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Loss of Delta Queen could hurt local business

These passengers are leaving the American Queen at Rhodes Ferry Park. They think about the loss of sister ship Delta Queen.

"That's unfortunate, because it's smaller and I think it would be lovely," says Passenger Kay Hester. 

Ernestine Ivans agrees.

"I've never been on the Delta Queen, but I would like to go, so I'd like to go before they get rid of it."

Some passengers are going to Huntsville.

Others are going to Decatur, where they will spend big bucks.  

But if the Delta Queen stops her travels, stores like Bank Street Antiques will have fewer tourist dollars coming in, according to owner, Gloria Arthur.

"On average we generally do between $700 and a $1,000 that is attributed to the river boat."

Rob Way is the hotel manager. 

He says there is a real grassroots effort to save the ship.

"As of the 30th of November 2008, we will no longer be in service. There's a real effort all across the country especially on the rivers to preserve her, keep her back out."

While ocean cruise ships offer splendid amenities, these river cousins do the same, but on a smaller scale.  There are parlors to visit, play cards,dining decor that takes you to another place and time, rooms for every budget, shops for souvenirs, and live shows. You can even check your e-mail.

These ships hold an air of mystery and turn of the century elegance, and passengers, like Howard Sands don't like the idea of loosing another historic monument.

"They should never get rid of it. That's a historic boat."