A NEWLY formed US company has
announced plans to operate the largest
steamboat in the world on the iconic
Mississippi River next year.
The American Queen, which has capacity
for 436 passengers, has been idle since
2008 when its former owner Majestic
America Line closed down.
It’s now set to be taken over by the aptly
named Great American Steamboat Co. after
undergoing a US$5 million renovation.
The paddlewheeler will reportedly
homeport in Memphis, Tennessee, with
details of itineraries to be revealed in the
coming weeks, according to the company.
MEANWHILE there will be even more
royalty on the Mississippi, with a new ship
called Queen of the Mississippi also set to
debut next year.
This second Queen will be operated by
American Cruise Lines, which about six
weeks ago announced plans to operate
American Civil War cruises in the region.
