#USA #Guilford #American Cruise Lines #American Pioneer #Patriot Class

American Cruise Lines Expands Fleet with New Ships

American Cruise Lines, one of the leading river cruise operators in the United States, has recently made a thrilling announcement: they will be launching 10 new ships for the U.S. market by 2028. This expansion plan kicks off with the American Pioneer, which will have its inaugural sailing in Florida on October 31st. The American Pioneer is the second ship in the company's innovative Patriot Class series that is being released this year.

Throughout the next three years, the remaining ships from the order will be delivered, emphasizing the company’s unwavering commitment to enhancing and modernizing the U.S. cruise experience. Significantly, all of these new vessels will operate exclusively within the U.S., traveling through American Cruise Lines' diverse and growing portfolio of itineraries. Travelers can look forward to exploring popular destinations like the Mississippi River, Alaska, and the East Coast. Furthermore, the introduction of these ships will facilitate American Cruise Lines’ expansion into niche markets, including contexts like the Great Lakes, Arkansas River, and cruises tailored for national parks.

Charles B. Robertson, President and CEO of American Cruise Lines, expressed enthusiasm about the company’s robust plans for the domestic cruise market. He noted, "The new ships will roll out at an average pace of one every four months and keep us on a disciplined growth trajectory." This consistent approach demonstrates the company's confidence in its successful cruising model right here in the United States.

Following the launch of the American Pioneer, the order book will include five new American Riverboats and four additional Patriot Class ships as part of the ongoing Project Blue series. To date, this project has already seen the debut of four innovative Coastal Cats and the flagship American Patriot, which launched in June 2025.

Upcoming Ship Launches

The complete timeline for the newly announced ships includes:

• - American Pioneer, small Patriot Class ship, 2025
• - American Encore, modern American Riverboat™, 2026
• - American Maverick, small Patriot Class ship, 2026
• - American Ranger, small Patriot Class ship, 2026
• - American Anthem, modern American Riverboat™, 2027
• - American Mariner, small Patriot Class ship, 2027
• - American Navigator, small Patriot Class ship, 2027
• - American Grace, modern American Riverboat™, 2028

With the American Pioneer now setting sail, it will embark on the new 16-Day Grand Florida Coast & Keys cruise, transitioning from Amelia Island to St. Petersburg, Florida. Both the American Pioneer and the flagship American Patriot will be facilitating the popular itineraries along Florida's coastline until April 2026. The introduction of American Maverick and American Ranger is slated for 2026, while American Mariner and American Navigator are expected to commence voyages in mid-2027.

Ship Amenities and Features

These new ships are characterized by top-tier amenities, featuring:
1. Capacity for 130 guests across 5 decks.
2. Various luxurious accommodations, including singles, doubles, and suites with private balconies.
3. Multiple guest lounges, along with a top deck lounge equipped with a fresh-air walking track.
4. A bow terrace/observation area and a fitness center to assist passengers in maintaining their well-being while cruising.
5. A grand dining room and casual café options for diverse dining experiences.
6. Complimentary laundry facilities and elevator access to every deck.

In terms of the modern American Riverboat series, American Cruise Lines made headlines back in 2018 with the launch of American Song, the company's flagship vessel and the first modern riverboat in the nation. Since this debut, American Cruise Lines has rolled out more than five additional American Riverboats, including the American Encore, which received accolades as the Best New Riverboat of the Year by Cruise Critic in 2023.

The anticipation continues with the unveiling of the American Encore in 2026, which will navigate the Columbia and Snake Rivers starting in May. With a capacity for 180 guests, the American Encore promises stunning features such as a multi-story glass atrium, 100% private balcony accommodations, and sophisticated lounges among other amenities.

As American Cruise Lines pushes forward into this pivotal expansion phase, eager travelers can now make reservations for cruises that will operate on these new ships, with complete schedules and updates available on the company’s official website through 2028.

For more detailed information, guests can explore 360 Virtual Ship Tours and keep up with the latest updates by visiting American Cruise Lines.

About American Cruise Lines:
American Cruise Lines is recognized as the largest river cruise line in the United States, boasting 28 small ships that ply the Mississippi River, alongside routes across the Columbia and Snake Rivers and other protected waters throughout the country. The fleet, which has received multiple awards, reflects a rich 50-year history of providing domestic small ship cruises that operate uniquely within the United States. Currently, it is the only cruise line in the world with a 100% U.S.-flagged fleet of riverboats.