American Cruiselines

Founded in 1991, American Cruise Lines is a family-owned company whose fleet of six small ships cruise rivers and waterways across the United States.

What Makes American Cruise Lines Stand Out?

Dedicated to showcasing America’s unique history through her rivers, American Cruise Lines has a specific destination focus that allows them to really be experts in America’s rivers.

These cruises are not just about getting from place to place. They are a truly encompassing experience. You’ll enjoy regional cuisine, daily entertainment, and unique port excursions that help craft the story of America’s culture and history. 

Who Will Enjoy Traveling with American Cruise Lines?

American Cruise Lines passengers are largely US based, though some international travelers join their cruises as well. These trips are great for history buffs eager to explore more of their own backyard, so to speak. 

America’s rivers are steeped in the country’s history, whether it’s tracing the footsteps of Lewis and Clark or learning about the enigmatic Mississippi’s role in the zeitgeist of American culture. 

Travelers in the 50+ and senior range are the most common ages - though these trips will be popular among families as well, since it’s not as far to go as an international trip might be. 

Top Destinations

Mississippi or Columbia rivers aboard vintage-style (but newly built or renovated) paddlewheelers, or take other small ships along the Intracoastal Waterway of the southeastern U.S., through Alaska’s Inside Passage, or among the islands of New England, to name a few of the three dozen itineraries.

American Cruise Lines Travel Style

The travel style with American Cruise Lines is comfortable and laid back. No standing on ceremony here. Meals and dress codes are casual and informal. 

These cruises are designed to be as easy and effortless for the traveler as possible, with several amenities on board and simple signup processes for excursions.

Why Choose a Tour With American Cruise Lines?

• New and up to date fleet
• Spacious cabins
• Maximum 185 passenger count

American Cruise Lines has been undergoing a recent rapid expansion that mirrors the fast-growing craze of European river cruising. Consequently, its fleet is among the newest in the world: The line has two more ships under construction and three more will follow in the next three years.

The newest ships will carry no more than 200 passengers each, and all its current ships hold from 49 to 185 passengers.

And small ships don’t mean small cabins. Most are roomy and many have good-sized balconies. There are also spacious public areas, including observation decks, lounges, and glass-enclosed dining rooms, which offer open seating at meals.

The staff provides highly personalized service and passengers have responded -- about two of every five passengers is a repeat cruiser with American Cruise Lines. 

Itineraries are heavily destination oriented, with port stops nearly every day. Though lengths vary from six to 14 nights, week-long voyages are the norm. Historical and cultural lectures as well as low-key entertainments are offered on each cruise.

Rates are at the luxury level, but are all-inclusive (including wine, beer, and cocktails) except for shore excursions -- which are included in Alaska.