Soaring to New Heights in the New Year Each passing year seems to get better and better for American

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1 Soaring to New Heights in the New Year Each passing year seems to get better and better for American Queen Steamboat Company. We closed out the 2017 season with remarkable success. The majority of cruises sailed at complete full capacity. We received outstanding survey scores for the crew and for each element of our service offering from shore ex to dining to the entertainment provided. We had an abundance of returning loyal guests that also made a significant impact. In addition, we are proud to announce that we took home the Gold for the Best U.S. River Cruise Line at the 2018 Travvy Awards for the second year in a row. This is a tremendous honor, indeed! As I m sure you have heard by now, we welcomed a third vessel to our fleet, the American Duchess. We could not be more pleased with the immense outpouring of support that we ve received from our guests and from the river communities that we visit. We understand the economic impact we bring to these places is significant and helps to ensure the preservation of our nation s heritage and history, a mission very close to our hearts. The addition of the American Duchess afforded us the opportunity to meet the demand for more capacity and also to introduce new itineraries and ports of call. The American Duchess made her debut with trips to downtown Nashville including both roundtrip itineraries and others between Nashville and Memphis. Each voyage was a big hit with our guests and we are excited to be returning there in the fall. If you haven t had the chance to cruise into Nashville with us, you still have time to join us in 2018! WINTER 2018 Volume 4, Issue 1 If you re already thinking about a 2019 river cruise, you re not alone! Due to increasing demand, we ve made our 2019 itineraries available for sale already. This is earlier than ever before in order to give you more opportunity to find the perfect sailing. The unique blend of stunning landscapes and profound history, acclaimed regional cuisine prepared with locally sourced ingredients, multiple dining venues, exceptional entertainment and the adventure of exploring riverside port cities beckons your return. The American Duchess in Nashville, TN We enjoy hearing from you, our loyal guests, so please continue to send your feedback so that we may continue to meet your expectations. It is our goal to deliver a magnificent vacation experience for you each and every time. Thank you for your continued loyalty. We look forward to welcoming you aboard in 2018! Warm regards, Ted L. Sykes, President & COO American Queen Steamboat Company IN THIS ISSUE: H 2019 Voyages at a Glance H New! Racing on the River H 2019 Special Savings H Inaugural Port Presentations H Entertainment Spotlight: Michaelyn Oby H Guest Testimonial H 2018 Travvy Awards H We Moved!

2 2019 VOYAGES NOW AVAILABLE Where will we take you next? Whether you wish to travel the same river region time and again or perhaps try something new, our lineup of 2019 river cruises has a little something for everyone! THE LOWER MISSISSIPPI RIVER is a beautiful celebration of modern day attractions and timeless Southern traditions. It is the river of centuries-old shaded oak trees, elegant Antebellum plantations, cotton fields and Civil War memorials. River cruising through the rich history and cultural diversity of the Old South is like taking a step back in time. Highlights: Antebellum architecture; Cotton and sugarcane plantations; Creole and Cajun cuisine; Memphis blues and barbeque; Southern culture; Mississippi Delta Heritage; Majestic mansions. Vessels: 37 voyages aboard the American Queen (Feb-Jun; Aug-Dec); 38 voyages aboard the American Duchess ( Jan-Jun; Aug-Dec) WHAT S NEW: Plantation Holidays (American Queen) THE OHIO, TENNESSEE AND CUMBERLAND RIVERS reveal America s cultural quilt. From Civil War battlefields, forts and homesteads to quaint Main Streets and friendly smiles, this region will welcome you with open arms and enrich you with its storied history. Whether you are cruising through the deep wilderness, or headed to big cities for exciting attractions like the Grand Ole Opry and Churchill Downs, adventure awaits by the mile. 2 Highlights: Historic Civil War sites; Scenic foothills of the Appalachian Mountains; Legends and lore of famous frontiersmen; Underground Railroad history; Iconic attractions. Vessels: 2 voyages aboard the American Queen (Oct-Nov); 6 voyages aboard the American Duchess ( Jul and Dec) WHAT S NEW: Memphis to Pittsburgh (American Duchess); Memphis to Chattanooga-Civil War (American Queen) THE UPPER MISSISSIPPI RIVER pulses through the heart of America offering hidden gems around each bend of the river to fuel your sense of discovery. Whether you are a fan of nature s raw beauty and wildlife or an enthusiast of history and culture, the upper reaches of the Mississippi from dynamic St. Louis to the twin cities of Minneapolis and St. Paul will surely pique your interest and capture your heart. Highlights: Scenic river views and towering bluffs; American bald eagles and indigenous wildlife; Mark Twain s hometown and literary inspiration; More than 24 locks and dams. Vessels: 6 voyages aboard the American Queen ( Jun-Aug); 3 voyages aboard the American Duchess (Aug) WHAT S NEW: Roundtrip St. Paul (American Duchess)

3 THE COLUMBIA AND SNAKE RIVERS present a wealth of natural, awe-inspiring beauty and iconic destinations that will leave you breathless. The timelessness and deep-rooted history of the region is evident at each and every port along your journey. From the raw, natural power of Mount St. Helens to cascading waterfalls like Multnomah Falls and the acclaimed wineries of the Pacific Northwest, this captivating corner of America will show you the world from a new perspective. Highlights: Fresh Pacific seafood and regional delights; History of Lewis and Clark; Abundant locks and dams; Varying climates and landscapes; Dramatic waterfalls; Pacific Northwest wine country; Mount St. Helens. Vessel: 38 voyages aboard the American Empress (Mar-Nov) WHAT S NEW: 9-day Roundtrip Vancouver, WA (American Empress ) SPECIAL OFFER 2019 VOYAGES: Book Early and SAVE up to $1,800* There is no better way to experience the beauty of America s rivers and now is the time to start planning your next voyage. With new itineraries and special themed cruises on everyone s wish list for 2019, we want you, our loyal past guest, to be first in line for our best offer. Don t miss out on your first choice river cruise vacation call and book today! FEATURED ITINERARY NEW FOR 2019 RACING ON THE RIVER LOWER MISSISSIPPI, OHIO & TENNESSEE RIVERS 16-DAY VOYAGE: MEMPHIS TO PITTSBURGH By any measure, the Ohio River is no mere tributary to the Mississippi, but a mighty river unto itself. On this new itinerary, you will embark on a cruise imbued with the heritage of small town America and the nostalgia of America s vibrant steamboating history. As you discover the charming attractions of quaint ports that have long been guest favorites, you will have the opportunity to take part in themed racing events such as a 5k run in Augusta and experience the thrill of horse racing at the famed track at Churchill Downs in Louisville. But racing on the river just wouldn t seem right without the excitement of riverboat racing, so join us onboard as we challenge riverboats, such as the Belle of Louisville, for a good old-fashioned race on the river! INCLUDED IN YOUR CRUISE FARE: H One-night hotel stay to begin your journey with breakfast, taxes, porterage and transfer to the American Duchess H Comprehensive, guided Hop-On Hop-Off Shore Excursions in each port of call H Touch six states and visit twelve ports of call H Acclaimed entertainment worthy of Broadway H All onboard meals with regionally inspired cuisine H Wine and beer with dinner H Coffee, tea, cappuccino, espresso, bottled water, soft drinks, popcorn and freshly baked cookies H Wi-Fi/Internet service H Daily lectures by the Riverlorian CABIN CATEGORY OS LFS DS VS IS Jul 7-22 $14,999 $11,999 $11,999 $7,999 $4,799 SALE FARES $11,399 $7,399 $4,199 Fares are listed in U.S. dollars, per guest, double occupancy. Port Charges: $379. FOR FULL ITINERARY DETAILS, CALL OR VISIT US ONLINE AMERICAN DUCHESS SAVINGS *Save $1,800 per stateroom ($900 per person) on voyage: 8/18. Save $1,200 per stateroom ($600 per person) on voyage: 7/7. Save $800 per stateroom ($400 per person) on voyages: 1/6, 1/13, 1/20, 1/27, 2/3, 2/10, 3/17, 4/14, 4/21, 6/30, 7/21, 7/28, 8/11, 9/8, 12/1, 12/8, 12/15. Save $600 per stateroom ($300 per person) on voyages: 3/24, 3/31, 4/7, 4/28, 5/5, 5/12, 5/19, 5/26, 6/2, 6/9, 6/16, 6/23, 8/4, 9/15, 9/22, 9/29, 10/6, 10/13, 10/20, 10/27, 11/3, 11/10, 11/17, 11/24, 12/22. Save $400 per stateroom ($200 per person) on voyages: 1/2, 12/29. American Duchess offers not valid on categories OS and LFS AMERICAN EMPRESS SAVINGS *Save $1,000 per stateroom ($500 per person) on voyages: 4/14, 4/21, 6/30. Save $600 per stateroom ($300 per person) on voyages: 3/3, 3/10, 3/17, 3/24, 3/31, 4/7, 4/28, 5/5, 5/12, 5/19, 5/26, 6/02, 6/09, 6/16, 6/23, 7/7, 7/14, 7/21, 7/28, 8/4, 8/11, 8/18, 8/25, 9/1, 9/8, 9/15, 9/22, 9/29, 10/6, 10/13, 10/20, 10/27, 11/3, 11/10, 11/17. American Empress offers not valid on category CS AMERICAN QUEEN SAVINGS *Save $1,800 per stateroom ($900 per person) on voyage: 6/23. Save $1,200 per stateroom ($600 per person) on voyage: 8/11. Save $800 per stateroom ($400 per person) on voyages: 2/17, 2/24, 4/14, 4/21, 12/8, 12/15. Save $600 per stateroom ($300 per person) on voyages: 3/3, 3/10, 3/17, 3/24, 3/31, 4/7, 4/28, 5/5, 5/12, 5/19, 5/26, 6/2, 6/9, 6/16, 7/14, 7/21, 7/28, 8/4, 8/25, 9/1, 9/8, 9/15, 9/22, 9/29, 10/6, 10/13, 10/20, 10/27, 11/3, 11/10, 11/17, 11/24, 12/1, 12/22, 12/29. American Queen offers not valid on categories OS, SO and SI. Offer expires on 7/31/2018 and is only valid on new, paid-in-full bookings. Full payment at time of booking is required to redeem this offer. Offer is based on cabin availability and only while inventory lasts. Not valid on Group bookings or existing reservations; cannot be combined with other promotions or discounts. Promotional fares and amenities are capacity controlled, may vary by sailing and may be withdrawn without notice. Cruise fares quoted are in U.S. dollars, are per person and do not include government taxes and fees, port charges, gratuities, airfare, insurance, personal expenditures, and transportation costs incurred while traveling to and from embarkation ports. Not responsible for errors or omissions. Additional terms and conditions may apply - call for details.

4 Inaugural Port Presentations: American Duchess For those of you who may not be familiar, an inaugural port presentation takes place the first time a new vessel stops in each port of call during its inaugural season. It is a celebration during which American Queen Steamboat Company has the opportunity to thank a community for their support. Community leaders are invited aboard the vessel for a warm welcoming tour followed by a meet and greet with company representatives. In the case of the American Duchess, the presentations began in August of 2017 with her maiden voyage and will carry on throughout Each port presentation consists of the following: Welcome reception, tour of the vessel, and a brief overview about the economic benefit that we bring to each port community. Presentation of the inaugural gift, a commemorative plate, to the mayor or highest ranking city official in attendance. Brief meet and greet with the vessel s captain, hotel manager, various members of the crew and corporate staff. Dover, TN Vicksburg, MS Winona, MN ENTERTAINMENT SPOTLIGHT The American Queen s Michaelyn Oby If you have traveled aboard the beloved American Queen, there is a strong chance that you were enthralled with one or more performances by our very own Michaelyn Oby. But we thought you might like to know that Michaelyn shines both on and off stage. When asked to share a bit about herself with our guests, she was more than happy to oblige! I was recruited by the entertainment producers for American Queen Steamboat Company in 2012 after auditioning at a mass cattle call in Memphis - the Unified Professional Theatre Auditions (UPTA). It has been an amazing six years aboard the American Queen. I have the pleasure of performing with a remarkable cast and veteran musicians every night. Whether it is in one of our production shows, a jam session in the Engine Room Bar, or in my own one woman show, I feel fortunate to be able to perform and make a living doing what I love. A couple seasons back, I stepped into my newest venture of Featured Entertainer and I am slated for guest appearances aboard our sister vessel, the American Duchess, very soon. Last April, I recorded my show Feeling Good accompanied by The Michaelyn performing with the American Queen Ensemble in the Grand Saloon I feel fortunate to be able to perform and make a living doing what I love. 4 Steamboat Syncopators live aboard the American Queen, and that album is available in our gift shop. The most satisfying reward of working on these riverboats is the relationships built with our guests. Since our clientele have such an affinity and love for these vessels they travel frequently with us, so you are able to truly acquaint yourself with them. Also, I believe it is this connection shared by the crew and guest that brings our passengers back. As crew, we have a culture of teamwork and a family atmosphere, which in turn makes our guests feel comfortable - it feels like a homecoming every time they step onboard. Nothing delights my heart more than recognizing a face and recalling a name of a passenger and having them do the same each cruise.

5 Guest Testimonial: American Compassion Every now and then we come across a guest testimonial that truly resonates with us and we feel compelled to share it with others. The following letter came to us from guest Jeff Tozzer. It is a heartwarming account of the American Empress voyage he took on April 17, 2017 with his mom. We hope you find it as inspirational as we do. For the last seven years my mother and I have taken an annual trip, but this year our trip aboard the American Empress was our last. Mom s Alzheimer s is progressing and to be honest, I probably shouldn t have planned this last trip on the Columbia River. Mom was removed from her familiar home and while the American Empress is very comfortable, the first few days were a struggle for Mom to find her bearings in unfamiliar surroundings. Things soon began to change as your wonderful crew worked its magic. The Cruise Director, Melissa Blatherwick, approached us one afternoon and asked if Mom and I would be her dinner guests that evening. Mom recognized Mel from the amazing entertainment she provided and we looked forward to our dinner. Our terrific meal was surpassed in quality only by Mel s conversation. She engaged my mom in many ways despite Mom s inability to speak and we had a wonderful evening. During the entire voyage, Mel always warmly greeted my mom and their friendship grew by the day. When we first encountered Mary in the Paddlewheel Lounge, it was clear that she is much more than an expert Riverlorian. Daily, she would greet my mother and Melissa Blatherwick compliment her outfits. And when the timing was just right, Mary confided to me that she had cared for her own mother who had dementia. That was a welcome conversation that I won t forget. Encountering Mary several times a day was such a welcome highlight for Mom and me. The patience and compassion of every server in both dining venues can be attributed to the leadership of Maitre d Carmen Armstrong. Carmen is so personable and it didn t matter how busy The Astoria Dining Room was, she would always cross the entire room to give my mom a huge hug. Those three hugs every day lit my mom up and I always looked forward to witnessing Mom s next hug. During the tour of the engine room I noticed that the gigantic Caterpillar generators are named after strong and admired women. This makes perfect sense; these engines, like the female crew members I most admire, work tirelessly behind the scenes to provide a smooth and comfortable voyage for the passengers. If I had my way, your next ship would be named the American Compassion and it would be powered by the Mel, Mary, and Carmen. Our trip began on an unfamiliar ship, but that vessel was soon filled with the faces, hugs, and interactions with very familiar friends. Parts of my mom came to life that I hadn t seen in years. Mel got Mom to dance and we hadn t done that since my sister s wedding. I miss my mom and you ll never understand what it was like to have part of her back for that magical week. Every crew member that we encountered during our voyage played a part in that. Please thank the entire crew of the American Empress for bringing my mom back to me. Sincerely yours, Jeff Tozzer Mary Sward 5

6 AWARD Gold Winner: 2018 Travvy Awards Best River Cruise Line U.S. We are proud to announce that American Queen Steamboat Company has been named the Gold Winner at the 2018 Travvy Awards for Best River Cruise Line U.S. for the second year in a row. The annual Travvy Awards - known as the Academy Awards of the travel industry - were held Wednesday, January 24, 2018 at Gotham Hall in New York City to recognize the highest standards of excellence in the travel industry by honoring travel companies, travel products, travel agencies, and destinations for their outstanding achievement. Ted L. Sykes, President and COO, was present to accept the award. EXCLUSIVE PADDLEWHEELER RECIPES Directions Preheat oven to 375 degrees. Grease a baking dish with 2 tablespoons of butter, reserve. Combine: sugars, eggs, egg yolks, cinnamon, vanilla, salt, cream and milk. Mix well. Distribute bread evenly in baking dish and sprinkle with raisins. Pour custard over bread. DO NOT stir or mash the bread. Let custard soak into bread for 30 Bread Pudding Ingredients 4 tablespoons butter 2 tablespoons sugar 4 whole eggs 2 egg yolks 1/2 cup brown sugar 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon 1 pinch of salt 1 1/2 cups cream 1 1/2 cups milk 1 tablespoon vanilla 7 cups dried bread, French 1/2 cup raisins, soaked in hot water and drained minutes. Shake pan if needed to distribute evenly. Dot surface with remaining butter. Cover with parchment and then foil. Place baking dish onto a larger sheet pan with water (water bath). Bake for 1 hour and remove foil. Continue to cook for minutes or until a knife comes almost clean from center of pudding. Remove and let rest for 15 minutes. ADDRESS CHANGE On December 31, 2017, the corporate offices of American Queen Steamboat Company relocated from Memphis, TN to New Albany, IN a suburb of Louisville, KY. Hello from New Albany! Memphis was a gracious host for our first 5 years and we are forever grateful for their hospitality and continual support. Our new mailing address is: 222 Pearl Street, New Albany, IN GET SOCIAL WITH US Follow American Queen Steamboat Company and connect with fellow Steamboat Society of America members. FACEBOOK TWITTER PINTEREST YOUTUBE DON T MISS OUR BLOG AT AQSC.COM/BLOG 6

7 MEMBERSHIP BENEFITS ACTIVATE YOUR MEMBERSHIP TODAY Take advantage of all the benefits that await you by registering your membership today. There are 3 ways to register: 1: ONLINE: 2: ONBOARD 3: CALL: (888) As a member of the American Queen Steamboat Company s Steamboat Society of America, you now have the opportunity to enjoy exclusive benefits and incentives for cruising frequently with us. In addition to our Classic membership, earned after completion of your first cruise on the American Queen, American Empress or American Duchess, we offer four levels of elite membership. These Ruby, Sapphire, Emerald and Diamond levels bring additional benefits and are reached after cruising the designated number of nights with us. All Classic members will receive the following after one cruise: H The Paddlewheeler quarterly newsletter H Advance information on new itineraries H Exclusive invitations and promotions H Designation pin for Steamboat Society of America mailed after activation and upon reaching each level milestone H Cocktail party hosted by the Captain and vessel officers onboard H Friends and family can come aboard for a tour and breakfast or lunch aboard American Queen, American Empress or American Duchess while in port when member is a cruise guest. Not available in ports of embarkation/disembarkation. H Member access for breakfast or lunch when American Queen, American Empress or American Duchess are in port near hometown. Not available in ports of embarkation/ disembarkation. RUBY (35-69 cruise nights) All Classic benefits, plus: Members only luggage tags Membership status name badge Dedicated reservations line $50 onboard credit per member Pre-boarding privileges* (one hour earlier than standard) SAPPHIRE ( cruise nights) All Ruby benefits, plus: Preferred dining room seating reservations Additional $50 onboard credit ($100 per member) Welcome back signed card from the Captain plus a set of exclusive notecards Complimentary laundry service** EMERALD ( cruise nights) All Sapphire benefits, plus: One cabin category upgrade at time of booking (subject to availability) 10% discount in onboard gift shop DIAMOND (210+ cruise nights) All Emerald benefits, plus: Additional $50 onboard credit ($150 per member) Two cabin category upgrade at time of booking (subject to availability) Upon reaching Sapphire, Emerald or Diamond status, members will receive a deluxe official wall certificate and onboard Captain s presentation of framed painting signed by Michael Blaser. For questions or more information about the Steamboat Society of America, please visit our website at ssoa@aqsc.com or call us at (888) *Benefit not available on American Empress voyages. **Complimentary laundry service is limited to one in-room laundry bag per 7-day cruise.; no dry cleaning services available. Only sailings operated by the American Queen Steamboat Company (since April, 2012) count toward membership level. Membership benefits are non-transferable, combinable with other applicable promotional offers and must be applied to future cruise travel; hotel nights do not count toward membership; cruise nights are calculated after completion of a cruise. Additional rules and conditions apply. Cabin category upgrades are subject to availability and only available up to category AAA on the American Queen, category A on the American Empress, and category DS on the American Duchess. Vessel access and onboard visits by members: capacity controlled on a daily basis, not available in ports of embarkation/disembarkation, reservations and government guest security information is required, guests must be accompanied by members and is limited to four times per calendar year. AQSC reserves the right to change SSOA program rules, benefits, terms and/or conditions at any time without notice American Queen Steamboat Operating Company, LLC

8 222 Pearl Street New Albany, IN itineraries available NOW INSIDE: SAVE up to $1,800