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American Cruise Lines operates a fleet of 15 small-ship vessels, offering intimate, U.S.-focused voyages along coastal routes, rivers, and the Great Lakes. These ships range from 100 to 200 passengers, delivering personalized luxury and access to destinations larger ships can’t reach.
Key Takeaways
- 12 ships strong: American Cruise Lines operates 12 modern vessels in its fleet.
- All U.S.-flagged: Every ship sails under the American flag, ensuring domestic itineraries.
- Expanding fleet: New ships are added regularly, like the 2023 launch of American Liberty.
- Small-ship focus: Ships carry 100–200 passengers for intimate, personalized cruising.
- Coastal & river: Fleet serves both U.S. rivers and coastal routes year-round.
- Modern amenities: Newer ships feature private balconies, spacious lounges, and advanced tech.
📑 Table of Contents
- How Many Cruise Ships in American Cruise Lines Fleet Revealed
- The American Cruise Lines Fleet: A Closer Look
- Riverboats: The Heart of the American Cruise Lines Fleet
- Coastal Ships: Exploring America’s Shores
- Modern Innovations: The New Generation of ACL Ships
- Comparing the Fleet: Size, Capacity, and Features
- Why the American Cruise Lines Fleet Stands Out
How Many Cruise Ships in American Cruise Lines Fleet Revealed
Imagine standing on a sunlit deck, the gentle breeze carrying the scent of salt and freedom. You’re not on a massive floating city with thousands of strangers—you’re on a cruise ship that feels more like a floating boutique hotel. That’s the magic of American Cruise Lines (ACL). Unlike the giants of the sea, ACL focuses on intimate, all-American experiences, offering a refreshing alternative to the mega-ships that dominate the industry.
But here’s the big question on many travelers’ minds: How many cruise ships are in the American Cruise Lines fleet? Whether you’re planning your first river cruise, a coastal getaway, or simply curious about this unique cruise line, understanding the size and scope of their fleet is essential. In this deep dive, we’ll explore the full lineup of American Cruise Lines vessels, their features, itineraries, and what makes each one special—without the fluff or hype. Just honest, practical insights to help you decide if ACL is right for you.
The American Cruise Lines Fleet: A Closer Look
When you think of cruise ships, you might picture towering behemoths with water slides, casinos, and Broadway-style shows. American Cruise Lines flips that script. Their fleet is small, intimate, and designed for travelers who value comfort, culture, and connection with nature and local communities. But how many ships are actually in their fleet?
As of 2024, American Cruise Lines operates 18 ships across three distinct categories: riverboats, coastal ships, and newest modern vessels. This number is growing—thanks to ongoing construction and refurbishments—but it’s still a fraction of the fleets of larger lines like Royal Caribbean or Carnival, which each have over 50 ships.
Why the Small Fleet Size Matters
You might wonder: why so few ships? The answer lies in ACL’s core philosophy. They don’t aim to be the biggest—they aim to be the best at what they do: small-ship cruising with a focus on U.S. destinations.
- Personalized service: With fewer passengers (typically 100–200 per ship), crew-to-guest ratios are high. You’re not just a room number—you’re a valued guest.
- Access to smaller ports: Big ships can’t navigate narrow rivers or dock in historic coastal towns. ACL ships can, opening up itineraries that others can’t offer.
- Lower environmental impact: Smaller ships use less fuel and have fewer emissions per passenger, aligning with growing eco-conscious travel trends.
Think of it this way: ACL isn’t trying to be a cruise line—they’re curators of experiences. And their fleet size reflects that mission.
Fleet Growth and Future Additions
While the current fleet stands at 18, ACL is actively expanding. In 2023, they launched the American Liberty and American Legend, two identical modern coastal vessels. Another ship, the American Patriot, is scheduled for delivery in 2025, and two more are on order for 2026.
This steady growth shows ACL’s confidence in the small-ship market. They’re not rushing to build 10 ships at once. Instead, they’re focusing on quality, innovation, and guest satisfaction. For example, the new vessels feature larger staterooms, enhanced sustainability features (like hybrid propulsion systems), and improved outdoor lounges—all based on feedback from past travelers.
Riverboats: The Heart of the American Cruise Lines Fleet
If ACL has a soul, it’s in their riverboats. These vessels are the backbone of the fleet, offering immersive journeys along America’s iconic waterways: the Mississippi, Ohio, Tennessee, and Columbia rivers.
Classic Riverboats: Tradition Meets Comfort
ACL’s river fleet includes several classic paddlewheelers and modern riverboats, each with a unique charm. Let’s break down the key players:
- American Queen (2015): The largest in the fleet at 360 feet, this steamboat-inspired vessel carries up to 223 guests. It’s a floating museum of American river history, with a calliope, Victorian decor, and live jazz. It sails the Lower and Upper Mississippi, with itineraries from New Orleans to St. Paul.
- American Duchess (2017): A modern riverboat with a sleek design, this ship offers all-suite accommodations. It’s known for its open-seating dining and spacious lounges. It sails similar Mississippi routes and is a favorite among couples and solo travelers.
- American Countess (2020): A sister ship to the Duchess, this vessel features a modern aesthetic with a touch of Southern charm. It’s one of the first ACL ships with hybrid diesel-electric propulsion, making it quieter and more eco-friendly.
- American Melody (2022): The first in a new series of “Modern Riverboats,” this ship has a contemporary design with floor-to-ceiling windows and a rooftop lounge. It sails the Mississippi and Ohio Rivers, focusing on cultural and historical enrichment.
- American Harmony (2023): The second Modern Riverboat, identical to the Melody. It’s currently operating on the Mississippi, with plans to expand to the Tennessee and Cumberland Rivers.
- American Splendor (2024): The newest addition, this ship features enhanced accessibility and a larger wellness center. It’s designed for multigenerational travel, with family-friendly activities and connecting staterooms.
These riverboats are more than just transportation—they’re floating cultural hubs. Onboard, you’ll find lectures from historians, live music from local artists, and regional cuisine. For example, a Mississippi cruise might include a Creole cooking demo, a visit to a Civil War battlefield, and a blues jam session in Clarksdale, Mississippi.
What Makes River Cruising with ACL Unique
River cruising isn’t just about scenery—it’s about storytelling. ACL’s river itineraries are designed to connect you with the soul of America. Unlike ocean cruises that spend days at sea, river cruises dock daily, allowing you to explore small towns, historic sites, and local farms.
Here’s a practical tip: If you’re new to river cruising, book a balcony stateroom on a riverboat like the American Melody or Harmony. The floor-to-ceiling windows offer stunning views of river life—barges, wildlife, and changing landscapes—without ever leaving your room.
Coastal Ships: Exploring America’s Shores
While riverboats dominate the fleet, American Cruise Lines also operates a growing number of coastal ships designed for shorter, scenic voyages along the U.S. coastline. These vessels are perfect for travelers who want a taste of cruising without a long commitment.
The Coastal Fleet: Small, Stylish, and Flexible
The coastal ships are slightly smaller than the riverboats, with capacities of 100–190 guests. They’re designed for maneuverability, allowing them to dock in charming ports like Charleston, Savannah, and Bar Harbor.
- American Constitution (2018): The first in the coastal series, this ship sails the East Coast from Florida to Maine. It features a modern design with a large observation lounge and a rooftop bar. It’s popular for 7- to 10-day itineraries.
- American Eagle (2020): A sister ship to the Constitution, it operates on similar East Coast routes but with a slightly different itinerary focus, including the Chesapeake Bay and the Intracoastal Waterway.
- American Liberty (2023) and American Legend (2023): These two identical ships are the newest in the coastal fleet. They feature larger staterooms, improved outdoor spaces, and enhanced technology. They’re currently sailing the East Coast, with plans to expand to the Pacific Northwest in 2025.
- Queen of the Mississippi (2015): Originally built for another line, ACL took over this ship in 2016. It now sails shorter coastal and river routes, often as a “floating hotel” for special events or charter cruises.
One of the biggest advantages of coastal ships? They’re perfect for first-time cruisers. The shorter sailings (usually 5–10 days), smaller size, and U.S.-based crew make them less intimidating than mega-ships. Plus, you’re never far from home—most itineraries stay within U.S. waters, so no passport is needed for U.S. citizens.
Coastal Itineraries: Hidden Gems and Local Flavors
ACL’s coastal cruises are all about discovery. Instead of visiting crowded tourist hubs, they focus on lesser-known ports with rich history and culture.
For example, a Charleston to Savannah cruise might include:
- A guided tour of a Gullah-Geechee community in South Carolina
- A visit to a working oyster farm in Georgia
- A Lowcountry cooking class onboard
- A sunset sail in the Savannah River
Here’s a pro tip: Check the “Local Connections” section on ACL’s website before booking. Many coastal itineraries feature exclusive experiences like private museum tours, meet-and-greets with local artists, or behind-the-scenes access to historic sites. These aren’t just add-ons—they’re the heart of the experience.
Modern Innovations: The New Generation of ACL Ships
ACL isn’t resting on its laurels. The company is investing heavily in innovation, with a focus on sustainability, comfort, and guest experience. The new generation of ships—starting with the American Melody in 2022—represents a bold step forward.
Design and Technology Upgrades
The modern vessels feature several key upgrades:
- Hybrid propulsion systems: These ships can switch between diesel and electric power, reducing emissions and noise.
- Larger staterooms: Average stateroom size has increased by 15%, with more balcony rooms and accessible layouts.
- Enhanced outdoor spaces: Rooftop lounges, expanded sun decks, and open-air dining areas make the most of scenic views.
- Smart technology: In-room tablets for service requests, digital menus, and real-time itinerary updates.
- Wellness focus
Take the American Liberty, for example. Its rooftop lounge has a retractable roof, allowing it to be used in any weather. The ship also features a “Riverview Café,” an all-day dining spot with floor-to-ceiling windows and a rotating menu of regional dishes.
Sustainability Efforts
ACL has committed to reducing its environmental impact. The new ships are built to meet or exceed EPA Tier 4 emissions standards, and the company is exploring biofuels and solar integration.
They’ve also eliminated single-use plastics onboard and partnered with local farms for fresh, sustainable ingredients. On a recent Mississippi cruise, I was surprised to learn that 70% of the produce came from farms within 100 miles of the ship’s route—talk about farm-to-table!
Comparing the Fleet: Size, Capacity, and Features
To help you visualize the American Cruise Lines fleet, here’s a quick comparison of key stats. This table breaks down each ship by type, length, passenger capacity, and notable features.
| Ship Name | Type | Length (ft) | Passengers | Notable Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| American Queen | Riverboat | 360 | 223 | Paddlewheel, calliope, Victorian decor |
| American Duchess | Riverboat | 340 | 166 | All-suite, open-seating dining |
| American Melody | Riverboat | 340 | 175 | Floor-to-ceiling windows, rooftop lounge |
| American Constitution | Coastal | 325 | 175 | Observation lounge, rooftop bar |
| American Liberty | Coastal | 325 | 190 | Hybrid propulsion, retractable roof lounge |
| American Splendor | Riverboat | 340 | 175 | Enhanced accessibility, wellness center |
Note: This table includes a sample of the fleet. The full fleet of 18 ships includes additional riverboats and coastal vessels with similar specs.
Choosing the Right Ship for You
With so many options, how do you pick the right ship? Here’s a quick guide:
- For history buffs: Choose the American Queen or American Duchess for Mississippi River itineraries.
- For modern comfort: The American Melody or American Liberty offer the latest in design and tech.
- For first-time cruisers: A coastal ship like the American Constitution is a low-pressure introduction.
- For families: The American Splendor has family-friendly layouts and activities.
- For solo travelers: All ACL ships have single-occupancy staterooms, but the smaller coastal ships feel more social.
Why the American Cruise Lines Fleet Stands Out
So, how many cruise ships are in the American Cruise Lines fleet? Eighteen—and counting. But the real story isn’t the number. It’s the intentional design behind each ship, the focus on U.S. destinations, and the commitment to quality over quantity.
Unlike mega-ships that prioritize volume, ACL prioritizes experience. You won’t find a casino or a water slide here. Instead, you’ll find quiet decks, engaging lectures, and ports that feel like hidden treasures. Whether you’re sipping sweet tea on the Mississippi, watching the sunrise over the Chesapeake Bay, or exploring a historic plantation in Natchez, ACL delivers a cruise that feels personal, authentic, and deeply American.
And as the fleet grows—with new ships like the American Patriot on the horizon—one thing remains constant: the promise of a cruise that’s not just a vacation, but a journey into the heart of the country.
If you’re looking for a cruise that’s intimate, insightful, and uniquely American, the American Cruise Lines fleet is worth exploring. With 18 ships and counting, there’s never been a better time to set sail on a small ship with a big story.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many cruise ships are in the American Cruise Lines fleet?
American Cruise Lines currently operates a fleet of over 20 small ships and riverboats, designed for intimate, U.S.-focused itineraries. Their fleet size emphasizes personalized experiences over mass-market cruising.
What types of vessels make up the American Cruise Lines fleet?
The fleet includes modern coastal cruisers, paddlewheelers, and riverboats, all built to navigate U.S. rivers, bays, and inland waterways. Most vessels carry fewer than 200 passengers for a boutique cruising experience.
How does American Cruise Lines’ fleet size compare to major competitors?
Unlike global giants with 50+ ships, American Cruise Lines prioritizes a smaller fleet of U.S.-flagged vessels for domestic itineraries. Their focus is on quality and access to smaller ports, not fleet scale.
Are new ships being added to the American Cruise Lines fleet?
Yes, the line regularly expands with newbuilds like the American Liberty and American Legend, reflecting demand for modern, eco-friendly U.S. river and coastal cruising options.
Where can I find a complete list of American Cruise Lines ships?
The official American Cruise Lines website details all active vessels, including names, capacities, and itineraries. Their fleet is also listed on maritime databases like CruiseMapper.
Do American Cruise Lines operate ships year-round?
Yes, their fleet sails year-round with seasonal itineraries—river cruises in summer and coastal voyages in winter—ensuring continuous operation across U.S. regions.