ACL-American Cruise Lines Announces Exciting Domestic Great Lakes Voyages Launching in 2026

American Cruise Lines (ACL) has revealed plans to launch three new itineraries on the U.S. Great Lakes for the 2026 season. These voyages will take place from May to August aboard the American Patriot, a new ship that accommodates 125 passengers across 56 staterooms.

This initiative marks the first instance in decades where an American-flagged vessel will operate fully domestic routes in the Great Lakes. By entirely avoiding international borders, ACL can visit smaller towns, marinas, and city parks, a significant advantage over foreign-flagged ships that must dock at designated international ports.

According to ACL’s President, Charles B. Robertson, the demand for Great Lakes cruises has remained strong within their established small-ship format, and the American Patriot is tailored for this purpose.

The itineraries consist of:

1. A 9-day journey between Syracuse, New York, and Cleveland, Ohio, which will include stops at the Thousand Islands, the St. Lawrence River, and Niagara Falls, alongside features highlighting regional culture and history.

2. Another 9-day itinerary will be a round trip departing from Milwaukee, Wisconsin, exploring Lake Michigan and the Upper Peninsula of Michigan, with visits to the Fayette Historic Townsite, Escanaba, Green Bay, and Muskegon.

3. A 14-day American Great Lakes itinerary spanning 800 miles through Lakes Erie, Huron, and Michigan, connecting Cleveland and Milwaukee, and featuring ports such as Detroit, Alpena, the Soo Locks, Mackinac Island, and Holland, Michigan.

Each cruise package includes a complimentary pre-cruise hotel stay and domestic airfare. Amenities onboard will feature a main dining area with panoramic views, a casual café, various lounges, fitness facilities, and outside staterooms complete with private balconies. The all-inclusive fare will cover dining, cocktails, Wi-Fi, gratuities, guided excursions, and enrichment programs.

The 2026 launch is part of ACL’s broader strategy to expand its selection of fully domestic cruise options, building on its 50-year legacy of U.S. river cruising.

Set sail on a voyage of discovery with CruiseShip.net – your ultimate destination for all things cruising! Explore the latest news, insightful reviews, and thrilling cruising adventures from around the globe. Whether you’re a seasoned cruiser or a first-time traveler, CruiseShip.net is your go-to source for expert advice, insider tips, and inspiring stories to fuel your wanderlust. Embark on a journey like no other with CruiseShip.net – where every wave brings new excitement and endless possibilities on the high seas.