American Empress Review

4.5 / 5.0
98 reviews

The Good, the Bad, and the Unexpected

Review for North America River Cruise on American Empress
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Frncie
2-5 Cruises • Age 70s

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Additional details

Sail Date: Apr 2018
Captain steering boat through lock
Leaving Bonneville lock
Dam on Snake River
Suite
Suite
Rapids Spokane River
Lobby Historic Davenport Hotel
Lock at McNary Dam
bridge at Cascade Locks

We had a great time on this trip, although there were a few, ahem, unexpected features.

We traveled on the American Queen Steamboat Company’s American Empress, from Clarkston, Washington to Vancouver (Portland), westbound per Lewis and Clark. This was the last week of April 2018, and almost none of the forecast rain materialized. A lovely time on the river and uncharacteristically green, even in the East, with sunny days and cool nights. This was our first river cruise ever so, with nothing to compare it to, I will venture to write a review.

We flew into Spokane and paid way too much for a taxi to the hotel. Should have taken the shuttle for $25 a couple. The Historic Davenport Hotel clings to its glorious past, and it is charming and elegant, with stunning public spaces. Our corner room was large and welcoming. The Spokane River passes through town just a couple blocks away, and it is definitely worth a visit to see the rushing rapids. The neighborhood is not the best, and even in broad daylight, I found myself looking over my shoulder and clutching my purse. The elegant hotel is an oasis from the surrounding streets, but it seems somehow out of place and time.

Response from AlexL, Consumer Marketing Mgr. - AQSC

Hi Frncie, Thank you so much for taking the time to provide your honest and open feedback about your recent American Empress voyage. Our team works diligently to continually improve our...

Cabin Review

Cabin A

Spacious and welcoming with a coffee maker, a loveseat and two chairs, and plenty of storage space, three large windows and a door to the veranda. Veranda has two comfortable chairs and a small table. There is direct access to the Vista Deck, so it’s easy to pop outside and walk forward or aft for a special view or photo op. (We were advised before booking that some of the rooms have twin beds and some have king beds, but that the beds could not be moved. Check before booking to make sure you choose correctly.)

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