk and view the native plants. Approximate time: 45 Minutes - 1 Hour
o r i g i n a l c o u rt h o u s e m u s eu 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. Wasco County extended from the crest of the Cascade Mountains to the Great Divide in the Rockies and encompassed 130,000 square miles. Construction began in 1858, under the supervision of Judge Orlando Humason, who was the first county judge and also the chairman of the Board of Commissioners. 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. Approximate time: 30 Minutes - 1 Hour
Fo rt Da lles M u s eu m
Located in the former fort’s Surgeon’s Quarters built in 1856, 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 at one of the old west’s most pivotal places in history. Enjoy walking on the grounds of this military fort and viewing the historic collection of wagons and antique vehicles. The collection holds over 30 wheeled vehicles, including a stage coach, road-building equipment, a covered wagon, two horse-drawn hearses, the Umatille House bus, and a surrey once owned by Oregon’s seventh governor, Zenas Ferry Moody. Explore the hand-hewn log buildings of the Anderson Homestead, including the pioneer house, granary, and barn. Approximate time: 30 - 45 Minutes
City Hall and Fire Museum
Completed in 2009 this quaint museum offers a collection thats 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. Approximate time: 15 - 30 Minutes
G r a n a d a T h e at 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! Historical performers include the likes of Judy Garland, the VonTrapp Family of the Sound of Music fame and many other great and well known performing artists! Approximate time: 15 - 30 Minutes
N at i o n a l N e o 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 (1880-1920) to the introduction of neon to the United States in 1923. The museum provides a dynamic and entertaining environment that promotes an understanding and appreciation of advertising and signage and the unique role it has played in American history. It will provide historical, social, and cultural relevance through the exhibition of more than 20,000 square feet of electrifying signs, ephemera, and interactive displays that date from the late 1800s through the 1960s. Approximate time: 30 - 45 Minutes F E AT U R E D S H O P P I N G O P PO RT U N I T I ES: Lines of Design Klindt ’s Booksellers Red Wagon Antiques Sigman’s Flowers and Gifts Born to Bead Wild Yesterday & Today Music
C o m p l e t e l o o p D r i v i n g t i m e : 4 5 M i n u t es
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P r em i u m exc u rs i o n
Am erican Select
Vintage America: Classic Planes, Automobiles, Antiques, & More! Today’s tour takes guests back in time‌Time when flight was a novelty rather than a daily mode of transportation, when the automobile required a crank, and power steering was almost a century away. We will take you on an exclusive tour to the Western Antique Aeroplane and Automobile Museum, also known as the WAAAM. Enjoy a guided tour of this facility offering an extensive collection of over 130 antique cars, motorcycles, and hangers full of meticulously restored aeroplanes 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!
VISIT OUR WEBSITE
for the most accurate and up-to-date information about your American Select premium excursions! www.reservemyexcursions.com
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Vintage America: Classic Planes, Automobiles, Antiques, & More! D eD pa rtrt s :s2: :1:0000PPMM e pa
R et u rRnes:t u4r: 3n0s:P 4M: 3 0 P M
A r r i v e at T h e WA A A M
Today’s tour will take you back in time. A time when flight was a novelty rather than a daily mode of transportation and when the automobile required a crank and power steering was almost a century away.
To u r 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. 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.
Be certain to check online for the most up-to-date information for your voyage.
$ 6 9 p er g u est
Private Plane Ride Enhancement Package 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!
$ 2 9 9 p e r g u est
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Special Event
A 1950’s-Themed Sock Hop at the National Neon Sign Museum At the National Neon SIgn Museum, you can swing away to an old-fashioned rock ‘n’ roll dance party on the floating dance floor, surrounded by the neon signs of a generation, which are a spectacle unto themselves. Oh, the memories you’ll share, joining the American Empress entertainers for a night of music, dancing, and old-time fun! Indulge in mouthwatering selfservice desserts upon our return to the vessel. Note: This evening event is included for all guests, but pre-booking is required. A $50 deposit will be held on each stateroom per reservation in order to ensure participation and will be removed at the conclusion of the tour. VISIT OUR WEBSITE for the most accurate and up-to-date information about your American Select premium excursions! www.reservemyexcursions.com
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A 1950’s-Themed Sock Hop at the National Neon Sign Museum
D e pa rt s : 7 : 3 0 P M
R e t u r n s: 9 : 4 5 P M
Be certain to check online for the most up-to-date information for your voyage.
$ 0 p e r g u est
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POST-CRUISE PORT OF CALL
Vancouver, Washington Page 27
Be certain to check online at www.reservemyexcursions.com for the most up-to-date information for your voyage.
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Vancouver, Washington
Thanks for joining us on this American Empress voyage! We hope you enjoyed all that these wonderful ports had to offer. Transfers to the airport will be available to book online or on the vessel.
Docking Dates D at e s o f V i s i t December 2nd, 2018 Be certain to verify the direction of your voyage by confirming the date on your voyage documents.
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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.
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