The river cruise line American Queen Voyages has declared bankruptcy and therefore cancels any future voyages. The news comes after three season-opening sailings had been canceled because of an “extended layup schedule”. According to the company, it hasn’t been able to cope with the consequences of the pandemic. Voyagers who have booked a spot on any of the cancelled cruises are called to apply for a refund.
American Queen Voyages, known before 2021 as the ‘American Queen Steamboat Company’, was in charge of the overnight cruise division of the Hornblower Group. The company was famous for its river cruises which covered the Mississippi, Ohio, and Cumberland rivers but also offered lake and ocean cruises along with expedition voyages. Adam Peakes, president of the Hornblower Group, told USA Today that there are plans to “sell the company, or, if a sale cannot be achieved, its operations will be wound down”.
“Despite great efforts by our team, crew and partners, American Queen Voyages (AQV) unfortunately has been unable to rebound from the effects of the pandemic. The overnight cruise industry was especially affected by changes in travel preferences and, as a result, AQV has become financially unsustainable. We are therefore shutting down the business, and all future AQV cruises have been cancelled”, the cruise line shared on its website.
According to AQV, all travellers who booked a spot on any future cruises can expect to be fully refunded. However, when requesting a refund, they will first receive a denial notice. In fact, AQV has filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection as part of its ongoing business shutdown and is not making reimbursement payments directly. Travellers must however submit the refund request to Argo Surety, which has insured the cruise line.
“We are deeply proud of our crew and the outstanding travel experiences and service we have provided to our guests. As we reflect on the journey we have shared over the years, we are filled with gratitude for the privilege of serving our guests, partners and agents and for being part of our incredible local communities. It has been an honour to bring joy to so many lives, and we are deeply touched by the relationships we have formed and the memorable experiences we have created. We sincerely regret any inconvenience this decision causes. Our goal is to ensure a smooth process for all AQV stakeholders”, American Queen Voyages concludes.
