American Queen Voyages Launches 2023 Kentucky Derby Cruise

Voyages of the American Queenpart of the horn blower® Bandhave announced details of their 2023 Kentucky Derby Cruisea highlight of the Ohio River season.

Aboard the latest paddle steamer in the river fleet, American countess, the nine-day trip will begin with a pre-cruise hotel at the legendary Brown Hotel in Louisville on Monday, May 1.

Highlights of the itinerary include participation in the annual Great American Steamboat Race on board, talks from horse racing historians and a new celebration of Kentucky cuisine with Culinary Ambassador Regina Charboneau.

A limited number of 2023 Kentucky Derby escorted VIP ticket packages are available for additional purchase.

John Waggerfounder and president of American Queen Voyages, says the Kentucky Derby cruise is one of his favorite cruises because it captures the magical energy of Louisville during race week.

Derby Field, Kentucky (provided)

“Last year’s special cruise conflicted with my obligations when launching our new expedition ship in Alaska ocean victory but I look forward to 2023, encouraging the American countess in the Great American Steamboat Race and celebrating all the festivities,” Wagoner said.

Route Highlights

American Queen Voyages’ newest paddle steamer, the American Countess, which has 245 guests, will cruise the Ohio River from Louisville at Cincinnati with stops in Madison, Brandenburgand August.

The first highlight aboard the route will be the Great American Steamboat Race in downtown Louisville as the American Countess joins the Belle of Louisville and the Belle of Cincinnati on Wednesday, May 3.

Guests sailing on the Derby Cruise can sip Kentucky bourbon from the decks of the ship as thousands line the banks to watch the race begin and end at the Clark Memorial Bridge in Louisville.

The Great Steamboat Race is just one of the Kentucky Derby Festival events along with other events including fireworks, parades, foot races, hot air balloon event, fashion shows, horse races beds and concerts.

Kentucky Derby hat (provided)

Often called “the most exciting two minutes in sport,” the Kentucky Derby race itself, held on the first Saturday in May every year since 1875, will take place on May 6, 2023.

According to American Queen Voyages, the Derby is the longest running sporting event in America and one of the most prestigious horse races in the world.

Guests will be able to purchase an escort VIP race package which includes luxury transfers, fast-track access to Churchill Downs Racecourse, premium seating, plus a lounge, food and open bar.

At the races, guests will witness the sights, sounds, colors and lore of the Derby while trying a mint julep, the annual race’s quintessential bourbon-based cocktail.

New for the 2023 Kentucky Derby Cruise, Culinary Ambassador Regina Charboneau will join aboard to partake in a culinary celebration of the Ohio River as she hosts cooking demonstrations of regional food specialties along the river.

Large dining room on the American Countess.  (provided)

You can expect to enjoy Louisville Hot Brown, Cincinnati Skyline Chili, and Pittsburgh pierogies. Wine pairings with Kentucky bourbon and a dinner special featuring Chef Regina’s favorite dishes will be featured.


“Much of my travels in 2022 have focused on the Ohio River region and the 2023 Kentucky Derby Cruise is the pinnacle of travels to showcase and share everything I’ve learned about the region,” the Ambassador shares. culinary. Regina Charboneau. “This sail promises plenty of food, lots of stories and refreshing mint juleps along the way.”

Cat Deluxe Outside Cab.  A on American Countess (provided)

Rates per guest for the Kentucky Derby Cruise sailing costs $2,999 and VIP Kentucky Derby escorted ticket packages cost $1,999. For more information, go here.


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