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New paddlewheeler America is sailing on the Mississippi

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America carries 185 passengers, making it the line's largest vessel
The inaugural Mississippi River season for American Cruise Lines' largest vessel, the 185-passenger America, got under way this month. America brings the fleet to eight ships, four paddlewheelers and four coastal cruisers.

Celebratory events and festive elements were woven throughout the May 7 inaugural cruise.

Passengers were treated to commemorative gifts embellished with the ship’s name, and additional entertainment and musical performances took place. Complimentary shore excursions were offered, and Riverlorian Bill Wiemuth added to the on-board program.

America's inaugural season is off to a 'fantastic start,' according to hotel manager Drew Godfrey, who said passengers are enjoying the 'period-inspired ship with its warm and inviting décor.'

The vessel has advanced engineering for faster yet quieter travel, enabling more time at the ports and a higher level of comfort.

With America now accompanying Queen of the Mississippi on the Mississippi River, the line repositioned American Pride to the Columbia and Snake rivers to join Queen of the West, making American Cruise Lines the only company with two riverboats on both waterway systems.