Domestic small-ship and river cruise operators are preparing for their long-awaited return to the water this weekend.
More than a year after the pandemic forced a halt to sailings, American Cruise Lines (ACL) is scheduled to launch the 2021 season Saturday with the departure of its coastal cruiser, the 100-passenger Independence on the company's Historic South & Golden Isles itinerary from Amelia Island, Fla., to Charleston, S.C.
American Queen Steamboat Co. (AQSC) said it will start its 2021 season Monday with a two private charter sailings on the American Duchess between New Orleans and Memphis beginning Monday.
ACL said it will begin limited river sailings on the lower Mississippi on March 21 aboard its new American Jazz, part of its series of modern riverboats.
Also on March 21, AQSC will christen its newest paddlewheeler, the American Countess, in New Orleans. After a preview cruise, the Countess will begin sailing regular itineraries March 28 from Memphis to New Orleans.
American Queen Steamboat Co. will christen its newest paddlewheeler, the American Countess, in New Orleans on March 21.
AQSC also announced this week that country singer Lee Greenwood will return for performances on six of its cruises this year, including its April 4 and April 11 sailings of the American Duchess between New Orleans and Memphis. Greenwood will board the ship in his hometown of Clarksville, Tenn., and visit with guests before taking the stage.
Both lines are starting the season with limited capacities and with their new health and safety protocols, which include preboarding testing of passengers for Covid-19.
Beginning in July, AQSC also will require that passengers, crew and shore excursion drivers be vaccinated.