Paddlewheeler's Bring More To Vicksburg!

American Cruise Lines' newest paddle wheeler America made her maiden voyage last week, with a seven-day New Orleans round-trip cruise making its northernmost stop in my hometown of Vicksburg.

Hotel Director Drew Godfrey said the trip included 171 passengers who experienced what Vicksburg had to offer via the company's shuttles.

"We arrived and there were people holding up banners welcoming America," he said. "People here are always so accommodating and so friendly. We're excited to bring another ship to Vicksburg."

America will be in Vicksburg once a week for the majority of the year.

"Our passengers are all well-traveled and affluent," Godfrey said.  "When they come to Vicksburg, they have a disposable income.  They like to dine out, spend in the gift shops and explore downtown."

Back on board, the fun continues for passengers.

"Our chef has worked tirelessly to create a menu with a Creole/Cajun flare to it," Godfrey said. "There's open seating so our passengers get to mix and mingle with each other."

Entertainer and historian Bill Wiemuth said he gets to share a passion for the Mississippi River Valley with the guests.

"Everything from how the river helped double the country's size with the Louisiana Purchase to the struggle for the control of the river during the Civil War to the advent of steamboats and the growth of transportation and the western migration of our country," he said.  "They're exciting tales."

Entertainer Laura Sable said she and Wiemuth are also responsible for playing music for the passengers.

"We do a lot of regional music: blues and jazz," she said.  "We keep the folks happy and entertained at evening shows with the music of the region."

The pair have been cruising the Mississippi River for the past 18 years and have amassed a wealth of knowledge about its history and culture.

"I think it's important to understand the context that there's only been three passengers boats built for this river in the last 20 years, all three of them by American Cruise Lines," Wiemuth said.  "It's exciting to see this industry still thriving thanks to this company."

The ship's captain, Robert Hopkins, said America has been great and well-behave so far.

"Vicksburg is one of our best tours," he said.  "Thanks for having us, and keep having us back.  We love coming here."

America is designed with traditional Victorian-style accents and blends tradition with modern features and amenities.

While the new ship is adorned with gleaming woodwork, brass fixtures, and historic decor, it is constructed with the latest in cruise ship technology.

The paddlewheeler has seven lounges across its five decks and offers seven-, 14- and 21-day cruises.

For more information about American Cruise Lines, visit americancruiselines.com.
By Austin Vining ~ The Vicksburg, Post