A special tribute for the legendary Delta Queen will be held Saturday before the steamboat departs on its first 2008 river cruise from Pittsburgh that not only will celebrate its storied 82-year-old career but also will rally for its future.

This could be the last year for the 176-passenger Delta Queen unless Congress grants it a reprieve to continue its overnight cruises, said Vanessa Bloy, spokeswoman for the Majestic America line that operates the Delta Queen.

"There is still hope," she said. "The Majestic America line is pushing for the exemption in Congress."

The vessel, the last traditional sternwheel steamboat carrying overnight passengers on America's inland waterways, features a steel hull and a wood superstructure that no longer meets Coast Guard safety regulations that protect against fire. Although Congress decided more than 40 years ago to provide a special exemption for the Delta Queen -- which has been extended several times -- that exemption expires Oct. 31.

But the outlook appears dim. A House rules committee last month rejected a move to allow an amendment introduced by U.S. Rep. Steve Chabot, R-Ohio, which would have saved the vessel, to reach the House floor for a vote.

Majestic America officials are urging steamboat enthusiasts to contact their representatives as a last-ditch effort to save the vessel.

A number of safety improvements have been made over the years, including installation of a sprinkler system and fire retardant materials, as well as rigorous rescue training of personnel.

"We feel she's as safe as she's ever been in her history," said Ms. Bloy, who spoke by phone from the Delta Queen as it was docked in Louisville, Ky.

Since it began its first voyage of the season in New Orleans on April 18, the Delta Queen has drawn huge crowds of enthusiasts rallying to support it, she said. The boat has provided passengers with a unique view of America's heartland along the Upper and Lower Mississippi, Ohio, Tennessee and other rivers.

There is still limited space available on this year's scheduled sailings from Pittsburgh. These include 10-day trips from Pittsburgh to Nashville leaving May 10, Sept. 13 and Oct. 4, and a trip to St. Louis leaving Aug. 2. To make reservations, call 1-800-434-1232 or check www.majestic-americaline.com.

Saturday's tribute in Pittsburgh for the Delta Queen is open to the public and will be held at North Shore Riverfront Park, near the Fort Duquesne Bridge (Del Monte Building side).

As part of the festivities, 16 representatives selected by the City of Pittsburgh will board the boat at 4 p.m. for a special tour of the vessel and reception. At 5 p.m., songs on the Delta Queen's steam-powered calliope will kick off remarks and special presentation on the bow of the boat. The Delta Queen Band and singers will perform and historian Bill Wiemuth will highlight the boat's voyages.

The Delta Queen will depart at 6 p.m. with a special calliope concert.