American Cruise Lines Celebrates the Christening of American Patriot in Newport, Rhode Island

ACL-American Cruise Lines has officially launched its newest small ship, American Patriot, in Newport, Rhode Island, coinciding with the nation’s upcoming 250th anniversary celebration on July 4, 2025.

This inaugural vessel of the Patriot Class is part of a series of four 130-passenger coastal ships, which also includes its sister ships: American Pioneer, American Maverick, and American Ranger, set to be introduced between late 2025 and 2026.

The christening ceremony brought together a diverse group of cruise passengers, local residents, Sail Newport officials, and American Cruise Lines’ leadership and crew. Company president and CEO Charles B. Robertson, alongside godmother Susan Daly of Sail Newport and co-founder Carol Robertson, addressed attendees before the ritual culminated with the traditional breaking of a champagne bottle on the top deck. A New England lobster bake followed at Fort Adams State Park.

American Patriot, measuring 243 ft (74 m) in length and built by Chesapeake Shipbuilding, can accommodate 130 guests in its 56 staterooms across four decks, with all accommodations providing private step-out balconies. Public spaces on the ship include a chart room and several lounges, including an upper-deck lounge with a walking track, dining venues, and fitness facilities. The ship can reach speeds of approximately 18 knots and represents an investment of $40 million in American-built, domestically-flagged vessels.

The christening also marks the start of the Extended Cruises initiative, specially designed for America’s semiquincentennial anniversary. These itineraries, some exceeding 50 days, will navigate through historic and scenic waterways from Alaska to Florida’s Keys, with both American Patriot and American Pioneer set to feature prominently in this selection of voyages throughout 2026.

With American Patriot now in service, American Cruise Lines reinforces its commitment to delivering coastal and river cruising experiences that highlight the country’s heritage. The new Patriot Class aims to provide intimate, all-American voyages, paving the way for future ships and celebrating the maritime tradition entwined with the nation’s evolving story.

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