New Owners for Delta Queen Hotel
The former Delta Queen Steamboat, which has been docked in Chattanooga, Tn. for the past few years, serving as a “floating hotel” has new owners. Leah Ann and Randy Ingram purchased the charter rights of the Historic Delta Queen and have assumed operational control of the Delta Queen Hotel.
The former Delta Queen Steamboat is now permenently docked in Chattanooga, Tn.
Mr. Slome said, “This couple has an enormous energy level. They seem to have a solid business plan that revolves around groups and tour business. It was an honor to have served the Queen.”
Hotelier Slome, owns the historic StoneFort Inn in Chattanooga, and recently relocated following the acquisition of two boutique hotels in North Carolina.·
Harry Phillips negotiated the charter agreement with Ambassadors, Inc. late 2008 and personally relocated the legendary Delta Queen from New Orleans to Chattanooga in January 2009.
Mr. Phillips said, “My fondest moment of the relocation was with my son and me at her helm maneuvering Moccasin Bend and letting the whistle blow. I now have steam in my system and will always remain attached to the Delta Queen.”
The Delta Queen is moored at Coolidge Landing under a berthing contract with Mr. Phillips. Mr. Phillips said he remains available to the Delta Queen’s new owners on a contractual basis and works closely with the United States Coast Guard, TVA, Army Corp of Engineers and the city of Chattanooga.
Mr. Phillips said he will continue to provide large groups with personal tours of the Delta Queen. He often consults with river related commercial ventures.
Mr. Phillips said, “I continue to work with various groups that envision the return of the Delta Queen and the American Queen as operational commercial ventures whether dock-side or on the inland waterways”.
Mr. and Ms. Ingram have over 40 plus years combined experience in the hospitality industry. Their five year plan for this boutique hotel is to increase occupancy, ADR and overall revenue from all outlets on the Delta Queen Hotel.
“This historic landmark is well-known worldwide, and by her name alone, will attract a wide range of visitors to Tennessee and the Chattanooga region,” said Ms. Ingram.
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