What Is Included on American Cruise Lines A Complete Guide

American Cruise Lines offers an all-inclusive experience with spacious staterooms, daily shore excursions, and premium dining featuring regional cuisine included in the fare. Guests also enjoy complimentary wine, beer, and spirits, personalized service, and onboard enrichment programs—all designed for a seamless, worry-free journey along U.S. rivers, coasts, and waterways.

Key Takeaways

• All meals included: Enjoy gourmet dining with no extra charges.
• Complimentary drinks: Beer, wine, and soft drinks served daily.
• Guided excursions: Free curated tours at each port of call.
• No hidden fees: Gratuities and port charges are covered upfront.
• Entertainment onboard: Live shows and enrichment programs included.
• Wi-Fi access: Stay connected with free internet throughout the cruise.
• Fitness amenities: Fully equipped gym and wellness classes at no cost.

What Is Included on American Cruise Lines: A Complete Guide

When planning a cruise vacation, one of the most important considerations is understanding what’s included in your fare. Unlike land-based vacations, where additional costs for meals, activities, and accommodations can quickly add up, cruise lines often bundle a wide range of services and amenities into their pricing. American Cruise Lines (ACL), a leader in U.S.-based small-ship cruising, has built a reputation for offering an all-inclusive, hassle-free experience that emphasizes comfort, convenience, and immersive exploration. Whether you’re a seasoned cruiser or a first-time traveler, knowing exactly what’s included in your American Cruise Lines fare can help you make informed decisions, budget wisely, and maximize your enjoyment on board.

From the moment you step aboard one of ACL’s modern, elegant vessels—ranging from the American Star to the American Independence—you’ll notice a distinct difference from traditional mega-ships. With guest counts rarely exceeding 180 passengers, American Cruise Lines delivers a personalized, intimate atmosphere where service is attentive, destinations are unique, and inclusions are comprehensive. But what exactly does “all-inclusive” mean in the context of ACL? This guide dives deep into the American Cruise Lines inclusions, covering everything from accommodations and dining to excursions, onboard amenities, and more. Whether you’re cruising the Columbia & Snake Rivers, exploring the Southeast Coast, or discovering Alaska’s Inside Passage, you’ll find that ACL’s offerings are designed to elevate your journey from a simple vacation to a seamless, enriching experience.

Accommodations and Stateroom Features

One of the first things guests notice about American Cruise Lines is the quality and comfort of their accommodations. Unlike larger cruise lines that prioritize quantity over space, ACL focuses on spacious, well-appointed staterooms designed to enhance relaxation and enjoyment during your voyage. Each ship in the fleet offers a range of stateroom categories, from standard to premium and suite-level accommodations, all with a focus on comfort, privacy, and modern amenities.

Stateroom Categories and Layouts

American Cruise Lines offers several stateroom types, including:

• Standard Staterooms: These are typically located on the lower decks and range from 180 to 250 square feet. Despite their “standard” designation, they are far from basic—featuring plush bedding, private bathrooms with walk-in showers, and large picture windows or balconies.
• Veranda Staterooms: Offering 250–300 square feet of space, these rooms include a private balcony with seating, perfect for enjoying morning coffee or sunset views. They are ideal for guests who want a personal outdoor retreat.
• Suites: Ranging from 350 to over 500 square feet, suites include separate living and sleeping areas, upgraded furnishings, larger bathrooms with soaking tubs, and premium amenities like complimentary minibar items and priority dining reservations.

All staterooms are designed with American travelers in mind—featuring U.S. electrical outlets, spacious closets, and climate-controlled environments. Many rooms also include a “quiet zone” setting on HVAC systems to minimize noise during sleep hours.

Included In-Room Amenities

When you book with American Cruise Lines, your stateroom comes equipped with a full suite of included amenities, ensuring you have everything you need for a comfortable stay. These include:

• Daily housekeeping with turndown service
• High-thread-count linens and premium bathrobes
• Complimentary bottled water and coffee/tea service
• Flat-screen TVs with satellite channels and on-demand movies
• Wi-Fi (available in most public areas and staterooms—see section on onboard services)
• Hairdryers, premium toiletries (shampoo, conditioner, body wash, lotion), and bath towels
• Individual climate control

Pro Tip: Request a stateroom on a higher deck if you prefer less engine noise and better views. While all rooms are well-insulated, upper decks offer quieter environments and panoramic vistas.

Accessibility and Family-Friendly Options

American Cruise Lines is committed to inclusivity. Many ships feature ADA-compliant staterooms with widened doorways, roll-in showers, grab bars, and accessible balconies. Additionally, while ACL primarily caters to adults (most itineraries are 18+), select family-friendly departures allow children over the age of 12. These cruises often include special programming and stateroom configurations to accommodate families.

Dining and Beverage Inclusions

Dining is one of the highlights of any cruise, and American Cruise Lines takes this aspect very seriously. With a focus on fresh, regional cuisine and locally sourced ingredients, ACL’s culinary program is designed to reflect the destinations you visit. The best part? All meals, snacks, and non-alcoholic beverages are included in your fare, with no extra charges for specialty dining or premium drinks—within reason.

All-Inclusive Meals and Menus

Guests enjoy three full meals daily, served in the main dining room or via room service (available during select hours). The dining experience is open-seating, allowing you to dine at your preferred time and with your preferred companions. Menus change daily and are inspired by regional flavors:

• Breakfast: Buffet and à la carte options, including made-to-order omelets, fresh fruit, pastries, and specialty coffee drinks.
• Lunch: A mix of buffet and plated service, featuring salads, soups, sandwiches, and hot entrees. On scenic cruising days, a light lunch may be served on the observation deck.
• Dinner: A multi-course plated dinner with wine pairings. Themes include Southern comfort food, Pacific Northwest salmon, and Alaskan crab cakes—all prepared by executive chefs trained in U.S. culinary schools.

Special dietary needs (vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, allergies) are accommodated with advance notice. Simply inform the cruise line at least 30 days before departure, and the culinary team will prepare customized meals.

Beverage Program: Non-Alcoholic and Alcoholic

All non-alcoholic drinks—including soda, juice, coffee, tea, bottled water, and soft drinks—are included at no extra cost. This applies to both dining room service and self-service stations in public areas.

When it comes to alcohol, American Cruise Lines includes a generous beverage package:

• House wines (red, white, rosé) by the glass with lunch and dinner
• Domestic and imported beers on tap and in bottles
• Standard cocktails made with well-known spirits (e.g., Smirnoff, Bacardi, Beefeater)
• Premium spirits, top-shelf liquors, and specialty cocktails are available for an additional fee (typically $8–$15 per drink)

Many guests opt for the “Premium Beverage Package” (available for purchase), which includes unlimited premium cocktails, wines by the glass, and craft beers. However, for most travelers, the included drinks are more than sufficient.

Room Service and Snack Options

Complimentary room service is available from 7:00 AM to 10:00 PM, offering breakfast items, sandwiches, soups, and desserts. Late-night snacks are also available at the lounge or via call-in service. Additionally, public areas feature self-serve beverage stations with coffee, tea, infused water, and fresh fruit throughout the day.

Onboard Activities, Entertainment, and Enrichment

While American Cruise Lines emphasizes destination immersion, the onboard experience is far from dull. With a focus on enrichment, relaxation, and social engagement, ACL offers a curated selection of activities designed to entertain, educate, and connect guests with the culture and history of the regions they visit.

Daily Enrichment Programs

One of the standout features of American Cruise Lines is its enrichment programming. Each cruise includes daily lectures, presentations, and workshops led by onboard experts such as historians, naturalists, and local cultural ambassadors. Examples include:

• “The History of the Mississippi River” – presented by a river historian
• “Alaska’s Native Cultures and Totem Poles” – led by a Tlingit elder
• “The Ecology of the Chesapeake Bay” – with a marine biologist

These sessions are held in the main lounge and are typically 45–60 minutes long. Attendance is optional but highly encouraged—many guests cite these programs as one of their favorite parts of the trip.

Entertainment and Social Events

Evenings on American Cruise Lines are relaxed and elegant. Entertainment options include:

• Live music (jazz, classical, folk) in the lounge
• Guest performers (magicians, comedians, tribute bands) on select cruises
• Movie nights on the outdoor screen (weather permitting)
• Wine and cheese tastings with the sommelier
• Guest talent shows and trivia nights

Unlike mega-ships with Broadway-style shows, ACL’s entertainment is intimate and conversational—perfect for guests seeking a low-key, sophisticated atmosphere.

Fitness, Wellness, and Relaxation

For those who want to stay active or unwind, ACL offers several onboard wellness options:

• Fitness Center: Open 24/7, equipped with treadmills, ellipticals, free weights, and resistance machines. Complimentary yoga and stretching classes are offered daily.
• Walking Track: A full-circuit outdoor track on the upper deck, ideal for morning walks with ocean views.
• Spa Services: While spa treatments (massages, facials, body wraps) are not included in the base fare, they are available for purchase. Many guests book spa appointments during port days when the ship is docked.
• Observation Lounge: A quiet space with floor-to-ceiling windows, perfect for reading, napping, or watching the scenery go by.

Tip: Pack comfortable walking shoes and light workout gear. The walking track and fitness center are popular spots, especially on scenic cruising days.

Excursions and Shore Activities

Perhaps the most compelling reason to choose American Cruise Lines is the included shore excursions. Unlike many cruise lines that charge extra for guided tours, ACL includes at least one complimentary excursion per port—and often more—ensuring you get the most out of every destination without added costs.

Complimentary Guided Tours

Each port visit includes a curated selection of guided tours, led by local experts and designed to provide deep cultural, historical, or natural insights. Examples include:

• New Orleans: French Quarter walking tour with a jazz historian
• Skagway, Alaska: White Pass & Yukon Route Railway excursion with a gold rush storyteller
• Charleston, SC: Historic mansion tour with a Southern culture guide
• Portland, OR: Columbia River Gorge scenic drive with a naturalist

All excursions include transportation, entry fees, and gratuities—no hidden costs. Tours are grouped by activity level (easy, moderate, active) to accommodate different fitness levels.

Optional Premium Excursions

For guests seeking more adventure or luxury, ACL offers optional premium excursions (available for an additional fee). These include:

• Helicopter tours over Denali National Park
• Private wine tastings in Napa Valley (on California coast cruises)
• Kayaking in Glacier Bay, Alaska
• Private guided museum tours with curators

Premium excursions range from $75 to $300 per person and must be booked in advance. Many guests choose one or two premium tours to complement the included excursions.

Independent Exploration and Port Tips

While guided tours are included, you’re also free to explore ports independently. The cruise line provides detailed maps, local transit info, and safety tips. Some tips for independent travelers:

• Download offline maps (Google Maps or Maps.me) before arriving
• Carry local currency for small purchases
• Check the ship’s return time—ACL is strict about departure schedules
• Ask the concierge for restaurant and shopping recommendations

Additional Inclusions and Onboard Services

Beyond accommodations, dining, and excursions, American Cruise Lines includes a range of additional services and amenities designed to enhance your comfort, convenience, and overall experience. These “little extras” often make a big difference in the quality of your cruise.

Wi-Fi and Communication

Complimentary Wi-Fi is available in all staterooms and public areas. While speeds may vary (especially in remote areas like Alaska), the connection is generally reliable for email, social media, and light streaming. Premium internet packages (for video calls or heavy data use) are available for purchase.

Gratuities and Service Charges

One of the biggest perks? Gratuities are included in your fare. There are no mandatory service charges, and tipping is not expected or required. This includes:

• Housekeeping staff
• Dining room servers
• Bar and lounge staff
• Excursion guides

If you wish to show extra appreciation, small cash tips are welcomed but never expected.

Onboard Concierge and Guest Services

Each ship has a dedicated concierge team available to assist with:

• Booking premium excursions
• Making dinner reservations at local restaurants (if you choose to dine ashore)
• Arranging private tours or transportation
• Providing destination information and travel tips

The concierge desk is open daily from 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM.

Laundry and Dry Cleaning

While not included in the base fare, self-service laundry rooms are available on most ships. Dry cleaning and pressing services can be arranged for a fee (typically $10–$25 per item).

Medical Services and Safety

Each ship has a fully equipped medical center staffed by a licensed nurse or physician. Basic medical services (first aid, motion sickness treatment, prescriptions) are available at no extra cost. Emergency care is covered under the cruise line’s medical protocol.

Summary of Inclusions: What You Get on American Cruise Lines

To help you visualize the full scope of what’s included, here’s a comprehensive overview of the key components of your American Cruise Lines experience:

Category	Included in Fare	Optional/Paid
Accommodations	Stateroom with daily housekeeping, linens, toiletries, climate control	Suite upgrades, premium balcony rooms
Dining	3 meals daily, snacks, room service, non-alcoholic drinks	Specialty coffee drinks, premium desserts
Beverages	House wine, beer, cocktails, soft drinks, bottled water	Premium spirits, top-shelf liquors, specialty cocktails
Excursions	1+ guided tour per port, entry fees, transportation, guides	Premium excursions (helicopter tours, private tastings)
Entertainment	Lectures, live music, movies, social events	Private performances, guest artist meet-and-greets
Wellness	Fitness center, walking track, yoga classes	Spa treatments, massage therapy
Services	Wi-Fi, gratuities, concierge, medical services	Laundry, dry cleaning, premium internet

This table highlights the value proposition of American Cruise Lines: a truly all-inclusive experience where the majority of your vacation needs are covered from the moment you board. With minimal hidden fees and a focus on quality over quantity, ACL delivers a premium, stress-free journey that’s hard to match.

Whether you’re exploring the historic waterways of the Southeast, the rugged beauty of Alaska, or the scenic rivers of the Pacific Northwest, American Cruise Lines ensures that every aspect of your trip is thoughtfully planned, seamlessly executed, and fully included. From gourmet meals to expert-led excursions, from spacious staterooms to enriching onboard programs, ACL offers a cruise experience that’s as enriching as it is relaxing. When you choose American Cruise Lines, you’re not just booking a vacation—you’re investing in a comprehensive, worry-free journey through America’s most breathtaking landscapes and cultural treasures.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included on American Cruise Lines in terms of accommodations?

All staterooms and suites on American Cruise Lines ships feature private balconies, premium bedding, flat-screen TVs, and modern amenities. Daily housekeeping and personalized service are standard across all room categories.

Are meals and drinks included on American Cruise Lines?

Yes, all meals, snacks, and non-alcoholic beverages are included in your fare. Complimentary wine, beer, and spirits are also offered with dinner and at select onboard events.

Does American Cruise Lines include shore excursions in their packages?

Most itineraries include guided small-group shore excursions at each port of call, with options for premium add-on tours. These excursions highlight local culture, history, and nature, ensuring a memorable experience.

What onboard activities and entertainment are included on American Cruise Lines?

Your fare includes access to lectures, live music, cooking demonstrations, and cultural performances. Daily enrichment programs and wellness activities like yoga and fitness classes are also included.

Is Wi-Fi and gratuity included on American Cruise Lines?

Complimentary Wi-Fi is available throughout the ship, though speeds may vary by location. Gratuities are not automatically included but can be pre-paid or added at your discretion.

What makes American Cruise Lines’ inclusions unique compared to other cruise lines?

American Cruise Lines stands out with all-inclusive small-ship experiences, including personalized service, spacious accommodations, and curated excursions in U.S. destinations. Their focus on domestic itineraries and luxury touches like complimentary cocktails enhances the value.