PHOTO: The American Eagle paddlwheeler is expected to start cruising from New Orleans in late March. (Rendering courtesy of American Cruise Lines)
The Port of New Orleans is welcoming American Cruise Lines' new riverboat to its homeport in the Crescent City, an indication of the growing popularity of Mississippi River cruises.
The 150-passenger American Eagle is now on its way to the Crescent City and should arrive later this month, the Port of New Orleans said in a press release. Its first cruise is scheduled to depart March 28.
"American Cruise Lines' investment in a second riverboat in the Port of New Orleans illustrates the growing demand for classic river cruising," said Port President and CEO Gary LaGrange.
The 305-foot American Eagle was built at Chesapeake Shipbuilding in Maryland and is very similar the American's Queen of the Mississippi, which entered service in August 2012.
The new riverboat will primarily offer eight-day round-trips from New Orleans and between New Orleans and Memphis. Of particular note are two longer sailings that explore the entire length of the Mississippi River, between New Orleans and St. Paul in August and September.
The American Eagle will have 84 extremely large staterooms of 300 to 600 square feet in size. The majority will have private balconies. All have interior entrances, complimentary Wi-Fi, room service, satellite TV and DVD player, and coffee brewers.
The ship's Grand Dining Room has open seating and can accommodate all passengers at the same time. The Top Deck Café will offer beverages, snacks and pastries throughout the day. The American Eagle also has elevators that go to all decks, an exercise area and putting green and six lounges. It has an authentic paddlewheel as well as the latest navigation and safety equipment.
The Cruise Lines International Association ranked the Port of New Orleans the sixth-largest cruise port in the U.S. with direct industry expenditures in Louisiana totaling $406 million, supporting 8,129 jobs and accounting for $323 million in total income.
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