American Queen Voyages™ gives travelers the opportunity to discover deeper than ever before. From an array of regions, vessels, destinations, and excursions, the adventures are truly endless. But, if you want to dive even deeper, then our themed cruises or special event cruises might be a great opportunity. Themes range from musical adventures, such as Rhythm of the River, to holiday extravaganza, such as New Year’s Celebration.
Each themed cruise is tailored to feature exciting and unique opportunities that relate to the theme, guaranteeing complete immersion. On a wine-themed cruise, indulge in tastings of wine country’s unique and delectable flavors. During a Rhythm of the River voyage, tune into spectacular performances from our onboard performers and special guests. Listen to lectures from musical historians who can take you on a musical journey. Whichever type of adventure you are looking for, we have a themed cruise that can bring you along.
- Wine Cruise
Discover the intoxicating influence of one of the world’s classic beverages and sample the uniquely American notes of the Pacific Northwest. We’ll travel into the heart of wine country and introduce you to the sources of delicious libations. Explore breathtaking vineyards where exquisite concoctions come to fruition. Listen in on compelling seminars from sommeliers, then indulge in nature’s flavors with tasting happy hours. Sip it all in…
- Bourbon Cruise
Bourbon enthusiasts and those new to barrel-aged whiskey will embark on the adventure of a lifetime on a bourbon-themed cruise. Sip on bourbon that ranges from earthy and nutty to savory and zesty as you cruise down the river to iconic destinations, most known for bringing the spirit of bourbon to life. Listen in on riveting talks from passionate Stewards, then attend a happy hour where expanding your palette is the only thing on the agenda. Dive into the history of this famous American spirit on a voyage of discovery.
- Rhythm of the River
Join us for a riveting music cruise where the sights and sounds of America’s rivers spring to life in the form of various musical genres. Listen for the smooth multi-melodies in country music and the rhythmic beat of the drums in jazz. Travel back in time with the help of musical classics from some of the most iconic eras in music history. Enjoy remarkable music performances from the onboard entertainment team and special guest performers. Whether you enjoy bluegrass, pop, rhythm and blues, or Memphis blues, head to the theater, sit back, relax, and get ready for the musical journey of a lifetime.
- Culinary & Cocktails
Indulge in a wide range of flavors, from savory to sweet, on a culinary voyage. Entice your tastebuds with shore excursions that take you to local eateries that only the locals know. Sit in on cooking demonstrations by Culinary Ambassador Regina Charboneau as she crafts delicious meals with recipes from her very own cookbook. Dine on signature dishes while discovering new ones. Whether you dabble in cuisine or are a culinary connoisseur, this flavorful voyage has something for every traveler to enjoy.
- Holidays on the River
Wrap yourself up in a cozy world of enchantments this holiday season as you savor the all-inclusive amenities of our authentic paddlewheel riverboat. Broaden your perspectives as you sit in on historical lectures. While in port, explore quaint river towns transformed into a holiday winter wonderland. Best of all, spend the holidays with those you love and make memories to last a lifetime.
- Presidents Cruise
Sail with American Queen Voyages on our newest themed cruises, our President’s Cruises. Follow the legendary currents of the Mississippi from New Orleans to Memphis as you join special guests Cindy D’Aoust, AQV President, John Waggoner, Founder & Chairman, his wife, and American Empress® Godmother Claudette, and Regina Charboneau, AQV Culinary Ambassador. Experience special perks of the Presidents Cruise, with include a Jazz Brunch, exclusive hosted tours, and onboard enrichment that allows guests to become personal with the leaders of American Queen Voyages, and much more! Celebrate this milestone voyage by deeply discovering North America at iconic Lower Mississippi destinations, including Nottoway, St. Francisville, and Natchez.
- Kentucky Derby
More of a special event than a theme, the Kentucky Derby cruise is one you don’t want to miss. Pull out your favorite derby fascinator and get ready to drink mint juleps at one of the most exciting events in May – the Kentucky Derby! Full of fireworks over the Ohio River, the Great American Steamboat Race, an exclusive dinner onboard hosted by Culinary Ambassador Regina Charboneau, and horse racing. It’s the Southern event of the year. Celebrate in appropriate style aboard the lavish American Countess®, discovering an abundance of time-honored traditions. The thrill of the Kentucky Derby at Churchill Downs can be yours with a premium Derby Day ticket package.
Explore Further with AQV Themed Cruises
Whether you are interested in broadening your culinary horizon or watching the “fastest two minutes in sports”, our themed cruises have exactly what you are looking for. Sip on aged bourbon in Kentucky or explore the American South during the holiday season. No matter what sailing you decide to embark on, adventure awaits! Plan your themed cruise today!
New Orleans