NEW ALBANY — Victory Cruise Lines is extending its temporary suspension of all operations onboard the Victory 1 through June 30, 2020 and cancelling all planned itineraries for the Victory II for the remainder of the 2020 season.

The cruise line, operated by American Queen Steamboat Company (AQSC), made the decision in response to the continued widespread governmental restrictions across ports and cities, and the extended no sail order through Canadian waters through June 30.

According to John Waggoner, founder and CEO of AQSC, the decision to suspend service was a difficult choice, but necessary.

“Our top priority remains the health and safety of our guests, team members and crew,” he said. “We came to the difficult decision to consolidate the Victory II itineraries with Victory I due to the shortened nature of our 2020 season, as a result of the ongoing travel restrictions and port closures. It is our hope that in doing so, we can prioritize delivering the extraordinary Great Lakes sailing experience that our loyal guests have come to expect from the VCL brand.”

For guests who are booked to depart on the Victory I before June 30, 2020 and those booked onboard the Victory II, no action is necessary at this time. VCL’s customer service team will reach out directly to guests and travel agents in the coming days to advise on available options, which include the chance to rebook on a later date, a 125% cruise credit or a full refund.

For more information go to https://www.victorycruiselines.com/alerts/.