ACL-American Cruise Lines has confirmed plans for a significant fleet expansion, announcing the construction of ten new vessels for the USA market.
American Pioneer entered service in Florida on October 31st, 2025, as the second Patriot Class ship launched this year. The remainder of the newbuild order is scheduled for phased delivery over the next three years, reflecting the company’s long-term commitment to coastal and inland cruising.
According to the company, the new vessels will operate exclusively within American waters, enhancing existing deployments across the Mississippi River, Alaska, and the East Coast USA, while supporting further expansion into regions such as the Great Lakes, the Arkansas River, and National Parks-focused itineraries.
ACL's leadership has stated that the order underscores confidence in the domestic cruise sector, with plans to introduce a new ship approximately every four months to maintain consistent fleet growth.
Following the introduction of American Pioneer, the construction program includes five additional Modern American Riverboats and four Patriot Class vessels from the Project Blue series. From this new class are already produced four "Coastal Cats" and the first Patriot Class ship American Patriot, which entered service in June 2025.
The newly announced Patriot Class ships — American Maverick, American Ranger, American Mariner, and American Navigator — are scheduled for launch between 2026 and 2027. Each will accommodate around 130 guests across 5 decks, offering a range of stateroom categories, private balconies, and onboard amenities such as a top-deck observation lounge, walking track, fitness centre, and multiple dining venues.
In parallel, ACL continues to develop its Modern American Riverboat™ series, which began in 2018 with American Song, widely recognised as a milestone in contemporary U.S. river cruising. The next vessel in this class, American Encore, is due to begin operations on the Columbia and Snake Rivers in May 2026, accommodating 180 guests and featuring a glass atrium, balcony staterooms, and large Signature Suites. Sister ships American Anthem and American Grace are to follow in 2027 and 2028, respectively, along with two additional (still unnamed) riverboats slated for delivery the same year (2028).
Collectively, these ships will bring ACL's fleet to a total of 30 vessels by the end of 2028.
American Cruise Lines has made booking available for all announced itineraries through 2028, with schedules published across its domestic cruise network.