ACL-American Cruise Lines announced that construction had begun on the 4th Coastal Cat (from the Project Blue series) American Legend.
First announced in January 2022, Project Blue is a 12-unit series of smaller-sized vessels specially designed to sail almost any American itinerary. Like the sisterships, the 100-passenger American Legend is being built for coastal operation. She features the innovative new hull design, a hallmark of the series. All ACL’s new Coastal Cats are constructed by Chesapeake Shipbuilding in Salisbury MD.
The first trio in the series - ACL's catamarans Eagle, Glory, and Liberty, are scheduled to commence sailing in the next 12 months. American Legend is due to start cruising the USA in late 2024 and is the 19th ACL ship overall.
ACL has grown substantially in the past several years. In just the past five years, the line has nearly tripled its fleet by introducing innovative new ships. American Cruise Lines is the only cruise company in the world to operate a 100% U.S.-flagged fleet of both riverboats/small cruise ships, and the only line in the country to offer 100% U.S. itineraries along both rivers/coasts.
American Legend, like her sisterships, is a 5-deck catamaran featuring 56 passenger staterooms, most of which are with step-out balconies. There are also spacious lounges indoor/outdoor venues, a large sundeck, and multiple dining venues.
The unique hull form also allows for an activity platform at the stern, equipped with kayaks/a large tender for in-depth adventure from the boat.