American Queen set to return to Lower Mississippi

Laissez les bons temps rouler or “let the good times roll”will be a common greeting onboard the American Queen as the American Queen Steamboat Company makes its Mardi Gras debut this February to begin the 2013 Lower Mississippi River season. The steamboat will dock in the heart of the French Quarter, just steps away from famed Café Du Monde and a short walk from the revelry of Bourbon Street. Voyages during February will also showcase the best in Big Band entertainment, including the legendary Harry James Orchestra and destination favourites such as Natchez, Miss. and Vicksburg, Miss. February itineraries for the American Queen steamboat 2013 Lower Mississippi season include: !!! The eight-night Mardi Gras voyage departs from New Orleans to Memphis, Tenn. on Feb. 7 and includes an overnight stay onboard the American Queen docked to take in French Quarter festivities. The steamboat will then travel upriver calling on Oak Alley, La.; St. Francisville, La.; Natchez, Miss.; Vicksburg, Miss.; and Helena, Ark. !!! An eight-night Big Band voyage departs Memphis, Tenn. to New Orleans on Feb. 15 with the music of the Harry James Orchestra, Herb Reed’s Platters and the Artie Shaw Orchestra in the Grand Saloon. Featured ports are Tunica, Miss.; Vicksburg, Miss.; Natchez, Miss.; St. Francisville, La.; Baton Rouge, La.; and Houmas House, La. !!! A seven-night Big Band New Orleans roundtrip voyage departs Feb. 23 with the sounds of the Harry James Orchestra and Herb Reed’s Platters keeping steamboaters’ toes tapping. Ports include Oak Alley, La.; St. Francisville, La.; Natchez, Miss.; Vicksburg, Miss.; Baton Rouge, La.; and Houmas House, La. Fares begin at US$1,395 p.p., based on double occupancy and include a one-night pre-voyage hotel stay, shore tours, complimentary wine and beer with dinner and a host of other amenities. (http://www.AmericanQueenSteamboatCompany.com)