ACL-American Cruise Lines announced that construction had begun on the company's 3rd new Coastal Cat in the Project Blue series, the 105-passenger American Liberty.
First announced back in January, the Project Blue series is a set of twelve catamaran-type/small vessels designed to cover almost any domestic cruise itinerary. American Liberty is specially built for coastal operation and boasts a similar innovative hull design as ACL’s previously announced Coastal Cats. All vessels are being built by Chesapeake Shipbuilding in Salisbury MD.
The first two ships in the series, American Eagle and American Glory are expected to begin sailing in 2023. American Liberty is scheduled to start operation in May 2024.
ACL has grown substantially since the COVID crisis and has led to the resurgence of the river cruise market. In the past 5 years, the company has more than doubled its cruise ship fleet by introducing the modern series of American Riverboats.
The American Liberty ship and the ongoing series of Coastal Cats will boast many amenities including a total of 56 staterooms and suites, each with a private balcony, spacious lounges and dining venues. The catamaran hull form of the ship allows for a wide activity platform at the stern, with kayaks and a tender for in-depth adventures.
American Liberty will commence sailing the USA in spring 2024. The year ahead is expected to be the most exciting ever for ACL, with a total of 17 small ships and riverboats operating 50+ domestic itineraries in 35 states.