(Memphis) The American Queen has officially arrived at its home port at the Beale Street Landing.
Thursday, some Memphians got up early to get a look at the world’s largest steamboat and the progress of the Landing.
Frank Hill wouldn’t have missed it for anything.
His grandson is a crew member on the American Queen, “He’s been there for about a little over a month and he’s excited. This is his first job out of college.”
The American queen has only been on the water a couple of weeks.
Six million was spent to renovate it and it’s put more than 200 Memphians to work.
Unza Taylor is a cook, “I think it’s a beautiful experience for me because at my age I didn’t think I was going to get another opportunity to get on the water, but I am.”
The steamboat, which is the only overnight cruiser on the Mississippi, is also bringing tourists to Memphis.
We met three ladies from Pueblo, Colorado who got on the boat in New Orleans.
They say they probably wouldn’t have come otherwise.
“Definitely not and I’ve enjoyed the opportunity of seeing the south because I’ve never been in this part of the country,” said Dorothy Hammond.
The American Queen is also taking passengers back in time.
The theater on the boat was designed after the famous Ford Theater in Washington, D.C.
There is also the Mark Twain Room and every cabin is named after a state or an American historical figure.
“We had the Abe Lincoln cabin,” said Dorothy Hanscom.
Depending on the length of your stay and size of your cabin, a cruise will cost you $995 and up.
Those we talked to say it’s a great way to see the country and learn something along the way.
Priscilla Presley will officially christen the American Queen Friday afternoon.
