American Queen Voyages (AQV) has announced its closure, attributing its inability to recover to the Covid-19 pandemic.
- Despite efforts, AQV could not sustain financial stability due to changes in travel preferences.
- The business has filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection to facilitate a structured shutdown.
- Parent company Hornblower Group is seeking a buyer to potentially continue AQV operations.
- Passengers with bookings will receive full refunds, and efforts are underway to resolve all stakeholder issues.
American Queen Voyages (AQV) has announced its closure, citing the inability to recover from the Covid-19 pandemic as the primary reason. The US river cruise line has been unable to adapt to changing travel preferences, which have had a detrimental impact on financial sustainability. Consequently, AQV will be winding down its operations if a suitable buyer is not found.
In an overnight update, AQV confirmed the ‘difficult decision’ to cease operations. The overnight cruise sector was significantly affected, and AQV specifically struggled to rebound. The company has now filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection to manage the shutdown process in an orderly fashion, ensuring that all future cruises have been cancelled.
Hornblower Group, the parent company, is actively seeking a buyer for AQV. According to Adam Peakes, President of Hornblower Group, ‘AQV was underperforming and failed to recover from the pandemic.’ Should a buyer not emerge, the business will be systematically wound down.
To address concerns of passengers and stakeholders, AQV has vowed to provide full refunds. Passengers in the US can claim their refunds through an online form, while those booked through Light Blue Travel in the UK will be managed accordingly by their UK and Europe representative, AQGSA.
Despite the shutdown, the company expressed gratitude towards its employees and partners for their roles in delivering memorable travel experiences. They have acknowledged the inconvenience caused by this decision and assured stakeholders of a smooth procedural transition.
American Cruise Lines, which offers similar itineraries, remains in operation, highlighting that its new Mississippi sailings will continue unaffected. Meanwhile, Fred Holidays has clarified its continued commitment to providing cruise options in the UK.
The closure of American Queen Voyages marks a significant shift in the river cruise sector, shaped by pandemic challenges.
