Gear up for family travel to the Kentucky Derby with American Queen Voyages. The cruise line recently announced details of its 2023 Kentucky Derby cruise. The nine-day cruise takes place aboard the newest paddle wheeler in its fleet, American Countess. The journey kicks off with an overnight stay at Louisville, Kentucky’s, iconic Brown Hotel on May 1.
“The Kentucky Derby Cruise is one of my favorite sailings as it captures the magical energy of Louisville during race week,” said John Waggoner, founder and chairman, American Queen Voyages.
The cruise sails from Louisville, Kentucky, to Cincinnati, Ohio, with stops along the way. Take part in the Great American Steamboat Race while onboard. The event takes place in Louisville on May 3 as American Countessjoins Belle of Louisville and Belle of Cincinnati for a riverboat race. Other highlights of the itinerary include lectures about horseracing and Kentucky bourbon offerings. The 2023 Kentucky Derby takes places on May 6.
New for 2023, culinary ambassador Regina Charboneau joins to conduct cooking demonstrations of regional culinary highlights.
“Much of my travels in 2022 have focused on the Ohio River region and the 2023 Kentucky Derby Cruise is the pinnacle of voyages to showcase and share all I have discovered about the region,” said Regina Charboneau, culinary ambassador, American Queen Voyages. “This sailing promises to feature bountiful cuisine, plenty of storytelling and refreshing mint juleps along the way.”
Pricing starts at $2,999 per guest. Take advantage of the limited escorted VIP Kentucky Derby ticket packages for an additional $1,999 per person. VIP access includes deluxe transfers, fast pass access for the Derby and premium seating.
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