Exploring America for More Than 50 Years
Discover the heart of American cruising with American Cruise Lines, where rich history intertwines with the beauty of our nation’s waterways. Proudly American-made, our intimate ships offer a unique blend of luxury and heritage, inviting you to experience the warmth of personalized service as you explore the hidden gems of the United States.
American Cruise Lines has explored America for more than 50 years. Our company roots began in 1972 with our founder Charles A. Robertson (1947-2020), a shipbuilder, who started American Cruise Lines with his wife, Carol. Together, they worked to build the company from the ground up.
Since that time, American Cruise Lines has pioneered new routes, introduced new ship technology to the cruise industry, and grown into a U.S. leader in small ship cruising. We are the only American-owned and operated cruise line. All ships are built in the USA, flagged in the USA, and crewed by Americans.
Today, American Cruise Lines operates 19 ships in 35 states, offering an unmatched breadth of ships and itinerary options. Our formula for success is unchanged through the decades with an unwavering passion to provide the finest cruise experience as we explore our country together.
Why American Cruise Lines
American Cruise Lines stands out with its focus on small-ship cruising, personalized service, and unique itineraries that explore America’s waterways, offering passengers an intimate and enriching travel experience.
Personalized Service
Our small ship design creates an intimate environment in which our guests are treated with the utmost care and attention. Our crewmembers take pride in knowing your name and understanding your preferences.
Exploring America
100% American. Every port of call is in the U.S., every crewmember is American, and the story we tell along the way is about America. Each day is an opportunity to explore a new destination close to home.
Sophisticated Comfort
American Cruise Lines has always taken pride in building new ships and operating the world’s most modern fleet of small cruise ships and riverboats. Our well-appointed ships remain small by design and are a testament to both premier nautical engineering and luxurious comfort.
Onboard Experts & Entertainers
American Cruise Lines delivers culture, history, and enlightenment. As we travel to the most amazing destinations across the U.S., guests are treated to well-designed enrichment programs on board and ashore, as well as personalized exploration led by our engaging local guides.
Spacious Staterooms
We take great pride in the generous size of our staterooms, which are the largest in the industry, ranging from 250 to 650 square feet. Each has an interior entrance allowing for unobstructed outside views of the breathtaking scenery of America.
Common Spaces
Comfortable lounges and large observation decks provide the perfect setting for guests to relax and enjoy the company of fellow travelers. Our midship lounges offer the ideal place to read a book, play a card game, or work on a puzzle.
All-Inclusive
On all our 50+ itineraries, we offer our guests an all-inclusive, value-added travel experience to the best destinations in Alaska, the Pacific Northwest, Mississippi River region, New England, and the Southeast.
World-Class Cuisine
Our team of Master Chefs take great pride in offering a customized American-inspired menu, featuring the finest cuisine with a delightful regional twist. Each menu offers something for everyone and changes to complement the season.
Made in America
American Cruise Lines is an all-American family company. Every itinerary is domestic, every crewmember is American, the company is 100% American-owned, and each ship is designed and built here in the U.S.
Environmentally Respectful
American Cruise Lines leads the way with ship innovation in the U.S. and is focused on environmental responsibility. We believe in leadership through clear standards for sustainable tourism and responsible operation.
