AMERICAN COUNTESS

General information

Course/Position

Latest news

Inaugural sailing had to be cancelled

The CDC has forced the American Queen Steamboat Company (AQSC) to cancel its planned inaugural sailing of the 'American Countess' on March 20, 2021, due to the CDC's review of the Coast Guard Certificate of Inspection and the date on which this certificate was issued. The CDC's current Conditional Sailing Order forbids the operation of any cruise ships carrying more than 250 people. The 'American Countess' can hold up to 245 passengers and 110 crew. The AQSC planned to launch the ship at reduced capacity. It has a valid U.S. Coast Guard Certificate of Inspection in place that authorizes us to carry up to 249 passengers and crew and has been transparent with the CDC regarding our intentions to operate the American Countess with a reduced onboard capacity. They were diligently working with the CDC so they can begin the inaugural season. AQSC launched its first sailing in more than a year on March 15 with two charter sailings of the 'American Duchess' on the Mississippi between New Orleans and Memphis. She was scheduled to be christened March 20 in New Orleans, followed by a preview cruise to Memphis. The first regular sailing of the new ship is scheduled March 28. AQSC hoped to have the permitting issue resolved by then.