ACL-American Cruise Lines has signalled a new chapter for U.S.-flagged coastal cruising as its newest vessel, the American Patriot, embarks on her inaugural voyage from Boston on June 21.
This 243‑by‑56‑foot vessel, commissioned at a cost of approximately US$40 million by Chesapeake Shipbuilding in Salisbury, Maryland, displaces 3,000 GT and accommodates up to 130 guests within 56 cabins. The ship's five decks are maintained by a crew of about 50 and capable of sustaining sustained speeds of 18 knots.
Departing on a 15‑day “Grand New England” circuit, the American Patriot will visit a succession of storied harbours: Boston; Martha’s Vineyard; Nantucket; Gloucester; Provincetown; Plymouth in Massachusetts; Portsmouth in New Hampshire; Newport in Rhode Island; and Boothbay Harbour, Bar Harbour, Bath, Bangor, Portland, Rockland, and Camden in Maine.
The ship leads American Cruise Lines’ new Patriot‑class fleet, with 3 sister ships—American Pioneer, American Maverick, and American Ranger—slated for delivery over the next 16 months.
The 2025 season will feature an expanded lineup of itineraries ranging from 8 to 16 days, all concentrating on coastal New England and reflecting the line’s continuing domestic growth.
The Patriot‑class vessels are designed with deep‑draft traditional bows optimised for the Eastern Seaboard, offering an intimate cruising experience with private‑balcony staterooms, multiple lounges including a panoramic Sky Lounge and Skywalk, fitness centre, elevator service, and communal public spaces.
This maiden voyage heralds a season of five small ships traversing nine New England itineraries. Following the summer season, the American Patriot is anticipated to reposition to the Chesapeake Bay in late October and then proceed to the Gulf Coast and Florida Keys in November.