American Cruise Lines acquires former American Queen Voyages river vessels

Several former American Queen Voyages vessels have a new home.

American Cruise Lines is acquiring four paddlewheelers that previously sailed for AQV, which ceased operations in February. AQV's owner, Hornblower Group, also filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy.

“American Cruise Lines is pleased to be the successful bidder for AQV’s river vessels,” a spokesperson told USA TODAY in an emailed statement. “We look forward to announcing additional details after this portion of the Hornblower Holdings bankruptcy process concludes.”

The river and small ship cruise operator will acquire the American Queen, American Empress, American Countess and American Duchess for $6.3 million, according to documents filed in the U.S. Bankruptcy Court for the Southern District of Texas in Houston. The purchase price also included trademarks and website domain names associated with AQV and other assets.

The sale is subject to approval at an April 4 hearing. AQV’s coastal ships, Ocean Voyager and Ocean Navigator, also went to auction on Monday.

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American Cruise Lines has significantly expanded its capacity in recent years, almost tripling its fleet in the last five years alone. The company’s 19 small ships and riverboats will visit more than 140 ports in the U.S. in 2024.

Nathan Diller is a consumer travel reporter for USA TODAY based in Nashville. You can reach him at ndiller@usatoday.com.