Deal: Up to $420 in prepaid gratuities on inaugural U.S. river cruises

The French America Line will be the newest player on America’s rivers when the company sails its inaugural cruise in August. For those eager to go, the company is sweetening the pot by offering passengers up to $420 in prepaid gratuities.

The deal: Prepaid gratuities give you a break on the cost of the cruise. The $420 maximum would apply to a 10-day trip and apply per cabin, based on double occupancy.

Cruises aboard the riverboat-style ship Louisiane hold 150 passengers. They’re almost all-inclusive, with meals, free beverages (including wines, beer and spirits) and shore excursions covered in the price.

Sample costs: Passenger fares in fall start at $4,599 per person for 10 days traveling from St. Louis, Mo., to St. Paul, Minn.

When: The offer is good for new bookings made through June 30. It’s good for cruises departing before Dec. 31.

Details: The gratuities covered in this deal include $16 per person per day for onboard staff and $5 per person per day for shore excursions.

Info: French America Line, (888) 387-1140

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