ACL-American Cruise Lines Announces Fleet Expansion Plans: 10 New Ships by 2028

American Cruise Lines has announced an ambitious plan to expand its fleet by introducing ten new vessels by 2028, aimed at the U.S. cruising market.

The first of these ships, the American Pioneer, began operations in Florida on October 31, 2025. This vessel is the second ship in the Patriot Class that has been launched this year. The remaining ships in this expansion are set for phased deliveries over the next three years, showcasing the company’s commitment to enhancing coastal and inland cruising experiences.

The new ships will exclusively navigate U.S. waters, bolstering current routes on the Mississippi River, in Alaska, and along the East Coast, while also paving the way for possible expansions into areas like the Great Lakes, the Arkansas River, and various National Park itineraries.

The company disclosed that a new ship will be introduced approximately every four months as part of its fleet growth strategy. The design plans include five more Modern American Riverboats and four additional Patriot Class vessels from the Project Blue series. The earlier ships from this class include four "Coastal Cats" and the first Patriot Class ship, the American Patriot, which was delivered in June 2025.

The upcoming Patriot Class ships include the American Maverick, American Ranger, American Mariner, and American Navigator, with delivery schedules stretching from 2026 to 2027. Each vessel will accommodate about 130 guests across five decks, featuring various stateroom options, private balconies, and several onboard amenities like a top-deck observation lounge, walking track, fitness center, and multiple dining venues.

Additionally, ACL is enhancing its Modern American Riverboat™ series—which had its inaugural ship, the American Song, launched in 2018. The series will soon see the introduction of the American Encore, scheduled to start operations in May 2026, and will accommodate 180 guests with features such as a glass atrium and balcony staterooms. Following it, two more sister ships, American Anthem and American Grace, are expected to follow in 2027 and 2028, with an additional two unnamed riverboats expected in 2028.

By the end of 2028, ACL aims to expand its fleet to a total of 30 vessels, and they’ve already opened bookings for all new itineraries through that year, showcasing their extensive domestic cruise network.

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