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American West Steamboat Company Announces 2007 Columbia and Snake Rivers Cruise Schedule by Press Release Yahoo Finance, April 27, 2006

Guests Now Have More Choices for a Unique Cruise Experience
Through the Legendary American West

SEATTLE, -- American West Steamboat Company, one of North America's premier all-American and U.S.-flagged river and coastal cruising companies, announced today the details of its Columbia and Snake Rivers Cruise schedule for 2007. The award-winning cruises are designed as an unparalleled voyage through the history-rich, breathtaking natural beauty of the Pacific Northwest. The company's custom-built ships combine five-star comfort, service and convenience and bring to life a sense of adventure shared by steamship travelers of years past. With an extended sailing season, the flexibility to choose from three to seven-night cruises, and a price point to fit just about every budget, the 2007 schedule includes more ways than ever before for guests to experience the vibrant history and culture of the legendary American West.

"With our 2007 river cruise programs, we are committed to providing every guest with an unforgettable American journey that is totally unique," said David A. Giersdorf, president and chief operating officer, American West Steamboat Company. "From the moment they step aboard the ship, our goal is to exceed their expectations -- from the carefully reproduced, state-of-the art sternwheelers to the spacious and comfortably deluxe accommodations to our warm and friendly all-American crew. All of this combined is what makes an American West Steamboat Company cruise so special."

Experience America Through Three Great Rivers

Leaders in providing the best American cruise experience, American West Steamboat Company delivers a thoughtfully planned, seven-night program which explores 1,000 miles along the Columbia, Snake and Willamette Rivers. Transporting guests through the majestic Columbia River Gorge, they will trace the footsteps of Lewis and Clark, and see first-hand the dramatic contrasts of the Pacific Northwest landscape as they transit eight locks and dams during the unforgettable journey. Guests cruise from lush coastal forests through granite cliffs of the river canyons, to the golden, rolling wheat fields of Eastern Washington and Oregon. Along the way, the Old West experience is brought to life by expert onboard naturalists and historians, Native American performers who share their rich culture, and specially trained tour guides who can discuss the impact of early missionaries and Oregon Trail pioneers who settled the area nearly 200 years ago.

Custom-designed land excursions, included in the cruise price, enrich the experience and allow guests to relive Lewis and Clark's first glimpse of the Pacific at Fort Clatsop, gain a deeper understanding of Native American arts and culture at the Tamastslikt Cultural Institute, visit the Mt. St. Helens Volcanic Observatory and take an exhilarating jet boat ride into Hells Canyon on the Snake River.

With 64 sailings to choose from between February 17 and December 28, 2007, rates for the seven-night program start at $999 per person based on double occupancy.

In addition to the seven-night program, there are several options that allow guests to explore these great rivers during shorter cruises that explore select highlights of the longer river cruise.

• Path of Discovery. A three-night Columbia River cruise that covers 400 miles and provides a deeper understanding of the scenic countryside and the Corps of Discovery that first mapped it. Rates for an outside stateroom start from $699 per person based on double occupancy.
• Journey of the Explorers. This new four-night cruise retraces a particularly scenic route of the Lewis and Clark expedition. Rates for an outside stateroom start at $1,199 per person based on double occupancy.
• Holidays on the Columbia River. The five-night holiday cruise provides a magical way to relax and enjoy the season while cruising through some of the country's most picturesque natural beauty. Rates for an outside stateroom start at $1,099 per person based on double occupancy.
• Specially Designed Ships Provide an Unmatched River Cruise Experience

Launched in 2003, the Empress of the North is the larger of the two ships, and achieves a balance of modern refinement and historical charm for her 223 guests. The state-of-the-art ship is entirely custom-built to reflect a regal Russian Alaska theme. Public rooms are decorated in royal jewel tones of red, green, gold and black. Expansive art collections throughout the ship display unique Native American artifacts and Russian antiquities such as beautiful and rare Faberge eggs. Every stateroom reflects this Russian heritage with elegant furnishings including rich mahogany wardrobes and luxurious velvet draperies. Nearly 90 percent of these deluxe staterooms feature private verandahs.

The Queen of the West was the first overnight passenger sternwheeler to be built and operated in the West in 80 years. The 26-foot paddlewheel serves as the sole propulsion for the ship, recreating the slow, easy rhythm of a river journey during the golden age of Western exploration. With capacity for just 142 guests, the Queen of the West provides a comfortable cruise experience that allows guests to meet and mingle with fellow adventurers.

Guests are surrounded by Victorian elegance seen in the ship's gleaming brass fixtures, rich wood touches and even the hand-painted ceiling tiles in the dining room. The public spaces and the staterooms reflect a warmth and graceful charm, and provide every modern comfort.

Early Bookings Ensure the Very Best Value

The extraordinary cruises through the Pacific Northwest and Alaska's Inside Passage sell out each season. Guests are encouraged to book their travel early to ensure a spot on a 2007 cruise. American West Steamboat Company guarantees the best rates to guests who do, with savings up to $700 per couple. Those who reserve their cruise by September 30, 2006 will receive a 10 percent discount on travel fares for all cabin categories. For additional information, please visit www.AmericanWestSteamboat.com, call a reservation specialist at 800-434-1232 or see your travel agent.

About American West Steamboat Company

Founded in 1995, American West Steamboat Company is one of North America's premier river and coastal cruising companies, offering award-winning unique, historical, nature-oriented cruise programs through the Pacific Northwest and Alaska's Inside Passage. The company's specially designed ships deliver an unequalled combination of five-star comfort, service and convenience while bringing to life a sense of adventure shared by steamship travelers of years past. Guests experience intimate access to historical points of interest and the breathtaking wonders of the Pacific Northwest and Alaska. All ships are American built and registered.

American West Steamboat Company is a division of Ambassadors Cruise Group, a wholly owned subsidiary of Ambassadors International, Inc. (Nasdaq: AMIE), a leader in cruise, marine, travel and event management services.