- American Cruise Lines will introduce 10 new US-built ships to its fleet by 2028, beginning with the American Pioneer this week.
- The new ships will launch at a rate of one approximately every four months over the next three years.
- The expansion includes five new American Riverboats and four Patriot Class ships, all part of the “Project Blue” series.
- All vessels will operate domestically, increasing itineraries on the Mississippi River, Alaska, the East Coast, and new areas like the Great Lakes and National Parks cruises.
American Cruise Lines (ACL) has announced a significant fleet expansion with plans to introduce 10 new US-built ships by 2028. This growth strategy begins this week with the launch of the American Pioneer, which is the second Patriot Class ship to debut this year, sailing a new 16-day “Grand Florida Coast & Keys” cruise. The remaining nine ships will be delivered over the next three years at a rapid pace of one new vessel approximately every four months.
The expansion reflects ACL’s strong confidence in the domestic cruise market and its commitment to modernizing the US-flagged fleet. The new builds include a mix of five new modern American Riverboats and four additional Patriot Class ships, all part of the company’s “Project Blue” series. All ships will continue to operate exclusively within the US, expanding the line’s reach across its growing portfolio of itineraries.
These domestic routes include popular destinations such as the Mississippi River, Alaska, and the East Coast. The new vessels will also facilitate expansion into emerging niche markets like the Great Lakes, the Arkansas River, and National Parks cruises, offering travelers increased access to scenic US waterways and historic ports. The Patriot Class ships, like the American Pioneer, are designed to accommodate up to 130 guests with modern amenities, including private balconies.
American Cruise Lines 10 New Ships Through 2028:
- American Pioneer , small Patriot Class ship, 2025
- American Encore, modern American Riverboat™, 2026
- American Maverick, small Patriot Class ship, 2026
- American Ranger, small Patriot Class ship, 2026
- American Anthem, modern American Riverboat™, 2027
- American Mariner, small Patriot Class ship, 2027
- American Navigator, small Patriot Class ship, 2027
- American Grace, modern American Riverboat™, 2028
- (American’s 29th ship): modern American Riverboat™, 2028
- (American’s 30th ship): modern American Riverboat™, 2028