LAUNCHING A RIVERBOAT AND A WINE PROGRAM

[HostDave]

When we first set our sights on the Pacific Northwest, we knew that when we entered the region we wanted to do so with a big splash. We were fortunate that the largest riverboat west of the Mississippi River was on the market, that she had been tailor-made to cruise along the Columbia and Snake rivers and that her standard of design and interior finishing was on par with our beloved American Queen. The elegant 223-guest American Empress, which will be named at a special ceremony this Saturday in Portland, Ore., is the perfect addition to our fleet.

The American Empress’ maiden voyage will be a nine-day journey immersing guests in the splendor of the Columbia and Snake Rivers, departing from Vancouver U.S.A. Featured stops include some of the region’s most celebrated ports including Astoria, Ore.; Stevenson, Wash.; The Dalles, Ore.; Sacajawea State Park, Wash. and finally Clarkston, Wash. Complimentary shore excursions will be available in every port and include the cultural and historical landmarks that signify the living legacy of the region’s first settlers. Travelers with specific interests are encouraged to enjoy the variety of Premium Experience Excursions such as the Walla Walla Wine Trail or a journey to the volcanic crater of Mount St. Helens. Daily lectures will also be provided by the Riverlorian, an onboard history and culture expert.

One of the things that sets the American Queen apart is our commitment to making certain that we represent the regions in which she sails through a variety of programs, ranging from entertainment to cuisine. We are equally committed to ensure that a voyage on the American Empress reaches the same level of cultural immersion in the Pacific Northwest. That is one of the reasons we were so excited last week to announce that we were kicking off the American Empress’ comprehensive wine program with Oregon’s Willamette Valley Vineyards.

The program is perfectly tailored for the American Empress’ voyages in the Pacific Northwest, one of the premier wine-producing regions in the United States and an area that is gaining in both popularity and recognition for its exceptional vineyards. In celebration of our inaugural season and itineraries through the heart of Oregon and Washington wine country, the American Queen Steamboat Company announced an innovative wine program featuring over 40 vineyards from across the region. Special tastings, visits to wineries and onboard winemaker lectures are among the program highlights. To kick off the christening voyage and VIP celebration on April 5, Willamette Valley Vineyards has been selected as the first featured vineyard.

“We are honored to partner with Oregon’s Willamette Valley Vineyards on our American Empress inaugural sailing and christening voyage,” said American Queen Steamboat Company President and COO Ted Sykes. “Showcasing the local cuisine of the Pacific Northwest has been a top priority. In developing the American Empress culinary experience; the area’s world-class vineyards promise to play a starring role.”

The Willamette Valley Vineyards 2012 Bernau Block Pinot Noir will be previewed at Saturday’s christening dinner and not publically released until May 3, 2014. Additional vintages to be served will be the 2011 Estate Chardonnay and 2013 Riesling. Guests sailing on the American Empress inaugural voyage will receive a bottle of the Willamette Valley Vineyards 2012 Estate Pinot Noir.

“The American Empress has been described as a floating boutique hotel and I see her as an ambassador for our region’s passionate wine community,” explained Jim Bernau, founder of Willamette Valley Vineyards. “We look forward to welcoming guests from around the world as they explore our communities and taste our world-class wines.”

Willamette Valley Vineyards has been producing high quality, sustainably grown Pinot Noir and other cool-climate varieties since 1983 – earning the distinction as “One of America’s Great Pinot Noir Producers” by Wine Enthusiast Magazine and recognized by Wine & Spirits Magazine as the 2011 Winery of the Year. Willamette Valley Vineyards wines have been served at the White House, the James Beard House, and they are available at some of the finest restaurants and wine shops throughout the world.

As part of the American Empress’ inaugural Pacific Northwest season, we’re offering an exceptional offer that reflects these exceptional voyages. For a limited time, you can save 50% on our June American Empress departures*. Just make your reservations and pay-in-full for your June 7, 14, 21 or 28 sailing by June 20 and receive 50% off our regular cruise fares*.

Be a part of history and join us for the American Empress inaugural season. Immerse yourself in the history, culture, cuisine and wines of the Pacific Northwest, beginning with the stellar offerings of Willamette Valley Vineyards. Every vacation has a signature moment, and for wine lovers, Willamette Valley Vineyards and the American Empress won’t disappoint.

* Offer expires June 20, 2014 and is valid on new, paid-in-full bookings only. Space cannot be held - full payment is required at time of booking to redeem this offer. This offer is based on cabin availability and only while inventory lasts. Offer of 50% savings applies to regular cruise fare only, regardless of cabin category, and is only valid on these 2014 American Empress voyage dates: 6/07, 6/14, 6/21 and 6/28. Offer valid on U.S. and Canada resident bookings only. Not valid on group bookings or existing reservations and cannot be combined with other offers, promotions or discounts. Cruise fare does not include taxes, port charges, insurance, gratuities, or airfare. Additional terms and conditions may apply - call for details.