Lewis & Clark Theme Cruises on Queen West

GUILFORD, CT – November 29, 2011 – American Cruise Lines, the leader in small ship cruising, announced today the planned offering of Lewis and Clark theme cruises aboard the magnificent Queen of the West, an authentic 120-passenger paddlewheeler operating on the Columbia and Snake Rivers of the Pacific Northwest.

Available this April between Portland, Oregon, and Clarkston, Washington, American Cruise Lines will offer an unforgettable journey along the legendary rivers that helped shape the West aboard the authentic paddlewheeler Queen of the West.

On this unique itinerary, passengers will follow in the footsteps of the legendary explorers Lewis and Clark and their monumental expedition while discovering the natural wonder, native lore, pristine wilderness, and rich history along this epic course.

Guests will discover the ancient lands of Native Americans, marvel at the technological miracles of the river’s lock system, where a series of seven locks takes you 780 feet above sea level, and cruise from the lush valley of the Columbia River Gorge to the high desert inland canyons.

“The spring is really the ideal time for this cruise – the days are longer, and the scenery is just breathtaking that time of year,” said Timothy Beebe, Vice President of American Cruise Lines.

“Experiencing this beauty aboard the country’s only overnight authentic paddlewheeler, Queen of the West, makes for a truly unique cruising experience that allows people to experience the Pacific Northwest in a completely different way.”

Onboard lecturers and entertainers will bring the stories of Lewis & Clark’s Corps of Discovery to life while the crew provides passengers with the highest standards of service.

On shore, tour guides and regional experts lead the way as guests retrace the steps of the two famed explorers, visiting sites made famous by their path of discovery.

Highlights of the theme cruise include:

§  Featured guest speaker, Todd Weber –A highly celebrated, river-running historian, brings tales of the patriots, fur traders, Indians, and explorers of America alive through his period clothing and colorful presentation.

§  Dinner with Lewis & Clark evening – Impersonators will accompany guests during a special evening of fine dining, entertainment, trivia, and more.

§  A special screening of Ken Burns’ Lewis & Clark documentary, “Lewis and Clark – The Journey of the Corpse of Discovery.”

§  Guided tours of sites throughout the Lewis and Clark National and State Historic Park, including Fort Clatsop, Salt Works, and Netul Landing.

For those seeking exceptional in both quality and service, a casual environment, and the camaraderie of like-minded travelers, all in the intimacy of a small ship, it can be found on American Cruise Lines’ Queen of the West.

The authentic paddlwheeler, built in 1996 with a Victorian theme, recently underwent a multi-million dollar renovation to make it even more comfortable and accommodating than before.

From the all-American crew ready to anticipate every need to first-class chefs preparing menus inspired by regional specialties, the Lewis and Clark Expedition will meet the greatest of expectations.

For more information on this sailing and the Queen of the West paddlewheeler, check out www.americancruiselines.com.

Source: American Cruise Lines