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American Cruise Lines

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American Cruise Lines fleet

Acl american liberty, acl american legend, acl american eagle, acl american glory, american harmony, american song, american independence, american star, american spirit, american empress, american serenade, american symphony, american melody, american jazz, american constitution, review of american cruise lines.

ACL-American Cruise Lines Inc (AmericanCruiseLines.com) is a USA-based travel company founded in 1991 and headquartered in Guilford, Connecticut. Currently ranked USA's largest river cruise company , ACL operates traditional stern-paddlewheel riverboats and also several small-sized oceangoing ships. ACL ships cruise mainly in the USA, including Alaska, West and East Coast, the USA's biggest rivers (Mississippi, Tennessee, Potomac, Columbia, Snake, Hudson), also in Florida (St George River).

The company's current President and CEO is Charles B. Robertson who succeeded ACL's founder Charles A. Robertson (1948-2020).

ACL's management team includes:

• Dawn Lancaster (Accounts Payable Lead/Groton CT)
• Kayleigh Yates (Pastry Chef/New Roads LA)
• Brad Csuka (VP of Marketing/Stratford CT)
• Susan Shultz (Director of Sales/Guilford CT)
• Shelly Hartfield (Director of Product Development/New Albany IN)
• Meghan Sturgeon (Creative Director/Guilford CT)
• John Foley (Director of Information & Technology/Bethel CT)
• Makena Hoyt (Travel Coordinator/Salt Lake City UT)
• Matthew Kelley (First Mate, from Kingston MA)
• Marcus Lemon (Line Cook/Orlando FL)

In August 2021, ACL announced a major refurbishment project for its entire paddlewheeler fleet. The redesigned boats were renamed "American Splendor" (fka America), "American Heritage" (fka Queen of the Mississippi) and "American West" (fka Queen of the West), and only American Pride retained its name. The refurb project was via partnership with Studio DADO (Miami-based interior design firm) which was commissioned for the American Melody's interior spaces. By this project (completed by March 2022), the ACL paddlewheelrs' staterooms, bars and lounges, dining rooms and public areas were completely redesigned, featuring new color schemes, artworks, furniture, carpets, textiles, accessories.

Since January 2022, all ACL deals with added domestic flights (between airports in the USA, which includes all the company's 19 ports in 16 US states) are with flat-rate priced airfares (fixed/not subject to future changes). ACL river voyages' prices are inclusive of a pre-cruise hotel overnight.

Since December 2022, all ACL deals are inclusive of port charges and fees (commissionable for travel agents).

ACL's main competitor is Viking Cruises USA .

One of the most prominent features of all ACL ships is that they are USA- flagged , which means that the company hires only American citizens as hotel staff and crews, and pays taxes in the USA (on all cruise deals).

ACL deals are not so cheap, and consist of:

• larger-than-average staterooms (with the first balcony cabins in the US coastal cruise shipping business)
• spacious public rooms (bars and lounges)
• gourmet cuisine, highly personalized service
• hassle-free experiences, complimentary drinks before dinner, intimate, relaxing and friendly atmosphere
• amazingly charming itineraries sailing the inland waterways and stopping at ports every day (these are smaller ports inaccessible to larger vessels)
• an evening enrichment program by professional onboard lecturers
• the cruise ship "Queen of the Mississippi" debuted in 2012 as the largest of all ACL ships. Her sister ship was recently launched (March 2015) under the name "American Eagle".

All ACL ships are USA-built/refurbished, by the shipbuilder Chesapeake Shipbuilding Corporation (Salisbury, Maryland).

Next infographic of the Queen of the Mississippi (now American Heritage) shows what is what and where on this unique riverboat.

In mid-February, 2020, ACL signed with Vicksburg MS a 20-year deal for preferential berthing rights and ACL investments for upgrading the riverfront docking facility. By the deal, ACL pays the city per-passenger fees and receives priority mooring along the waterfront. ACL also provides shuttle bus services for its customers for land transportation to nearby attractions and popular downtown businesses.

In January 2023 ACL announced the fleetwide introduction of high-speed (Starlink-provided) satellite internet and Wi-Fi services. Starlink's LEO satellites (positioned at low Earth orbit) provide stable and fast internet connections to moving marine vessels and ACL beta-tested the service in 2022. As a promo, in 2023, ACL offered the Starlink Wi-Fi and the shipboard Room Service complimentary.

ACL AQV assents acquisition (2024)

In a held in March 2024 auction in Texas, ACL became the highest bidder and purchased four riverboats plus other assets of AQV-American Queen Voyages/fka AQSC . These assets were auctioned following the bankruptcy of AQV's parent company Hornblower Holdings.

The acquired assets include four paddle wheelers - American Queen (US$2,15 million), American Empress and American Countess (each US$1,6M) and American Duchess (US$0,2M). In May, three boats (Countess, Duchess, Queen) were sold for scrapping .

In addition, for US$0,75M ACL purchased two trademarks ("American Queen Voyages", "AQV"), website domains, and business records.

According to documents filed with the Bankruptcy Court in Houston, ACL paid for AQV's assets a total of US$6,3 million in cash. A hearing to finalize the sale was scheduled for April 4th.

In late-October 2015, ACL announced the start of the construction of a new coastal cruiser (by Chesapeake Shipbuilding/Salisbury, Maryland USA), with scheduled delivery in 2017-Q1. The vessel ( American Constellation ) was followed by the sistership American Constitution (2018).

These boats have passenger capacity 170 and are sized slightly larger compared to ACL's old coastal cruisers. They are fully stabilized (active wing stabilizers by Rolls-Royce Marine) and have the USA river cruising industry's largest and most luxurious staterooms. All cabins are with marble-tiled bathrooms and floor-ceiling glass doors opening to step-out balconies.

Traditionally for large-sized US riverboats, American Song has a fore-located boarding ramp (bow-location on Deck 1) that allows passengers to go ashore at any place along the ship's cruise itinerary route. The ramp has an innovative design being constructed as a retractable gangway (passenger bridge). The technology is often implemented on some of the largest ferries and features an opening bow door.

In November 2016 ACL announced the start of the construction on a 3rd (larger / new-class "Modern Riverboat") vessel with capacity 195 passengers. In late-February 2017 were announced plans for a fleet of 5 newbuilds .

• The first vessel from the new "Modern Riverboat" series was launched in 2018 ( American Song ). Followed the sisterships American Harmony (2019), American Jazz (2020), American Melody (2021), American Symphony (2022), American Serenade (2023).
• In mid-June 2021 ACL signed with Chesapeake Shipbuilding the contract for constructing two more units (5th and 6th) of the "modern riverboat" series. Both vessels (yet to be named) are planned for inauguration in 2022 growing the company's fleet to 15 (5x small, 4x paddle-wheelers, 6x modern riverboats).

In January 2022 ACL announced a plan to grow its fleet to 25+ vessels by adding 12 units of a new class (Project Blue), each with max passenger capacity 109 (plus 50 crew), length 241 ft (74 m), beam/width 56 ft (17 m), 56 staterooms (~85% balconied). ACL's Coastal Cats/catamarans are currently planned for launch/inauguration two units per year - in 2023 ( Eagle , Glory ), 2024 ( Liberty , Legend ), 2025, 2026, 2027, and 2028.

Next video reviews the best features of ACL's 2021-2022-built Modern Riverboats (Melody, Symphony, Serenade).

USA river cruise excursions for free

Any ACL guest booking river cruises on Mississippi or Columbia rivers gets absolutely free shore excursions. This is a year-round deal and the complimentary land tours are offered in each port of call.

The list of tours includes:

• "Battle of Vicksburg" (in Vicksburg, Mississippi)
• "Oak Valley Plantation" (in Oak Alley, Louisiana)
• "Mark Twain Boyhood Home-Museum" (in Hannibal, Missouri)
• "Mount St Helens" (in Rainier, Washington)
• "Winery" (in Richland, Washington).

The next YouTube video is the company's official release about the signature "Mississippi River Paddlewheeler" cruising experience.

IN January 2020, ACL signed a 5-year preferential berthing agreement with Port NOLA (New Orleans) for Thalia Street Wharf/riverboat dock. By this deal, ACL also received 2 (optional) 5-year renewals. Preferential homeporting is for at least 50 voyages (guaranteed departures) annually. For 2020, ACL scheduled 68 calls at Port NOLA.

In 2023 (March-December) ACL had its ever-biggest Mississippi program with five ships (Melody, Heritage, Serenade, Splendor, Symphony) and 12 itineraries running between homeports St Paul MN and New Orleans LA. The season featured a new boat (American Serenade) and the new 8-day itinerary "The Tennessee Rivers Cruise" between Chattanooga TN and Nashville TN. ACL's entire Mississippi 2023 program included voyages with a complimentary pre-voyage 1-night hotel.

(Coronavirus crisis) passenger shipping pause 2020-2021

Due to the COVID pandemic, ACL suspended its entire fleet's passenger shipping operations (all vessels) canceling all voyages with pre-scheduled departures in the period March 14, 2020, through May 2021.

Fleet operations resumed on the following dates (by ship) in 2021.

• American Independence (May 1 from Charleston SC)
• MS America (May 4 from New Orleans)
• Queen of the Mississippi (May 1 from Memphis TN)
• Queen of the West (May 15 from Clarkston WA)
• American Star (May 8 from Charleston SC)
• American Song (May 9 from Clarkston MI)
• American Pride (May 1 from Portland OR)
• American Constellation (May 7/Alaska from Seattle WA)
• American Constitution (May 10 from Boston)
• American Spirit (May 8/Alaska from Seattle WA)
• American Harmony (May 1 from New Orleans)
• American Jazz (May 2 from New Orleans)
• American Melody (Aug 27/ Maiden Voyage from New Orleans)

Note: Under CERTS (Coronavirus Economic Relief for Transportation Services Act), in August 2021 the company received USD 42,7 million (CAD 58,83M / AUD 58,3M / EUR 36,2M) grant from the USA's government. The CERTS provides grants to eligible (USA-based and all American-crewed) passenger transportation companies (motorcoach, school bus, shipping, pilotage) that have experienced 25% or more annual revenue losses due to the COVID crisis.

ACL boats initially operated with reduced (75% of the max) passenger capacity. All affected bookings were fully refunded (100% monetary refund). With rebooking was offered 125% FCC (Future Cruise Credit based on the fares paid for the canceled sailings) valid before December 31, 2021.

Itinerary of American Cruise Lines

ACL-American Cruise Lines itinerary program includes the USA's Eastern and Western coasts. ACL also offers Alaskan cruises during summer as well as the USA's river cruise regions Mississippi-Ohio (northbound and southbound itineraries) and Columbia-Snake (eastbound and westbound itineraries).

In 2022, ACL ships sailed 35+ USA-only itineraries visiting ports in 31 states.

New itineraries and cruisetours (2024)

ACL's schedule 2024 groups 50+ itineraries across 35 US states, 19 vessels (ships and riverboats) and a total of 125 ports in the USA. The program features two new ports - Sag Harbor (Long Island NYC) and Washington DC .

In 2024, the company also introduced "National Park Cruises", two of which are in Alaska.

• The 18-day "Grand Alaska National Parks" itinerary offers 11 days for cruising (Glacier Bay NP, Inside Passage, Frederick Sound) plus 7 days for guided tours in Denali NP and Kenai Fjords NP (from Fairbanks to Juneau).
• The 15-day "Alaska National Parks" itinerary offers 8 days of Glacier Bay cruising plus 7 days for Denali and Kenai Fjords tours (from Fairbanks to Juneau).

In 2024 ACL debuts two more NP cruisetours.

• The 11-day "Great Smoky Mountains National Park" itinerary is on two rivers (Tennessee and Cumberland) and offers 2 days for land tours (Great Smoky NP) between Knoxville TN and Nashville TN (both ways).
• The 15-day "National Parks and Legendary Rivers" itinerary offers 8 days for cruising (Columbia and Snake rivers) plus 7 days for guided touring (Glacier NP, Yellowstone NP, Grand Teton NP) between Jackson WY and Portland OR (both ways).

Also new are the three 8-day itineraries "Downeast Maine" (roundtrip from Bangor ME ), "Yankee Seaports" (between Boston MA and NYC) and "Florida Gulf Coast and Keys" (roundtrip from St Petersburg FL, which includes tours in Dry Tortugas NP and Everglades NP).

In 2024 (spring and fall) ACL introduced voyages leaving roundtrip from Washington DC, with the ship ( American Constitution ) mooring/docking at The Wharf (along the city's southeastern waterfront).

Themed as "American Revolution Cruise", they traverse the Chesapeake Bay, Potomac River, and the York River, with Washington DC serving as homeport. These are also the only cruises on the Potomac River. The 10-night/11-day "American Revolution Cruise" itinerary visits Annapolis MD, St Michaels MD, Cambridge MD, Norfolk VA (overnight), Williamsburg/Yorktown VA, Mount Vernon VA, and ends with an overnight in Washington DC.

ACL ships and riverboats' deployment

Follows the list of all ACL ships and riverboats, in brackets (Year Built)

• American Heritage riverboat/fka Queen of the Mississippi (2015)
• American West riverboat/fka Queen of the West (1995)
• American Splendor riverboat/fka America (2016)
• American Constellation (2017) - the new ship offers 2 new Canada and USA itineraries - "Grand New England" and "Grand Historic South"
• American Constitution (2018) - the new ship offers 2 new Canada and USA itineraries - "Grand New England" and "Grand Historic South"
• American Pride riverboat (2015, fka "American Eagle") - 8-day Columbia and Snake Rivers cruises (one-way itineraries) leaving either from Portland Oregon or Clarkston Washington
• (Modern Riverboat class) - American Song (2018), American Harmony (2019), American Jazz (2020), American Melody (2021), American Symphony (2022), American Serenade (2023)
• American Spirit (2004) - 7- and 11-day Alaskan itineraries from Juneau AK and Seattle WA
• American Independence (2010)

ACL's Coastal Cats (Project Blue catamarans) are a separate fleet of 12x newbuilds scheduled for launches in 2023 ( American Eagle , American Glory ), 2024 ( American Liberty , American Legend ), 2025 (TBN), 2026 (TBN), 2027 (TBN), 2028 (TBN).

In 2021, ACL introduced 3x new itineraries - "Cape Codder" (New England/ Cape Cod Canal ), "Music Cities" (American music-themed / 8-day between Nashville and Memphis) and "Alaskan Explorers" (11-day Glacier Bay cruise), also 50x new land tours and more pre-cruise hotel packages (Four Season Hotel deals in select USA river ports).

The classic 10-night "Grand Puget Sound Cruise" itinerary visits Washington's San Juan Archipelago .

In 2023, ACL introduced new for the brand ports - San Francisco and New York City (including Sag Harbor and Port Jefferson on Long Island NY ). ACL's catamaran cruises (2023-2024 schedule) added Florida's Key West , St Petersburg , Key Biscayne and Fort Myers Beach/Estero Island .

ACL itineraries scheduled for the Coastal Cats/catamarans

Next are listed all currently announced/operated itineraries (as themes, lengths, homeports and call ports) scheduled for ACL's Coastal Cats (Project Blue catamarans).

8-day / 7-night " Chesapeake Bay Cruise " is a roundtrip from Baltimore MD . Call ports include Yorktown-Williamsburg VA, Crisfield MD (Tangier VA), Cambridge MD (Oxford MD), St Michaels MD, Annapolis MD.

8-day / 7-night " Cape Codder Cruise " (visiting 8 ports and featuring navigation on the Cape Cod Canal ) is a roundtrip departing from Boston MA . Call ports include Glouchester MA, Plymouth MA, Martha's Vinyard Island MA, Falmouth MA, New Bedford MA, Provincetown MA.

8-day / 7-night "Maine Coast and Harbors Cruise" (visiting 8 ports) is a roundtrip from Portland ME . Call ports include Bar Harbor ME, Belfast ME, Camden ME, Rockland ME, Boothbay Harbor ME, Bath ME.

8-day / 7-night " New England Islands Cruise " (visiting 8 ports) is a roundtrip departing from Providence RI . Call ports include Baltimore MD, St Michaels MD, Norfolk VA, Kitty Hawk NC, Beaufort NC (Morehead City NC), Wilmington NC, Charleston SC, Beaufort SC, Hilton Head SC, Savannah GA, St Simons Island GA, Jekyll Island GA, Amelia Island FL (Fernandina Beach).

8-day / 7-night " Hudson River Fall Foliage Cruise " (visiting 8 ports) is a roundtrip departing from NYC/New York City NY . All call ports are in the New York state and include Catskill, Albany, Kingston/Hyde Park, West Point, Sleepy Hollow, and NYC (overnight stay before debarkation).

8-day / 7-night " Historic South and Golden Isles Cruise " (visiting 8 ports) is a one-way itinerary operated between homeports Charleston SC and Jacksonville FL ( Amelia Island ). Call ports include Charleston SC, Beaufort SC, Hilton Head Island SC, Savannah GA, Jekyll Island and St Simons Island (GA), Amelia Island FL (overnight).

8-day / 7-night " Yankee Seaports Cruise " (visiting 8 ports) is a one-way itinerary operated between homeports NYC and Boston. Call ports include Long Island (Sag Harbor/day 2, Port Jefferson/day 3), New London Connecticut (Mystic Seaport/days 4-5 overnight), Newport Rhode Island (day 6), Plymouth Massachusetts (day 7).

15-day / 14-night " East Coast Inland Passage Cruise " (visiting 15 ports) is a one-way itinerary operated between homeports Baltimore and Jacksonville FL/Amelia Island. Call ports include Baltimore MD, St Michaels MD, Norfolk VA, Kitty Hawk NC, Beaufort NC (Morehead City NC), Wilmington NC, Charleston SC, Beaufort SC, Hilton Head SC, Savannah GA, St Simons Island GA, Jekyll Island GA, Amelia Island FL (Fernandina Beach).

Florida Gulf Coast and Keys

In 2023, ACL-American Cruise Lines introduced the 7-night/8-day "Florida Gulf Coast & Keys" itinerary.

The roundtrip from Tampa was specifically designed for ACL's catamarans/Coastal Cats and was introduced with the ship American Glory.

On this ACL ex-Florida voyage, on days 3 and 4 the ship stays in Key West overnight. This allows tourists to explore Key West City on Day 3 (with a complimentary guided tour to the Ernest Hemingway Home & Museum) and the Dry Tortugas National Park on Day 4 (visiting Fort Jefferson/Civil War prison)

"The Civil War Battlefields Cruise" (2024)

In May 2023 ACL announced the introduction of the 34-night/35-day "Civil War Battlefields Cruise" visiting all major battlefields from the American Civil War (1861-65) in 13 states.

Starting on May 4, 2024, from New Orleans, the unique itinerary ends in Gettysburg (on June 6th). This is a B2B/back-to-back cruise involving 3x ships (American Melody, American Symphony, American Eagle), cruising on 3x rivers (Mississippi, Tennessee, Potomac), as well as coastal navigation (along ICW-Intracoastal Waterway/East Coast USA, and the Chesapeake Bay).

Prices started at US$24700 per person or US$726 per night. Fares were inclusive of a pre-cruise hotel stay in New Orleans, daily excursions, onboard entertainment/meals/beverages/WiFi/tips/gratuities, all land transportation and hotels between the segments, all port charges.

Next are listed the itinerary's call ports and ships.

American Melody (Days 1 to 8) "The Anaconda Plan and the Vicksburg Campaign" segment from New Orleans to Memphis.

American Symphony (Days 9 to 14) "Major Land Campaigns of the Civil War’s Western Theater" segment from Nashville to Chattanooga.

American Symphony (Days 15 to 17) "Scorched Earth"

American Eagle (Days 18 to 26) "The Union Advantage: a focus on naval power" segment from Jacksonville to Norfolk

American Eagle (Days 27 - 33) "Eastern Theater of the Civil War" segment from Norfolk to Washington (disembarkation) and bus travel from Baltimore to Sharpsburg MD (for Antietam).

(Days 34 to 35) "Battle of Gettysburg: The Turning Point for the North" segment is a Land Package to Gettysburg PA.

• DAYS 1-2 Pre-Cruise Hotel in New Orleans
• DAY 3 Houmas House, LA
• DAY 4 Baton Rouge, LA
• DAY 5 Siege of Port Hudson | St. Francisville, LA
• DAY 6 Battle of Port Gibson | Natchez, MS
• DAY 7 Siege of Vicksburg | Vicksburg, MS
• DAY 8 The Anaconda Plan | Day of River Cruising
• DAY 9 Memphis Naval Battle | Memphis, TN
• DAY 10 Battle of Stones River | Nashville, TN
• DAY 11 Battle of Fort Donelson | Clarksville, TN
• DAY 12 Paducah, KY
• DAY 13 Battle of Shiloh | Savannah, TN
• DAY 14 Florence, AL
• DAY 15 The Battles for Chattanooga | Chattanooga, TN
• DAY 16 Battle of Chickamauga | Atlanta, GA
• DAY 17 Sherman's March to the Sea | Atlanta to Jacksonville
• DAY 18 Battle of Olustee | Jacksonville, FL
• DAY 19 Brunswick, GA
• DAY 20 Savannah, GA
• DAY 21 Hilton Head, SC
• DAY 22 Beaufort, SC
• DAY 23 Day of Cruising
• DAY 24 Fort Sumter | Charleston, SC
• DAY 25 Beaufort, NC
• DAY 26 Kitty Hawk, NC
• DAY 27 Battle of the "Monitor" and the "Merrimac" | Norfolk, VA
• DAY 28 The Peninsula Campaign | Yorktown, VA
• DAY 29 Battle of Fredericksburg | Washington, D.C.
• DAY 30 Alexandria, VA
• DAY 31 St. Michaels, MD
• DAY 32 First Blood of the Civil War | Baltimore, MD
• DAY 33 Antietam | Sharpsburg, MD
• DAY 34 Battle of Gettysburg | Gettysburg, PA
• DAY 35 Transfer to Airport from Gettysburg

"The Great United States Cruise" (2024)

In late March 2023, ACL announced the 60-day B2B/back-to-back "The Great United States Cruise". The unique itinerary combines 4 rivers and coast-to-coast travel on 3 ships, ranking it ACL's longest-ever domestic itinerary.

"The Great United States Cruise" departs from  Portland OR on August 14, 2024, and visits 20 American states and 4 time zones within the continental USA. It also includes a national parks package visiting Grand Teton NP, Glacier NP, and Yellowstone NP.

The first leg of the itinerary is from the Pacific Coast (Portland OR) for cruising on Columbia/Snake rivers (ship American Jazz ). The second leg is on the Mississippi River (ship American Symphony /from New Orleans to Saint Paul). The third leg is from Maine to New York/up the Hudson River (ship American Independence ).

The 60-day voyage ends in NYC/New York Harbour on October 14th (2024).

Flights from Jackson Wyoming to  New Orleans  and  Saint Paul  to  Portland ME  are included.

The price per person ranges between US$51060-77945. The pricing includes all flights, a pre-cruise hotel stay, hotels between the cruise segments, all meals and beverages, daily land tours, Internet, port charges, and gratuities.

San Francisco Bay Cruise itinerary (2023-introduced)

ACL's 2023 schedule (ship American Jazz) included the company's first-ever California voyage.

The 7-night/8-day "San Francisco Bay Cruise" itinerary (roundtrip from San Francisco ) visits four other Californian ports ( Stockton , Sacramento , Napa , Vallejo ) and ends with an overnight in San Francisco. Overnight port stays are offered in either Sacramento or Napa. A pre-cruise hotel package (inclusive of San Francisco Four Season Hotel overnight stay) is optional.

ACL's San Francisco Bay Cruise itinerary features scenic cruising in San Francisco Bay and San Pablo Bay (an evening stop in Vallejo), as well as cruising on the Napa River and San Joaquin River.

The voyage includes passing the Golden Gate Bridge, Alcatraz, and Treasure Island. A guided San Francisco city tour visits Ghirardelli Square and Fisherman's Wharf. The cruisetour's signature experiences also include NASCAR-style driving (at Stockton 99 Speedway) and visiting a Napa Valley Winery (wine-tasting excursion). A guided Old Sacramento tour visits the underground city, the port, and the California State Railroad Museum.

"Grand New England" itinerary

The new 10-night / 11-day cruise itinerary of the company (named "Grand New England") covers New England destinations, among which are charming islands and coastal towns located within the Northeast.

The itinerary visits the following ports of call:

• Day 1 (Boston MA)
• Day 2 (Provincetown MA)
• Day 3 (Newport RI)
• Day 4 (Martha's Vineyard MA)
• Day 5 (Kennebunkport ME)
• Day 6 (Camden ME)
• Day 7 (Bar Harbor ME)
• Day 8 (Rockland ME)
• Before the Rockland arrival, the cruise ship passes through the 10-km / 6-ml Merchants Row passage.
• The itinerary is operated by the new ACL ships American Constellation and American Constitution .

"Grand Historic South" itinerary

The 10-night / 11-day "Grand Historic South" itinerary is roundtrip from Charleston SC to destinations along southeast USA's Intracoastal Waterway.

The new itinerary visits the following ports of call:

• Day 1 (Charleston SC / South Carolina)
• Day 2 (Wilmington NC / North Carolina)
• Day 3 (Beaufort NC / North Carolina) - horse-drawn carriage ride tour
• Days 4 and 5 (Savannah GA / Georgia)
• Day 6 (Sapelo Island GA / Georgia) - Oyster Roast
• Day 7 (Jekyll Island GA / Georgia) - "Millionaires Village"
• Day 8 (Fernandina Beach FL / Florida) - Amelia Island
• Day 9 (cruising)
• Day 10 (Beaufort SC / South Carolina)
• Day 11 (Charleston SC / South Carolina)

The itinerary route features architecturally significant traditional homes, grand plantations, wildlife, amazing coastal landscapes. Also included are locally inspired cuisine specialties prepared by the ship's master chef.

"American Revolution" itinerary

The 12-day "American Revolution Cruise" itinerary visits some of the most historically significant port cities along the Chesapeake Bay.

• The itinerary also includes new ports - Washington DC, Chestertown MD, Mount Vernon VA. In Washington DC, passengers can enjoy private tours of any of Smithsonian Museums or a guided tour of the National Mall. In Chestertown MD, they can visit Schooner Sultana (replica of Royal Navy Frigate Sultana / in the British Navy between 1768-1772). At Mount Vernon VA, the cruise company's expert guides offer an exclusive tour through George Washington's Estate.
• Passengers also travel to the last battlefield of the Revolutionary War in Yorktown and Jamestown's first English settlement.
• In addition to the ashore enrichment program, the shipboard expert is Dr. Harold Cones (biology professor, emeritus / retired from professional life at Christopher Newport University).
• The "American Revolution Cruise" itinerary is leaving roundtrip from Baltimore MD . Voyages started in spring 2018 on the new ship American Constitution . Available departure dates in 2018 include Oct 29, and Nov 8.

American Cruise Lines ship tracker

Our American Cruise Lines ship tracker is a function integrated into all review pages. At page-bottom in each page, you'll find a map with the ship's current location (AIS position). All the real-time tracking data is provided by VesselFinder. It's all about convenience - you will find where is your riverboat (ship) cruising today and now along its current itinerary!

Note: You can see the CruiseMapper's list of all river cruise ships and riverboats in the "itinerary" section of our River Cruises hub. All river passenger shipping line companies and their fleets are listed there.

American Cruise Lines related cruise news

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ACL-American Cruise Lines marks the growth of USA river cruising with its most expansive season on the Columbia and Snake Rivers to date. With the...

ACL-American Cruise Lines introduces American Patriot and American Pioneer

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ACL-American Cruise Lines acquires 4 paddlewheelers/riverboats from AQV-American Queen Voyages

ACL-American Cruise Lines has completed the acquisition of all four paddlewheelers previously belonging to the AQV-American Queen Voyages fleet...

ACL-American Cruise Lines introduces exclusive New England voyages in 2024

ACL-American Cruise Lines unveils its captivating summer lineup of New England voyages, presenting the sole coastal itineraries in the region...

ACL-American Cruise Lines launches Mississippi River's largest season yet

ACL-American Cruise Lines has announced the commencement of its Mississippi River season, with the arrival of the first guests in New Orleans (Port...

American Queen Steamboat Company (American Queen Voyages/AQV) ceased operations

On February 20, 2024, (at 5 pm Indiana time/12:00 UTC) American Queen Steamboat Company LLC (which operates under the travel brand American...

ACL-American Cruise Lines agrees to enhance fleet accessibility

ACL-American Cruise Lines, in a settlement with the U.S. Attorney's Office, has committed to enhancing accessibility across its fleet. The cruise...

ACL-American Cruise Lines offers itineraries leaving roundtrip from Washington DC

ACL-American Cruise Lines has announced the commencement of their exclusive American Revolution cruises for the current year. These unique voyages...

NCL-Norwegian Cruise Line to homeport in JAXPORT/Jacksonville (2025) Norwegian Gem ship

NCL-Norwegian Cruise Line is set to establish its first ship base in JAXPORT/Jacksonville, Florida USA, marking a new milestone for the company...

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Cruises in the United States

Whether you want to explore the dynamic cities and rocky shores of the East Coast, taste wines in the California sunshine, bask on Florida’s golden beaches, or see Alaska’s incredible wildlife, our United States cruises will deliver your dream vacation. Immerse yourself in Boston’s historic sites and exciting culinary scene. Ride the vintage cable cars in San Francisco and explore the dazzling colors of Seattle’s Pike Place Market.

Cruises to the United States take you to the heart of these iconic cities, as well as exploring some of the country’s most beautiful coastlines, from the icy peaks and forested inlets of Alaska to the lush landscapes of New England. The list of adventures in store is endless, from hiking, cycling, and kayaking to whale-watching, designer shopping, fine dining, and a rich, diverse culture. All this is yours, from the luxurious setting of one of our award-winning, contemporary ships.

USA Cruise Highlights

Cosmopolitan cities.

The USA can rightly claim to have some of the most exciting cities in the world. San Diego’s atmospheric Gaslamp Quarter is waiting to be explored, while in Boston, the Freedom Trail is a fascinating history lesson. Check out Pier 39 in San Francisco, and take a trip to Alcatraz. Discover Hemingway’s legacy in laid-back Key West, find your inner rock star in Seattle’s Museum of Pop Culture, or explore the interesting mix of cultures in New Orleans.

Spectacular Nature

Wherever you sail in the USA, you’ll be captivated by the extraordinary beauty of the landscapes. Hawaii is a lush paradise of rainforest, volcanic peaks, and tumbling waterfalls, while Alaska is wild and untamed, a world of snowy mountains, glaciers, and old-growth forest. Sail the coast of New England in fall and take in the dazzling shades of scarlet and orange on the trees. Or head south to Key West for a setting of coconut palms, sandy beaches, and colorful coral reefs.

Exciting Cuisine

Whether you want to taste award-winning vintages in Napa Valley, feast on lobster rolls in New England, or sample gumbo in New Orleans, you’ll discover an incredibly varied culinary scene on your travels around the USA. Don’t miss a salmon bake or the chance to try reindeer sausages in Alaska. In San Francisco, head for Chinatown for tasty dim sum. Key West is famed for its tangy Key lime pie, while Seattle’s claim to fame is artisan-roast coffee—and those powerful Washington State wines.

United States Cruise Regions

The wild frontier of Alaska has some of the most awe-inspiring scenery in the USA, where you’ll find mile upon mile of jagged, snow-capped mountains and dense forest. On a cruise, you’ll be able to appreciate this wild beauty from both a land and sea perspective. You’ll see glaciers, rocky shorelines, historic gold rush towns, and flower-strewn mountain meadows. Along the way, you can hike, kayak, spot bears, go whale-watching, and feast on fresh salmon.

New England

New England has it all: cosmopolitan cities like Boston, arty seaside towns, windswept coasts, and verdant national parks. Follow the Freedom Trail in Boston, and explore Portland’s seafaring history under Maine’s vast skies. Hike the woodlands and glacier-scoured peaks of glorious Acadia National Park. Time your trip for the fall and admire the fiery colors of the foliage. Everywhere you go, there’s delicious seafood to taste, like lobster rolls, or claws dripping in melted butter.

Visit some of the most exciting cities on the Pacific Coast with Celebrity. See the graceful sweep of the Golden Gate Bridge in hilly San Francisco, and ride the historic cable cars. Whizz up the Space Needle in Seattle and take in the colors and buzz of Pike Place Market. In Los Angeles, browse the designer shops on Rodeo Drive and marvel at the stars’ homes. Catalina Island, meanwhile, is another world of rugged coastlines, diverse marine life, and hiking trails with sweeping views.

Indulge in a relaxing journey across the warm Pacific from Vancouver to the lush, volcanic islands of Hawaii, where waterfalls tumble from verdant peaks and the ocean is home to abundant whales and dolphins. Visit Rainbow Falls and Akaka Falls from Hilo, and admire the fiery antics of Mount Kilauea. Learn about history in Honolulu, the location of the only royal palace in the USA, and Pearl Harbor. Join a firelight luau in Lahaina, and visit a working pineapple plantation.

The Sunshine State is the perfect place to start your cruise. Admire the colorful Art Deco architecture of Miami’s South Beach, and taste Cuban cuisine in Little Havana. Browse the shops along Las Olas Boulevard in Fort Lauderdale, and explore the canals by gondola. Take a boat ride through the watery Everglades in search of alligators. Treat your kids to a day in the theme parks around Orlando—and meet astronauts at the Kennedy Space Center. Make time to visit those glorious beaches, too.

USA Cruise Itineraries

Celebrity Cruises offers a vast range of USA cruise itineraries and departure ports. Sail from Boston, or Cape Liberty in New Jersey. In Florida, choose between Fort Lauderdale, Tampa, Orlando (Port Canaveral), and Miami. West Coast ports include Los Angeles, Seattle, and Seward. Cruises range from short getaways to Key West to 13-night voyages from Vancouver, Canada to Honolulu.

Itineraries

Why cruise to the usa with celebrity cruises.

There’s no more comfortable way to explore the exciting coastlines of the USA than with Celebrity Cruises. You’ll dock in the heart of some of the country’s most iconic cities and sail along exquisite coastlines, visiting multiple destinations and only having to unpack once.

As you sail, you’ll discover all the wonderful amenities that make a vacation on board our award-winning ships such a luxurious experience. Live life at your own pace, whether you want a workout in the Fitness Center or a private cabana by the pool. Unwind in the spa, take in the views from the Magic Carpet on Edge-series ships, or relax on the fragrant grass at the Lawn Club on Solstice-series ships. Savor world-class cuisine every day. Elevate your experience in The Retreat, where you’ll enjoy beautiful suite accommodation, an exclusive lounge, and the culinary delights of Luminae at The Retreat.

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The Roaming Boomers

Review: american cruise lines.

Posted by David Porter on Wednesday, February 14, 2024 · 14 Comments  

Here is our review of American Cruise Lines after sailing with them on their 8-day Great Rivers of Florida river cruise.

American Cruise Lines (ACL) is the leader in U.S. River & Coastal cruising and the largest domestic cruise line in the country.

The company offers a new fleet of 19 riverboats and small cruise ships, each accommodating just 90 to 180 guests. American is the only cruise line in the world with a fleet of 100% U.S. built & flagged riverboats and small cruise ships.

This distinction enables the company to offer all-domestic cruises that visit only U.S. ports of call along both U.S. rivers and coasts. The Line offers over 50 itineraries, which range from 6 to 60 Days in length, and explore in 35 U.S. states.

American’s small ships cruise along protected U.S. waterways from Alaska to Florida, and major U.S. rivers, including the Mississippi River (Ohio, Cumberland, and Tennessee Rivers); the Columbia and Snake Rivers; the Hudson River; and Florida Rivers (St. John’s and Tolomato). American Cruise Lines has over 50 years of experience cruising the U.S. and specializes in authentic American experiences, personalized service, and well-curated destination-focused cruises.

One of the ship’s crew members photographing the sunrise at Amelia Island.

Our Ship: The American Eagle

As I mentioned above, American Cruise Lines currently has 19 ships sailing on America’s rivers and coastal waterways. Here is a breakdown:

• Independence Class (3 ships) – these are the cruise line’s oldest ships, built in 2005, 2007, and 2010 and can accommodate 90 passengers. While I don’t know for certain, my guess is that maybe these ships will be retired as ACL continues to build out its Coastal Cat fleet.
• Coastal Class (2 ships) – These ships, built in 2017 and 2018, carry a maximum of 170 passengers and operate on both coasts of the United States.
• Classic Paddlewheelers (4 ships) – for those of you who might enjoy a little nostalgia, these ships operate on U.S. rivers and all four were remodeled in 2022.
• American RiverBoats (6 ships) – These ships built from 2018 through 2023 are ACL’s new series of American Riverboats.  They hold a maximum of 180 passengers and offer guests a modern experience and large staterooms.
• Coastal Cats (4 ships) – These are ACL’s newest line of ships. They hold a maximum of 100 passengers, with a very low draft, and offer guests entry into America’s coastal regions and rivers that have not been available heretofore. ACL plans to build 12 of these ships. Two are currently sailing, with two more arriving in 2024.

Carol with our character actor/tour guide in St. Augustine

Carol and I were very impressed with the American Eagle from the moment we stepped on the ship. The colors were bright and modern, but what is immediately most impressive is that their entry-level staterooms start at 300 sq/ft., and the ship holds a maximum of 100 passengers. Many other companies building small European-style river cruise ships are stuffing entry-level guests into staterooms that are 135 sq/ft. But here, you are certain to enjoy a stateroom that is over twice that size.

And for those of you who enjoy suites, the American Eagle offers four Sky Suites at 470 sq/ft and two Grand Suites at 620 sq/ft. Tip : book early to get a suite; they always sell out first.

We also found the ship to have enough public space aboard to comfortably accommodate everyone without any of the crowding found on other ships.

Public Spaces

• Restaurant – American specialties with plenty of space for all to be seated.
• Sky Lounge – The perfect place to read a book, play a board game, or hang out with new friends. And each morning, this is the spot for early risers to enjoy a continental breakfast.
• Lookout Cafe – Located just outside the Sky Lounge is the Lookout Cafe. It was a wonderful spot to enjoy the cruise on the very back of the ship, but it was also the spot where I could get an early-morning breakfast sandwich before the restaurant opened.  Carol and I enjoyed all of our breakfasts in the Sky Lounge and Lookout Cafe.
• Chesapeake Lounge – This communal space offered space to seat everyone and was used primarily for lectures on our journey, complimentary bar and hors d’oeuvres each night, after-dinner music, and was also the spot for our Super Bowl Party.
• Bow Terrace – This small space, just outside of the Chesapeake Lounge, offers a wonderful place to enjoy your morning coffee or an afternoon cruise with the wind in your hair. Carol and I spent quite a bit of time here as we sailed the Intercoastal Waterway.

Carol and I enjoyed sailing with ACL on their Great Rivers of Florida itinerary . We sailed on the St. Johns River, the Tolomato River, and the Intercoastal Waterway. We never felt a wave, and Amelia Island and St. Augustine were the stars of the show. One of our clients wrote on our Instagram Page that Amelia Island was her happy place. We had never been, but we’ll be back.

Carol and I sailed with ACL in one of their Vista Private Balcony Staterooms. To see the first impressions video of our stateroom, please CLICK HERE . Be sure to turn your volume up.

Roasted Beef Tenderloin w/ Carolina Stoned Ground Grits

The Cuisine

We found the cuisine aboard the American Eagle to be very good. In fact, every guest that we dined with aboard the ship agreed.

To the right is a photograph of our first meal aboard the ship. I was hoping for some southern grits on this cruise, and my wish was granted on our very first meal.

Each morning, at breakfast, we were given the day’s menu for lunch and dinner. We then made our selections and turned in the cards so that the kitchen would know how many of each item to have on hand. And don’t worry, if you change your mind, they could handle that as well.

And for those of you who might have dietary restrictions, on the first day of sailing, the cruise line offered a meeting with the chef to discuss your individual needs.

Oh, and for those of you who enjoy a treat during the day, there was “Cookie Time” each day at 10:00 and 3:00.

Best onboard service we’ve ever experienced.

I would be remiss if I didn’t bring this up. The experience, the atmosphere, and the vibe that the crew created on this cruise were the best we’ve ever experienced on any cruise ship.

I am struggling with how to explain this. We’ve certainly had outstanding service with friendly staff on any number of the cruises we’ve experienced. But this crew created an atmosphere aboard the ship that, I don’t know, endeared us all to them? And it just wasn’t me.  Every guest that we interacted with felt the same way.  Dare I say that we fell in love with the crew?

For example, from the moment we walked on the ship, Alicia, the ship’s Hotel General Manager, greeted us by name, and she was always magically around, making sure that we were delighted in every way. One passenger commented how she worked miracles to get a prescription aboard the ship, and we found in her a sincere desire to make us feel at home and well taken care of. And again, this just wasn’t me.  We heard the same from many of our co-passengers.

And it just wasn’t her. Wyatt, the ship’s cruise director, the chef, the servers, and the gal that cleaned our room each day were absolutely the best we’ve experienced.  Clearly, they’ve been trained well, and the desire to serve the guests on the ship was a part of the cruise line’s DNA.

Listen, you can have the best ships in the world, but if the staff and crew can’t make you feel at home and well taken care of, then forget it.

I must say, I wasn’t expecting this level of down-home, relaxed, yet professional service.

I want more.  In fact, I didn’t want to get off of the ship. If this ship was doing back-to-back itineraries, I would have begged and pleaded to stay aboard.

Summing It All Up

If I had to put a star on the whole experience, I would give it 4-stars.  They are not trying to be a floating Four Seasons. I would give their down-home cuisine 4.5-stars, and I would give their service 5-stars.

In short, with this level of experience available right here in the good-ole USA, and 50 different itineraries available around the country, and more new ships on the way, this is a wonderful way to cruise close to home. While offering you a wonderful opportunity to explore our country from the perspective of its rivers and coastlines.  I’m hooked, and we will be back.  In fact, I hear the San Juan Islands in the Pacific Northwest calling my name. And oh, what about the ability to visit all of the little towns and villages in the Atlantic Northeast?

I could go on and on, but I’m already approaching 2,000 words.  So, if you have questions, just put them below in the comments section and I’ll do my best to answer them.

How to Book a Cruise With American Cruise Lines

Of course, you can book a cruise directly with American Cruise Lines.

But did you know that booking with Roaming Boomers Travel or Amerian Cruise Lines will net you the exact same price?

Therefore, why not book your American Cruise Lines coastal or river cruise with us and take advantage of our expert advice and service?

We promise to work hard to earn your trust. And with us, you’re always a VIP.

For more information or to book a fun cruise with American Cruise Lines, please call Roaming Boomers Travel Services at (480) 550-1235 or use our convenient online information request ( click here ), and we’ll reach out to you.

Category: Travel News & Tips · Tags: American Cruise Lines

14 Comments on “ Review: American Cruise Lines ”

Your articles are always interesting and offer good advice. Your first hand experience adds believability to what you publish. We are interested in the ACL cruise along the Columbia and Snake Rivers.

We did the Maine cruise last year & the Historic South this year. I could notagree more with your review. A great company. Loved it that all veterans were recognized also.

I have been on two ACL cruises. The Lewis and Clark cruise on the Columbia and Snake Rivers, and the Upper Mississippi cruise. Really enjoyed both cruises. Have scheduled a New England Adventure cruise. Looking into San Juan Islands in Northwest.

We also went on Pearl Seas cruise on the Great Lakes.

Small ship cruising is very enjoyable. I would recommend any of the cruises to mature adults.

You’re back! Thanks again for sharing! 🙂

Thanks for your review- May I ask when (month) you took the Columbia/Snake cruise and if there were any optional excursions you took that you would recommend- Thanks

We did our cruise with another cruise brand in the first week of November. As the optional excursions are constantly in flux, we recommend that you choose an excursion that has interest for you. We really don’t have strong opinions on shore excursions.

We went in July. A couple of years ago. Most shore excursions are included. Went to Mt. St. Helens.

Thank you for sharing your experience with us. 🙂

Thank you for the kind words. 🙂 I’ll reach out to you privately to discuss a possible booking.

Thanks for stopping by and sharing your thoughts. We’re looking forward to helping our clients cruise closer to home.

We’re booked (through Roaming Boomers) on their Paddle boat this May going on the Columbia and Snake Rivers. We can’t wait. We will make sure to share our adventures and let you know our experiences. We are anticipating a fantastic trip and can’t wait. We are expecting this to be beautiful and awe inspiring as well as totally relaxing.

Hi Mary Lou,

You’re going to love it. We can’t wait to hear about your journey.

Great review Dave and Carol. We have sailed with ACL twice (Snake River and the southeast coast trip up from Amelia Island). Both were very enjoyable. We are doing the American Revolution cruise in Washington DC in 2 weeks. Again – we enjoy all parts of traveling with ACL. but mostly the crew. I get to know most of them by name – even dined several times with the entertainment duo on board and stayed in touch with both for several months afterwards.

Great to hear from you.

As people learn about these experiences that are available in their own backyards, so to speak, we’re finding interest growing. Carol and I are interested in quite a number of their cruises. When we were on our last cruise, the cruise director said that this cruise in Tennesee was really scenic: https://www.americancruiselines.com/cruises/mississippi-river-cruises/tennessee-rivers-cruise

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This 11-night Cruise Is the Only One in the World to Dock in Washington, D.C. — How to Get on Board

Meet American Cruise Line's American Revolution cruise.

Courtesy of American Cruise Lines

If you're looking to experience a little American history on your next vacation, look no further than American Cruise Lines' new American Revolution cruise. In 2018, the company became the first to dock in Washington, D.C. , in more than 60 years — and this year, it is upping its game. Now, it'll operate its 11-night itinerary round trip from Washington, D.C., instead of Baltimore.

Before embarking on the ship, guests sailing an American Revolutionary journey can stay at the Four Seasons Washington, D.C., for an overnight pre-trip. Then they'll board one of American Cruise Lines' new small ships American Constitution or American Glory for the voyage. The cruise will feature several of the company’s newest Coastal Cats catamarans sailing the itinerary in 2024-2025, each of which can sleep up to 100 passengers in 56 spacious cabins. (The cabins start at 300 square feet.)

After departing Washington, D.C. , guests will make three stops in Maryland, including one at Annapolis , where they can tour the U.S. Naval Academy on an excursion. Then it'll have a day at sea, followed by an overnight in Norfolk. (For excursions, guests can book a day trip to visit the Wright Brothers National Memorial in North Carolina's Outer Banks or tour the MacArthur Memorial and Chrysler Museum of Art, among other options.)

Next up are visits to Virginia's “Historic Triangle,” including Williamsburg, Yorktown, and Jamestown. Finally, the ship will head for Mount Vernon, where guests can tour George Washington's famous home, before returning to Washington, D.C.

"American’s small U.S. ships offer guests opportunities to visit ports of call inaccessible by larger ships, plus itineraries that are the only cruises of their kind on the market; sailing fully in the U.S.A. throughout," Melissa Young, Director of Business Development at American Cruise Lines, said in a statement provided to Travel + Leisure . "The American Revolution cruises are a testament to what is only possible with American’s extraordinary fleet. And this itinerary also features a fabulous new option for the drive-to market, allowing many guests to skip flights and jump on board hassle-free."

Rates for the American Revolution Cruise start at $6,160; book your trip at americancruiselines.com .

Related Articles

Thinking of booking a cruise? Here are the lines you should — and shouldn't — sail with.

• Before you book a cruise , it's important to understand that not all cruise lines are equal.
• Each cruise line has amenities, entertainment, and experiences tailored to specific cruisers.
• Carnival is good for families, Virgin Voyages for solo adults, and Cunard for mature travelers. 

I am a very, very avid cruiser. Last year alone, I spent 73 days on cruise ships .

I've sailed with most major lines, from kid-focused Disney Cruise Line to the sometimes-naughty Virgin Voyages. When people ask me which cruise ships I recommend , my answer isn't so straightforward.

Each cruise line is unique, offering amenities, entertainment, and experiences tailored to specific cruisers. What you book will depend on your needs, wants, budget, and what you'd rather avoid.

So, I've done some research about popular cruise lines and combined my personal experiences to help you decide which cruise line to book with.

After all, this is kind of the year of the cruise , with travelers predicted to set sail at some of the highest rates in years throughout 2024.

Here's what you need to know about some of the major cruise lines before you book your next trip.

Editor's Note: Price ranges were calculated at the time of publication based on available listings on each cruise site. Cruise pricing is per person, based on double occupancy and the cheapest stateroom/fare available. Prices were calculated before taxes, port charges, and other fees. Itineraries with added tours built-in were not included when calculating this information.

Carnival Cruise Line

Cost: $ | Prices range from $156/pp for a two-day getaway from Sydney to $3,273/pp for a 10-day Alaska cruise

Ideal for: Budget travelers, intergenerational groups, families, and partiers

Skip if: You're looking for a high-class, elegant experience or a quiet, laid-back vibe

Highlight: All Carnival cruises come with itineraries loaded with fun activities. Some ships have especially exciting features like the first roller coaster at sea, SkyRide zip-line-style aerial bikes, and themed parties.

Possible cons: This is not a cruise line for those who like to wear a tux or ball gown or have a quiet cruise experience.

Launched in 1972, Carnival Cruise Line is one of nine cruise lines owned by parent company Carnival Corporation & plc. It's the company's largest cruise line, with 27 ships. Its cruises typically range from two days to 29 days.

Carnival Cruise Line offers year-round cruises in Australia, The Bahamas, the Caribbean, and Mexico and seasonal cruises in Alaska , Bermuda, Canada, Europe, Hawaii, and New England.

Celebrity Cruises

Cost: $$ | Prices range from $233/pp for a three-night Key West & Bahamas cruise to $6,912/pp for a 7-night Galapagos cruise

Ideal for: Couples, families, and solo travelers

Skip if: You're looking for a slower-paced classic cruise

Highlight: All Celebrity Cruises come with amazing outdoor spaces like The Lawn Club with real grass on the top deck of Solstice Series ships and the Rooftop Terrace on Millennium Series ships. You also won't want to miss the Magic Carpet , which allows guests to hang out while suspended above the ocean on some ships.

Possible cons: This is not a cruise line for those who want to attend lectures about their ports of call.

Celebrity Cruises began sailing in 1997. There are 16 ships, which sail on itineraries ranging from three to 19 nights to nearly 300 ports of call in 70 countries.

Cost: $$$ | Prices range from $249/pp for a two-night cruise from Southampton, England to Hamburg, Germany, to $19,158/pp for a 111-night World Voyage

Ideal for: Sophisticated travelers and mature cruisers

Skip if: You're looking for a high-energy cruise, hoping to travel with children , or craving adventurous activities

Highlight: All Cunard cruises come with white-glove service. You won't want to miss Cunard's famous 3:30 p.m. afternoon tea, gala evenings, and fine dining arranged by stateroom grade.

Possible cons: This is a very formal cruise with strict dress codes. You won't find water slides or pool parties here.

Founded in 1840, Cunard offers a classic cruise experience with cruises ranging from two to 116 nights.

Its four ships sail to Africa, Asia, Australia, Europe, North America, and South America.

Disney Cruise Line

Cost: $$$ | Prices range from $422.40/pp for a two-night cruise from Sydney to Brisbane, Australia, to $5,592/pp for a 12-night Mediterranean with Greek Isles cruise

Ideal for: Disney adults , families, and intergenerational groups

Skip if: You don't want to vacation around a bunch of children and you crave peace and quiet

Highlight: All Disney Cruise Line cruises come with heaps of Disney magic in the way of special events and details. You won't want to miss character meet and greets, pirate-themed parties with fireworks, and passengers trading pins and leaving treats inside decorative pouches hung on stateroom doors.

Possible cons: There is a significant child population on most of these cruises and not much adults-only entertainment. Dinners in the main dining can get loud, and, just like at the theme parks, there can be many queues for activities and other offerings.

Disney Cruise Line first set sail in the 1990s and has five active ships, with the new Disney Treasure set to debut in December. The line has sailings all around the globe, and most range from two to 15 nights.

Holland America Line

Cost: $$ | Prices range from $94/pp for a one-day Pacific Northwest cruise to a $27,399/pp for a 132-day Grand Voyage

Ideal for: Music lovers and sophisticated world travelers who appreciate European hospitality and smaller ships

Skip if: You're young, traveling with children, or want to party

Highlight: All Holland America Line cruises come with a dose of Dutch hospitality and elegance. During my cruise with the line, I enjoyed the Dutch cuisine and Music Walk , which features live performances at B.B. King's Blues Club, Rolling Stone Rock Room, and Billboard Onboard.

Possible cons: The line takes its formal nights really seriously and attracts an older crowd.

Holland America Line has had ships sailing the globe for over 140 years. Its 11 ships cruise to more than 425 ports of call on seven continents, and cruises range from one to 118 days.

MSC Cruises

Cost: $ | Prices range from $80/pp for a three-night Mediterranean cruise to $46,149/pp for a 116-night World Cruise

Ideal for: Budget travelers, families, intergenerational groups, big groups

Skip if: You're looking for lots of food options or top-tier entertainment

Highlight: All MSC Cruises offer great value — and good pizza

Possible cons: The cruise fare does not include many dining options, and the evening entertainment skews old-school and a bit more basic than some other cruise lines that do Broadway-worthy shows.

MSC Cruises has 22 ships, with one more projected to join its fleet by 2025. The line has sailings all around the globe, and most range from two to 118 nights.

Norwegian Cruise Line

Cost: $$ | Prices range from $79/pp for a one-day Australia cruise to $4,379/pp for a 10-day European cruise

Ideal for: Couples, families, and solo cruisers

Skip if: You're looking for structure, ballroom dancing, and fancy dinners

Highlight: All Norwegian Cruise Line cruises offer freestyle dining. You won't want to miss its Broadway-level shows and generous drink package, which is often offered complimentary.

Possible cons: This is not a cruise line for those who like formal dress codes, and some dislike the à la carte pricing.

Norwegian Cruise Line has been sailing the world for over 57 years. Its 19 ships visit 400-plus ports on seven continents, and cruises typically last one to 25 days.

Princess Cruises

Cost: $$ | Prices range from $127/pp for a two-day Australia Seacation to $24,098/pp for a 98-day World Cruise

Ideal for: Mature solo travelers, couples, and retirees

Skip if: You're looking for lots of activities and party vibes. Princess Cruises tend to attract an older crowd, and the shows and activities reflect this. There aren't many events offered each day. On the three cruises I sailed with Princess, the entertainment was primarily musicals, piano players, and singers backed by an orchestra. There were only a handful of children on each cruise.

Highlight: All Princess Cruises offer Discovery and Animal Planet-exclusive shore excursions — and many have an excellent onboard lecture series.

Possible cons: This is not a cruise line for those who like to party, love water slides, or have teenagers.

Founded in 1965, Princess Cruises has 16 ships that sail to 330 destinations worldwide on itineraries from three to 111 days

Royal Caribbean

Cost: $$ | Prices range from $196/pp for a two-night Hong Kong cruise to $8,266/pp for a 13-night Arctic Circle cruise

Ideal for: Couples, families, and intergenerational travelers

Highlight: All Royal Caribbean cruises come with fun activities and a broad range of entertainment options. Some have the Ultimate Abyss , the tallest slide at sea, or the glass capsule North Star , the tallest viewing deck on a cruise ship. You won't want to miss the Oasis Class ships' seven distinctly themed neighborhoods and Royal Promenade, a mall-like thoroughfare with shops, restaurants, and lounges that runs the length of the ship.

Possible cons: Many of its ships are mega-ships, so this isn't the line for you if you want a more intimate trip.

Founded in 1968, Royal Caribbean sails to about 240 destinations on six continents. Cruises range from two to 22 nights.

Royal Caribbean has many of the world's largest cruise ships in its fleet of more than 20 vessels.

Virgin Voyages

Cost: $$ | Prices range from $415/pp for a four-night roundtrip cruise from England to Amsterdam to a $3,072/pp for a 13-night Canada, Carolina, and Miami cruise

Ideal for: Child-free travelers, health enthusiasts, the glamorous, and those who don't like strict rules

Skip if: You want a classic cruise, need structure, or can't handle playfulness (and, sometimes, naughtiness)

Highlight: All Virgin Voyages are child-free, and everyone gets unlimited WiFi, access to group fitness classes, and gratuities included in their fare. You won't want to miss its famous Scarlet Night, 20 eateries (every venue is considered specialty dining), and eclectic shows like "Untitled DanceShowPartyThing."

Possible cons: There aren't traditional song-and-dance shows, assigned dining times, and nightly portrait photography

Virgin Voyages has been sailing its "Lady Ships" inspired by superyachts since 2021. Three nearly identical ships are currently in service, and a fourth one is set to set sail later this year.

Virgin Voyages sails to about 100 destinations in Australia, Europe, the Mediterranean, the Caribbean, and the United Kingdom on cruises ranging from three to 16 nights.

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Watch CBS News

Russian military exercises in the Caribbean: Here's what to expect

By Alex Sundby

Updated on: June 12, 2024 / 8:15 PM EDT / CBS News

Three Russian ships and a nuclear-powered submarine arrived in Cuban waters Wednesday ahead of military exercises  in the Caribbean. While the exercises aren't considered a threat to the U.S., American ships were deployed to shadow the Russians, U.S. officials told CBS News.

The Russian warships  were seen arriving in Havana's harbor on Wednesday morning and were expected to stay in Cuba until Monday. White House national security adviser Jake Sullivan told reporters on Air Force One on Wednesday the U.S. was closely monitoring the Russian ships.

"We have seen this kind of thing before and we expect to see this kind of thing again," Sullivan said.

The U.S. intelligence community has assessed that the submarine is nuclear powered but it isn't carrying nuclear weapons, CBS News national security correspondent David Martin reported. White House national security spokesman John Kirby told CBS News senior White House and political correspondent Ed O'Keefe last week that there was no indication nuclear weapons would be "at play" during the vessels' time in the Caribbean.

What Russian ships are in Cuba?

According to the Cuban Foreign Ministry, the three Russian ships are a frigate, a fleet oil tanker and a salvage tug. The three ships and the submarine headed across the Atlantic separately, Martin reported.

Russia has used the frigate, the Admiral Gorshkov, to test its Zircon hypersonic cruise missiles , according to the Reuters news agency.

Two American destroyers and two ships that tow sonar equipment behind them were shadowing the submarine, Martin reported. Another destroyer and a U.S. Coast Guard cutter were shadowing the three Russian ships. The U.S. Navy also used little sailboats fitted with cameras, known as sail drones, to shadow the Russian ships as they got close to Cuba.

The Admiral Gorshkov and the submarine carried out drills in the Atlantic that simulated a missile strike on enemy ships, the Russian Defense Ministry said Tuesday, according to the Associated Press.

While the Russian ships are in Cuba, the U.S. Navy ships shadowing them are expected to wait for the Russians and continue shadowing them when they leave port, Martin reported.

The ships' arrival in Havana — which the Cuban Foreign Ministry said was expected to include the fanfare of one Russian ship firing 21 salvos in a salute to Cuba — comes ahead of Russia carrying out air and naval exercises in the Caribbean in the coming weeks, Martin reported.

The exercises, which will include long-range bombers, will be the first simultaneous air and naval maneuvers Russia has carried out in the Caribbean since 2019, Martin reported. The exercises will be conducted over the summer, culminating in a worldwide naval exercise in the fall.

"Clearly this is them signaling their displeasure about what we're doing for Ukraine ," Kirby told O'Keefe. "So we're going to watch it, we're going to monitor it, it's not unexpected. … But we don't anticipate, we don't expect that there'll be any imminent threat or any threat at all, quite frankly, to American national security in the region, in the Caribbean region, or anywhere else."

The Russian ships are expected to head to Venezuela after Cuba, but it's unclear what the submarine will do, Martin reported.

What was the Cuban missile crisis?

The events in the Caribbean are different from the Cuban missile crisis that happened over 60 years ago. The 1962 crisis unfolded after the U.S. discovered launch sites in Cuba for Soviet ballistic nuclear missiles.

Over the course of 13 days, the crisis brought the Soviet Union and the U.S. dangerously close to nuclear war. A potential conflict was averted when the Kennedy administration reached a deal with the Kremlin for the missiles to be removed from Cuba.

Alex Sundby is a senior editor at CBSNews.com. In addition to editing content, Alex also covers breaking news, writing about crime and severe weather as well as everything from multistate lottery jackpots to the July Fourth hot dog eating contest.

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