CQ River Cruises LLC dba American Rivers Cruise Line (Great American Journeys) - Cancellation of Cruises through May, 2006

CONTACT: Sandra L. Kusumoto, Director, Bureau of Certification and Licensing,

                  (202) 523-5787

For Release: February 23, 2006

The Federal Maritime Commission has been notified that CQ River Cruises LLC, a passenger vessel operator doing business as  American Rivers Cruise Line (Great American Journeys) has cancelled all cruises scheduled to commence prior to June 2, 2006.  Great American Journeys operates a single vessel, the Columbia Queen.   

In accordance with Commission regulations, Great American Journeys is required to maintain an escrow account for the purpose of refunding applicable passenger fares and deposits in the event that it fails to perform any cruises for which passenger made deposits or booked excursions.  The escrow agent has advised that it will establish procedures for the refund process in the near future. Passengers who purchased their tickets by credit card may wish to contact their credit card issuer to seek a refund.

Further information will be posted on the Commission’s website as it becomes available.  In addition, the Commission’s Office of Consumer Affairs and Dispute Resolution Services is available to assist passengers and may be contacted by phone at (202) 523-5807 or e-mail at complaints@fmc.gov.

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About the FMC

                The Federal Maritime Commission is responsible for the regulation of ocean-borne transportation in the foreign commerce of the U.S.  The FMC is working to streamline the regulatory process as it goes about fulfilling its core mission, which is to administer regulations and policies that foster a fair, efficient and secure maritime transportation system.

Press Contact:  Bryant  L. VanBrakle (202) 523-5725; e-mail: secretary@fmc.gov