Diamond in the Rough - American Queen Steamboat Company
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SUMMER 2019 | Volume 5, Issue 3
Diamond in the Rough
I t was a lovely week for a cruise. Beverley
Wilen, along with her husband, Kerry, and
one of their granddaughters, boarded the
“I cannot tell you how thrilled I am that
Rita found my diamond!” Beverley stated
in an email exchange with corporate staff.
The Wilens showed their appreciation
personally to Rita, as did the rest of our
American Queen Steamboat Company
American Queen® for a fun family voyage. “That is like finding a needle in a haystack.” team. She and the dozens of dedicated
staff who go through each voyage with
By week’s end, Beverley’s spirits had She noted her extensive background in
service top of mind are the backbone of our
dampened considerably. She realized she multinational human resources, being
success, and are deeply appreciated.
had lost a diamond from a cherished ring accountable for multiple thousands of
of four stones of various sizes, symbolizing employees in a large number of countries. Great job, Rita! We are so thankful for your
she and her husband’s two daughters and “I share this background … simply to give valued service.
two grandchildren. All the stones had you a context for what I see as a good team
come from family heirlooms, and were, to and a great team. In my opinion, you have
Beverley, priceless. created a great team that truly gets what it
takes to set American Queen [Steamboat
Crestfallen, Beverley mentioned the loss
Company] apart from other river cruise
to the couple’s stateroom attendant, Rita
experiences. These cruises are very much
Franklin, asking her to keep an eye out for
about how guest needs are met and
the treasure, but holding out little hope of
surpassed – your team does that!”
ever seeing it again.
Beverley went on to also compliment the
Rita, however, conscientious and eagle-eyed,
team who served their table at dinner, and
spotted the precious gem the following
the house ensemble, who entertained them
week – not in the couple’s former stateroom,
throughout the week.
but in a hallway. Immediately remembering
Beverley and her predicament, Rita booked “You will definitely be seeing the Wilens
it down to the purser’s office to alert Chief again in the future, along with some of
Purser Cynthia Goldstein. our friends,” she closed, including grateful Beverley Wilen, posing with the ring from which
well wishes. a diamond was lost.
IN THIS ISSUE:
H 2020 Themed Cruises H American Countess Sneak Peek
H 2019 Wave Award H Scrumptious Summer Recipe
H SSOA Members Level Up on a Victory Voyage H American Queen’s Western Vacation
2020 Themed Voyages
on the American Queen, American Duchess and American Countess
F rom food to music to a true American spirit and beyond,
2020 is packed with a spectacular lineup of themed river
cruises to enhance an already remarkable cruising season.
On our authentic paddlewheel riverboats sailing through the
nation’s heartland, several themes span the entire collection –
our iconic flagship, the American Queen, the elegant boutique-
style American Duchess™ and, new to the waterways next
year, the charming American Countess.™ Choose any of those
fabulous boats for trips focusing on regional barbeque, a
literary legend or the bloodiest conflict in U.S. history.
MARK TWAIN’S MISSISSIPPI
Each paddlewheeler also features its own unique themes.
Mark Twain’s Mississippi reveals the upper reaches of the
Fans of the American Queen could find the perfect post-
Mississippi River through the lens of those who made steamboat
holidays getaway in Mardi Gras on the River. Partake in the
travel a way of life. Hidden gems around each bend fuel a sense of
energy of New Orleans’ most extravagant celebration while discovery as the best of America’s heartland unfolds.
enjoying your included pre-voyage hotel stay.
AMERICAN QUEEN
The American Duchess is brimming with exciting new themes,
to go along with her new inclusions of an Unlimited Beverage Alton (St. Louis) to Red Wing (Minneapolis): Jul 26-Aug 3
Package and prepaid gratuities in 2020! Choose melodious Red Wing (Minneapolis) to Alton (St. Louis): Aug 2-10
memory-makers such as Music of America (April and Alton (St. Louis) to Red Wing (Minneapolis): Aug 9-17
September) or American Music Festival (two May cruises);
AMERICAN DUCHESS
get a taste of the nation with American Culinary Experience
(April) or Bourbon: An American Spirit (August); feel the Red Wing (Minneapolis) to Alton (St. Louis): Jul 12-20
rush with Kentucky Derby (April) and Racing on the River Alton (St. Louis) to Red Wing (Minneapolis): Jul 19-27
(August); or ponder the pioneers’ lives with Heartland Alton (St. Louis) to Red Wing (Minneapolis): Oct 4-12
Heritage (July) or Lewis and Clark (September). Red Wing (Minneapolis) to Alton (St. Louis): Oct 11-19
The inaugural season of the American Countess offers her
AMERICAN COUNTESS
Maiden Voyage to Pittsburgh (June), Bourbon to Blues (July)
Alton (St. Louis) to Red Wing (Minneapolis): Aug 30-Sep 6
and a magnificent opportunity to cruise with our chairman
and CEO, John Waggoner, and his wife, Claudette, on Red Wing (Minneapolis) to Alton (St. Louis): Sep 6-13
our Chairman’s Cruise from the St. Louis area to John’s Alton (St. Louis) to Red Wing (Minneapolis): Sep 13-20
hometown – Louisville – in May.
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SAVE
up to
$1,200*
per stateroom.
Call for details.
AMERICAN RIVER BBQ CHALLENGE CIVIL WAR
American River BBQ Challenge pits regional culinary masters Civil War follows a journey through history to explore the
against our talented culinary teams throughout the voyage, with legacy of that storied conflict, both on board and in ports.
the winners determined by our guests. Competition never tasted Special guests bring the past to life through depictions,
so good. interpretations and storytelling.
AMERICAN QUEEN AMERICAN QUEEN
Memphis to Alton (St. Louis): Jul 19-27 Memphis to New Orleans: Mar 15-23
Memphis to New Orleans: Nov 15-23
AMERICAN DUCHESS
Memphis to Alton (St. Louis): Sep 27-Oct 5 AMERICAN DUCHESS
Alton (St. Louis) to Memphis: Oct 18-26 Memphis to Clarksville (Nashville): Apr 5-13
Louisville to Clarksville (Nashville): Sep 13-21
AMERICAN COUNTESS
Memphis to Alton (St. Louis): May 24-31 AMERICAN COUNTESS
Memphis to Alton (St. Louis): Aug 23-30 Memphis to Chattanooga: Oct 25-Nov 1
Chattanooga to Memphis: Nov 1-8
*Offer expires 10/31/19 or when no valid cabins remain. Offer is only valid on new, paid-in-full bookings. Not valid on group bookings or existing reservations.
Additional terms and conditions may apply. Call for details, and mention Offer Code 2020 EBD2.
FOR RESERVATIONS, CONTACT YOUR PROFESSIONAL TRAVEL AGENT OR:
(888) 749-5280 H WWW.AQSC.COM
3
Hook, Line and Sailor
A t the end of May, on
Victory Cruise Lines’
discovery-designed small ship
M/V Victory I sailing our 10-
F or the second time this day, most popular itinerary –
year, we are pleased Toronto to Chicago – a number
of frequent cruisers gathered for
to be chosen by travel
the first Steamboat Society of
industry professionals as Lorraine (left) and Dennis (right)
America Captain’s Presentation Staton with Cruise Director
being the best at what we to be held on a Victory ship. Katharine Boelter, receiving their
do – cruise America’s rivers. They were there to welcome Sapphire-level SSOA certificates.
We appreciate receiving three members to the Sapphire level.
TravelAge West’s 2019 It was just the ship’s third voyage under American Queen
Wave Award for Best Steamboat Company ownership and operation.
River Cruise Line for U.S. Jim Unger accepting the TravelAge
West 2019 Wave Award for Best Joe Baldwin and Dennis and Lorraine Staton were inducted to
Sailings on behalf of each River Cruise Line for U.S. Sailings. the elite level, welcomed to dinner with Capt. Gary Kerr and
guest who has given us the received certificates of achievement and framed, signed paintings
opportunity to be part of a uniquely American river by maritime artist Michael Blaser.
cruising journey.
Lorraine retired from teaching, and Dennis, semi-retired, still does
In June, our Vice President of Hotel Operations, Jim Unger, part-time tax preparation and works on his hometown’s zoning
traveled to Marina del Rey, California, to represent us at the board. They have one daughter and three grandchildren.
black-tie awards gala. Joe had done corporate financial executive work for publicly traded
“It was certainly a great honor to accept the 2019 Wave Award companies. He has three daughters and six grandchildren.
on behalf of American Queen Steamboat Company for the Dennis and Lorraine began cruising on the American Queen in
category of Best River Cruise Line for U.S. Sailings,” Jim her inaugural season, 2012, after 20 years of ocean cruising. They
said. “What made this evening extra special was the 50-year had never visited New Orleans, and thought a domestic river
anniversary celebration of TravelAge West. Kudos to TravelAge voyage would be a fun way to get there. “Hooked,” said Dennis.
“Absolutely. We have cruised every year since the company started.”
West for supporting our amazing travel industry over all of
these years!” Joe and his wife met a doctor from Cleveland while across Canada
on the now-defunct luxury passenger train the American Orient
Express. She recommended they try paddlewheel cruising, having
DID YOU KNOW that cruise nights on Victory herself sailed on the Delta Queen a whopping 26 times. Intrigued,
Cruise Lines’ discovery-designed small ships, sailing the Great they returned home to find an offer from a travel agent in their
Lakes, the Canadian Maritimes, New England and the coastal mailbox – an American Queen voyage departing from Nashville. “We
Southeast United States, count toward your Steamboat Society jumped on it, and the rest is SSOA history,” said Joe. “Hooked!”
of America membership level? We’re thrilled to join in the celebration when our longtime guests
reach their next level of membership, and we wish Joe, Dennis and
Book an unforgettable voyage on either the M/V Victory I
Lorraine many more bon voyages, on both our classic authentic
or M/V Victory II, and enjoy the same stellar service and paddlewheelers and nimble small ships.
inclusions you love while on board any of our paddlewheelers
– along with complimentary non-premium beer, wine and
spirits, afternoon teas, daily cocktail hours and more. Those
cruise nights will get you closer to your next membership
level in comfort and style!
Contact your travel agent, call (888) 907-2636
or visit www.VictoryCruiseLines.com to learn Captain’s Dinner celebrating Ruby- and Sapphire-level SSOA members.
about these thrilling itineraries. From left to right: Charles (Corky) and Vonda (Kay) Edwards, Joe
Baldwin, Lorraine Staton, Capt. Gary Kerr and Dennis Staton.
Cover Image: The M/V Victory I docked at Mackinac Island, Michigan
GET SOCIAL WITH US
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Follow American Queen Steamboat
Company and connect with fellow PINTEREST YOUTUBE
Steamboat Society of America members.
DON’T MISS OUR BLOG AT AQSC.COM/BLOG
4
C O MI NG I N 2 0 2 0 –
The American Countess™
T he latest addition to our fleet of authentic paddlewheelers – the American
Countess™ – offers many of the same exciting heartland and deep South
itineraries as her sisters the American Queen and American Duchess. Enjoy the
signature distinctions that have made American Queen Steamboat Company
the most award-winning river cruise line in America.
The exterior of the American Countess echoes the classic steamboat-style lines of
ENHANCE YOUR EXPERIENCE
her sisters. The stylish interior spaces of this elegant vessel hark back to a time
when well-heeled travelers boarded regal vessels to journey to sophisticated The best way to experience this new boat may be
destinations. Relax with your favorite cocktail in the airy Grand Lobby, on her own Mighty Mississippi cruise – an epic
with pockets of lounge seating situated along the full wall of floor-to-ceiling 15-day voyage in the tradition of the American
windows, offering stunning views at every point along the journey. The Grand Queen and American Duchess. This journey takes
Dining Room features a soft glow from uplighted ceiling coves, and offers guests from the genesis of the mighty river at Red
equally sweeping river views. Destination-themed artwork graces clean, light Wing along the Upper Mississippi, all the way to
stateroom walls accented by rich wood and crown molding. New Orleans, with thrilling stops.
The American Countess’s four decks, including a Sun Deck, and 123 comfortable, Travel through extensive lock-and-dam systems,
inviting staterooms, will make cruising on this gorgeous paddlewheeler a see indigenous wildlife, visit river museums, enjoy
truly unforgettable experience. Cabins feature a sleek and modern design that regional culinary specialties and explore Mississippi
will provide the perfect place to relax after heading out on an included shore Delta heritage and authentic Southern culture. A
excursion or taking in an evening Broadway-caliber performance in The Theater Mighty Mississippi voyage is an incomparable way
on board. to experience a wide swath of America in a single
travel experience.
As our award-winning culinary team takes full advantage of each region’s
diverse bounty of fresh, local ingredients to fashion authentic dishes, our You may also choose a phenomenal pre-cruise
gracious staff charms with friendly, courteous attention to your needs in the City Stay Package for your Mighty Mississippi
Grand Dining Room. A more casual atmosphere is offered in the River Grill, adventure. Discover the rich history of
which allows guests to dine at their own pace. Minnesota’s Twin Cities – Minneapolis and St.
Paul. Our deluxe motorcoach weaves through
It’s easy to stay active on board the American Countess in her well-appointed
the downtown skyscrapers of Minneapolis and
Fitness Center, while the Card Room provides a perfect spot for guests to
historic Summit Avenue in St. Paul as a local
mingle with fellow travelers and newfound friends.
guide introduces the vibrant culture, architecture
Whichever beautiful authentic paddlewheel riverboat you choose, on a river and history for which the cities are known. The
cruise with American Queen Steamboat Company, you are sure to make package includes a premium hotel stay, breakfast
memories that last a lifetime. and priority boarding.
5
PADDLEWHEELER SUMMER RECIPE
Tomato-and-Roasted Garlic Pie
Adapted from Bon Appétit
Preheat oven to 475 degrees Fahrenheit. Arrange tomatoes on a
rimmed baking sheet, overlapping slightly to cover entire surface.
Drizzle with oil, and season with salt and pepper. Roast until
tomatoes begin to look dry on top, 25 to 30 minutes. Let cool.
Meanwhile, cook garlic and butter in a small saucepan over medium-
low heat, swirling often, until butter foams and milk solids turn
golden, 5 to 8 minutes. Strain butter through a fine-mesh sieve into a
heatproof measuring cup. Transfer garlic and toasty bits to a cutting
board. Finely chop, and set aside.
Photo by Laura Murray
Reduce oven temperature to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. Pulse crackers
Make the most of one of summer’s most beloved fruits with this tart-like and ¼ teaspoon salt in a food processor until fine crumbs form
pie, which manages to be both rich and light. Fontina is an excellent cheese (should be about 2 cups). Add eggs and 6 tablespoons garlic butter,
choice for this dish. Pecorino-Romano or Asiago could be used in place of and pulse until consistency of wet sand.
some of the Parmesan for a sharper flavor. Transfer mixture to a 9-inch springform pan. Using a flat-bottomed
2½ pounds mixed heirloom tomatoes, cored and sliced ¼-inch thick cup, press crumbs firmly onto bottom and 1½ inches up sides of pan.
Poke holes in crust with a fork, a bake until fragrant and edge is just
3 tablespoons olive oil
starting to take on color, 8 to 10 minutes. Transfer pan to a wire rack
¾ teaspoon kosher salt, divided, plus more as needed and let crust cool.
¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper, plus more as needed Mix cheeses, mayonnaise, chopped thyme, remaining ½ teaspoon salt,
6 cloves garlic remaining ¼ teaspoon pepper and reserved chopped garlic in a medium
bowl. Gently dollop half of cheese mixture over bottom of crust, then
½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter
gently spread into an even layer with an offset spatula (don’t press too
9 oz. stone-ground wheat or other whole-grain crackers hard, or you will break the crust). Layer half of tomato slices over and
2 large eggs press to even out layers. Repeat with remaining cheese mixture and
tomatoes. Brush remaining garlic butter over tomatoes. Top with shallot,
10 oz. fontina, coarsely grated (about 1½ cups) then scatter thyme leaves over.
2½ oz. Parmesan, finely crumbled (about ½ cup)
Bake until filling bubbles vigorously and crust is browned, 60 to 75
½ cup mayonnaise minutes. Let cool 1 hour before serving.
2 teaspoons chopped fresh thyme, plus ½ teaspoon leaves for garnish Note: Pie can be made a day ahead. Cover cooled pie loosely and
1 small shallot, thinly sliced chill, bringing to room temperature before serving.
American Queen’s Western Vacation
If you have browsed in the American Queen’s gift shop, perhaps
you’ve spied an adorable carved-wood replica of the mighty
steamboat, complete with working lights. The charming little
paddlewheelers are made by Ginger Stacks – a subsidiary of
Virginia-based TRC Designs Inc., which has manufactured high-
quality, hand-assembled souvenirs for more than 40 years.
One of our replicas recently accompanied guests on a tour far off
her usual course – cruising through the Pacific Northwest on her
splendid sister the American Empress! The little boat turned up in
some unexpected locations, and by all accounts was beloved
wherever she went.
Look for one for your own souvenir collection the next time you
board the American Queen, and if she accompanies you on your
travels, please share your photos with us on our Facebook page, at
www.facebook.com/americanqueensteamboatcompany/. Follow
us there to see news, videos and fun facts that will keep you in the
loop with America’s river cruising leader.
6MEMBERSHIP BENEFITS
ACTIVATE YOUR MEMBERSHIP 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: ON BOARD 3: CALL: (888) 749-5280
Steamboat Society of America RUBY
(35-69 cruise nights)
T he Steamboat Society of America, our guest loyalty program, was
created to recognize our past guests and offer the opportunity
to enjoy exclusive benefits and incentives for cruising frequently with
All Classic benefits, plus:
“Members only” luggage tags; a membership
status name badge; a dedicated reservations
line; a $50 onboard credit per member;
us. In addition to our Classic membership, earned after completion pre-boarding privileges*
of your first cruise on any of our vessels, we offer four levels of
SAPPHIRE
elite membership – Ruby, Sapphire, Emerald and Diamond. Each (70-139 cruise nights)
level brings additional benefits, and is reached after cruising the All Ruby benefits, plus:
designated number of qualifying nights with us. Preferred reserved dining room seating;
an additional $50 onboard credit ($100
per member); complimentary laundry service**;
After membership activation, all Classic members will receive: a “welcome back” signed card from the
captain, plus a set of exclusive notecards
H The Paddlewheeler quarterly newsletter
H Advance information on new itineraries EMERALD
(140-209 cruise nights)
All Sapphire benefits, plus:
H Exclusive invitations and promotions A one-cabin-category upgrade at time
of booking (subject to availability); a 10%
H A designation pin mailed after activation and upon reaching discount in the onboard gift shop
each level milestone
DIAMOND
H A cocktail party hosted by the captain and senior (210+ cruise nights)
All Emerald benefits, plus:
officers on board An additional $50 onboard credit ($150
per member); a two cabin-category upgrade
H An invitation for friends and family to board for a tour and at time of booking (subject to availability)
breakfast or lunch while in port when member is a cruise guest
H Access for breakfast or lunch when the American Queen, After reaching Sapphire, Emerald or Diamond status,
members will receive a deluxe official wall certificate
American Empress, American Duchess or American Countess and onboard captain’s presentation and a framed painting
are in port near member’s hometown signed 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.
*Benefit not available on American Empress voyages. **Complimentary laundry service is limited to one in-room laundry bag per 7-day cruise.; no dry cleaning services available.
Only sailings operated by American Queen Steamboat Company® (as of April 2012) and Victory Cruise Lines® (as of May 2019) count toward membership level.
Membership benefits are non-transferable, combinable with other applicable promotional offers and must be applied to future cruise travel; hotel nights do not
count toward membership; cruise nights are calculated after completion of a cruise. Additional rules and conditions apply. Cabin-category upgrades are subject to
availability. Vessel access and onboard visits by members: capacity-controlled on a daily basis, not available in ports of embarkation/disembarkation, reservations
and government guest security information is required, guests must be accompanied by member and visits are limited to four per calendar year. American Queen
Steamboat Company reserves the right to change Steamboat Society of America program rules, benefits, terms and/or conditions at any time without notice.
©2019 American Queen Steamboat Operating Company, LLC 070119
7222 Pearl St.
New Albany, IN 47150
(888) 749-5280
www.aqsc.com
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