ACL/American Cruise Lines announced the successful launch of its brand new river ship American Song into Wicomico River on Friday, November 17.
The first ship in the Modern Riverboat Series, the American Song made a big splash due to its modern design and technical features, and is expected to be the finest ship available in United States river cruising.
Built by Salisbury-based Chesapeake Shipbuilding, American Song is seven weeks ahead of schedule. Right after the launch, the vessel was positioned in shipbuilder’s East Outfitting Basin to receive her upper decks and outfitting.
American Song's bow is designed to open, which allows for retractable rotating gangway extending from the main deck directly to a dock or river bank. The uniqueness of the advanced bow gives the vessel the ability to make “bow landings”. This feature will provide an array of options for itineraries unmatched by other boats.
The new riverboat also has a superior propulsion system: two Veth Propulsion Z-drives by Veth of the Netherlands. The 360-degree azimuthing forward and aft propellersprovide flexibility for docking and maneuvering. American Cruise Line's Song is also equipped with advanced main engines from Caterpillar. The twin, low-sulfur diesel engines produce lower emissions and require less fuel than other engines in use on the market. American Song will be the most technically efficient and environmentally friendly ship in river cruising in the United States.
The Inaugural season onboard American Song begins in Fall 2018 on Mississippi River. In 2019 it will continue on the West Coast for American Cruise Lines’ Columbia and Snake River cruises.