UPDATE: 6pm
POINT PLEASANT, W.Va (WSAZ) -- Long live the queen -- the Delta Queen! The old-fashioned riverboat is one of the last overnight passenger steamboats in the world. But, at the end of the month, she could be grounded permanently.

During her last stop in our region Tuesday, we walked along her decks as we strolled down memory lane for what could be her last bon voyage.

Peggy Swisher is from Union, Missouri--two hours southeast of St. Louis. For nearly 20 years, she's cruised the Delta Queen more than 15 times. For her, this majestic vessel holds the key to a peaceful life and death.

“We’d like to have our ashes sprinkled here behind the paddle wheel,” said Swisher.

Built in 1926, the queen cost nearly one-million dollars--even back then. She's made of the finest steel, exotic woods and priceless Tiffany crystal.

“We’re not asking Congress for a bailout, just permission to continue to operate,” said Bill Wiemuth, employee with the Delta Queen.

The DQ is making its last stop in Pt. Pleasant for the year. But, if Congress doesn't act, it could be the last stop ever. The queen has operated under a 42-year exemption of the Safety of Life at Sea Act. The law forbids any vessel that's constructed primarily of wood from carrying more than 50 passengers overnight in U.S. waterways. On October 31st, the Delta's exemption runs out. Those against renewing it claim safety is an issue.

“One example is most hotels have interior walls that are flammable. But, what hotel has a Coast Guard trained fire crew that lives there? We do!” said Wiemuth.

The Delta Queen has sailed the Ohio River for 60 years. Virginia Courts from Montana and Betty Vincent from California have each cruised her majesty more than 25 years. But, that's just part of her attraction.

“It just gets in your blood,” said Jim Armstrong.

Armstrong is from Catlettsburg, Kentucky, but now lives in Pittsburgh. He’s responsible for securing a proclamation from the Pennsylvania legislature supporting the queen. He once helped save the riverboat more than 30 years ago--then, he was just 14. He's confident he can do it again.

“She just means so much to me” said Armstrong.

If you'd like to help save the Delta Queen, go to: http://www.save-the-delta-queen.org

The Queen has operated under a 42-year exemption of the safety of life at sea act. The law forbids any vessel from operating in U.S. waterways carrying more than 50 passengers overnight that's constructed primarily of wood.

On November 1st, the Delta Queens’ exemption runs out if legislation to extend the exemption is not passed by congress. The legislation does have the support of Democratic presidential candidate Barack Obama.

The historic steamboat arrived at 8am, and will remain in the city until 1pm when it will continue it’s journey down river.