American Queen Review

Upper Mississippi River cruise goes south

Review for North America River Cruise on American Queen
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jcneff
10+ Cruises • Age 70s

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Sail Date: Jul 2017

I always wanted to travel on a paddlewheeler and chose going on upper Mississippi since I was very familiar with all the ports on other cruises offered. Unfortunately rains had caused very high water and the itinerary was changed completely. This would not have been a problem but the company seemed very ill-prepared to make quick alternative plans. In Chester, IL there were only 4 stops with only 2 being of interest. It was obvious some of the local guides were not prepared for our visit. One read from a script and couldn't even tell us the population of the city. I had requested early dining because of medication that I take when I booked the cruise almost a year in advance, but was told I would have to be on a wait list but because it was medical I would be changed. When I received the documents I was still assigned late dining and called immediately, was told I had to change on the boat, but that was not successful nor was there any attempt to accommodate my request. We tried the buffet a couple of nights then tried going 15 minutes after early seating to get any seats open. That worked fairly well. Cabin was very nice, but a small refrigerator would have made it perfect. Entertainment was sensational for such a small cast. They were very professional, talented, and had something to appeal to a variety of musical tastes. The boat was beautiful and the furnishings transported us back in time. The Twain lectures were excellent and so informative. I learned so much from the Riverlorian, too. All but two wait staff were superb and really made the meals special. The cruise was enjoyable, but the company's response to the change was extremely disappointing. The quick change in our departure city resulted in a huge drain from our Southwest points. It remains to be seen what AQSC will compensate. I felt the modest voucher provided for another cruise was almost like a slap in the face as a customer. My husband and I each received $369.90!! This is after spending almost $8,000 a year in advance, then visiting only 1 original itinerary port. Really....90¢! We weren't even worth a 10¢ round up to $370! When one chooses to river cruise whether it be in the U.S. or Europe one must be prepared for changes. Mother Nature can't be controlled. However, for a company using rivers for its livelihood AQSC does not seem to have alternate plans in place, nor do they seem to appreciate the inconvenience, disappointment, and additional costs that customers must experience.

Cabin Review

Cabin Private veranda

Excellent! Clean and comfortable. Roomy bathroom compared to other cruise ships. Just wish it had a small refrigerator.

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