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

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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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.

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.

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.

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.