WHY IT RATES: American Queen Voyages will introduce Christmas Markets Experiential Voyages select 2023 and 2024 holiday departures traveling along the Mississippi River. The town of Natchez will host a festive collection of Christmas market stalls that marries the enchantment of European Yuletide customs with the well-known charms of the American South, offering opportunities to taste traditional seasonal delicacies and browse hand-crafted items made by local artisans. — Laurie Baratti, TravelPulse Associate Writer
Award-winning cruise line American Queen Voyages (AQV) is thrilled to announce its newest and most festive offering yet: Christmas Markets Experiential Voyages. AQV is partnering with the charming City of Natchez, MS, to recreate traditional European Christmas markets in America for the benefit of guests on select holiday voyages in 2023 and 2024.
“We are delighted to be partnering with the City of Natchez for our new Christmas Markets cruises,” said Cindy D'Aoust, president, American Queen Voyages. “Natchez is the quintessential Christmas town, making it the perfect place for our guests to enjoy this festive fusion of European yuletide nostalgia and authentic Southern charm.
Travelers on the line’s American Countess and American Queen will enjoy extended port calls so they can stroll the festive market stalls decked out with holiday décor and twinkling lights. The markets will become a lively hub of holiday cheer, where AQV guests can savor traditional delicacies like eggnog, fruitcake and gingerbread, and shop for hand-crafted treasures by local artisans, surrounded by the magic of the holidays.
"Natchez is the only city on the Mississippi River selected for this great opportunity and we are honored. This wouldn’t be happening without the help of our own Regina Charboneau, Culinary Ambassador of American Queen Voyages, and also great friends to Natchez and American Queen Voyages, Warren and Nancy Reuther,” said Dan M. Gibson, Mayor of Natchez. “This will provide an additional draw for tourists from our entire region, and it will be the best Natchez Christmas ever! Thank you, AQV!"
In addition to the new Christmas Markets themed cruises, AQV provides enchanting holiday experiences on its Thanksgiving, Christmas Cruises, and New Year's Experiential Voyages. These “Holidays on the River” themed cruises have become cherished traditions for many guests looking to spend their holidays exploring America.
“The new, immersive Christmas Markets voyages have expanded our holiday offerings for travelers who wish to discover the hidden gems along the river,” added D’Aoust.
Holiday Experiential Voyages for 2023 include:
Thanksgiving: Thanksgiving cruises with AQV capture the essence of American heritage surrounded by stunning river views. Guests will indulge in a traditional feast featuring all the beloved classics such as roasted turkey, a selection of Southern dressings, green beans, sweet potato pie, bourbon pecan pie, and more.
Christmas Cruises: The magic of the holidays comes to life on Christmas cruises that transport guests to a winter wonderland on the river. Travelers will delight in festive onboard decorations, from cheerful carolers and performances of holiday classics to delectable seasonal libations. Aboard an enchanting voyage, it promises to create cherished memories and fill guests’ hearts with the warmth and joy of the holiday season.
News Year’s Eve: Guests will ring in the new year in style aboard a festive holiday cruise, where every moment sparkles with excitement and anticipation. They will indulge in a gala New Year’s Eve dinner, sip on Champagne, and dance the night away as they bid farewell to the year that has been and welcome the new. This celebratory cruise promises to usher in a brand-new year of boundless possibilities with a bang.
Holiday Experiential Voyages are now available for booking. For more information on American Queen Voyages, contact your travel advisor or call 833-598-0119 or visit AQVoyages.com.
SOURCE: American Queen Voyages press release.
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