ACL-Ambitious Plans: American Cruise Lines to Launch Domestic Great Lakes Voyages in 2026

American Cruise Lines has unveiled plans to launch three new itineraries on the US Great Lakes for the 2026 season. The voyages will operate from May to August aboard the American Patriot, the first ship in the PATRIOT series, which will accommodate 125 passengers across 56 staterooms.

This initiative marks a significant development, as it will be the first time in decades that a USA-flagged ship will conduct domestic itineraries solely within the Great Lakes. By avoiding international borders, American Cruise Lines will have the unique opportunity to dock at smaller towns, marinas, and city parks—offering experiences that foreign-flagged ships cannot provide.

Charles B. Robertson, President of American Cruise Lines, highlighted the steady demand for Great Lakes cruising in their small-ship format. The American Patriot has been designed specifically to cater to this growing market.

The three itineraries include:

1. A 9-day route between Syracuse, New York, and Cleveland, Ohio, traversing through the Thousand Islands, the St. Lawrence River, and Niagara Falls.
2. A round-trip 9-day itinerary from Milwaukee, Wisconsin, focusing on Lake Michigan and the Upper Peninsula of Michigan, with stops in Fayette Historic Townsite, Escanaba, Green Bay, and Muskegon.
3. A comprehensive 14-day American Great Lakes itinerary covering 800 miles across Lakes Erie, Huron, and Michigan, with pivotal stops in Detroit, Alpena, the Soo Locks, Mackinac Island, and Holland, Michigan.

Each itinerary will include a pre-cruise hotel stay and complimentary domestic airfare. Onboard, passengers can enjoy a main restaurant with panoramic views, casual café, multiple lounges including a top deck lounge, fitness facilities, laundry services, and elevators to all decks. All accommodations are outside staterooms featuring private balconies, with options for suites and singles.

The 2026 launch is a part of American Cruise Lines’ broader strategy to expand fully domestic cruises, building on their 50-year heritage in U.S. river operations. The company assures that their fares will encompass dining, cocktails, Wi-Fi, gratuities, guided excursions, and enrichment programs, aligning with their all-inclusive cruise model.

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