Overview
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Gross Tonnage
245
Guest Capacity
1996
Year Built
2020
Last Refit
1.45
Crew Ratio
Launched in 2021 following an extensive renovation and expansion, the American Countess seamlessly blends historical allure with contemporary sophistication for an unparalleled paddlewheel cruise experience along America's iconic rivers. As part of the esteemed American Queen Voyages fleet, this vessel, once known as the Kanesville Queen casino boat, has transformed—extended by 60 feet—to comfortably host 245 guests. It elegantly combines the charm of yesteryear with modern luxury, charting memorable journeys across the Mississippi, Ohio, and Tennessee Rivers.
The superior onboard experience of the American Countess is underscored by its spacious, tastefully designed cabins that mix modern flair with ultimate comfort. Guests can enjoy high-quality linens, plush bedding, and a range of amenities including flat-screen TVs, mini-refrigerators, and Keurig coffee makers. The ship's diverse accommodation options, from the cozy 170-square-foot interior staterooms to the lavish 255-square-foot deluxe outside staterooms with private verandas, cater to various tastes and budgets. Culinary delights onboard emphasize regional flavors and ingredients, providing an authentic dining experience in both the elegant Grand Dining Room and the relaxed River Grill.
Attracting travelers who value a rich mix of history, culture, and leisure, the American Countess appeals particularly to mature audiences, history buffs, and those seeking a close-knit, immersive river cruising experience. The ambiance onboard is one of relaxed elegance, with each voyage offering ample opportunities to delve into America's historical and cultural heritage through thoughtfully planned shore excursions, informative lectures, and live entertainment. The ship's vibrant social hubs, including the Grand Lobby and the main lounge, foster a sense of community and exchange among guests.
Distinct in its offerings, the American Countess strikes a perfect balance between exclusivity and accessibility, thanks to its size and design. This allows for intimate access to smaller ports unreachable by larger vessels, presenting guests with a deeper exploration of America's riverfront gems. While the ship may offer fewer large suite options compared to some of its competitors, it excels in providing a rich, personalized journey steeped in historical exploration, local culinary experiences, and stunning river views. However, those seeking the extensive amenities found on larger ocean liners might find the selection more restrained.
In essence, the American Countess masterfully marries the poetic charm of paddlewheel cruising with the finesse of modern luxury. Offering a unique perspective on America's storied rivers, the ship invites travelers into the heart of the nation's rich history, culture, and culinary heritage. Perfect for those who prefer a more tranquil and immersive travel experience, the American Countess shines as a distinctive jewel in the river cruising domain, offering not just a journey through America's picturesque landscapes but a voyage through its very spirit.
Pros
- Utilizes both a traditional paddlewheel and Z-drive for enhanced maneuverability and propulsion efficiency.
- Offers a variety of cabins, including spacious balcony staterooms and accessible options, catering to different passenger needs.
- Inclusive of a pre-cruise hotel stay, enhancing the overall travel experience.
- Features diverse dining options, from traditional set seating to casual, no-time dining, accommodating different guest preferences.
Cons
- Limited storage space in cabins, potentially causing inconvenience for passengers on longer cruises.
- While the ship offers modern amenities, it may lack some of the extensive facilities found on larger ocean liners.
- Mainly focuses on the Lower Mississippi, which might limit destination variety for repeat passengers.
- Interior cabins lack natural light, which may not suit all passengers' preferences.
Tips
- Book a balcony cabin on the second deck for a private 40-square-foot veranda offering serene river views.
- For the best experiences in dining, make reservations early for The River Grill for a more relaxed, timing-flexible meal.
- Take advantage of the included shore excursions for an enriching exploration of local culture and history.
- Utilize the onboard bikes for personal shore excursions, allowing for a unique and intimate discovery of port cities.
- Spend time in the Grand Lobby during cruising hours for the best views and comfortable seating, perfect for relaxation.
- Evening shows are a must-attend; secure your seats early for the best viewing experience.
- For solo travelers, book the single outside stateroom early to ensure availability as there's only one available.
- Visit Perks, the onboard café, for unlimited coffee, tea, and snacks throughout the day, saving on additional beverage costs.
- Familiarize yourself with the fitness center location early in the cruise to stay active and counterbalance the indulgent meals.
- Engage with the onboard riverlorians for deep dives into the history and culture of the places you visit for a more immersive experience.