Memphis-based Great American Steamboat Co., owner of the 436-passenger American Queen, is changing its name to the American Queen Steamboat Co., effective July 1.
The Great American Steamboat company was formed in 2011, when the company purchased the American Queen from the federal government for $15 million.
The paddlewheeler, built in 1995, relaunched in April after a renovation. It cruises the Mississippi River and its tributaries.
The vessel was previously owned by Majestic America Line and was taken out of service in 2008 when Majestic’s parent company, Ambassadors International, declared bankruptcy and shuttered Majestic.
“Just as the Greene family renamed their operation to honor the historic Delta Queen, we are embracing the legacy of the American Queen and renaming the company in honor of her,” CEO Jeff Krida said in a statement.
He was referring to the Delta Queen Steamboat Co., former owner of the 174-passenger Delta Queen, which was built in 1926.
Krida was previously president of the Delta Queen Steamboat Co., which ultimately sold many of its assets, including the Delta Queen and American Queen, to Majestic America Line.
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