ACL-American Cruise Lines has confirmed that its new riverboat, American Encore, remains on schedule for entry into service in May 2026, when it will commence its inaugural season on the Columbia and Snake Rivers.
The vessel has been developed as part of the company’s next generation of USA-built riverboats, with a design emphasis on interior volume, passenger space and contemporary amenities. The layout provides a comparatively low passenger density, more closely aligned with small-ship or yacht operations than with conventional river cruising.
ACL’s broader river fleet has played a role in expanding the profile of the USA river cruising through the introduction of modern vessels equipped with advanced noise and vibration controls and updated passenger facilities.
American Encore will be arranged over five decks and carry up to 180 guests, all accommodated in staterooms with private balconies. A central architectural feature is a four-storey glass atrium, designed to bring natural light into the core public spaces.
The vessel will also debut a new accommodation category, the Signature Suite, which at more than 1,000 ft2 is planned to be the largest suite currently offered on a riverboat. The suite incorporates a wraparound balcony, separate living and sleeping areas and a full-size bathroom fitted with a soaking tub and heated floors.
The ship's public areas include a formal dining room and a more casual café, several indoor and outdoor lounges, a top-deck lounge with an exterior walking track, a large fitness centre, a self-service laundry and elevator access to all passenger decks. American Encore represents the latest evolution of the company’s Modern American Riverboat series, which began with American Song in 2018 and has since expanded with additional vessels introduced to the domestic river market.
Following the entry into service of American Encore, ACL plans to introduce two further sister ships, American Anthem and American Grace, to the Columbia and Snake Rivers in 2027 and 2028, respectively.
Details regarding the new vessel’s christening and its inaugural nine-day Columbia and Snake Rivers itinerary are expected to be released closer to the commencement of operations.
Bookings for American Encore and other recent additions to the fleet are currently open through the 2028 season.