What “All-American” Means
Proudly an all-American family company, American Cruise Lines sails solely within the United States on ships designed and built in U.S. shipyards. We travel America’s original roads and share its history from the vantage point of so many who have come before us.
Our cruises reflect the places we call home, shaped by 100% American ownership and an entirely American crew. Our dedicated crewmembers bring each voyage to life with genuine pride, local knowledge, and a shared curiosity for exploring our country’s rivers and coastlines.
U.S.-Built, U.S.-Flagged, U.S.-Crewed
American Cruise Lines builds every ship entirely in the United States, beginning with in-house naval architects and marine engineers at Chesapeake Shipbuilding in Maryland who design each vessel for its specific region. From Alabama and Pennsylvania mills to American makers like Caterpillar, John Deere, and Cummins, U.S. steel, engines, and components are crafted into finished ships by skilled American shipbuilders.
Once launched, each vessel is U.S.-registered and proudly flies the American flag, unlike many foreign-flagged competitors. Every sailing is 100% crewed by Americans. Many have grown their careers with us for years, while others have joined recently in search of adventure. Together, they create an authentic, welcoming experience that celebrates the spirit of American travel at its best.
From ship to shore, we are fully all-American.
America-Only Itineraries Across 35 States
Sailing exclusively within the United States, American Cruise Lines visits more than 150 domestic ports each year, exploring the full breadth of America’s rivers and coastlines. With more U.S. river cruises than any other line, we journey along the Mississippi, Ohio, Tennessee, Cumberland, and Hudson Rivers, drift through the Arkansas heartland, and discover the historic Potomac.
Beyond the rivers, our ships explore the scenic shores of New England, Florida’s sun-drenched coast, the historic Chesapeake Bay, and the majestic Pacific Northwest.
Operating more than 25 ships across 35 states, we offer unmatched national reach—all delivered with personalized service, hospitality, and a passion for showcasing the beauty of our country.
Family-Owned and Operated in the U.S.
For over 50 years, American Cruise Lines has been exploring our great country.
Founded in 1972 by shipbuilder Charles A. Robertson (1947–2020) and his wife Carol, the company began with a mission to design and build American-made cruise ships. In the late 1970s, they established Chesapeake Shipbuilding in Salisbury, MD, creating vessels that set a new standard in small-ship cruising.
Over the decades, American Cruise Lines has pioneered new routes, introduced innovative ship technologies, and grown into a leader in U.S. river and coastal cruising. Today, the Robertson children continue the family legacy, operating corporate headquarters in Connecticut. Under President and CEO Charlie B. Robertson and his two brothers, American Cruise Lines remains the only cruise line that is fully American-owned, designed, built, and operated.
Why It Matters to Our Guests
Being an all-American company matters to our guests because it adds meaningful value to their journey. Traveling with American Cruise Lines supports American jobs, from the shipbuilders crafting our vessels to the crewmembers who welcome guests aboard. Sailing solely within the U.S. also provides a heightened sense of security and familiarity, with clear regulations, trusted standards, and seamless logistics.
Accessibility is easier, too, with no passports required and convenient travel to ports across the country. Cruising domestically also benefits the communities we visit, providing economic support to local businesses and helping sustain the unique towns and regions our guests explore. Above all, guests take pride in exploring the beauty of their own nation, discovering communities, landscapes, and stories that reflect the rich heritage of America.
Experience a Truly All-American Cruise
Whether you’re planning your first trip or your next adventure, learn why American Cruise Lines stands above the rest in domestic travel. We invite you to request a brochure to see detailed cruise options, our fleet of new ships, and the all-American experience awaiting you.
Request A Free Cruise Guide
Our cruise guide provides an in-depth look at the amazing U.S. ports and destinations we visit, our modern fleet of riverboats, excursions and adventures on shore, our onboard amenities and personalized services, and more.
Request Free Cruise Guide
