My favorite way to see the world is by water – and the United States is no exception. From historic rivers to scenic coastlines, there’s something special about seeing both familiar and new places from the water.

American Cruise Lines makes it easy to do just that. With small, American-built and crewed ships, and itineraries that stretch across 35 states, they offer a comfortable, close-to-home way to explore parts of the country you might not have seen before. Whether you’re new to river cruising or just looking for a new adventure, here are 10 things you might not know about American Cruise Lines.

1. They Don’t Just Sail the Mississippi

When people think of American river cruising, the Mississippi River is usually the first thing that comes to mind. And while it’s certainly one of the most iconic waterways American sails, it’s far from the only option. Now, ACL does also specialize in Mississippi River cruises, offering 5 riverboats there (a mix of classic paddlewheelers and new modern riverboats, but more on that below) and over 12 itineraries on the Mighty-Miss, plus cruises on Mississippi tributaries the Ohio, Tennessee and Cumberland Rivers.

American Cruise Lines offers river cruise itineraries across the country, from the Columbia and Snake Rivers in the Pacific Northwest to the Hudson River in New York. They even offer small-ship river cruises that never leave Florida – weeklong or 16-day journeys that showcase the Sunshine State’s rivers, lakes and coastal beauty. 

It’s a good reminder that you don’t have to travel far to experience something extraordinary. Sometimes, the best surprises are waiting in our own backyards.

2. One Cruise Line, Many Ship Styles

American Cruise Lines isn’t a one-size-fits-all cruise line and their fleet reflects that. Depending on where you’re sailing, you could find yourself aboard a modern riverboat, a traditional paddlewheeler, or one of their new coastal catamarans, or “cats” as they call them.

This variety isn’t just for looks. Different regions call for different kinds of ships, and American designs each one specifically for the waterways it sails. Whether you’re cruising the winding rivers of the South or the protected waters of the Atlantic coast, their small 90 to 180 passenger ships are built for the experience.

3. They’re 100% American-Flagged

All of American Cruise Lines’ ships are built, crewed and registered in the United States, a distinction that very few cruise lines can claim.

Beyond the technical side of maritime law, this matters for the experience. You’ll sail with an all-American crew who know the destinations inside and out, and because the ships are U.S.-flagged, they can operate entirely within American waters without needing to make foreign port stops. It’s just another way American keeps the focus on the landscapes, history and culture of the United States.

4. You Can Cruise Year-Round

River cruising with American Cruise Lines isn’t confined to a single season. With a diverse array of itineraries across the country, there’s an opportunity to set sail almost any time of year.

For instance, the Mississippi River season kicks off in late February, offering early-year explorations of America’s heartland. Meanwhile, Florida-based cruises, such as the Great Rivers of Florida itinerary, provide warm-weather escapes during the cooler months. In the summer, voyages along the Columbia and Snake Rivers showcase the Pacific Northwest’s natural beauty. And in Summer and Fall you can explore up the Hudson River with American between NYC and Albany.

No matter the season, American Cruise Lines offers a journey tailored to your preferred time of travel.

5. They’re Going Big for America’s 250th Birthday

In 2026, the United States will celebrate its 250th birthday and American Cruise Lines is marking the occasion in a big way. They’ve announced a series of new Extended Cruises, offering some of the longest river journeys ever available in the United States.

• The Great United States Cruise (52 days), sailing from Portland, Oregon to Boston, Massachusetts, from May 29 to July 19, 2026, visiting 18 states, three national parks and both coasts with a special Fourth of July celebration in Boston.
• Spring Across America (51 days), running April 3 to May 23, 2026, from Charleston, South Carolina to Juneau, Alaska, combining the Atlantic coast, the Lower Mississippi, the Columbia and Snake Rivers and Glacier Bay National Park.
• The Great American Fall Foliage Cruise (55 days), departing Juneau on September 5 and arriving in Washington, D.C. on October 29, 2026, showcasing Alaska’s waterways, the Columbia and Snake Rivers, the Upper Mississippi and the colorful New England coast before concluding in the nation’s capital.
• The Civil War Battlefields Cruise (36 days), sailing from New Orleans to Gettysburg from May 5 to June 9, 2026, tracing the path of pivotal Civil War sites including Fort Sumter, Vicksburg and Antietam.

These new sailings build on the success of American’s first Great United States Cruise, which debuted in 2024.

6. Family-Owned, Not Corporate-Owned

American Cruise Lines has been family-owned and operated since its founding in 1972 by Charles A. Robertson and his wife Carol Robertson. What started as a small sightseeing operation on the Connecticut River has grown into the largest domestic cruise line in the United States. Today, the company is led by his son, Charles B. Robertson, who continues to uphold the family’s commitment to American-built ships and 100% all U.S. itineraries.

Staying family-owned means decisions are made in-house, not in a corporate boardroom, allowing American to focus on small ships and carefully crafted itineraries that highlight the country’s history and culture. The company also has an affiliated shipyard, in Chesapeake, Maryland, where all their small ship and riverboats are built.

7. Yes, It’s Actually All-Inclusive

One of the biggest differences you’ll notice with American Cruise Lines is how much is already included in the fare. Daily excursions, beverages, Wi-Fi and gratuities are all part of the package (with a few premium excursions available for an additional cost).

There are no surprise add-ons or upsells – what you see is what you get, making it easier to relax and focus on the journey. You can’t spend money on board the ships. It’s one of the many ways American keeps the experience easy, comfortable and truly all about the destination. 

8. They Reach 35 U.S. States

American Cruise Lines isn’t just about the big, famous rivers. Their ships visit more than 35 states across the country. Whether you’re drawn to the vibrant culture of the Southeast, the rugged beauty of Alaska, or the charming towns along the Hudson River, there’s likely an itinerary that aligns with your interests. 

From the coast of Maine to the Gulf of Mexico, and from the Pacific Northwest to the Potomac River, American’s itineraries showcase the incredible variety of landscapes, cities and small towns that define the United States.

9. They’ve Been Growing Fast

While some cruise lines have focused on international expansion, American Cruise Lines has been steadily building up its U.S. fleet and itineraries. In just the past few years, they’ve introduced a series of modern riverboats, coastal catamarans and other new small ships, expanding their fleet and the range of destinations they can serve.

Today, American operates the largest fleet of U.S.-built small ships in the world, and they’re continuing to grow, with more new vessels and itineraries planned for the next few years.

10. No Crowds: Ships Carry 90–180 Guests Max

American Cruise Lines’ ships are intentionally small, each carrying between 90 and 180 guests. Even their largest vessels are a fraction of the size of traditional ocean ships, and many other riverboats, offering a quieter, more personal experience.

The smaller size not only means more space per guest, but also easier access to ports, smoother embarkation days and a relaxed onboard atmosphere where staff can quickly learn your name.

Whether you’re new to river cruising or looking for a different way to see the country, American Cruise Lines offers an experience that feels both familiar and unexpected. With new small ships, thoughtfully crafted itineraries and a focus on America’s waterways, cultures and history, they make it easy to explore closer to home in a way that feels a world away.