Empress of the North

Modern Amenities, Historic Charm
The Empress of the North is the only overnight sternwheeler cruising in Alaska and one of two elegant overnight sternwheelers on the Columbia River.  Built in America, she has been designed to achieve a balance of modern refinement and faithful historical charm.  The most modern passenger conveniences and spaciousness have been incorporated, blending the elegant and glamorous features and appearances of the stately night boats of the 1800’s with the behind-the-scenes, state-of-the-art technology and creature comforts demanded by today’s discerning cruisers.

 Cruise Reviews
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Angela Hurley, July 6th, 2004; Alaska 

Excerpts from American West Steamboat's Website
about the Empress of the North

The three story high paddlewheel fully propels the vessel on our leisurely cruise pace of up to 10 knots. To steer the vessel, the Empress of the North employs two Z-drive propeller pods, which rotate 360 degrees to provide unequalled maneuverability. When used with the paddlewheel, these Z-drives propel the Empress of the North at speeds of up to 14 knots, providing time to include all the major attractions of the Inside Passage.