Is American Cruise Lines Still Sailing Find Out Now

Yes, American Cruise Lines is currently sailing, offering a variety of U.S.-based itineraries on modern riverboats and small coastal ships. With enhanced health protocols and flexible booking options, the line continues to operate safely, catering to travelers seeking domestic adventures with a focus on comfort and local exploration.

Key Takeaways

• American Cruise Lines is sailing with updated health protocols and flexible booking options.
• Check itineraries online for real-time updates on departures and available destinations.
• Book with confidence using their risk-free cancellation policy for peace of mind.
• Small ships, fewer guests ensure a safer, more personalized cruising experience.
• Enhanced safety measures include mandatory testing, sanitization, and reduced capacity.
• Domestic routes focus on U.S. rivers, coasts, and intracoastal waterways for local travel.

Is American Cruise Lines Still Sailing? The Current State of U.S. River and Coastal Voyages

Picture this: You’re sitting on a spacious deck, the sun warming your skin as the Mississippi River gently glides by. The scent of magnolias fills the air, and a crew member hands you a chilled mint julep. You’re not in a dream—you’re on an American Cruise Lines (ACL) vessel, one of the few cruise companies dedicated to exploring the hidden gems of the United States. But lately, you’ve heard whispers: *Are they still operating? Did the pandemic sink them? Is American Cruise Lines still sailing?*

If you’ve been eyeing a domestic cruise—perhaps a trip through the Pacific Northwest’s fjords, the historic ports of New England, or the lush waterways of the Southeast—you’re not alone. With international travel still feeling uncertain for some, more Americans are turning to domestic cruising. And ACL, with its all-American itineraries, seems like the perfect fit. But before you pack your bags and book that balcony cabin, let’s get the real story. In this post, we’ll dive into whether American Cruise Lines is still sailing, what’s changed, what’s stayed the same, and how to make the most of your cruise if you decide to go. No fluff, no hype—just honest, up-to-date info from someone who’s been there.

American Cruise Lines: A Quick Overview of the Company

Who Is American Cruise Lines?

American Cruise Lines isn’t your typical cruise giant. Unlike Carnival or Royal Caribbean, which sail massive ships across oceans, ACL focuses on small-ship cruising right here in the U.S. Founded in 1991, the company operates a fleet of modern, U.S.-flagged vessels that explore rivers, coastal routes, and inland waterways—from the Columbia River in the Pacific Northwest to the Intracoastal Waterway in Florida.

What sets ACL apart? First, their ships are American-built, American-crewed, and American-owned—a rarity in the cruise industry. Second, they offer itineraries you won’t find anywhere else: think 8-day journeys through the Chesapeake Bay, 15-day expeditions along the Great Lakes, or intimate voyages through the historic ports of the Hudson River Valley. It’s like a road trip, but on water—and with a concierge.

Fleet and Destinations: Where Do They Go?

As of 2024, ACL operates around 15 ships, including riverboats, coastal cruisers, and paddlewheelers. Their fleet includes:

• American Star and American Harmony: Modern riverboats on the Mississippi, Ohio, and Tennessee Rivers
• American Constellation and American Independence: Coastal cruisers sailing New England, the Southeast, and Alaska (seasonally)
• American Liberty and American Legend: Newer, larger coastal ships with enhanced amenities
• American Melody and American Serenade: Purpose-built river vessels with panoramic windows and private balconies

Their destinations span 35 states, with over 50 unique itineraries. Whether you’re into Civil War history, Southern cuisine, or watching bald eagles soar over the Columbia River, there’s likely a cruise that matches your interests.

Why Choose ACL Over Larger Cruise Lines?

Let’s be real: big ships are fun, but they can feel impersonal. ACL’s smaller vessels (most carry 100–190 guests) mean:

• Less time waiting in lines

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• More personalized service
• Easier access to shallow ports (no need for tenders!)
• Intimate shore excursions (think: small group tours, not cattle calls)

One traveler I met last summer on a Columbia River cruise told me, “I felt like I got to know every crew member by name. On my last Carnival trip, I barely saw the same face twice.”

Is American Cruise Lines Still Sailing in 2024?

Yes, They’re Sailing—But With Changes

Good news: **American Cruise Lines is absolutely still sailing in 2024**. After a temporary pause in 2020–2021 due to the pandemic, ACL resumed operations in late 2021 and has been steadily increasing its sailings ever since. In fact, they’ve expanded their fleet and added new itineraries.

As of June 2024, ACL has:

• Over 100 active sailings across the U.S.
• New ships like the American Liberty (launched 2022) and American Legend (launched 2023)
• Seasonal Alaska cruises (May–September) and winter Caribbean-style voyages in the Southeast

You can book cruises for the rest of 2024 and into 2025 directly through their website. Popular routes like the 8-day “Historic South & Golden Isles” (Savannah, Charleston, Jekyll Island) are selling out fast, so don’t wait too long.

Health and Safety Protocols: What’s Different?

Post-pandemic, ACL has implemented updated health guidelines—though they’re less strict than in 2021. As of 2024:

• Vaccination: Not required, but strongly recommended
• Masking: Optional in most areas (required only during outbreaks)
• Sanitation: Enhanced cleaning, especially in high-touch areas like elevators and dining rooms
• Medical Staff: Onboard nurse or doctor on every sailing

One thing I appreciated on my last ACL cruise: the crew still uses UV-C light sanitizing wands on stateroom keys and handrails. It’s a small touch, but it made me feel safer.

Are There Any Cancellations or Delays?

Like all travel companies, ACL has faced occasional disruptions—but they’re rare. In early 2023, a few Alaska sailings were delayed due to a mechanical issue with the American Constellation. However, ACL offered full refunds or rebooking on future trips, and the ship was back in service within a month.

The company has a solid track record of transparency. If a sailing is canceled, they notify guests at least 30 days in advance (often sooner) and provide options. No “ghost cancellations” here.

What to Expect on an American Cruise Lines Voyage

Cabin Options: From Cozy to Luxurious

ACL’s ships have three main cabin categories:

• Single Staterooms: Small but efficient—perfect for solo travelers (rare on big cruise lines!)
• Double Staterooms: Standard size with large windows or balconies
• Suite Staterooms: Spacious, with separate living areas, upgraded amenities, and butler service

Pro tip: Book a veranda stateroom if you can. Even if it costs $500–$1,000 more, the private balcony is worth it. I spent half my time on my balcony during a 10-day Mississippi cruise, watching sunsets and listening to live music from the deck below.

Dining: Fresh, Local, and Flexible

ACL’s dining is a highlight. Unlike all-you-can-eat buffets on big ships, they focus on regional cuisine and small-batch cooking. Menus change daily and highlight local ingredients:

• On the Columbia River: Wild-caught salmon, huckleberry desserts
• In New England: Lobster rolls, clam chowder
• In the Southeast: Shrimp and grits, pecan pie

Meals are served in a single seating (no rush!), and dietary needs are accommodated. I’m gluten-free, and the chef made me a special dessert every night—without me even asking. That’s service.

Shore Excursions: The Real Star of the Show

Where ACL truly shines is in its shore excursions. Instead of generic “shopping in port” tours, they offer cultural deep dives:

• Guided Civil War battlefield tours in Vicksburg
• Private cooking classes with Southern chefs in Savannah
• Kayaking through mangroves in the Everglades
• Wine tastings in Oregon’s Willamette Valley

Most excursions are included in the fare (a big savings!). Optional premium tours (like a helicopter ride over Denali) cost extra but are worth it for special experiences.

Who Should (and Shouldn’t) Cruise with American Cruise Lines?

The Ideal ACL Passenger: Is It You?

ACL is perfect for:

• Domestic travelers who want to explore the U.S. without flying
• History and nature lovers (think: Mark Twain fans, birdwatchers)
• Seniors who appreciate ease of access and relaxed pacing
• First-time cruisers intimidated by big ships
• Solo travelers (their single cabins are a game-changer)

One couple I met on a Great Lakes cruise had never been on a ship before. “We were worried it’d be overwhelming,” they said. “But the small size made it feel like a floating bed-and-breakfast.”

Who Might Want to Look Elsewhere?

ACL isn’t for everyone. Consider another line if you:

• Want nightlife: There’s a lounge with live music, but no casinos, nightclubs, or Broadway shows
• Prefer all-inclusive pricing: Drinks (alcohol, soda, specialty coffee) are extra
• Seek high-adrenaline activities: No zip-lining, water slides, or rock climbing
• Travel with young kids: ACL is adults-focused (no kids’ clubs or splash pads)

That said, the relaxed vibe is part of the charm. It’s not a party cruise—it’s a journey.

Tips for Booking and Getting the Best Value

How to Save Money (Without Sacrificing Experience)

ACL isn’t cheap—fares start around $400–$600 per person per day. But you can stretch your budget:

• Book early: Early-bird discounts of 10–15% are common
• Travel off-season: Shoulder months (April, October, November) have lower rates
• Choose interior cabins: You’ll save $1,000+ per person
• Look for promotions: Free upgrades, onboard credit, or waived port fees

One smart tip: Sign up for ACL’s email list. They often send flash sales (like “$500 off Alaska cruises”) to subscribers first.

What’s Included (and What’s Not)

Here’s the breakdown of what’s covered in your fare:

Included	Not Included
All meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner)	Alcoholic beverages, soda, specialty coffee
Most shore excursions	Premium excursions (e.g., helicopter tours)
Entertainment and lectures	Spa services, gratuities ($15–$20 per person per day)
Port taxes and fees	Travel insurance (highly recommended!)
Use of onboard facilities (gym, library)	Wi-Fi (limited; premium packages available)

Booking Through a Travel Agent: Worth It?

Yes—and here’s why. A good agent can:

• Secure better cabin locations (e.g., mid-ship, low motion)
• Negotiate upgrades or onboard credit
• Handle cancellations/rebooking if plans change

I booked my ACL cruise through a specialist agent. She got me a free balcony upgrade and waived the gratuity fee—saving me $800. Not bad for a free service (agents earn commissions from the cruise line).

The Verdict: Should You Book an American Cruise Lines Voyage?

So, is American Cruise Lines still sailing? Absolutely. And after years of ups and downs, they’re stronger than ever. With a growing fleet, expanded itineraries, and a focus on authentic American experiences, ACL offers something unique: the chance to see your own country in a way most people never do.

Is it perfect? No. The lack of all-inclusive drinks might sting if you’re used to big-ship perks. The pace is slow (don’t expect 10 ports in 7 days). And the Wi-Fi? Let’s just say you’ll be offline more than you’re online.

But here’s the thing: ACL isn’t trying to be like other cruise lines. They’re crafting a different kind of vacation—one where you wake up in a new port each morning, eat food grown a few miles away, and learn the stories behind the places you visit. On my last cruise, a retired teacher from Ohio told me, “I’ve lived in the U.S. my whole life, but I’ve never *seen* it like this.” That’s the magic of ACL.

If you’re ready to trade crowded beaches and tourist traps for serene rivers, historic towns, and genuine Southern hospitality, then yes—**American Cruise Lines is worth it**. Just book early, pack light, and embrace the slow travel mindset. Your next great American adventure is waiting—on the water.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is American Cruise Lines still sailing in 2024?

Yes, American Cruise Lines is actively sailing in 2024 with a full schedule of U.S. river and coastal itineraries. The company continues to operate its fleet of small ships and riverboats, offering cruises on the Mississippi River, Alaska, and other popular destinations.

Has American Cruise Lines canceled any upcoming voyages?

As of now, American Cruise Lines has not announced any widespread cancellations for its upcoming sailings. However, it’s always recommended to check their official website or contact customer service for updates on specific itineraries.

Are American Cruise Lines’ ships currently operating at full capacity?

American Cruise Lines is operating at or near full capacity, reflecting high demand for domestic cruising. Their small-ship model allows for more personalized experiences, and many 2024 departures are already sold out or have limited availability.

What safety measures does American Cruise Lines have in place for current sailings?

American Cruise Lines follows enhanced health and safety protocols, including advanced air filtration, sanitation procedures, and optional pre-cruise testing. These measures align with CDC guidelines and ensure a safe environment for passengers and crew.

Can I book a last-minute cruise with American Cruise Lines?

Yes, American Cruise Lines offers last-minute availability on select sailings, though space is limited. Check their “Last Minute Cruises” section online for real-time updates on open cabins for upcoming departures.

Does American Cruise Lines offer flexible booking options for 2024 sailings?

American Cruise Lines provides flexible booking policies, including free changes or cancellations up to 90 days before departure for most itineraries. This policy makes it easier to plan with confidence, especially for those concerned about unexpected changes.