American Empress

The 2003-built (originally as Empress of the North) American Empress cruise ship was acquired by AQSC/American Queen Steamboat Company (now AQV/American Queen Voyages) in 2013, completely refurbished, and re-launched in April 2014 as American Empress.

This paddlewheel riverboat is the largest operating on the rivers of the Pacific Northwest. Her design is similar to fleetmate American Queen and to American Cruise Lines vessels such as Queen of the Mississippi (now American Heritage) and Queen of the West (now American West).

The 223-passenger Empress of the North was previously owned by American West Steamship Company and operated by Majestic America Line.

The refurbishment of American Empress (IMO 9263538) was extensive, with all cabins and public spaces receiving new carpeting, wallpaper, paint, lighting, and general updates. From the moment guests step onboard, they are transported to a bygone era when steamboats were a common sight on America's rivers.

While the ship features historical design elements, she also incorporates modern touches. The Astoria Dining Room is light-filled and offers many two-person tables, while the newly added River Grill provides a bistro-style dining experience. Often described as "a steamboat without steam," the American Empress retains her iconic red paddlewheel.

The previous shipowner was Hornblower Group Inc (via Hornblower Cruises and Events).

Following the bankruptcy of Hornblower Group in February 2024, American Queen Voyages was listed for sale. Hornblower was sold to Strategic Value Partners, which announced plans to reorganize and focus on its remaining subsidiaries.

At a Texas auction held in March 2024, ACL/American Cruise Lines emerged as the highest bidder, acquiring four riverboats (American Empress, American Duchess, American Queen, American Countess) along with other AQV assets.

Cabins

American Empress staterooms (112 total) are decorated and furnished with Victorian-style antiques and reproductions. Accommodations feature polished wood, Victorian-era wallpaper patterns, and framed paintings. Beds are comfortable with ample under-bed storage and luxury bedding sets. Only 3 cabins are wheelchair-accessible. There are no connecting or family cabins. The ship offers 7 cabin categories, and most rooms include private balconies furnished with two wicker chairs and a cocktail table.

Standard (complimentary) amenities, furniture, and services in all staterooms include:

• Individually controlled air-conditioning, flat-screen TV (satellite reception), dark wood wardrobe, dressers with ample drawer space, mini-bar/fridge, personal safe, phone, alarm clock, Keurig tea/coffee brewer, binoculars
• Luxury bath amenities (Clarins toiletries, terry robes, hairdryer)
• Plenty of electrical outlets and lighting
• Smoking is prohibited inside the cabin and on balconies. The only designated smoking area is the sun deck.
• Complimentary soft drinks and bottled water available throughout the cruise
• Complimentary wines and beers at dinner only
• Complimentary 24-hour room service (menu includes breakfast fare, sandwiches, burgers, macaroni & cheese, fresh salmon, desserts)
• Complimentary Wi-Fi Internet

SUITES (categories LS and A) and SUPERIOR STATEROOMS (category B) include either a queen bed or two twin beds, private bathroom (with WC, tub, and shower), separate seating area with couch/sofa bed, cocktail table and chairs, wet bar, Bose sound system, iHome speakers, and floor-to-ceiling glass doors opening to a private balcony with padded chairs.

VERANDA CABINS (category E) feature semi-private balconies. OUTSIDE CABINS (category D) include large non-opening windows. SINGLE OUTSIDE BALCONY ROOMS (category CS) offer similar features as Deluxe Verandas (category C) but are smaller and priced for single occupancy—ideal for solo travelers.

The riverboat has 4 decks and 112 staterooms for 223 guests, served by 83 all-American crew and staff. All decks are passenger-accessible and connected by 2 elevators.

The ship features 3 lounges, 2 restaurants, and ample open deck and promenade space.

American Queen Steamboat Company Cruise Deals

American Empress cruises operate with all-inclusive packages, which include:

• All shore excursions ("Steamcoach Tours" via luxury motorcoaches)
• 1-night pre-cruise hotel package
• Soft drinks and bottled water (available throughout the cruise)
• Wines and beers (served at dinner only)
• 24-hour room service (menu includes breakfast fare, sandwiches, burgers, macaroni & cheese, fresh salmon, desserts)
• Wi-Fi Internet
• Pilot House tour (visit to the ship’s Navigation Bridge)
• Smoking is prohibited inside cabins and on balconies. The sun deck is the only designated smoking area.

"Commodore Services" are exclusive perks reserved for American Countess passengers booked in categories LFS-Loft and OS-Owner Suites. These price-inclusive privileges include:

• Welcome gifts (fruit basket and a bottle of wine)
• Suite tour upon arrival
• Priority boarding and dining arrangements
• Reserved balcony seating in "The Auditorium" (show lounge), with personal escort
• Private reception with the Captain and Senior Officers
• Personal River Butler
• Unpacking, closet arrangement, packing, laundry, pressing, and shoeshine service
• In-cabin dining (Afternoon Tea, breakfast and dinner on the balcony upon request, pre-dinner canapés, post-dinner sweets)