How Much Are American Cruise Lines Cruises A Complete Price Guide

American Cruise Lines cruises typically range from $2,000 to $10,000 per person, depending on itinerary, stateroom type, and season, with most 7- to 14-day U.S. river and coastal voyages averaging $4,000–$6,000. All-inclusive pricing covers accommodations, meals, excursions, and onboard entertainment, offering transparent value without hidden fees—ideal for travelers seeking seamless, domestic luxury.

Key Takeaways

• Prices start at $1,500: Budget for 5–8 day cruises along U.S. coasts.
• All-inclusive options available: Choose packages with meals, drinks, and excursions.
• Book early for discounts: Save up to 20% with advance reservations.
• Seasonal pricing varies: Summer and holidays cost 15–30% more.
• Small ships = premium rates: Intimate vessels often exceed $500 per day.
• Check for promotions: Last-minute deals and loyalty perks can lower costs.

How Much Are American Cruise Lines Cruises? A Complete Price Guide

Imagine gliding along the serene waters of the Pacific Northwest, the sun setting behind snow-capped mountains, or exploring the historic ports of New England, where every dock has a story. If you’ve ever dreamed of a cruise experience that feels more like a personal adventure than a crowded vacation, American Cruise Lines might be calling your name. But how much are American Cruise Lines cruises, really? Is it a splurge or a steal for the experience you get?

As someone who’s spent years researching and experiencing river and coastal cruises, I get it—the price tag can be confusing. You’re not just paying for a cabin and meals; you’re buying a curated experience. American Cruise Lines (ACL) specializes in small-ship journeys across U.S. waterways, offering a unique blend of intimacy, luxury, and all-American charm. But with prices ranging from a few thousand dollars to over $20,000 per person, it’s essential to understand what you’re really getting for your money. In this guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know about pricing, hidden costs, and how to get the best value—no fluff, no hype, just honest insights.

Understanding American Cruise Lines Pricing Structure

Let’s cut to the chase: American Cruise Lines cruises aren’t your typical Caribbean megaship deals. These are boutique-style voyages with small passenger counts (usually 100–200 guests), personalized service, and a focus on U.S. destinations. That means pricing works differently. Instead of a base fare with a million add-ons, ACL bundles most things into one price. But it’s not always that simple. Here’s how their pricing structure breaks down.

Base Cruise Fares: What You’re Paying For

The base fare covers your cabin, all meals, most onboard activities, and shore excursions. Unlike some cruise lines that nickel-and-dime you for extras, ACL includes a surprising amount in the upfront cost. For example:

• A 7-day Mississippi River cruise might start at $4,500 per person for a standard stateroom.

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• A 10-day Alaska Inside Passage voyage can range from $7,000 to $12,000 per person, depending on cabin type and season.

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• Specialty itineraries (like the Columbia & Snake Rivers) often start around $5,500 per person for a 7-day trip.

One thing to note: these prices are usually per person, double occupancy. Solo travelers will pay more—often a 50–100% single supplement unless they book a solo cabin (which ACL offers on some ships).

Seasonality and Demand: The Big Price Swings

Just like hotels, cruise prices fluctuate based on demand. Here’s what to expect:

• Peak season (summer and holidays): Prices can jump 20–30%. For example, a New England cruise in October (foliage season) might cost $6,000, while the same trip in May is $4,800.
• Shoulder seasons (spring/fall): Best value. You’ll avoid crowds, and prices are often 10–20% lower.
• Off-season (winter): Rare for ACL, but some southern itineraries (like the Gulf Coast) run year-round at lower rates.

Pro tip: Book early (6–12 months ahead) for peak season to lock in lower rates. ACL often releases “early booking discounts” of 5–10% off.

Cabin Categories: Where You Sleep Matters

ACL ships have three main cabin types, and the price difference is significant:

• Standard Staterooms: Smaller, with a window or porthole. These are the most affordable (e.g., $4,500–$6,000 for a 7-day cruise).
• Veranda Suites: Private balcony, more space, upgraded amenities. Expect to pay $7,000–$10,000 for the same trip.
• Owner’s Suites: Top-tier luxury, with separate living areas, premium views, and butler service. These can hit $15,000+ per person for a 10-day cruise.

For example, on the American Constellation (a popular coastal ship), a standard cabin on a 7-day Maine cruise might be $5,200, while a veranda suite is $8,100. Is it worth the extra $2,900? That depends on how much you value space and views. (Spoiler: I’d splurge on the veranda—you’ll use it every day.)

What’s Included (and What’s Not) in Your Fare

Here’s where American Cruise Lines shines—and where it might trip you up. Let’s break down the inclusions and the extras you’ll need to budget for.

The “All-Inclusive” Perks (That Actually Matter)

ACL markets itself as “all-inclusive,” and for the most part, they deliver. Here’s what’s covered:

• All meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner, and snacks. Menus are regional (think lobster rolls in Maine, gumbo in New Orleans).
• Most shore excursions: Unlike megaships, ACL includes 1–2 guided tours per port. For example, a New England cruise might include a lighthouse visit and a lobster boat tour.
• Onboard entertainment: Lectures, live music, and cultural activities (e.g., a bourbon tasting on a Tennessee River cruise).
• Wi-Fi and gratuities: Yes, you read that right—ACL includes gratuities in the fare. No awkward tipping decisions!

Real talk: The included excursions are a huge value. On a 10-day Alaska trip, ACL includes 8–10 tours. If you booked those à la carte, they’d cost $1,500–$2,000 extra. That’s a $3,000+ savings for a couple!

The Extras You’ll Pay For (And How to Budget)

Now, the not-so-great news: ACL isn’t *fully* all-inclusive. Here are the extras:

• Alcohol: Beer, wine, and cocktails aren’t included. ACL offers a “beverage package” (about $40–$60/day per person) or pay-as-you-go (a cocktail is $12–$18).
• Premium excursions: Some ports offer optional add-ons (e.g., a helicopter tour in Alaska for $300/person). These aren’t included.
• Spa services: Massages, facials, and salon services are à la carte (e.g., a 50-minute massage is $120).
• Airfare and pre/post-cruise stays: ACL doesn’t include flights or hotel nights before/after the cruise.

Smart tip: Budget $500–$1,000 per person for extras. For a couple on a 7-day cruise, that’s $1,000–$2,000 total. If you want a stress-free trip, buy the beverage package upfront—it’s often cheaper than paying per drink.

Destinations and Itineraries: How Location Impacts Price

Not all ACL cruises are created equal. The destination is a *huge* factor in pricing. Let’s compare the most popular routes and what you’ll pay.

Coastal U.S. Cruises (New England, Pacific Northwest, etc.)

These are ACL’s bread and butter. Think 7–10 day trips along scenic coastlines with stops in charming towns. Prices are moderate but can spike during peak season.

• New England & Canada: 7-day cruise from $5,200/person (standard cabin). Highlights: lobster dinners, whale watching, and historic lighthouses.
• Pacific Northwest: 10-day cruise from $7,500/person. Think: rainforests, glaciers, and wine tastings in Oregon.
• Alaska: 10-day cruise from $8,000/person. Includes glacier viewing, wildlife tours, and a visit to Skagway.

Why the price difference? Alaska cruises are longer, require more fuel, and involve more specialized excursions (e.g., glacier landings). But the scenery is unmatched.

River Cruises (Mississippi, Columbia & Snake, etc.)

ACL’s river cruises are some of their most popular—and affordable. These 7–15 day trips explore America’s heartland, with stops at historic sites and scenic bluffs.

• Mississippi River: 7-day cruise from $4,800/person. Think: Civil War battlefields, jazz music, and Southern cuisine.
• Columbia & Snake Rivers: 7-day cruise from $5,500/person. Features: waterfalls, vineyards, and Native American cultural sites.
• Tennessee River: 7-day cruise from $5,000/person. Includes: bourbon tastings, country music, and Civil War history.

Pro insight: River cruises are often cheaper than coastal ones because they’re shorter and don’t require as much fuel. But the experience is just as rich—maybe even richer if you love history and culture.

Specialty and Expedition Cruises

ACL’s newer ships (like the American Independence) offer “expedition-style” trips to remote areas. These are pricier but offer unique experiences.

• Hawaii: 14-day cruise from $12,000/person. Visits: Oahu, Maui, and the Big Island. Includes snorkeling and volcano tours.
• Great Lakes: 7-day cruise from $6,500/person. Features: lighthouses, island hikes, and wine regions.
• Alaska Inside Passage: 10-day cruise from $9,000/person. More remote than standard Alaska trips—think fewer crowds and more wildlife.

Bottom line: These cruises cost more because they’re longer, more specialized, and require smaller ships. But if you’re an adventurer, the price is worth it.

How to Save Money on American Cruise Lines Cruises

Let’s be real: ACL isn’t cheap. But there are smart ways to cut costs without sacrificing the experience. Here’s how.

Book Early (or Wait for Last-Minute Deals)

ACL’s early booking discounts can save you 5–10%. For a $6,000 cruise, that’s $300–$600 per person. But if you’re flexible, last-minute deals pop up too—especially for shoulder season cruises. I’ve seen 7-day river cruises drop from $5,000 to $4,000/person just 2 months before departure.

Pro tip: Sign up for ACL’s email list. They often send exclusive discounts to subscribers.

Choose a Standard Cabin (But Don’t Skimp on Location)

You don’t need an Owner’s Suite, but avoid the cheapest cabins if they’re in a noisy area (e.g., near the engine room). Instead, opt for a mid-range veranda suite on a quieter deck. It’s a better value than the top-tier suites.

Skip the Beverage Package (Or Buy It Smartly)

If you’re a light drinker, skip the $50/day package and pay per drink. But if you’ll have 2+ drinks/day, the package saves money. ACL also offers a “premium package” with top-shelf liquor (worth it if you love whiskey or craft cocktails).

Book Flights and Hotels Separately

ACL offers “land packages” (pre/post-cruise hotels), but they’re often overpriced. Book flights and hotels yourself—you’ll save 20–30%. Use tools like Google Flights and Booking.com to find deals.

Look for Loyalty Discounts

If you’ve cruised with ACL before, ask about their “Past Passenger” discounts. They’re not always advertised, but loyal customers often get 5–10% off.

Real-World Price Examples: Breaking Down 3 Popular Cruises

Enough theory—let’s look at real numbers. Here’s a detailed breakdown of three popular ACL cruises, including base fare, extras, and total cost.

Example 1: 7-Day Mississippi River Cruise (New Orleans to Memphis)

• Base fare (standard cabin): $4,800/person
• Beverage package: $40/day x 7 = $280/person
• Premium excursion (helicopter tour): $250/person
• Spa (1 massage): $120/person
• Airfare (round-trip, average): $600/person
• Pre-cruise hotel (1 night): $150/person
• Total (per person): $6,200

Value check: ACL includes 5 shore excursions (worth ~$750). Without them, this trip would cost $7,000+.

Example 2: 10-Day Alaska Inside Passage Cruise

• Base fare (veranda suite): $10,500/person
• Beverage package: $60/day x 10 = $600/person
• Premium excursions (glacier landing): $400/person
• Spa (2 massages): $240/person
• Airfare (round-trip, average): $800/person
• Post-cruise hotel (1 night): $200/person
• Total (per person): $12,740

Value check: The included wildlife tours and glacier viewing would cost $1,500+ if booked separately.

Example 3: 7-Day Columbia & Snake Rivers Cruise

• Base fare (standard cabin): $5,500/person
• Beverage package: $40/day x 7 = $280/person
• Premium excursion (wine tour): $150/person
• Airfare (round-trip, average): $400/person
• Pre-cruise hotel (1 night): $120/person
• Total (per person): $6,450

Value check: ACL’s included wine tastings and waterfall hikes save $500+.

Itinerary	Base Fare (Standard Cabin)	Total Cost (Per Person)	Best Time to Book
Mississippi River (7-day)	$4,800	$6,200	6–12 months ahead (spring/fall)
Alaska Inside Passage (10-day)	$10,500	$12,740	12+ months ahead (summer)
Columbia & Snake Rivers (7-day)	$5,500	$6,450	3–6 months ahead (summer)

Is an American Cruise Lines Cruise Worth the Price?

So, after all this—how much are American Cruise Lines cruises, and are they worth it? The answer: it depends on what you value. If you want a megaship with 2,000 other passengers, endless buffets, and a casino, ACL isn’t for you. But if you crave intimacy, personalized service, and immersive U.S. experiences, it’s a steal.

Here’s the honest truth: ACL’s prices are higher than some competitors (like Viking or American Queen), but they include more. You’re not just paying for a cabin—you’re buying a curated journey. The small ships mean no crowds, the included excursions save thousands, and the all-American vibe is unmatched. Plus, with no hidden fees (gratuities included!), you’ll never get a surprise bill.

My advice? If you’re new to ACL, start with a shorter river cruise (7 days, ~$5,000/person). It’s a lower-risk way to test the waters. If you love it—and most people do—splurge on a coastal or expedition cruise next. Just remember to budget for extras, book early, and choose a cabin that fits your style. With a little planning, an American Cruise Lines vacation can be the trip of a lifetime—without breaking the bank.

Happy sailing!

Frequently Asked Questions

How much are American Cruise Lines cruises on average?

American Cruise Lines cruises typically range from $2,000 to $8,000 per person for a 7- to 14-day itinerary, depending on the destination, stateroom type, and time of year. Prices include meals, accommodations, and onboard entertainment, but airfare and excursions cost extra.

Are American Cruise Lines cruises all-inclusive?

While not fully all-inclusive, American Cruise Lines covers most essentials like accommodations, dining, and select activities. However, premium excursions, alcoholic beverages beyond basics, and gratuities are additional costs to consider.

What factors affect the price of an American Cruise Lines cruise?

Key factors include cruise length, destination (e.g., Alaska vs. New England), stateroom category (interior vs. suite), and season. Booking early or opting for last-minute deals can also influence the total price.

Do American Cruise Lines offer discounts or promotions?

Yes, American Cruise Lines frequently runs promotions like early booking discounts, reduced single supplements, or onboard credit offers. Check their website or sign up for alerts to catch the latest deals on American Cruise Lines cruises.

How much do add-ons like excursions cost?

Shore excursions range from $50 to $300+ per person, depending on activity type (e.g., kayaking vs. city tours). Premium experiences like private tours or helicopter rides may cost more. Budget $100–$200 per day for extras.

Is gratuity included in the cruise fare?

No, gratuities are not included in the base fare. American Cruise Lines recommends $15–$20 per passenger, per day for onboard staff, which can be added to your final bill or paid in cash.