Construction of new sternwheeler is ahead of schedule

American Cruise Lines reports that construction of its new 140 passenger Mississippi sternwheeler at Chesapeake Shipbuilding in Salisbury,Md., is well underway and ahead of schedule. The hull is nearly complete and the superstructure is taking shape.

The ship will fully recreate the grandeur of past riverboats, while incorporating the latest safety, environmental and construction technologies.

This is the first overnight paddlewheeler built for the Mississippi in nearly twenty years. It will have the largest staterooms ever, almost all of which will have private balconies. In addition, the ship will feature a multitude of lounges to choose from that not only accommodate various passenger tastes in onboard activity but truly capture the historic essence of the Mississippi River cruising experience.

The ship will boast a grand salon, card room, library, sky lounge, showroom, and internet lounge. All modern onboard amenities can be expected to provide passengers with maximum comfort and service.

Unlike the previous riverboats to offer cruises on the Mississippi, American Cruise Lines’ new paddlewheeler will have the option of cruising at a significantly higher speed to make the most imaginative itineraries possible.

“As construction proceeds ahead of schedule our loyal passengers are getting increasingly excited to see our brand new paddlewheeler come to the Mississippi and Ohio Rivers,” said Timothy Beebe, Vice President of American Cruise Lines.

The new vessel is set to enter service next year. Meantime, American Cruise Lines’ existing sternwheeler, Queen of the West, is nearing completion of a multimillion dollar renovation at Vigor Industries, Portland, Oregon, and will soon be back in service offering one week cruises from Portland, Oregon

Reconstruction of major areas including passenger staterooms, community areas, the galley and engine room, continues and progress is of schedule.

The renovations will provide a more comfortable and elegant atmosphere for cruise passengers. New furniture for the entire ship, custom built in North Carolina, is ready and has arrived in Portland.

A new authentic paddlewheel has been built along with additional propulsion equipment that allows for quieter, smoother cruising while having less impact on the environment.

Other additions such as larger staterooms, more private balconies and a new library have already been completed. New carpet is being laid and decoration throughout the Queen of the West is being revamped.

March 15, 2011