Five Things to Know About American Cruise Lines' Queen of the West Cruise Ship

By Travel & Leisure
March 18, 2017
Courtesy of American Cruise Lines
Passengers:100
Best for: Older cruisers looking for a stress-free way to follow in the footsteps of explorers Lewis and Clark

Sails: The Columbia River, the Snake River

At a Glance:  Launched in 2015, this paddlewheeler features a friendly all-American crew, entertaining onboard experts, and an iconic itinerary in the Pacific Northwest.

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The Entertainment Is Local

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One of the best parts about a trip on Queen of the West is being steeped in the history and landscape of the Pacific Northwest—both on and off the ship. Expect Native American guest performers and a resident river historian (dubbed a “riverlorian”) who regales passengers with entertaining lectures on everything from Lewis and Clark to the lock-and-dam system on the Columbia River.

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The Cabins Are Snug

Courtesy of American Cruise Lines

American Cruise Lines purchased this paddlewheeler and refurbished it, so staterooms are a bit smaller than they are on the line’s larger ships: Single cabins start at 149 square feet, while the Owner’s Suites are 280 square feet. The line added balconies, too—most staterooms have them.

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The Food Is Pure Pacific Northwest

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Dinner happens in the dining room, which is large enough to serve every guest at once. Whenever possible, ingredients—and recipes—are locally sourced: Think Pacific shrimp bisque, Widmer Cascadian Ale-braised Snake River Farms pork shank, and marionberry cheesecake.

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You Won’t Get Nickle-and-Dimed

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Don’t stress about that excursion tab: Usually, at least one tour per port is free, as is beer and wine with lunch and dinner and Wi-Fi throughout your cruise.

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There’s No Bar Onboard

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Before dinner every night, the ship throws a cocktail party for all the passengers, and you can have beer and wine at dinner. But if you know you’re going to want an after-dinner drink, make a point of buying your own bottles when you’re off the ship.

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