ACL’s Newest Vessel, American Encore, Set to Launch Columbia and Snake River Cruises in 2026
American Cruise Lines (ACL) has announced that its newest riverboat, the American Encore, is set to launch in May 2026. This vessel will begin its inaugural season exploring the Columbia and Snake Rivers.
The American Encore is part of ACL’s next generation of US-built riverboats, emphasizing spacious interiors and modern amenities. It is designed to offer a passenger experience similar to that of small yachts or ships, with a lower passenger density than traditional river cruise vessels.
The ship will feature five decks and accommodate up to 180 guests, all in staterooms equipped with private balconies. Among its standout architectural elements is a four-story glass atrium that will enhance natural light in public areas.
A new category of accommodation, the Signature Suite, will debut on the American Encore. Measuring over 1,000 square feet, it will be the largest suite on any riverboat, featuring a wraparound balcony, separate living and sleeping quarters, and a full bathroom with a soaking tub and heated floors.
The vessel’s public spaces will include a formal dining room, a casual café, multiple lounges, an outdoor top-deck lounge with a walking track, a spacious fitness center, self-service laundry facilities, and elevators to access all decks.
American Encore continues the evolution of ACL’s Modern American Riverboat series, following the introduction of American Song in 2018. ACL also plans to launch two sister ships, American Anthem and American Grace, for the Columbia and Snake Rivers in 2027 and 2028.
Details regarding the ship’s christening and its inaugural nine-day itinerary along the Columbia and Snake Rivers will be released closer to the operational start date. Bookings for the American Encore and other recent additions to the fleet are currently open through the 2028 season.
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At CruiseShip.net, our editorial team is made up of passionate travelers, seasoned cruisers, and maritime industry enthusiasts who live and breathe life at sea. From the latest ship launches and destination spotlights to detailed reviews and onboard tips, we are dedicated to helping readers discover the joy of cruising. Our mission is to make every article both inspiring and useful, whether you are planning your first voyage or your fiftieth. We research, fact-check, and collaborate with cruise insiders around the world to bring you accurate, up-to-date, and exciting coverage of the global cruise industry. Join us as we chart new horizons, exploring one port, one ship, and one unforgettable experience at a time.
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