Fleet of Small Ships

American Cruise Lines offers the newest fleet in America, each ship accommodating just 90 to 180 guests. We offer 6 unique ship styles, including a new class of Patriot ClassCoastal Cats, Classic Paddlewheelers, Constellation Class Ships, Independence Class, and the only modern American Riverboats. We have become the industry leader by continuing to introduce new and innovative ships each year, with the most diverse fleet in the country.

These new ships, built at Chesapeake Shipbuilding in Maryland, are a testament to premier nautical engineering and safety equipment, as well as state-of-the-art navigation. On board a sophisticated aesthetic, an unprecedented level of comfort, the largest staterooms globally, with full private balconies where indicated, and modern accommodations including high-speed internet powered by Starlink.

Our fleet allows us to provide a genuine and customized exploration of areas inaccessible to large ships and crowds, and to explore each region in the most meaningful way possible. With land never out of sight allowing for more time to savor the scenery. Our small ship river cruises offer a more intimate look at American cities from charming small towns to gracious southern ports.


American Riverboats | 180 Guests

American Riverboats
  • Operates along the U.S. Rivers
  • Multiple Dining Venues
  • Sophisticated and Modern Décor 
  • Outdoor Walking Track and Fitness Center
  • Multi-Story Glass Atrium
  • Unique Bow Ramp for Easy Boarding
  • Elevator Access to All Passenger Decks

Coastal Cats Cruise Ships | 100 Guests

Coastal Cats Cruise Ships
  • Shallow Draft for Inland Exploration
  • Modern Interior Design
  • Multiple Dining Venues
  • Bow Observation Area for Scenic Viewing
  • Sun Deck with Walking Track
  • Activity / Tender Platform
  • Fitness Center
  • Elevator Access to Each Deck

Constellation Class Coastal Ships | 170 Guests

Constellation Class Coastal Ships
  • Traditional Bow for Coastal Travel
  • Main Deck Restaurant with 270º Views
  • Sun Deck with Shaded Lounge Area
  • Entertainment Lounge
  • Reading Lounge
  • Fitness Center
  • Elevator Access to All Passenger Decks

Paddlewheelers | 180 Guests

Paddlewheelers
  • Classic Paddlewheel Aesthetic
  • Glass-Enclosed Restaurant 
  • Open Seating Dining
  • Three Distinct Guest Lounges 
  • Cozy Study Enclave
  • Fitness Center
  • Elevator Access to All Passenger Decks Where Indicated

Independence Class Coastal Ships | 90 Guests

Independence Class Coastal Ships
  • Traditional Bow for Coastal Travel
  • Main Deck Restaurant with 270º Views
  • Sun Deck with Shaded Lounge Area
  • Entertainment Lounge
  • Reading Lounge
  • Fitness Center

Patriot Class Coastal Ships | 125 Guests

Patriot Class Coastal Ships
  • Uniquely Designed Bow for Deeper Drafts
  • Luxurious Grand Suites
  • Open Seating Dining
  • Multiple Guest Lounges
  • Bow Terrace for Observation
  • Fitness Center
  • Elevator Access to All Decks

The American Riverboat™ Experience

Since the introduction of our American Riverboat series, American Cruise Lines has revolutionized travel along the legendary rivers of our great country. We invite you learn more about these new American Riverboats, which offer the perfect balance of elegant and refined design with our tradition for the spacious comfort found aboard all of our ships.

The American Riverboat™ Experience

What sets us apart

Our Small Cruise Ships Our Small Cruise Ships

The newest and most modern in America

Personalized Service Personalized Service

Attentive and gracious service

World Class Cuisine World Class Cuisine

Customized by our master chefs

All-Inclusive All-Inclusive

All meals & snacks, cocktails & beverages, enrichment & excursions, tips & fees

Spacious Staterooms Spacious Staterooms

Largest staterooms in the industry

Private Balconies Private Balconies

Unobstructed views, breathtaking scenery

Onboard Enrichment Onboard Enrichment

Musicians, historians and naturalists

An American Experience An American Experience

American-made, crew and destinations