After an interesting three days in New Orleans, it was time to join the American Queen – the largest steamboat ever built. Check in at the Hyatt Regency Hotel was a little cumbersome and whilst in theory a very good idea, in reality did not really work as planned. However, once on board the boat, my luggage was already in my cabin. My cabin was cosy and very comfortable. My private veranda was particularly atmospheric.

The American Queen caters very well for older guests and surprisingly well for disabled guests, with wide walkways and two elevators. Although there are no children’s facilities, there are family suites and the children on my cruise seemed perfectly content.

In terms of atmosphere, the multi national guests are served by an all-American staff who were utterly faultless – perhaps due to a generous off-and-on working pattern. This is perhaps best felt in the dining experience. There’s the outdoor River Grill, the delightfully relaxed buffets of the Front Porch Café or, for a more considered experience, the J.W. White Dining Room. This being America, expect only the most generous of portions. Meals are all washed down with complimentary wine and beer while teas, coffees, juices, soft drinks and bottled water are included throughout the cruise. Read more