American Cruise Lines/ACL has formally christened its newest vessel, American Encore, during its inaugural cruise on the Columbia and Snake Rivers.
The naming ceremony took place in Lewiston ID/Clarkston WA, as the ship operated its maiden 9-day “Columbia & Snake Rivers” itinerary from Stevenson. In preparation for the deployment, ACL worked with the Port of Lewiston on the construction of a new dock facility designed to accommodate additional vessels from ACL’s expanding river fleet.
American Encore was christened by Cathy McMorris Rodgers, who served for two decades in the US Congress representing eastern Washington.
Designed to carry up to 180 guests, the 5-deck American Encore features exclusively balcony accommodations and introduces a new Signature Suite category within the company’s fleet. The 1,500-square-foot accommodation includes a wraparound balcony, separate lounge and bedroom areas, and an enlarged bathroom fitted with a soaking tub and heated flooring.
Public spaces on board include a formal dining room, casual café, indoor and outdoor lounges, a top-deck observation lounge and walking track, fitness facilities, passenger laundry services, and elevator access to all guest decks.
ACL's president and CEO, Charles B. Robertson, indicated that the vessel represented the company’s 6th ship operating on the river system and described it as the flagship of a broader fleet expansion strategy aimed at strengthening the line’s position in the river cruise sector.