American Queen Steamboat Company says its fourth river ship,
the American Countess, has completed key tests in preparation for its
April launch.
The ship on Feb. 19 finished its second sea trial,
navigating through a section of the Intracoastal Waterway in Houma, Louisiana,
en route to Morgan City, Louisiana, as part of its certification inspection by
the U.S. Coast Guard. Completion of the test puts it on track for
an on-time delivery, the company said.
The American Countess will move to New Orleans in late
February, where it will undergo finishing touches in advance of a VIP cruise
and christening March 31 through April 4.
Built using the hull of former
casino riverboat Kanesville Queen, the American Countess was lengthened and completely
overhauled to create a four-deck, 120-foot paddlewheeler with 123 cabins.
Following the christening, the American Countess will start
her maiden voyage on April 5, sailing from New Orleans to Memphis on the
"Antebellum South" itinerary.