American Queen Steamboat Company plans to expand to three ships in 2017, with the addition of a 166-passenger all-suite riverboat, the American Duchess. The American Duchess will be breaking new ground as the first of its kind to offer an all-loft experience.

The first purpose-built boutique paddle-wheeler will have five diverse suite categories, including some of the largest accommodations of all river cruise ships, and will hold 166 passengers. The ship’s Owner and Loft Suites will be 550 square feet; Deluxe Suites will be 450 square feet; Veranda Suites will range from 240 to 330 square feet; and Interior Suites will range from 180 to 220 square feet. The unique Loft Suites will have a full bathroom, dining area, and furnished lounge area, complete with a queen sofa-bed, desk, and private balcony on the first floor. The loft will contain a semi-private bedroom, bathroom, and closet.

Itineraries will include overnight stays in Nashville, Tennessee, where the ship will function as a floating hotel, and guests will be able to visit the Grand Ole Opry. In addition, American Duchess will operate mostly year-round, remaining exclusively on American waterways. Passengers interested in taking part of this innovative voyage can view itineraries as early as June 2017.