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Kentucky Derby Themed Cruise – EARLYBIRD – 29 Apr 2024

Cruise and Stay 8 nights with American Duchess departing 29th April 2024

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* Valid until 30 June 2022 or sold out/withdrawn

Cruise Inclusions

SPECIAL EDITION THEMED CRUISE: Kentucky Derby Theme Cruise
This very special cruise is designed around the Kentucky Derby and events that lead up to the `fastest two minutes in sports.` You can even upgrade to a Kentucky Derby package that consists of VIP access and premium seating at Churchill Downs. Kentucky Derby Festival events leading up to the big race will be included as well, such as the Kentucky Derby Festival Great Steamboat Race (see below for add-on – prices COMING SOON)
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SUMMARY:
Cruise Package Duration: 8 nights Cruise-Stay
Package Begins: 29 April 2024 – hotel in Cincinnati, USA
Cruise Begins: 30 April 2024 – embark, Cincinnati, USA
Cruise Ends: 7 May 2024 – disembark, Cincinnati, USA
Ship: American Duchess
River: Ohio River

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INCLUSIONS:
• 1 night pre-cruise hotel stay with breakfast in Cincinnati
• One way transfer from hotel to port on cruise departure day
• 7 night Ohio River cruise aboard the American Duchess from Cincinnati return
• All onboard meals, including both fine dining and casual cuisine
• Complimentary hop-on hop-off shore excursions in each port of call
• 24-Hour room service onboard cruise
• Complimentary onboard cruise `Unlimited Beverage Package` – including beer, wine by the glass, spirits and cocktails valued at up to US $12 in value per drink including 15% gratuity (does not include special tasting events onboard)
• Complimentary cappuccino, espresso, specialty coffees, tea, bottled water and soft drinks throughout your cruise voyage
• A dedicated fleet of deluxe motor coaches
• Port charges of USD $249 per person
• Prepaid ships gratuities of USD $137 per person

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OPTIONAL KENTUCKY DERBY PACKAGE:

OPTIONAL KENTUCKY DERBY ADD ON: Prices COMING SOON – will be per person additional
The 2022 package contained the following
(note – may change in 2024)

Includes:
• Official Kentucky Derby ticket and lanyard
• VIP fast-access pass to enter Churchill Downs. (This reduces the wait time to enter the gates.)
• Undercover seating along the final stretch
• VIP access to the indoor climate controlled area
• Premium in-track hospitality in the Affirmed Lounge with gourmet food and premium open bar
• Deluxe motorcoach transportation from the American Countess to Churchill Downs and the return
• VIP motorcoach parking that is conveniently located near the entrance
• On-site assistance from American Countess crew members

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DISCOUNTS:
This cruise has been discounted by up to $1000 USD per person in selected categories for Australian residents!
Please see below for a list of the significant savings you can enjoy for new bookings up to the 30th of June 2022*.

All rates in USD per person

Twin Cat IS Interior Stateroom: Was $5185 – NOW $4185*
Twin Cat VS Veranda Suite with Private Balcony: Was $7385 – NOW $6385*
Twin Cat DS Deluxe Suite with Private Balcony: Was $10185 – NOW $9185*
Twin Cat LFS Loft Suite with Private Balcony: Was $11185 – NOW $10185*
Twin Cat OS Owner’s Suite: Was $12685 – NOW $11685*

Itinerary

*Itinerary and shore excursions are subject to change and may vary by departure.
  • Full itinerary
    9 days
  • Day
    1
    Cincinnati, Ohio, USA

  • Cincinnati, Ohio, USA

    Enjoy your complimentary stay at the pre-cruise hotel. The evening is yours to become acquainted with the city. Our Hospitality Desk will be located in the hotel, and our friendly staff can assist with everything from general questions about your upcoming voyage to reserving premium experiences. Both American Queen Steamboat Company and local representatives will be readily available to provide you with dining, entertainment and sightseeing options to maximize your time here.

  • Day
    2
    Cincinnati, Ohio, USA

  • Cincinnati, Ohio, USA

    Take a stroll through Cincinnati – the birthplace of baseball and its own distinctive chili recipe. The city is filled with downtown destinations that flaunt shops and amenities. Bound by the many parks; each district has its own personality, and you can meet them all – because the city’s compact downtown is anchored to the river, where our guests meet the shore. New hotspots and long-lasting classics give this oasis of commerce its colorful character. Seize the day in this old-fashioned urban jewel on the Ohio. 

  • Day
    3
    Louisville, Kentucky, USA

  • Louisville, Kentucky, USA

    This authentically quirky port is a muse to artisans of mixed mediums – from sidewalk chalk to street fare – and home to cultural diversity that quickly captivates the heart of its visitors. The local tradition that lives within images of Derby hats, Old-Fashioned cocktails and the 120-foot Louisville Slugger that towers over the friendly city is better lived than seen. Explore the red penguin-peppered Main Street. Embrace oddity. Experience Louisville. 

  • Day
    4
    Madison, Indiana, USA

  • Madison, Indiana, USA

    Tucked away between Cincinnati and Louisville is Madison, a quaint river town rich in character. This charismatic port flaunts its personality throughout the streets, where a 130-block historic district showcases its collection of classic architectural artistry. Admire the antique machinery at the Schroeder House, or an example of fine craftsmanship at the Lanier Mansion State Historic Site. The downtown shopping district is a unique showcase of unbeatable hospitality, with each shop locally owned and operated. Madison’s heritage is woven into every stop, ensuring a glimpse of beauty and history. Join us to discover all the hidden treasures of Madison. 

  • Day
    5
    Brandenburg, KY

  • Brandenburg, KY

    The essence of Kentucky radiates, from its bourbon traditions to a tableau of rolling farmland. Soul-stirring river views and Southern warmth welcome those who pursue relaxation. Mysteries of the Civil War enlist lifelong learners on the battlefield while sprawling parks and trails make way for recreation. The grass is bluer in Brandenburg and all the surrounding areas.

  • Day
    6
    Louisville, Kentucky, USA

  • Louisville, Kentucky, USA

    This authentically quirky port is a muse to artisans of mixed mediums – from sidewalk chalk to street fare – and home to cultural diversity that quickly captivates the heart of its visitors. The local tradition that lives within images of Derby hats, Old-Fashioned cocktails and the 120-foot Louisville Slugger that towers over the friendly city is better lived than seen. Explore the red penguin-peppered Main Street. Embrace oddity. Experience Louisville. 

  • Day
    7
    River Cruising

  • River Cruising

    Watch small river towns and lush landscapes slowly become lost in the horizon as sunlight plays upon the deck. Take hold of a literary classic, curl up on a plush chair in a cozy corner and relish in the moment of tranquility. Experience the fulfillment that river cruising offers.

  • Day
    8
    Augusta, KY, USA

  • Augusta, KY, USA

    Named Most Picturesque Town in Kentucky by USA Today, Augusta is a pearl – continually refined by the rush of its river traffic. From the inland fields of this Kentucky treasure, cabin-and-cottage-speckled hills invite its visitors to forget about the busyness of life for a while. Stops in time-honored shops lead to peaceful strolls through town. Longtime residents are always willing to recount the past – especially the famous Clooney family. Let the us deliver you to this Kentucky hideaway – best accessed and experienced by river. 

  • Day
    9
    Cincinnati, Ohio, USA

  • Cincinnati, Ohio, USA

    Take a stroll through Cincinnati – the birthplace of baseball and its own distinctive chili recipe. The city is filled with downtown destinations that flaunt shops and amenities. Bound by the many parks; each district has its own personality, and you can meet them all – because the city’s compact downtown is anchored to the river, where our guests meet the shore. New hotspots and long-lasting classics give this oasis of commerce its colorful character. Seize the day in this old-fashioned urban jewel on the Ohio. 

Map

Cincinnati, Ohio, USA

Enjoy your complimentary stay at the pre-cruise hotel. The evening is yours to become acquainted with the city. Our Hospitality Desk will be located in the hotel, and our friendly staff can assist with everything from general questions about your upcoming voyage to reserving premium experiences. Both American Queen Steamboat Company and local representatives will be readily available to provide you with dining, entertainment and sightseeing options to maximize your time here.

Pricing and Cabins

Please select your preferred category and cabin configuration/price. Then select Continue to provide your contact details and preferences. Our cruise specialists will check availability and respond to you as soon as possible.
Category Twin/pp Single/pp
Interior Staterooms
Veranda Suites
Deluxe Suites
Loft Suites
Owners Suites
Please select your preferred category and cabin configuration/price. Then select Continue to provide your contact details and preferences. Our cruise specialists will check availability and respond to you as soon as possible.

*Conditions Apply: All prices shown here are per person share twin (unless stated as single) in USD, based on best available promotional cruise fare at time of publication and including all discounts. Visitors to the United States or Canada must complete an online ESTA/CANESTA application prior to arrival which is not included and is the guests responsibility. Cruise deposit, amendment and cancellation conditions apply. All passports, vaccinations and visas are the responsibility of the travelling guest to secure prior to departure from Australia. Please note that cabin availability is not shown in real time – All enquiries will be checked for current availability at the time requested. Promotional fares shown here include discounts of up to $1000 USD and are capacity controlled – pricing ends 30Jun22. We reserve the right to correct errors without penalty. All offers for Australian residents. Transfer to hotel on arrival and post cruise are not included. All guests must be fully vaccinated by a US approved vaccine and complete a covid test prior to departure on any American Queen Voyages cruise.
voyage-id: 907, cf-cruise-id: 102564, cf-special-id: 1717573

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