United States river cruise operator American Queen Voyages (AQV) has ceased trading and suspended all operations

In a statement, the line said the overnight cruise industry was “especially affected” by the Covid-19 pandemic and related changes in travel preferences.

“Despite great efforts by our team, crew and partners, demand has not recovered, and American Queen Voyages has become financially unsustainable,” it continued.

“We are deeply proud of our crew and the outstanding travel experiences and service we have provided to our guests. As we reflect on our journey, we are filled with gratitude for the privilege of serving our guests, partners and agents and for being part of our incredible local communities.”

Effective immediately, all future AQV cruises have been cancelled. The line said guests should expect to have their cruise deposits refunded in full.

Two websites, aqvinfo.com and aqvrefunds.com, have been launched to assist customers and agents impacted by the situation.

It comes after the general sales agency (GSA) for AQV in the UK, Light Blue Travel, announced plans to enhance its trade support offering in 2024.

All American Queen Voyages sailings cancelled

Light Blue Travel managing director Rupert Thomson said: “We were saddened to hear that American Queen Voyages ceased trading yesterday.

All those who have made bookings through the UK office will be offered one of two options, Thomson explained. “We will either source a similar cruise through another supplier, or give a full refund of monies paid to AQGSA Ltd,” he said.

“We understand this news may cause concern to those with bookings and will be very disappointing, but if they choose to reschedule an alternative cruise, they can rest assured that we will do our utmost to find the most suitable solution.

“Nobody need worry about their money, it is held by AQGSA Ltd in the UK in designated bank accounts. We can only apologise for the disruption, which is totally beyond our control.”

The GSA will contact all trade partners who hold bookings shortly, and anyone with a direct booking has been advised to contact their travel provider.

“We have worked with American Queen Voyages since the early days, nearly ten years, and are very sad that the company has ceased trading. We hope that the iconic paddlewheel steamboats will be rescued in the future and can re-commence their unique North American river cruises, on the Mississippi,” Thomson continued.

Operators reassure customers and agents following AQV failure

Fred Holidays, meanwhile, said it was “saddened to hear the news” that AQV has ceased trading. “The team’s thoughts are with all those who have been affected.

“Following a number of calls from agents, Fred Holidays would like to reassure them that, while American Cruise Lines offers a similar product, it has no connection with American Queen Voyages and it continues to operate successfully.

“Fred Holidays is aware that the UK trade has a number of guests booked on American Queen Voyages cruises and would like to offer support if required. Whether they want help with existing bookings, would like to re-book clients on similar product, need help with packaging up a cruise or just want some advice, Fred Holidays has a team of river cruise specialists who will be able to assist.”