AMCV Awards Columbia Queen Contract

American Classic Voyages (AMCV), granted a $6.4 million contract for construction completion and outfitting on Columbia Queen to Nichols Brothers Boat Builders of Whidbey Island, Wash. The 161-passenger U.S.-flag riverboat, which will be readied by Nichols for service on the Columbia River system, will be operated under The Delta Queen Steamboat brand. Offering Pacific Northwest cruises beginning in April 2000, Columbia Queen will travel the Columbia, Snake and Willamette rivers during its eight-night vacation package, which features an overnight stay in Portland, as well as a seven-night cruise with various excursions. Scott Young, AMCV executive vice president and president of The Delta Queen Steamboat Co., said, "We are pleased that Nichols Brothers Boat Builders will be completing Columbia Queen. Nichols Brothers Boat Builders' 35-year history of boat building in the Pacific Northwest, skilled workers and competitive bid were important factors in our selection." Young added, "We look forward to offering passengers a new cruising experience with Delta Queen's style of quality and service."