Cruises on board the American Empress
Combining stylish vessels, timeless glamour, and unforgettable excursions, the American Queen Steamboat Company is the proud owner of the Pacific Northwest’s largest and most elegant overnight riverboat, the American Empress. A historic, all-American experience awaits you on board, thanks to the sheer number of artifacts from the Gold Rush and Sternwheeler eras that line the corridors. With its beautiful décor, sumptuous dining opportunities, and stylish ambiance, the American Empress is sure to delight.
Sail in the wake of Lewis and Clark along the Columbia and Snake rivers, enjoy the stunning scenery of the Pacific Northwest, and learn about local history from the vessel's very own Riverlorian, an onboard historian. In addition, you’ll be enthralled by the stories they tell. Premium shore excursions will spark your interest, but life on board is just as good. Lavish furnishings and fine dining are all yours to enjoy when you step aboard. Enjoy a particularly exclusive cruise, with fewer than 250 passengers and just 84 crew members.
FACTS & FIGURES
- Ship length380 ft
- Passengers223
- Decks4
- Launched2003
American Empress Deals
Ship Overview
American Empress deck plan
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American Empress staterooms
American Empress staterooms
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Oceanview stateroom
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Balcony stateroom
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Suite Cabin
Ship information
Staterooms
Even the simplest outside staterooms (180 sq. ft) are lovingly furnished and come fitted with two single beds or a queen bed. Veranda staterooms (150-160 sq. ft) offer the added luxury of breathtaking views from your bed, while superior staterooms offer a private veranda. Luxury suites (410 sq. ft) place you fully in the lap of luxury, thanks to forward and starboard views, a sound system, private butler, and reserved seats in the Show Lounge Theater.
Dining & Gastronomy
Enjoy some of the finest cuisine the Pacific Northwest has to offer on board the American Empress. Sample free-range chicken, sustainably caught fish, and an array of delicious dishes, all made by a professionally trained culinary team who take their inspiration from the region’s natural bounty. Enjoy complimentary beer and wine with dinner, and sample alcoholic beverages from the region as you sail.
Entertainment and Activities
Offering top performances from the genres of cabaret, singing, and dancing, the Show Lounge is known for its quality entertainment. And its plush décor is just the place you want to be: chandeliers hang from the high ceilings, the seating is comfortable, and the energy warm. Enjoy piano music in the afternoon in the understated Paddlewheel Lounge and get ready to dance all night a bit later on.
Dress Code
Daytime dress is casual on the American Empress, and passengers should dress for the weather. Evenings are country club casual, with passengers donning khakis, dress pants, and buttoned shirts or sweaters. As the weather in the Pacific Northwest can be unpredictable, it's wise to dress in layers and pack rain gear, just in case.
Ship Data
- In service since: 2003 / refurbished 2014
- Length: 380 ft
- Number of decks: 4
- Passengers: 223
- Crew: 84
- Languages spoken on board: English
- Currency on board: US dollar