American Cruise Lines has recently made the decision to scrap two of its newly acquired river vessels, American Countess and American Duchess, just weeks after taking over the assets of bankrupt American Queen Voyages. The company is also evaluating the future of American Queen and American Empress.
Following the acquisition of the four river vessels, American Cruise Lines confirmed that American Countess and American Duchess will be scrapped, while options for American Queen and American Empress are being considered. American Queen, known as the largest paddlewheel steamboat ever built, may potentially be donated to a municipal or nonprofit entity due to the extensive technical work required for it to return to cruise operations.
American Empress, another classic paddlewheeler, will not be operating on the Columbia and Snake rivers this season as the company assesses its future. The vessel is currently located at the company’s facility in Astoria, Oregon.
Countess and Duchess, situated in Louisiana, are set to be recycled, with the removal process of furniture, art, and other items already underway. American Cruise Lines emphasized its commitment to modernizing and enhancing the domestic cruise industry through new ships, spacious staterooms, advanced technology, and environmental sustainability.
The company’s bid of $6.3 million, which included intellectual property, made it the sole qualified bidder for the four river vessels. American Cruise Lines’ decision to scrap two vessels and evaluate the future of the others reflects its strategic approach to revitalizing the domestic cruise sector.
