The Federal Maritime Commission issues this notice to advise you that CQ River Cruises LLC, a passenger vessel operator doing business as American Rivers Cruise Line and as Great American River Journeys, has cancelled all cruises scheduled for its 2006 season.  Great American River Journeys operates a single vessel, the Columbia Queen.  This notice updates a prior notice issued February 23, when the Commission advised of the cancellation of cruises on the Columbia Queen scheduled for departure prior to June 2, 2006.  

In accordance with Commission regulations, Great American River Journeys maintains an escrow account for the purpose of refunding applicable passenger fares and deposits in the event that the cruise line fails to perform any cruises for which passenger made deposits or booked excursions.  The escrow agent has advised that it has recently established procedures by which passengers paying deposits or fares for 2006 cruises on the Columbia Queen may apply for refunds from the escrow account. 

The refund form, instructions and mailing information are attached here.  Passengers who previously obtained a refund from their credit card issuer or travel insurance company are not eligible.

The Commission’s Office of Consumer Affairs and Dispute Resolution Services is available to assist passengers with respect to questions about Great American River Journeys or these refund procedures.  They 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