The All American Cruise Lines Small Ship Experience

In an era when families look for made in America and stayed in America travel experiences, the all-American American Cruise Lines vacation delights many multigenerational families. Thanks to its relaxing vibe, measured pace and respect for local history, they offer ideal cruises for parents with grown kids and friends and family getaways.

American owned, the company proudly sails several styles of small ships on more than 50 different itineraries. Additionally, they operate theme and holiday cruises along rivers, coastal regions and the inland waterways. In 2024, they sail in 35 U.S. states.

Why Cruisers Choose American Cruise Lines

The company, begun in 1972, sails river cruise ships they custom build in the USA. As the only American-owned and operated cruise line, they maintain an enviable reputation. In fact, after several years of winning the World Travel Award for “World’s Leading Small Ship Cruise Line,” they have earned Readers Choice awards from Conde Nast Traveler, USA Today, Travvy, CruiseCritic.com, Travel Age West, Travel Weekly and several others.

So, after learning about American Cruise Lines years ago aboard one of their small coastal ships, Independence, we thought it was time to see what’s new and special about this type of family vacation.

Virtues of Small Ship Coastal and River Cruising

In the past decade, small ship and river cruising has exploded in popularity, with guests discovering that the one-price-includes-almost-everything rate makes for a relaxing and affordable adventure. Add in seeing new destinations every day, without the stress of changing hotels or packing and unpacking, and the small ship family cruise vacation may make perfect sense.
 
If you’re ready to book a cruise, there’s no need to limit yourselves to 5,000-passenger ships with skating rinks and movie theaters. American Cruise Lines currently sails 21 small ships that serve 100 to 200 passengers each. Grandparents and parents can choose a domestic river cruise or small ship coastal cruise that stops at unusual ports of call across the country. Typically, these unique places cannot accommodate the big vessels, which is part of their appeal.

Family Adult Cruising Aboard American Cruise Line

The happiest passengers are those who know the product they are selecting well. According to a spokesperson, American Cruise Lines trips are more ideally suited for family groups with adult and older-teenage children along with parents and grandparents.

The itineraries are destination-focused, educational and culturally based. Most are a week long, but American offers cruises from five to 22 days in length – so there are many options.

Some travelers are disappointed by not having certain big-ship facilities. For example, don’t expect swimming pools, play facilities, kids’ programming, babysitters or running-around facilities that families with young children may need.

However, most guests love the low-key, small-ship style of cruising. History buffs onboard truly appreciate the educational aspects of their journey. Adult guests and many inquisitive students and grown kids are sure to be engaged at each destination. The port of call experience is augmented by daily shore excursions and complimentary onboard enrichment programs.

Latest Members Of The ACL Fleet

Technology changes and evolves on newer ships, making the ships more comfortable and able to sail rougher coastal waters. The company’s Project Blue series of new ships began with four 100-passenger Coastal Cats introduced in 2023 and 2024. The newest Patriot Class ships include the American Patriot and American Pioneer (to launch in 2025.) The are followed by American Maverick and American Ranger (2026.)

One thing repeat cruisers take for granted is that staterooms average 300 square feet, relatively large by industry standards. Some ships in American’s fleet are configured so that up to three cabins can be connected with balcony partitions removed, ideal for multigenerational vacations. American Maverick and American Ranger promise five decks with elegant interior design and 100% private balcony accommodations. Families will choose among 56 spacious staterooms and suites, for both double and single occupancy.

In addition, the ships all have several handicap accessible rooms, and there is elevator access to all decks. Ships also offer a custom-built launch whose special ramp exit allows the mobility impaired to participate in shore excursions.

The newest ships will rival their much larger competition with a rooftop deck offering panoramic views, comfortable lounge seating, a 360° walking track, and a casual outdoor cafe. Expect an indoor Fitness Center on deck 4, another special amenity for keep younger adults who want to stay active.

American Cruise Lines’ Dining American Style

Meals are served in a large dining room with open seating and panoramic views of the passing scenery. While each ship serves seasonal specials and recipes from the region they’re traveling, the focus is on American cuisine.

Special diets and allergy concerns are easily handled by the staff with advance notice. The Line’s complimentary amenities include beer and wine with both lunch and dinner, plus complimentary full bar cocktails each night before dinner on board.

All-American Itineraries On Rivers And Inland Waterways

Itineraries are based around US regions and include New England and the Southeast. Look for trips around Chesapeake Bay, the East Coast or mid-Atlantic Inland Passages, Georgia’s Golden Isles, Florida Rivers or cruises themed to the American Revolution to determine what will interest everyone onboard.

Other options sail the Pacific Northwest. Itineraries include Puget Sound and  the San Juan Islands — follow in the famous wake of the Lewis and Clark Expedition. American Cruise Lines also sails different routes in Alaska, roundtrip from Juneau as well as a longer Inside Passage cruise between Seattle and Juneau.

Many of American Cruise Line’s most popular itineraries explore the Mississippi River, often on modern riverboats (available on the Mississippi and the Columbia and Snake Rivers.) Another popular option is the beautiful paddlewheeler, American Heritage.

Since these are American-flagged ships and the staff and crew are American, some travelers have found this to be a truly authentic all-American experience. Another plus — many of the homeports are near major airports or within convenient driving distance of many Americans’ homes.

Cruise Vacation Planning with American Cruise Lines

American Cruise Lines vacations may not require the hefty international airfare that other cruises’ embarkation ports require, but they are not cheap. The premium brand caters to a luxury market, and does it well. Bargain hunters must check on their Special Offers page for sail sales. On the plus side for single travelers, there’s no single supplement, a big savings.

Large family groups may also be eligible for special Group Travel discounts. Note that many complimentary perks such as , free airfare, land tours and pre- or post-cruise hotel packages may be available for next season, so check the website. To learn more, please visit the American Cruise Lines site, call 800/814-6880 or call your travel agent.