American Cruise Lines to Add 10 New Ships by 2028

American Cruise Line (ACL) announced today plans to add 10 new ships to the U.S. market, to be rolled out over the next three years.

The first of the new ships to enter the market is American Pioneer, which is set to debut in Florida on Oct. 31—making it the second Patriot Class ship to launch in 2025.

Following Pioneer, ACL is adding five American riverboats and four Patriot Class ships to its fleet through 2028. This includes already announced newbuilds American Maverick and American Ranger, which are launching next year.

“American’s order book reflects our confidence in the domestic cruise market and the product we have pioneered in the U.S.,” said Charles B. Robertson, president & CEO of American Cruise Lines. “The new ships will roll out at an average pace of one every four months and keep us on a disciplined growth trajectory.”

The additional ships will sail domestically, accelerating the river cruise line’s expansions plans. Last month, American unveiled plans to bring back Great Lakes sailings, starting in 2026.

“Guests have long asked for our style of cruising on the Great Lakes,” said Robertson. “We are now proud to offer these cruises as only American can, aboard a new small ship sailing 100% domestically.”

American Cruise Lines’ New Ships

The four new Patriot Class ships are 130-guest vessels with five decks, featuring singles, doubles, and suites with private balconies. Amenities include multiple guest lounges, a top-deck walking track, observation areas, fitness center, a grand dining hall, a cafe, and complimentary laundry.

The new Modern American Riverboats are 180-guest capacity with 100% private balcony accommodations. The ships include a glass atrium at their center, as well as five decks, a grand dining hall and casual cafe, multiple loungers (indoor and outdoor), and amenities like a top-deck walking track, fitness center, and laundry room.

American Cruise Lines will be rolling out the following ships:

• 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