In May 2026, American Cruise Lines’ (ACL) new American Encore will set sail along the Pacific Northwest’s Columbia and Snake waterways.
The newbuild will mark the company’s seventh vessel in its American Riverboat series and is “designed to be the most spacious riverboat in the world,” according to the brand. The ship will also debut the line’s largest Signature Suite, measuring 1,010 square feet.
“This boat was not designed in a vacuum,” said Charles B. Robertson, president and CEO of ACL. “We compare ourselves to others around the world and ask, ‘How can we beat that?’ I think that we have objectively accomplished this mission with American Encore.”
Design
Regarding passenger density, the next-generation riverboat promises to be more akin to a contemporary yacht than a traditional river cruise ship, while emphasizing modern aesthetics, elevated amenities and overall noise and vibration control.
Altogether, Encore will feature five decks, centered around a four-story, glass-enclosed atrium. Public spaces include a main dining room and a casual cafe, several indoor and outdoor lounges — including one on the top deck — a walking track, a fitness center, a complimentary laundry room and elevator access to every passenger deck.
According to ACL, “world-class amenities [will include] the largest staterooms, highest ceilings, largest gym and most space-per-person in the global river cruise industry.”
Accommodations
The vessel will accommodate 180 guests in all-balcony staterooms and suites, including the standout Signature Suite. Measuring more than 1,000 square feet, ACL claims it will be the biggest suite on any riverboat in the world, featuring 180-degree views from a wraparound veranda, separate living and sleeping areas and a hotel-scale bathroom with a soaking tub and heated floors.
Maiden Itinerary and Growing Fleet
Following its christening, the new riverboat will sail on an inaugural nine-day Columbia & Snake Rivers itinerary, with further details to be released in the coming months.
After Encore’s debut, sister ships American Anthem and American Grace are scheduled to launch on the Columbia and Snake Rivers in 2027 and 2028.
