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 Class, Coastal 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
Available on Mississippi River Cruises and Columbia & Snake River Cruises
- American Encore
- American Serenade
- American Symphony
- American Melody
- American Jazz
- American Harmony
- American Song
- 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
Available on New England Cruises and Southeast Cruises
- 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
Available on New England Cruises, Southeast Cruises, Alaska Cruises and Puget Sound Cruises
- 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
Available on Mississippi River Cruises and Columbia & Snake River Cruises
- 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
Available on New England Cruises, Southeast Cruises and Puget Sound Cruises
- 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
Available on New England Cruises and Southeast Cruises
- 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