2019
SHORE EXCURSIONS ROUNDTRIP NEW ORLEANS December 30th Voyage
American Queen
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........................................................... 11
Ports of call
Nottoway Plantation............................................... 22
Baton Rouge........................................................... 26
Post-Cruise Ports of call
New Orleans.......................................................... 29
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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 very hard in your career and we are appreciative that you spend your time exploring our great country together. 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.
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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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INTRODUCING THE NEW River Coaches
The American Queen Shore Excursions teamed together with the engineering departments of Van Hool Engineering Company, ABC Bus Companies, and Easton Coach Company to create innovative and completely customized motorcoaches, nicknamed “River Coaches” for their steamboat-like exterior designs. Based on several years’ worth of customer feedback, which were gathered through guest satisfaction surveys and suggestions, our team has crafted a vehicle unlike any other in the world.
A C LO S ER LO O K Second door access features mid-coach entry with wider and deeper steps that provide a more convenient, more efficient, and safer entrance.
Skylights spanning the length of the coach offer a panoramic view of all surroundings during a tour, allowing for a full-immersion experience.
Lower, less obtrusive seatbacks allow guests to have clearer views, while also providing a more spacious feel. Restroom is located in the rear, rather than in the stairwell, so that unlike other mid-entry coaches, guests will have better, safer access to the facilities.
Handicapped lifts in the rear of the coach, which allows the American Queen Shore Excursions fleet to remain 100% accessible!
Three rows of specially embroidered and upholstered seats to better designate special seating for guests with mobility challenges.
Specially designed overhead racks are contoured in a way to allow for more visibility from the side windows, as well as the above skylights.
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Onboard Wifi, so guests can stay connected at all times.
HOW TO "HOP-ON HOP-OFF" YO U R N E W R I V E R C O A C H Guests utilizing wheelchairs or scooters, please speak to a Shore Excursion Specialist or a driver, who will help you onboard with our motorized River Coach lift. Mobility impaired guests should make their way to the front of the River Coach, rather than the back, and reside in specially reserved seats, so our staff can assist if needed.
TO BOARD:
We kindly ask guests to board the River Coach in the center entrance. This entrance will be opened on a delay after guests exit via the front TO EXIT: door. To exit the River Coach, we ask guests to make their way to the front exit, in an orderly manner, aisle by aisle. For safety, no guest should exit from the center door.
Mobility Impaired Guests:
When departing the river coaches, we kindly request that you remain safely seated until all of the guests have exited so that we can assist you off the coach. Disclaimer: We are not responsible for personal belongings left on the River Coach. All of our River Coaches are equipped with a lift for ADA accessibility. For your own safety, we highly encourage guests with scooters to transfer to a River Coach seat.
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PRE-CRUISE PORT OF CALL
New Orleans, Louisiana Pages 11 - 19
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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 be visiting 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.
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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
H I G H LI G H T S 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 Qu e e n We will make our way to the American Queen 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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Pre-Cruise AMERICAN SELECT PREMIUM EXCURSION
Beyond the Floodwalls: Shaping the Culture & History of New Orleans
Experience America’s wetlands, wildlife, and cultural wonders first hand on this guided experience of New Orleans and its coastal communities. earn about the great Mississippi River Delta as we will venture off the beaten path to places visitors rarely get to experience. We’ll tour the fascinating Islenos Cultural Center and enjoy a taste of the local cuisine as we sit down for a hearty lunch of local culinary specialties. Finally, we will meet a 5th generation Islenos fisherman in Yscloskey, a quaint fishing village where America’s seafood has been harvested for centuries.
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D epa rts: 9: 0 0 A M R et u r n s : 3: 3 0 P M $ 1 2 9 p er g u e st
H I G H LI G H T S Driving Tour We will begin our day traveling through La Nouvelle Orleans, the original colonial city of New Orleans. As we pass through the French Quarter, City Park, the London Canal Breach and much more, we will discuss the factors that influenced the city’s initial placement, footprint, expansion into the surrounding cypress swamps, and the area’s flooding during Hurricane Katrina.
Bayo u Sau va g e R efu g e Then we’ll immerse ourselves in the majestic beauty of the largest urban wildlife refuge in America as we stop at the Bayou Sauvage Marsh Boardwalk. Gaze upon wading birds stalked by alligators and learn of the remarkable Trans-Gulf migration along one of the great flyways of the world.
Lu n c h at I s l en o s V i l l a g e Enjoy an authentically delicious Islenos lunch of fresh, local cuisine at the Islenos Museum and Village and hear about the early settlers of the region.
M e et Lo ca l Fi s h er m a n at Ys c lo s k e y V i llag e With full bellies, we will explore the quaint “Islenos” fishing villages of Yscloskey and Shell Beach, where America’s seafood has been harvested for centuries by local fisherman living in stilted houses. Also see ghost forests created by coastal land loss, and witness the landscape changes that are exposing coastal inhabitants to increasing storm risks.
A r r i v e at t h e a m er i ca n qu een Arrive at the dock with a newfound understanding and appreciation of America’s Wetlands and the efforts being done to preserve New Orleans and its coastal environments.
For booking and information visit our website www.reservemyexcursions.com
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Your voyage on the American Queen
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PORTS OF CALL
Nottoway Plantation, Louisiana Pages 22 - 25
Baton Rouge, Louisiana Pages 26 - 27
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 Dates January 1st
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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
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: 0 0 P M R et u r n s : 4: 4 5 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 M a n c h a c Swa m p Reboard the River Coach as we make our way back to the American Queen. *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
Baton Rouge, Louisiana Named by French explorer Sieur D’Iberville after a reddish pole marking two separate tribal hunting grounds, Baton Rouge has transformed into a rich cultural city. Locals speak versions of French in their everyday language specific to Baton Rouge; for instance, the “o” sound at the end of words will be replaced with “eaux”. Baton Rouge is sure to accommodate anyone with its southern hospitality, delicious Cajun-Creole style food, and unique architecture! The city is home to Louisiana State University – home to the nation’s only live tiger mascot, Mike the Tiger.
Docking Dates January 2nd
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For booking and information visit our website www.reservemyexcursions.com
I n c l u d e d B at o n R o u g e Hop-On Hop-Off U s s K I D D D D- 6 6 1
Just a short walk from the dock, guests can explore a Fletcher-Class Destroyer that fought in many battles in U.S. history. This 2,050-ton, 376-foot-long vessel has since been converted into a museum, with exhibits of extensive collections of war artifacts, ship models, memorial hall, real fighter planes and bombers, and memorials. Suggested Visit: 1 - 2 Hours
LS U RU r a l L i fe M u s eu m
Dedicated to the preservation and exhibition of materials from the cultures of 18th and 19th century rural Louisianans the LSU Rural Life Museum sends guests back in time to experience the lifestyles and life-ways of these remarkable people. Explore the largest collection of artifacts and architecture from the period, all in a safe, outdoor rural landscape. Suggested Visit: 1 - 2 Hours
Ca p i t o l Pa r k M u s eu m
This impressive museum showcases collections of visual arts, jazz, costumes, textiles, and artifacts from Louisiana history. It was founded in 1906 and holds over 450,000 artifacts and works of arts. Permanent exhibits include: “Experiencing Louisiana: Discovering the Soul of America,” and “Grounds for Greatness: Louisiana”. Suggested Visit: 1 - 1.5 Hours
Lo u i s i a n a's S tat e Ca p i t o l
Built in 1932, this prime example of art deco architecture stands 450 feet tall. The building holds 34 floors, making it the tallest state capitol in the United States. Guests can admire the uniquely constructed rooms throughout or take a ride up to the 27th floor to the observation deck for an impressive panoramic view of the city below. Suggested Visit: 1 Hour
LS U M u s eu m o f A rt
Immerse yourself in the history of Louisiana and its culture through art at the LSU Museum of Art. Located on the fifth floor of the Shaw Center for the Arts, the museum hosts a variety of historic and contemporary art exhibits as well as a vast permanent collection spanning the 1700s to present day with over 6,500 artworks on display year round. Suggested Visit: 45 Minutes - 2 Hours
Complete round trip Time: 1 Hour For booking and information visit our website www.reservemyexcursions.com
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POST-CRUISE PORT OF CALL
New Orleans, Louisiana Pages 29 - 33
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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 Dates 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
H I G H LI G H T S 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 Queen 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 AQ, 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 QueenÂŽ included shore excursions are available to all American Queen 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 Queen 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 Queen 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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