Fares are going up

[HostDave]

The American Queen Steamboat Co. said it will raise fares beginning Jan. 1. According to the operator of the 436-passenger riverboat, many of next year’s sailings are selling out, particularly those between the paddlewheeler’s homeport of Memphis and New Orleans.

Overall bookings are up 300% compared to 2012, according to the company, and the fare increase will be an average of $200 per person, per voyage.

Among the 2013 highlights are a total of 30 departures from Memphis and New Orleans, showcasing the Lower Mississippi’s plantations, Civil War battlefields, history and Southern culture; five special departures featuring Natchez’s Spring Pilgrimage Pageant; ‘Blue Hawaii,’ an Elvis tribute; and an ‘Epic Civil War’ voyage between Memphis and Chattanooga.

New themes include Blues & Barbecue, Louisiana History & Culture, Mystical Krewe of Steamboating Mardi Gras, Dixie Fest, Southern Spirits, Gardens of the River, In the Good Old Summertime, Baseball Legends, Manifest Destiny, The Great Steamboat Era and the first Delta Queen Steamboat Co. and Paddlewheel Steamboat Society Of America Reunion voyages.

Fares will begin at $1,345 per person, double occupancy, beginning in January, and include a one-night pre-voyage hotel stay, shore tours in every port on board deluxe Steamcoaches and wine and beer with dinner. Vacations from five to 14 days are offered.