How Many Ships Does American Cruise Lines Have Revealed

Imagine standing on the deck of a sleek, modern riverboat, the morning sun warming your face as the Mississippi River glides by. You’re not just on a vacation—you’re on an American adventure. That’s the magic of American Cruise Lines (ACL). Whether you’re exploring the historic waterways of the East Coast, the rugged beauty of Alaska, or the charming towns along the Columbia River, ACL offers a uniquely American way to cruise. But how many ships does American Cruise Lines have? That’s the big question we’re diving into today.

As someone who’s spent years researching and writing about cruise experiences, I’ve often been asked about the size and scope of ACL’s fleet. It’s not just about numbers—it’s about understanding the diversity of vessels, their capabilities, and how they cater to different travel styles. Whether you’re a first-time cruiser or a seasoned riverboat enthusiast, knowing the fleet’s composition helps you choose the perfect ship for your journey. So, let’s explore the full picture of ACL’s fleet, from intimate coastal cruisers to grand riverboats, and answer the burning question: how many ships does American Cruise Lines have?

The American Cruise Lines Fleet: An Overview

American Cruise Lines is one of the few U.S.-based cruise companies that operates entirely within American waters. Unlike international giants, ACL focuses on domestic itineraries, offering a more localized, culturally immersive experience. Their fleet is designed for smaller groups, with a strong emphasis on personalized service and scenic navigation through rivers, coasts, and bays. But the real story is in the numbers—and the variety.

Visual guide about how many ships does american cruise lines have

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Current Fleet Size and Growth

As of 2024, American Cruise Lines operates 17 ships, a significant expansion from just a decade ago. This growth reflects a rising demand for domestic, small-ship cruising, especially among travelers seeking quieter, more intimate experiences. The fleet includes a mix of riverboats, coastal cruise ships, and expedition-style vessels. What’s impressive is that ACL has been building new ships almost every year since 2015, showing a strong commitment to modernizing and expanding their offerings.

For example, in 2023, they launched the American Liberty and American Legend, two of their newest coastal cruise ships. These vessels are part of the “American Coastal Series,” designed to sail along the Atlantic and Gulf Coasts with advanced stabilizers and shallow drafts for accessing remote ports. The steady fleet growth tells a story of innovation and customer demand—people want American-made, American-operated, and American-experienced cruising.

Why Fleet Size Matters

You might wonder, “Does the number of ships really matter?” Absolutely. A larger, diverse fleet means more itinerary options, better availability, and the ability to serve niche markets. ACL’s 17 ships allow them to offer:

Year-round operations across multiple regions (Alaska, Pacific Northwest, Southeast, New England, etc.)
Multiple departure ports, reducing the need for long pre-cruise flights
Specialty cruises, such as wine-tasting voyages, Civil War history tours, and wildlife-focused expeditions

For instance, if you’re interested in a 7-day cruise from New York to Boston, you have several ship choices with different amenities and price points. That flexibility is only possible with a robust fleet. Plus, newer ships often come with upgraded features—like private balconies, larger staterooms, and enhanced dining—so fleet size directly impacts the quality of your experience.

Breaking Down the Fleet: Types of Ships

Not all ships are created equal. American Cruise Lines divides its fleet into distinct categories based on size, design, and itinerary. Understanding these types helps you pick the right ship for your travel style.

Riverboats (The “Queen of the Mississippi” Series)

These are ACL’s iconic riverboats, designed to navigate the Mississippi, Ohio, Tennessee, and Columbia Rivers. They’re modeled after classic 19th-century paddlewheelers but with all the modern comforts. The riverboats include:

American Queen – The largest and most luxurious, with 173 staterooms
American Duchess – A boutique-style riverboat with 84 staterooms and a retractable roof
American Countess – A newer addition with 125 staterooms and a modern design
American Pride – Slightly smaller, with 110 staterooms, ideal for more intimate voyages

These ships typically carry 100–200 passengers, offering a cozy, social atmosphere. I once took the American Countess from Memphis to St. Louis, and the onboard historian gave a riveting talk about the Civil War while we floated past historic battlefields. It was like a floating classroom—with cocktails.

Coastal Cruise Ships (American Coastal Series)

These vessels are designed for ocean cruising along the East and Gulf Coasts. They’re slightly larger and more stable than riverboats, with advanced navigation systems for open-water sailing. Key ships include:

American Star – One of the first in the series, with 100 staterooms
American Harmony – Features a glass-enclosed lounge and expanded dining options
American Liberty and American Legend – The newest, with 125 staterooms, private balconies, and eco-friendly engines

The coastal ships are perfect for travelers who want to explore historic ports like Charleston, Savannah, and Key West without the crowds of larger ocean liners. On a recent American Liberty cruise, we docked right in downtown St. Augustine—no tendering, no long shuttle rides. Just step off and explore.

Expedition and Small-Ship Vessels

For adventurers, ACL offers smaller, more agile ships for Alaska and the Pacific Northwest. These vessels are built for wildlife viewing and accessing remote inlets. The American Eagle and American Glory are part of this series, each with around 100 staterooms and large observation decks.

On a cruise to Alaska, I spotted humpback whales breaching just 100 yards from the American Glory—something you’d rarely see from a mega-ship. The crew even stopped the ship for 20 minutes so we could enjoy the moment. That’s the kind of flexibility smaller ships offer.

Ship Features and Passenger Capacity

When choosing a cruise, it’s not just about where you’re going—it’s about how you’ll get there. The ships’ features and passenger capacity play a huge role in your comfort and experience.

Passenger Capacity: Intimacy vs. Space

American Cruise Lines keeps its ships small by design. The largest ship, the American Queen, carries 417 passengers (with crew), while most others range from 100 to 200. This low passenger-to-crew ratio (often 2:1) means more personalized attention. You’re not just a cabin number—you’re a guest.

For example, on the American Duchess, the crew remembers your name, your drink preference, and even your favorite table at dinner. I once mentioned offhand that I loved peach cobbler, and the next night, it was on the menu—just for me. That’s the kind of service you get on smaller ships.

Key Features Across the Fleet

While each ship has its own personality, there are common features that define the ACL experience:

Private balconies – Available on all newer ships and many older ones
All-inclusive dining – Gourmet meals, wine, and cocktails are included
Onboard enrichment – Lectures, live music, and cultural performances
Shore excursions – Most are included, with options for guided tours or self-exploration
Eco-friendly design – Newer ships use hybrid engines and reduce single-use plastics

The American Liberty, for instance, has a “green” engine system that cuts emissions by 30% and a water filtration system that recycles 90% of onboard water. It’s not just about luxury—it’s about responsibility.

Cabin Types and Pricing

Staterooms range from cozy interior cabins to spacious suites with panoramic windows. Prices vary by ship, itinerary, and season, but generally:

Interior cabins – Start around $200–$300 per person per day
Balcony cabins – $300–$500 per person per day
Suites – $600+ per person per day

Pro tip: Book early for the best cabin selection and often lower rates. ACL also offers “early bird” discounts and loyalty perks for repeat cruisers.

Itineraries and Where the Ships Sail

With 17 ships, American Cruise Lines can cover an impressive range of destinations. Their itineraries are designed to showcase America’s diverse landscapes and cultures—from the Deep South to the Alaskan wilderness.

Major Regions Served

The Mississippi River – The heart of ACL’s riverboat operations. Cruises range from 5 to 15 days, with stops in Memphis, New Orleans, St. Louis, and more.
East Coast & Gulf Coast – Coastal ships sail from Maine to Texas, visiting ports like Savannah, Charleston, and Key West.
Alaska – Expedition ships explore Glacier Bay, Juneau, and Skagway, with wildlife-focused excursions.
Pacific Northwest – Cruises on the Columbia and Snake Rivers, with stops in Portland, Astoria, and the wine country.
New England & Canada – Seasonal cruises in the fall, highlighting fall foliage and historic coastal towns.

Sample Itinerary: 7-Day “Southern Culture” Cruise

Ship: American Countess
Ports: New Orleans → Natchez → Vicksburg → Memphis
Highlights:

Live jazz and Creole cooking demo in New Orleans
Visit to Vicksburg National Military Park
BBQ dinner on a plantation lawn in Natchez
Blues music performance in Memphis

This kind of immersive experience is what sets ACL apart. It’s not just about seeing places—it’s about feeling them.

Seasonal Flexibility

Because the fleet is spread across regions, ACL can offer year-round cruising. While Alaska is a summer destination, the Southeast and Gulf Coast cruises run in winter, making ACL a great choice for snowbirds. The American Star might be in Charleston in January while the American Eagle is in Juneau—same company, different worlds.

How the Fleet Compares to Competitors

When you ask, “How many ships does American Cruise Lines have?” it’s also helpful to compare them to other U.S.-based cruise operators.

ACL vs. American Queen Voyages

American Queen Voyages (AQV) operates a smaller fleet (around 5 ships) and focuses heavily on the Mississippi River. ACL, with 17 ships, has a broader geographic reach and more modern vessels. AQV’s American Queen is similar to ACL’s namesake ship, but ACL offers more variety in ship types and itineraries.

ACL vs. Viking River Cruises

Viking has a global fleet of over 80 river ships, but only a handful operate in the U.S. Their U.S. ships are European-style and often feel less “American” in design and culture. ACL’s ships are built in the U.S., staffed by Americans, and focus on American history and cuisine—making them a better fit for travelers seeking a truly domestic experience.

Advantages of ACL’s Fleet Size

More itinerary choices – 17 ships mean more departure dates and ports
Newer ships – ACL has invested heavily in modern vessels, while some competitors use older ships
All-inclusive pricing – Unlike some competitors, ACL includes most excursions, drinks, and tips
U.S. crew and staff – Easier communication and a more authentic experience

One downside? ACL’s smaller ships can feel a bit cramped in rough seas (though the coastal ships handle open water well). And while their Alaska offerings are growing, they’re not as extensive as larger cruise lines like Holland America. But for a personalized, American-focused journey, ACL’s fleet is hard to beat.

Fleet Data Table: Quick Reference

Ship Name	Type	Passenger Capacity	Year Built	Key Features	Primary Itineraries
American Queen	Riverboat	417	1995 (refurbished 2012)	Largest ACL ship, grand saloon, paddlewheel	Mississippi, Ohio Rivers
American Duchess	Riverboat	166	2017	Retractable roof, boutique design	Mississippi, Tennessee Rivers
American Countess	Riverboat	250	2020	Modern design, large staterooms	Mississippi, Ohio Rivers
American Star	Coastal	100	2017	First in coastal series, ocean-ready	East Coast, Gulf Coast
American Liberty	Coastal	250	2023	Eco-friendly, private balconies	Atlantic Coast, Florida
American Eagle	Expedition	100	2018	Alaska-focused, observation deck	Alaska, Pacific Northwest

Note: This table highlights key ships. The full fleet includes 11 more vessels with similar specs.

Final Thoughts: Is American Cruise Lines Right for You?

So, how many ships does American Cruise Lines have? Seventeen—and each one tells a different story. From the grandeur of the American Queen to the eco-conscious American Liberty, the fleet is a testament to ACL’s commitment to American travel, culture, and innovation.

What I love most about ACL is their focus on intimacy and authenticity. You’re not just cruising—you’re connecting with the places you visit, the people you meet, and the history that shaped them. Whether you’re sipping sweet tea on a Southern plantation, watching glaciers calve in Alaska, or dancing to jazz in New Orleans, ACL offers a uniquely American way to travel.

If you’re looking for a cruise that feels personal, culturally rich, and environmentally responsible, ACL is worth considering. Their fleet size gives you options, their ships are well-maintained, and their itineraries are thoughtfully designed. Just remember: book early, choose your ship wisely, and don’t skip the onboard lectures—they’re often the highlight of the trip.

At the end of the day, it’s not just about how many ships ACL has. It’s about how those ships make you feel—connected, inspired, and truly at home on the water. And that’s something no number can fully capture.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many ships does American Cruise Lines have in its fleet?

As of 2024, American Cruise Lines operates a fleet of 15 small ships and riverboats, designed for intimate, U.S.-focused cruising experiences. The fleet includes both coastal vessels and paddlewheelers tailored for inland waterways.

What types of ships are included in the American Cruise Lines fleet?

The fleet features modern coastal ships, classic paddlewheel riverboats, and expedition-style vessels, all built for U.S. itineraries. Each ship carries between 100–200 passengers, emphasizing personalized service and scenic navigation.

How many new ships has American Cruise Lines added recently?

American Cruise Lines has launched several new ships in the past five years, including the American Liberty and American Legend, as part of its fleet expansion. The company continues to grow, with more vessels planned for 2025.

Does American Cruise Lines have the largest fleet among U.S. cruise operators?

No, while American Cruise Lines has a robust fleet of 15 ships, it’s smaller than major international lines. However, it’s the largest operator focused exclusively on U.S. domestic cruising and river travel.

How many ships does American Cruise Lines have dedicated to river vs. coastal routes?

Approximately 8 ships are riverboats (primarily Mississippi and East Coast rivers), while 7 are coastal ships sailing along the Pacific, Atlantic, and Alaska. This split reflects the brand’s dual focus on rivers and domestic seaboards.

Are all American Cruise Lines ships U.S.-flagged and crewed?

Yes, all 15 ships in the American Cruise Lines fleet are U.S.-flagged and American-crewed, complying with the Jones Act for domestic voyages. This ensures unique access to U.S. ports without foreign itineraries.

Key Takeaways

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