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SUMMER 2020 | Volume 6, Issue 3
WHAT’S HOT THIS SUMMER? The summer is in full force, and we’re certainly missing cruising up and down America’s rivers during this prime time. The American Queen®, American Duchess™ and American Countess™ remain docked in Louisiana. And their sister ship, the American Empress®, is still nestled in her Washington port. Each vessel and her crew are waiting patiently to welcome you back on board as soon as possible. But just because we haven’t been sailing, doesn’t mean we haven’t been working behind the scenes to ensure that when you cruise with us again, it is an enhanced experience. In this edition of The Paddlewheeler, you’ll not only find out some insider information on what’s new with American Queen Steamboat Company, but also some interesting little pieces of information to get you excited to cruise again. Accompanied by memories…old and new…and recipes (ever-delicious), this edition is sure to have you daydreaming about your next river cruise. Happy reading!
NEWS INSIDE Meet Your New Itinerary Designer Specialty Summer Cruises Memories and More Packing for Your River Cruise Summer Recipes Boat Terms Early Booking Discount
down going to happen?" We both knew the answer to that question…we'd always have our foot on the gas. We're always going to keep moving forward.
MEET YOUR NEW ITINER ARY DESIGNER
And I did in fact move forward from there. After a while, I moved into the Product Development Manager role and worked with the product development team. And then moved over to product marketing – to take what product development had created and determine the best ways to get that across in our marketing messages.
We have some exciting new things planned for 2021, and that is all because of our new Director of Product Development, Shelly Hartfield. A nearly 10-year veteran of the company, this homegrown leader is ecstatic for her new position! We interviewed Shelly to see what her story is:
I was very fortunate to work with wonderful mentors – from John and many people within the company and our guests – who have helped me on my journey to Director of Product Development. We are collaborating with all aspects of the organization and listening to our guests to create experiences that will be remembered for a lifetime.
HOW DID YOU COME TO WORK AT AMERICAN QUEEN STEAMBOAT COMPANY? I came to the company almost ten years ago – November 1, 2010. It was a small company at the time – in fact, American Queen Steamboat Company didn’t exist. I came in with HMS Global Maritime as John Waggoner's executive assistant and office manager. Because of my marketing background, I also became the marketing manager about six months later. Our marketing team was tiny (there were only two of us), however I did also continue as John's assistant and the office manager.
WHY DO YOU LOVE YOUR POSITION? I have an uncontrollable passion for this company: For the boats themselves, our guests and also for our fantastic crew – who, no matter what we develop here in the office, are the people who get it done on a day-by-day basis. They are why our guests keep coming back — year after year, time after time. Our guests start to realize the same thing I realized: When I walk on board, I feel like I'm coming home, and they are part of my family.
WHAT DID YOUR JOURNEY THROUGH THE COMPANY LOOK LIKE?
I am really excited about this position in particular because it's the creative side of the whole experience. It's what guests experience from the second they pick up the brochure until they disembark the vessel and tell their friends and family about all of the great memories they've made. So, I am very excited to be part of developing the itineraries and experiences for American Queen Steamboat Company and Victory Cruise Lines. Each one of our boats and ships are unique in their own way, and it's fun to be able to work with them every day, create itineraries and come up with some new exciting experiences.
I worked with John as he started American Queen Steamboat Company and purchased the American Queen. Helping to bring the iconic boat back to the rivers was an amazing experience. As John's assistant, I would book travel for the first crew members through start-up. Eventually, I also filled the travel manager position for the company. Wearing multiple hats, I was able to learn a variety of aspects of the company – of course, I had a lot of great support. John told me when we first started that eventually, things would slow down. And after several years, I asked him: "So we haven't taken the foot off the gas yet. When is this slow 1
WHAT ARE YOU MOST PROUD TO HAVE DEVELOPED IN YOUR POSITION SO FAR?
and supporting our cities and towns in that way. I love our crew…I love our guests…and I love our communities. By putting these itineraries together, I think we have a fabulous opportunity to build up each of those. And to build the excitement for doing good for others.
So, 2021: I was very excited when I started planning for it in November. My goal was to think outside of the box and come up with some new ideas…refresh some things…maybe do some things we've never done before.
As we move forward, I’m excited about other opportunities to elevate our product offerings. Each aspect will be geared toward enhancing the experience. From small details to new concepts, we are looking toward the future.
I'm very excited about our new charitable giving cruises. One of my biggest priorities is helping to support our communities and our guests. I know that our voyages are great platforms to be able to do that. I am excited to have developed the Heart of the Mississippi Cruise, which supports the American Heart Association – and the Breast Cancer Awareness cruise – which will support the Susan G. Komen Foundation.
WHAT'S NEW ON THE VICTORY CRUISE LINES SIDE OF THINGS? Victory has some amazing things coming up in 2021, with the launch of Ocean Victory™— which is traveling to the heart of Alaska. I can tell you that it's one of my bucket-list items. Add to that the exciting itineraries on the Great Lakes, our new Southeast coastal routes and immersive Mexico voyages, and we can see the incredible opportunities on the horizon. These are adventure cruises. They're finding people who have a passion for exploring. And that's fantastic!
Each cruise is a unique way to support everyone across the board and give back to the communities. In future years, we look forward to these charitable giving voyages and supporting other charities as well. I've also been working directly with the Mississippi River Cities and Towns Initiative
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SPECIALTY SUMMER CRUISES Missing all the delight a summer river cruise brings? Well don’t let 2021 pass by without the experience. We have some very exciting summer cruises within The Queen’s Collection that are sure to make next summer the coolest yet!
STAR-SPANGLED CRUISE
MUSIC OF THE 50S AND 60S
What better way to celebrate America’s Independence Day than on an American river cruise in the heart of the country? A special guest will bless these cruises: American music icon Lee Greenwood will perform on board for this special event.
From the music to the onboard events, you’ll be transported to one of the most iconic periods of Rock ‘n’ Roll. So, put on your dancin’ shoes, bring out that out that old poodle skirt and get ready for this exclusive musical experience.
American Queen 8/22/21
American Duchess 6/27/2021 American Queen 6/27/2021 American Countess 7/03/2021
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AN AMERICAN MUSIC FESTIVAL
FOUNDER’S CRUISE
Enjoy a very special private onboard performance by Lee Greenwood, a national icon known for “God Bless the USA”. In addition, guests will enjoy performances from the American Duchess entertainment team and other special guest performers.
Have you ever wondered what it would be like to spend time with our company founder? If so, this cruise is for you. Join John Waggoner and his wife, Claudette, on a journey from St. Louis to their hometown, Louisville.
American Queen 7/11/21
American Duchess 6/20/21
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MEMORIES AND MORE My father would take our family on the American Queen, Delta Queen and the Mississippi Queen for our annual vacation. When I asked my father why he chose these vacations for us his reply was, “All of my children (6) cannot run around town, they have to eat together every evening, and we learn about the history of America.” On one voyage there was a Mark Twain look alike that sat in his rocking chair and told us about his river journeys. Another time we had Little Jimmy Dickens and Whispering Bill Anderson entertain us. But as you can see we were a lot of entertaining ourselves. As a child, we would travel to historical places to learn about our history then one day my mother’s boss, Dr. Glass, told her about the steamboat company and that was it! From my parents first voyage, they never went in a car again to explore America. My mother is 93 and my father passed at the age of 95. They were married 70 years, and this past New Year 2020 I brought my mother on the American Queen to ring in the New Year out of New Orleans. She cried when she said this was the 1st time she had been on the vessel without my father. Enjoy the enclosed photos. This is one of 27 voyages my family has enjoyed. I have several more photos I will scan to you. This particular voyage was the roundtrip out of New Orleans up to Monroe, LA. As you can see, this was the Mardi Gras theme. Laissez le bon temps rouler! Thank you immensely for allowing me to share my family tradition! Beverly G.
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My husband and I went on a roundtrip New Orleans cruise in February of 2018 and had a wonderful trip. I am a piano player and was really fascinated by the calliope. I was talking with one of the crew and mentioned that I would love to play it, so he introduced me to the gentleman who played the calliope. I was thrilled when he let me play a tune or two. I thanked him and went on my way. Imagine my surprise when a certificate appeared on my cabin door that made me an “Certified Calliopist”. This all happened on my birthday, and I have to say that it was the best birthday present ever! - Deb M.
We’ve had many memorable moments from our various Mississippi River adventures. But, as we think back over our July 2018 American Duchess voyage from New Orleans to Minneapolis, we’re struck by how a Mississippi cruise provides the perfect setting for enjoying quiet moments of reflection (photo of watching a sunset) and socializing with new friends (photo at dinner) during the same adventure! Thanks for the adventure, Larry & Jane M.
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PACKING FOR YOUR RIVER CRUISE While you may be gearing up for the river cruise of a lifetime, the days of forging ahead with overloaded steamer trunks in tow are long gone. Today, you need only bring the bare essentials to enjoy a fabulous vacation on the river. In simple terms, there is no need to over-pack. When it comes to clothing, the answer is simple – layers. Weather can often be unpredictable on America’s rivers, so packing clothes that can be layered is essential. Bring along a favorite sweater or jacket and then the rest is all about being savvy with your color scheme and select apparel. Pack items that you can easily mix, match and layer. This will not only reduce excess baggage, but also it will allow you to control your comfort level while keeping your wardrobe fresh. Plus, you won’t waste valuable port time (or money) shopping for items that you will never wear again. We all know that the same article of clothing can be repurposed for multiple occasions, right? In the daytime, feel free to keep it casual.
So, you ask, what should I pack? It’s always a good idea to start by making a list of things that you use on a daily basis. Once you have the base, start to cross off the non-essentials and then add-in the items that you think you might need or rather wouldn’t want to be stuck without. In other words, toiletries, medications and comfortable clothes are the essentials. Examples of extra items that would be a good idea to tote are things like allergy pills and aspirin – this will cover you and save you money if you think your allergies might kick into overdrive or if you are prone to headaches. If you are traveling a long way to your city of embarkation, it never hurts to toss a few snacks in your carry-on bag.
Slacks, jeans and shorts are acceptable in all public areas of the vessels, as well as onshore for any excursions. Remember, your vacation is all about enjoyment, so be sure to pack items that you will be comfortable in. Also, be sure to bring a comfortable pair of walking shoes with non-skid soles, as decks and gangways may be slick at times. And they will also keep your feet happy while gallivanting around town on shore excursions. Unlike ocean cruises, when evening rolls around the attire tends to be more country club casual. Women should consider toting nice slacks, skirts, 7
blouses and perhaps a fancy scarf. The right scarf can make even the most casual outfit look fabulous! Whereas gentlemen can leave the stuffy suits at home and bring slacks, khakis, polo shirts and dress shirts. A sport coat for dinner always adds a nice touch, but it most certainly is not required. One pair of comfortable dress shoes should be more than enough to get you through a week-long vacation.
And make sure to bring your face mask (we suggest at least one disposable mask for each day of the cruise)! For the health and safety of each of our guests, you will be required to complete a health screening at voyage check-in. Additional health screenings and face coverings may be required to enter some venues and attractions, so make sure to have one handy from the get-go. It’s a personal choice, but you also might also want to bring a travel-size hand sanitizer to use while out on shore excursions.
SAVE UP TO
$1,400 PER STATEROOM* ON A 2021 RIVER CRUISE
Just think about where you are headed, how many bags you want to travel with (or are limited to) and remember to pack both warm and cool clothes for layering, a nice accessory or two to jazz things up, and sensible shoes‌you are ready to roll on the river without all of the extra baggage.
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Savor
THE FLAVORS of the RIVER
SOMETHING SWEET RASPBERRY MOUSSE
12 oz. fresh or frozen raspberries 2/3 cup sugar ½ cup water, divided 1½ cups heavy whipping cream, chilled 1 package (2¼ teaspoons) unflavored gelatin Fresh mint, for garnish (optional)
SOMETHING TO WASH IT DOWN BASIL LEMON DROP
4 fresh basil leaves (and extra for garnish) 3 cups vodka 1½ cups fresh lemon juice 1½ cups simple syrup* Ice
Stir gelatin into ¼ cup cold water to soften. Set aside. In a small saucepan, add raspberries, sugar and remaining water. Heat until berries soften and break down. Purée in a blender. Strain out seeds if desired. Return purée to saucepan. Add softened gelatin. Bring to a boil. Boil for 1 minute, stirring constantly. Remove from heat. Cool to room temperature. In a large bowl, whip cream to stiff peaks. Fold berry mixture into cream. Chill for 4 to 24 hours before serving in pretty dishes, garnished with mint leaves if desired.
Muddle basil leaves in a cocktail shaker. Add vodka, lemon juice, simple syrup and ice. Stir until blended, and pour into chilled martini glasses, rimmed with sugar or crushed lemon candies, if desired. Garnish with a basil leaf. *In a small saucepan, combine 1½ cups water and 1½ cups sugar. Stir over medium heat until sugar dissolves. Chill until ready to use.
SOMETHING SAVORY
SHRIMP SALAD IN ENDIVE CUPS Salad
1 lb cooked, peeled shrimp 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil ¼ red onion, finely chopped 1 stalk celery, finely chopped 2 tablespoons freshly chopped dill Endive leaves, for serving
Dressing
½ cup mayonnaise Juice and zest of 1 lemon 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard Kosher salt, to taste Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
In a large bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, lemon juice and zest and mustard, and season with salt and pepper. Add shrimp, onion, celery and dill, and toss to combine. Spoon into endive leaves, and serve. 9
PORT? STARBOARD? WHAT!? You’re a river cruising pro. You’ve been up and down the Mississippi… throughout the Pacific Northwest…along the Ohio. So, we’re sure you’ve heard some of these terms thrown around. But do you know what they mean? Here’s a list basic boating lingo that you can learn to take your river cruising knowledge to the next level. 1. Bow - This is the front end of the paddlewheeler. 2. Stern - This is the rear end of a paddlewheeler. 3. Forward - If you are moving towards the front end of the paddlewheeler, this called going "forward." 4. Aft - When are you moving towards the rear end of the paddlewheeler, this is called going "aft." 5. Underway - When the paddlewheeler is moving, either by motor or wind, this is called being "underway." 6. Ahead - This refers to when the paddlewheeler is moving in a forward direction. 7. Astern - This refers to when the paddlewheeler is moving in reverse. 8.
Port - If you’re standing at the rear of the paddlewheeler and looking forward, "port" refers to the entire left side of the boat.
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Starboard - If you’re standing at the rear of the paddlewheeler and looking forward, "starboard" refers to the entire right side of the boat.
10. Amidships - The central part of the paddlewheeler.
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MEMBERSHIP BENEFITS EXCITING NEW PROGRAM COMING IN 2020 – LOOK FOR DETAILS SOON.
ACTI VAT E YOUR MEMB ERS HIP TODAY Take advantage of all the benefits that await you by registering for our loyalty program. There are three ways to register: 1: ONLINE: www.AQSC.com/SSOA 2: ONBOARD 3: CALL: (888) 749-5280
Steamboat Society of America The Steamboat Society of America, our guest loyalty program, was created to recognize our past guests and offer the opportunity to enjoy exclusive benefits and embership, incentives for cruising frequently with us. In addition to our Classic m earned after completion of your first cruise on any of our vessels, we offer f our levels of elite membership – Ruby, Sapphire, Emerald and Diamond. Each level brings additional benefits, and is reached after cruising the designated number of qualifying nights with us.
• After membership activation, all Classic members will receive: • The Paddlewheeler quarterly newsletter • Advance information on new itineraries • Exclusive invitations and promotions • A designation pin mailed after activation and upon reaching each level milestone • A cocktail party hosted by the captain and senior officers onboard • Friends and family may come aboard for a tour and breakfast or lunch aboard the American Queen,® American Empress,® American Duchess™ or American Countess™ while in port when member is a cruise guest. Reservations required at least 14 days in advance. • Access for breakfast or lunch when the American Queen, American Empress, American Duchess or American Countess are in port near member’s hometown. Reservations required at least 14 days in advance.
RUBY
(35-69 cruise nights) All Classic benefits, plus: “Members only” luggage tags; a membership status name badge; a dedicated reservations line; a $50 onboard credit per member; pre-boarding privileges*
SAPPHIRE
(70-139 cruise nights) All Ruby benefits, plus: Preferred reserved dining room seating; an additional $50 onboard credit ($100 per member); complimentary laundry service**; a “welcome back” signed card from the captain, plus a set of exclusive notecards
EMERALD
(140-209 cruise nights) All Sapphire benefits, plus: A one-cabin-category upgrade at time of booking (subject to availability); a 10% discount in the onboard gift shop
DIAMOND
(210+ cruise nights) All Emerald benefits, plus: An additional $50 onboard credit ($150 per member); a two cabin-category upgrade at time of booking (subject to availability)
After reaching Sapphire, Emerald or Diamond status, members will be honored during an onboard Captain’s Presentation that includes gifts of a deluxe official wall certificate and a framed, signed painting by maritime artist Michael Blaser.
For questions or more information about the Steamboat Society of America, please visit our website at www.aqsc.com/ssoa, email ssoa@aqsc.com or call us at (888) 749-5280.