[Stardust]

The American Queen – the largest passenger steamboat ever built – is getting a royal send-off Friday as it departs the Queen City for Louisville in time for the 138th running of the Kentucky Derby.

The Cincinnati Park Board will hold a “bon voyage” celebration as passengers embark on the American Queen, which has returned to the Queen City following a four-year hiatus.

The event, which marks the official launch of the Port of Cincinnati’s boating season, is set for 4 p.m. Friday at the Cincinnati Public Landing, 435 E. Mehring Way.

The Cincinnati Circus Company and the Showboat Majestic performers will provide entertainment, and officials will read Mayor Mark Mallory’s proclamation declaring “American Queen Day in Cincinnati.” In addition, tours of the Showboat Majestic will be offered.

In a news release, the Park Board notes: “The American Queen is one of the three famed elegant vessels of the Delta Queen Steamboat Company, which traces its roots to 1890. Currently, The American Queen is the only authentic overnight paddlewheel steamboat in America.”

For more information about the vessel, visit http://www.greatamericansteamboatcompany.com/

[Stardust]

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[Image: http://cmsimg.cincinnati.com/apps/pbcsi....h=410&q=60]

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[Image: http://cmsimg.cincinnati.com/apps/pbcsi....h=410&q=60]

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[Image: http://cmsimg.cincinnati.com/apps/pbcsi....h=410&q=60]

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[Image: http://cmsimg.cincinnati.com/apps/pbcsi....h=410&q=60]

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[Image: http://cmsimg.cincinnati.com/apps/pbcsi....h=410&q=60]

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[Image: http://cmsimg.cincinnati.com/apps/pbcsi....h=410&q=60]

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[Image: http://cmsimg.cincinnati.com/apps/pbcsi....h=410&q=60]

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[Image: http://cmsimg.cincinnati.com/apps/pbcsi....h=410&q=60]