We chose this cruise because our love of the American west and our history on the beautiful Columbia River.The Lewis and Clark history was part of this trip with a wonderful narrator on board. We toured the Maritime Museum in Astor, Mt. St. Helen's, Multhomah Falls and a pass thru the locks on the Hood River all as part of the trip. There were other side excursions available as well. We chose to spend as much time on board as possible. The staff is well trained, friendly and courteous. The Queen of the West was our first choice as this ship is small - 100 passengers and met my "bucket list" to go on a paddlewheeler. If you want a noisy casino or all night bars...this is not your cruise. If you are looking for intimate, relaxing, private and casual cruising, this is it. I can't wait to return. Oh, did I mention the food? All you could ever eat and wonderful. I'll be eating yogurt for the next couple of weeks. We're still sharing our pictures with friends and encourage them to consider this cruise line...where ever they wish to travel. American Cruise lines handled all our needs including additional hotel reservations prior to the boarding and assistance when we left. Give it a try - you'll love every minute.