AMERICAN Queen Steamboat Company (AQSC) christened its new vessel, American Countess in New Orleans on Mon. The new riverboat received a bourbon blessing at Mardi Gras World in New Orleans, which was followed by the commencement of an abbreviated one-week preview cruise for VIPs, sailing northward along the Mississippi River,...
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AMERICAN Queen Steamboat Company (AQSC) christened its new vessel, American Countess in New Orleans on Mon.
The new riverboat received a bourbon blessing at Mardi Gras World in New Orleans, which was followed by the commencement of an abbreviated one-week preview cruise for VIPs, sailing northward along the Mississippi River, stopping in Nottoway and Natchez.
Angie Hack, who is the daughter of AQSC’s founder, was named Countess’ godmother, and christened the ship with a bottle of Maker’s Mark bourbon – one of the line’s signature traditions.
Special guests included Louisiana Lieutenant Governor Billy Nungesser, Port of New Orleans President & Chief Executive Officer Brandy Christian, Hornblower Group Chief Executive Officer Kevin Rabbitt, and New Orleans restauranteur Dickie Brennan.
“As we celebrate the grand debut of the American Countess, I could not be more appreciative of the incredible team that made it possible,” shared Waggoner.
“We listened to our returning guests’ feedback on what they would like to see in a new riverboat and created a contemporary American masterpiece that guests are eager to experience.”
Pictured: Captain Bobby Duncan, Angie & Jerry Hack, Claudette & John Waggoner, Kristin Fary and Dickie Brennan.
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