How Much Are American Cruise Lines A Complete Pricing Guide

American Cruise Lines offers domestic U.S. voyages ranging from $2,000 to $10,000+ per person, depending on itinerary, cabin type, and cruise duration. All-inclusive pricing covers meals, excursions, and select beverages, making it easier to budget for these intimate, small-ship adventures along rivers, coasts, and inland waterways.

Key Takeaways

• American Cruise Lines vary from $2,000 to $10,000 per person for a week.
• Book early for discounts—save up to 20% on select sailings.
• All-inclusive pricing covers meals, excursions, and onboard entertainment.
• Premium suites cost more but offer added luxury and space.
• Seasonal pricing applies—summer and holidays command higher rates.
• Check promotions often for last-minute deals and free upgrades.

Understanding American Cruise Lines Pricing: What to Expect

When planning a vacation, few experiences rival the luxury, convenience, and scenic beauty of a river or coastal cruise. American Cruise Lines (ACL), one of the premier domestic cruise operators in the United States, offers a uniquely American experience—navigating the country’s most iconic waterways, from the Mississippi River to the Pacific Northwest, the Southeast coast, and even Alaska. But one of the most common questions travelers ask is: how much are American Cruise Lines? The answer is not as straightforward as a single price tag. Pricing varies significantly based on itinerary, ship class, cabin category, season, and additional amenities.

Unlike international mega-ships, American Cruise Lines specializes in small-ship cruising, with vessels carrying between 100 and 200 passengers. This intimate scale allows for personalized service, access to smaller ports, and a more immersive travel experience. However, this exclusivity comes with a cost. Understanding how American Cruise Lines prices its voyages—what’s included, what’s optional, and how to get the best value—is essential for making an informed decision. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll break down the full spectrum of pricing, from base fares to hidden fees, and offer practical tips to help you plan the perfect cruise without overspending.

Factors That Influence American Cruise Lines Pricing

To truly answer the question “how much are American Cruise Lines”, you need to understand the variables that shape pricing. Several key factors determine the final cost of your cruise, and being aware of them can help you budget more accurately and avoid surprises.

1. Itinerary and Cruise Duration

The length and destination of your cruise have a direct impact on price. ACL offers a wide range of itineraries, from short 5-day coastal getaways to extended 21-day river voyages. Generally, the longer the cruise, the higher the total cost—but not always in a linear fashion. For example:

• A 5-day Charleston to Savannah cruise may start at $2,500 per person.
• A 15-day Great Rivers of Florida journey can range from $6,000 to $10,000 per person.
• A 22-day Mississippi River voyage from New Orleans to St. Louis may cost between $9,000 and $14,000 per person.

Longer itineraries often include more port stops, guided excursions, and onboard programming, which contribute to higher prices. Additionally, certain regions—like the Pacific Northwest or Alaska—command premium pricing due to their remote locations and limited sailing windows.

2. Ship and Vessel Class

American Cruise Lines operates a fleet of modern, purpose-built vessels, including:

• Coastal Catamarans (e.g., American Eagle, American Glory) – Smaller, faster, and designed for East and West Coast itineraries.

< li>Riverboats (e.g., American Melody, American Serenade) – Built for the Mississippi and other inland rivers.

• Modern Riverboats (e.g., American Symphony, American Heritage) – Larger, with more amenities and balcony cabins.

Newer ships with more advanced amenities (like private balconies, larger staterooms, and enhanced dining options) typically have higher base fares. For instance, a balcony cabin on the American Symphony may cost $1,500 more than an interior cabin on the American Eagle for the same 8-day cruise.

3. Cabin Category and Location

Like most cruise lines, ACL uses a tiered pricing model based on cabin type:

• Interior Staterooms: Smallest and least expensive, often starting at $2,000–$3,000 for a 7-day cruise.
• Outside Staterooms: Feature a window or porthole, priced 10–25% higher than interior.
• Balcony Staterooms: Include a private veranda; typically 30–50% more than interior.
• Suites: Largest accommodations with premium amenities; can be 60–100% more expensive than base cabins.

Location within the ship also matters. Mid-ship and higher-deck cabins are generally more expensive due to better views, less motion, and easier access to public areas. For example, a balcony cabin on Deck 4 of the American Harmony may cost $800 more than the same cabin on Deck 2.

4. Seasonality and Demand

Cruise pricing is highly seasonal. Peak seasons—such as spring (April–June) and fall (September–October) on the Mississippi, or summer (May–September) in Alaska—see higher demand and thus higher prices. Off-peak months (e.g., November–February, excluding holidays) often feature significant discounts and promotional offers.

For example, a 7-day Columbia & Snake Rivers cruise might cost $3,200 per person in June, but drop to $2,600 in November. Booking early (12–18 months in advance) or last-minute (within 60 days) can also yield savings, though availability may be limited.

5. Inclusions and Add-Ons

One of the biggest differentiators for American Cruise Lines is what’s included in the base fare. Unlike budget cruise lines that charge extra for everything, ACL includes:

• All meals and non-alcoholic beverages
• Daily guided shore excursions
• Onboard entertainment and enrichment programs
• Wi-Fi and gratuities

However, alcoholic drinks, spa treatments, specialty excursions (e.g., helicopter tours in Alaska), and pre/post-cruise hotel stays are usually extra. These add-ons can add $500–$2,000 per person depending on usage.

Breakdown of Base Fares by Itinerary and Ship

To give you a clearer picture of how much American Cruise Lines cost, here’s a detailed breakdown of base fares across popular itineraries and ships. All prices are per person, based on double occupancy, and reflect average 2024–2025 pricing. (Note: Prices are subject to change and exclude taxes, fees, and optional extras.)

Coastal and East Coast Cruises

• 7-Day Charleston to Savannah (American Glory)
  • Interior: $2,800
  • Outside: $3,200
  • Balcony: $3,800
  • Suite: $5,000
• 8-Day Historic New England (American Eagle)
  • Interior: $3,100
  • Outside: $3,600
  • Balcony: $4,200
  • Suite: $5,600

Mississippi River Cruises

• 7-Day New Orleans to Memphis (American Melody)
  • Interior: $3,400
  • Outside: $3,900
  • Balcony: $4,600
  • Suite: $6,200
• 15-Day New Orleans to St. Louis (American Symphony)
  • Interior: $6,800
  • Outside: $7,900
  • Balcony: $9,200
  • Suite: $12,500

Alaska and Pacific Northwest

• 8-Day Alaska’s Glacier Country (American Constellation)
  • Interior: $4,200
  • Outside: $4,800
  • Balcony: $5,600
  • Suite: $7,400
• 10-Day Columbia & Snake Rivers (American Harmony)
  • Interior: $3,900
  • Outside: $4,500
  • Balcony: $5,300
  • Suite: $7,000

Specialty and Themed Cruises

ACL offers themed voyages such as “Civil War History,” “Fall Foliage,” and “Holiday Markets.” These often come with a slight premium (5–15%) due to curated programming and expert guest speakers. For example, a 7-day Fall Foliage on the Hudson River cruise may cost $3,500 (interior) versus $3,100 for a standard 7-day East Coast cruise.

Tip: If you’re flexible with dates, consider booking a themed cruise during shoulder season (e.g., late September for fall foliage) to save $300–$500 per person.

What’s Included vs. What’s Extra: Hidden Costs to Watch For

One of the most important aspects of understanding how much American Cruise Lines cost is knowing what’s covered in the base fare and what you’ll pay extra for. ACL is known for its all-inclusive model, but there are still optional expenses that can inflate your final bill.

Included in the Base Fare

American Cruise Lines includes a generous package of amenities:

• All meals and snacks: Gourmet dining with regional specialties, plus 24-hour room service.
• Non-alcoholic beverages: Coffee, tea, soft drinks, and bottled water.
• Daily shore excursions: Guided tours at every port (typically 1–2 per day).
• Onboard entertainment: Lectures, live music, movies, and cultural presentations.
• Wi-Fi and gratuities: No hidden service charges.
• Fitness center and wellness programs: Yoga, fitness classes, and spa access (excluding treatments).

This level of inclusion makes ACL stand out from many competitors, especially on river cruises where excursions and gratuities are often extra.

Common Add-Ons and Extra Costs

While the base fare is comprehensive, here are the typical extras you may encounter:

• Alcoholic beverages: A drink package starts at $35–$50 per day, or you can pay à la carte ($8–$15 per cocktail, $6–$10 per beer).
• Specialty excursions: Helicopter glacier landings in Alaska ($350), private wine tastings ($75), or extended kayaking tours ($120).
• Spa and wellness services: Massages ($120–$180), facials ($90–$140), and salon services.
• Pre/post-cruise hotel stays: ACL offers optional hotel packages (e.g., $250–$400 for a 2-night stay in New Orleans).
• Airfare and transfers: While not included, ACL partners with travel agencies to bundle airfare. Expect to pay $500–$1,500 per person depending on departure city.
• Travel insurance: Highly recommended. Costs range from $150–$300 per person, depending on coverage.

How to Minimize Extra Costs

• Bring your own alcohol: ACL allows one bottle of wine per person at embarkation—great for celebrating!
• Limit specialty excursions: Stick to the included tours and explore independently in port.
• Use onboard promotions: ACL often offers discounted drink packages or spa credits for early bookings.
• Book airfare separately: Compare prices with ACL’s air partner versus booking direct with airlines.

Discounts, Promotions, and Ways to Save

While American Cruise Lines is a premium brand, there are several legitimate ways to reduce the cost of your cruise and get better value for your money.

Early Booking and Last-Minute Deals

• Early Booking Discounts: Book 12–18 months in advance and save 5–10% on base fares. Some promotions include free balcony upgrades or onboard credits ($100–$300).
• Last-Minute Savings: Within 60–90 days of departure, ACL may offer 10–20% off unsold cabins. These deals are often found on their website under “Last Minute Cruises.”

Loyalty Program: American Cruise Lines Rewards

ACL offers a Rewards Program for repeat customers. Benefits include:

• 5% off future cruises
• Free cabin upgrades (subject to availability)
• Exclusive invitations to new ship launches
• Double onboard credit on select sailings

You earn points based on cruise nights: 1 point per night, with bonuses for suite bookings. After 10 nights, you reach Silver status; 25 nights for Gold; 50+ for Platinum.

Group and Multi-Cruise Discounts

• Group Travel (10+ cabins): Save 5–15% per person, plus a free cabin for the group leader.
• Multi-Cruise Booking: Book two or more cruises at once and receive 10% off the second and 15% off the third.

Special Offers and Seasonal Sales

ACL runs seasonal promotions, such as:

• “Sail & Save”: Book a spring or fall cruise and receive a free pre-cruise hotel stay.
• “Alaska Bonus”: Book an Alaska cruise and get $200 onboard credit.
• “River Romance”: Couples booking a balcony cabin receive a complimentary dinner for two and a photo package.

Pro Tip: Sign up for ACL’s email newsletter to get early access to promotions and flash sales.

Comparing American Cruise Lines to Competitors: Is It Worth the Price?

To truly understand how much American Cruise Lines cost, it helps to compare them with other domestic and river cruise operators. Here’s how ACL stacks up against key competitors:

ACL vs. American Queen Voyages

• American Queen Voyages: Operates larger riverboats (up to 400 passengers) with more onboard amenities (e.g., spa, fitness center, multiple dining venues). Base fares are similar, but ACL includes more excursions and has newer ships.
• Value Proposition: ACL offers better value for travelers who prioritize port time and guided tours over onboard luxuries.

ACL vs. Viking River Cruises (U.S. Itineraries)

• Viking: Focuses on European rivers but offers select U.S. cruises (e.g., Mississippi). Viking’s base fares are 15–25% higher, and excursions are often extra.
• Value Proposition: ACL provides a more authentic American experience with local cuisine, history, and culture, at a lower price point.

ACL vs. UnCruise Adventures (Alaska)

• UnCruise: Offers ultra-small ships (22–86 passengers) with adventure-focused itineraries (kayaking, hiking, wildlife viewing). Prices are comparable, but UnCruise includes alcoholic drinks and premium excursions.
• Value Proposition: ACL is better for travelers who prefer comfort, structure, and educational programming over rugged adventure.

Is American Cruise Lines Worth the Price?

For travelers seeking:

• A luxurious yet intimate cruising experience
• All-inclusive pricing with minimal hidden fees
• Expert-led excursions and cultural immersion
• Modern, American-built ships with high service standards

…American Cruise Lines is an excellent value. While not the cheapest option, the quality of service, included amenities, and unique itineraries justify the price for most travelers.

Final Thoughts: Budgeting for Your American Cruise Line Adventure

So, how much are American Cruise Lines? The answer depends on your preferences, but here’s a realistic budgeting framework:

• Short coastal cruise (5–7 days): $2,500–$5,000 per person (including extras)
• Mid-length river cruise (7–10 days): $3,500–$7,000 per person
• Extended journey (14+ days): $7,000–$15,000 per person

To maximize value:

• Book early or last-minute for discounts
• Choose shoulder seasons for lower fares
• Opt for outside or balcony cabins—worth the upgrade for views and fresh air
• Use onboard credits and loyalty rewards
• Bring your own wine and limit specialty excursions

American Cruise Lines delivers a premium, all-American cruising experience that’s hard to match. With careful planning, you can enjoy unforgettable journeys through the heart of the U.S. without breaking the bank. Whether you’re exploring Civil War history on the Mississippi, sipping local wine in the Pacific Northwest, or watching glaciers calve in Alaska, your cruise will be worth every penny.

Itinerary	Ship	Duration	Interior (from)	Balcony (from)	Suite (from)	Best Season
Charleston to Savannah	American Glory	7 days	$2,800	$3,800	$5,000	Mar–May, Sep–Nov
Mississippi River (NOLA to Memphis)	American Melody	7 days	$3,400	$4,600	$6,200	Apr–Jun, Sep–Oct
Alaska’s Glacier Country	American Constellation	8 days	$4,200	$5,600	$7,400	May–Sep
Columbia & Snake Rivers	American Harmony	10 days	$3,900	$5,300	$7,000	Jun–Sep
New England Fall Foliage	American Eagle	8 days	$3,100	$4,200	$5,600	Sep–Oct

Frequently Asked Questions

How much are American Cruise Lines on average?

American Cruise Lines typically range from $2,000 to $8,000 per person for a 7-10 day cruise, depending on the itinerary, cabin category, and season. Prices include meals, onboard activities, and some excursions, but vary by destination.

What factors affect the cost of American Cruise Lines?

The price of American Cruise Lines depends on cabin type (interior vs. suite), sailing duration, departure date, and included amenities like shore excursions. Peak season (summer and holidays) often commands higher rates.

Are American Cruise Lines all-inclusive? Does the price cover everything?

Most American Cruise Lines packages include meals, snacks, onboard entertainment, and select guided excursions. However, premium alcohol, spa services, and airfare are usually extra and not included in the base fare.

How much are American Cruise Lines compared to international competitors?

American Cruise Lines are generally more affordable than luxury international lines (like Regent or Seabourn) but pricier than budget-friendly ocean carriers. Their small-ship U.S. itineraries offer a mid-range price with personalized service.

Do American Cruise Lines offer discounts or promotions?

Yes, American Cruise Lines frequently runs promotions like early booking discounts, reduced single supplements, or free airfare for select itineraries. Check their website or sign up for newsletters to catch these deals.

What’s the cheapest way to book an American Cruise Lines trip?

To save, book during off-peak seasons (spring/fall), opt for shorter itineraries, and choose interior cabins. Loyalty program members and last-minute deals can also reduce the overall cost.