American Cruise Lines has announced its plans to construct a new fleet of modern riverboats, which will add a new dimension to river cruising in the U.S. and a wide selection of new river itineraries throughout the country.
The concept for the new riverboats will differ from that of the line’s existing paddle-wheelers and coastal ships by offering a more current approach to design. Onboard features will be similar to those on seagoing ships and will cater to today’s cruiser.
Contemporary exteriors and spacious, elegant interiors are in the plans. American Cruise Line’s new riverboats will have open deck plans to allow for maximum exposure of natural light and unobstructed viewing for guests. Other features include glass-enclosed lounges with panoramic views; spacious staterooms with large, furnished balconies; and a variety of outdoor public spaces.
The new fleet of modern riverboats are in addition to the Victorian-style ships American Cruise Lines is currently building. These include the American Eagle, a new paddle-wheeler for the Mississippi River, which is nearing completion at Chesapeake Shipbuilding in Salisbury, Md. The 150-guest American Eagle debuts on April 11 out of New Orleans; it will primarily sail between New Orleans and Memphis on the Lower Mississippi River.
American Cruise Lines presently operates six ships throughout the U.S., including the East Coast (from Maine to Florida); the Mississippi River; the Columbia and Snake Rivers; and Alaska.
The Details
American Cruise Lineswww.americancruise.com