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American Cruise Lines buys four river vessels from failed rival

Cruise
Harry Kemble
3 April 2024

American Cruise Lines is buying four river cruise vessels that formerly sailed for American Queen Voyages (AQV), which ceased operations earlier this year. 

American Queen Voyages American Queen AQ_Fri_12_12_14_Plantation & Boat EXT (22 of 44) (Credit: American Queen Voyages / Sean McVeigh)

American Queen is one of the four ships to be bought as part of the deal (Credit: American Queen Voyages)

The largest paddlewheel steamboat ever built, American Queen (pictured), as well as American Duchess, American Countess and American Empress will change hands as part of the Chapter 11 process for AQV parent Hornblower Group. 


In a statement, American Cruise Lines said: “American Cruise Lines is pleased to be the successful bidder for AQV’s river vessels. 


“We look forward to announcing additional details after this portion of the Hornblower Holdings bankruptcy process concludes.” 


The future ownership of AQV’s two coastal vessels – Ocean Voyager and Ocean Navigator – is pending following their 1 April auction.