The American Queen Steamboat Company today announced it will raise fares beginning January 1, 2013, as a result of unprecedented demand for the upcoming second season of the American Queen. According to the operator of the 436-passenger riverboat, many of next year’s sailings are selling out, particularly voyages between the paddlewheeler’s homeport of Memphis and New Orleans. Overall bookings are up 300% compared to 2012 and the fare increase will be an average of $200 per guest per voyage.

“Since her return to the rivers this past April, the American Queen has rekindled the desire for travelers to discover the historic and enchanting river towns of the U.S. from Natchez, Miss., to Red Wing, Minn., with grace and elegance aboard the grandest riverboat in the world,” explains American Queen Steamboat Company CEO Jeffrey D. Krida. “Resulting from the popularity of river cruising she has forged once again, we are seeing tremendous volume in 2013 reservations.”

Among the 2013 Voyage Highlights:
*  A total of 30 departures from Memphis and New Orleans, showcasing the legendary Lower Mississippi’s plantations, civil war battlefields, history and Southern culture
*  Five special departures featuring Natchez’s Spring Pilgrimage Pageant
*  “Blue Hawaii,” an Elvis Tribute
*  New themes – Blues & Barbeque, Louisiana History & Culture, Mystical Krewe of Steamboating Mardi GrasSM, Dixie Fest, Southern Spirits, Gardens of the River, In the Good Old SummertimeSM, Baseball Legends, Manifest Destiny, The Great Steamboat Era and the first annual Delta Queen Steamboat Company and Paddlewheel Steamboat Society Of America™ Reunion voyages
*  Epic Civil War voyage between Memphis and Chattanooga

Offering the most inclusive river cruise experience in North America, fares will begin at $1,345 per guest based on double occupancy beginning January 1, 2013, and include a one-night pre-voyage hotel stay, shore tours in every port onboard deluxe SteamcoachesSM, the acclaimed cuisine of legendary chef Regina Charboneau and complimentary wine and beer with dinner. A variety of holiday lengths ranging from five days to fourteen offer exceptional value and convenience, with little or no flying required.