The American Glory has recently marked her first anniversary of service for ACL-American Cruise Lines, symbolizing a key milestone in the company's innovative “Coastal Cats” series. This U.S.-flagged vessel, constructed at Chesapeake Shipbuilding in Maryland, began operations on November 28th, 2023, setting a new standard for small-ship coastal cruising.
As part of the groundbreaking “Coastal Cats” class, the American Glory embodies a new era of cruising, emphasizing intimate, destination-focused experiences. With a capacity of 109 guests, the ship was designed to explore the diverse coastlines of the United States in comfort and style. After her completion in Maryland, the vessel commenced her maiden journey with a repositioning cruise to Florida, signaling the start of an inaugural season in the Gulf of Mexico.
During her first season, the American Glory introduced 7-night itineraries from St. Petersburg (Florida), highlighting the Gulf Coast's natural beauty and cultural richness. Stops included renowned destinations across Florida and the Keys, offering immersive experiences in the region's history and charm. The ship's christening ceremony took place in Key West on January 21st, 2024, with the city’s Mayor, Teri Johnston, serving as godmother.
Following its Gulf Coast deployment, the American Glory transitioned to New England for the summer, showcasing picturesque coastlines across Connecticut, Massachusetts, Rhode Island, Maine, and New Hampshire. These itineraries blended scenic landscapes with maritime history and visits to charming coastal towns. Autumn brought another highlight as the ship hosted Hudson River cruises in September and October, offering guests a front-row view of vibrant fall foliage and historic riverfront communities.
The success of the American Glory has been instrumental in ACL’s fleet expansion efforts. It joined the fleet alongside the American Eagle, the first in the “Coastal Cats” series, which also debuted in 2023. By 2024, ACL added 2 more vessels, the American Liberty and the American Legend, further advancing its vision for small-ship cruising.
Looking forward, ACL plans to introduce 5 new ships between 2025 and 2026. These include the riverboat American Encore and 4 additional coastal vessels: the American Pioneer, American Patriot, American Maverick, and American Ranger. This strategic expansion underscores ACL’s commitment to providing immersive, destination-oriented cruises across the United States.