ACL-American Cruise Lines has unveiled plans for 2 additional small ships set to debut in 2025 - American Patriot (June) and American Pioneer (November).
These sisterships, each accommodating 125 passengers, mark the 5th and 6th vessels in the company's Project Blue series of 12 new small ships tailored for the USA market. Constructed at Chesapeake Shipbuilding (Maryland-based shipbuilder affiliated with ACL), both units are poised to operate itineraries along the East Coast USA.
The maiden voyage of American Patriot is slated for June 2025, followed by the launch of American Pioneer in November 2025. These vessels will include the newly introduced 15-day Grand Florida Coast & Keys cruises starting in 2025.
Building on the success of the 2024 introduction of ACL's 8-day "Florida Gulf Coast & Keys" voyages, which have been well-received on several of the brand's initial 4 "Project Blue" ships, including the catamarans American Eagle and American Glory (2023) and American Liberty and American Legend (2024).
Featuring five decks and 56 staterooms, the American Patriot and American Pioneer will boast a traditional bow design with a deeper draft and full stabilization, ensuring smooth navigation along the coast. These additions will expand the itinerary options for the company's growing portfolio of coastal routes.
Both vessels will showcase sophisticated interior design and spacious private balcony accommodations, encompassing a variety of standard staterooms, suites, and singles. On the 4th deck, the ships will offer luxurious all-suite accommodations ranging from 420 to 620 square feet, a remarkable feature for vessels of their size.
American Patriot and American Pioneer will feature an expansive Main Lounge and Restaurant on deck 1, providing guests with scenic water views from every angle. The fifth deck will house various amenities, including sitting, dining, and fitness areas such as a 360-degree Skywalk walking track, indoor Sky Lounge, outdoor Sun Deck, and a casual cafe. Additionally, the ships will offer a Bow Terrace and Horizon Lounge on deck 3, along with an indoor fitness center on deck 4.
Upon their debut in 2025, ACL will operate a fleet of 21 small ships across the country, offering an extensive range of U.S. river and coastal itineraries. All cruises remain within the United States throughout the entire journey, exploring protected waters along the coastline.
ACL continues to meet the demand for domestic voyages by introducing new small ships equipped with world-class amenities, providing unparalleled opportunities for cruising closer to home.