American Cruise Lines: A Guide to the Best River Cruises in the USA - Carnival Cruise Careers

If you are looking for a unique and memorable way to explore the diverse and scenic regions of the United States, you might want to consider taking a river cruise with American Cruise Lines. American Cruise Lines is a family-owned company that operates a fleet of modern and comfortable ships that sail along the most iconic rivers in the country, such as the Mississippi, the Columbia, the Tennessee, and more. Whether you are interested in history, culture, nature, or cuisine, you will find a river cruise itinerary that suits your preferences and budget. In this article, we will provide you with a comprehensive guide to American Cruise Lines, including their destinations, ships, prices, reviews, and more. We will also answer some of the most frequently asked questions about river cruising in the USA.

What is American Cruise Lines?

American Cruise Lines is a cruise company that specializes in small ship cruising along the inland waterways and coastal regions of the United States. Founded in 1991 by Charles A. Robertson, the company is based in Guilford, Connecticut, and operates 13 ships that can accommodate between 100 and 190 passengers each. The company offers more than 50 itineraries that cover 30 states across the country, ranging from five to 22 days in length. The company is known for its personalized service, spacious accommodations, regional cuisine, onboard entertainment, and complimentary shore excursions.

One of the main advantages of cruising with American Cruise Lines is that their ships are designed to navigate the shallow and narrow waters of the rivers, allowing them to dock at smaller ports and access places that larger vessels cannot reach. This means that you can enjoy a more intimate and authentic experience of the destinations you visit, as well as avoid the crowds and hassles of mass tourism. You can also enjoy panoramic views of the scenery from your private balcony or the ship’s observation decks.

Another benefit of cruising with American Cruise Lines is that they offer themed cruises that cater to different interests and passions. For example, you can choose a cruise that focuses on the history and culture of the Civil War, the Lewis and Clark expedition, or the American Revolution. You can also opt for a cruise that showcases the natural beauty and wildlife of Alaska, New England, or the Pacific Northwest. You can also enjoy special events and celebrations on board, such as Thanksgiving, Christmas, New Year’s Eve, or Mardi Gras.

What are the destinations of American Cruise Lines?

American Cruise Lines offers a variety of destinations across the United States, covering different regions and themes. Here are some of the most popular destinations that you can explore with American Cruise Lines:

Mississippi River

The Mississippi River is one of the most iconic and historic rivers in America, stretching from Minnesota to Louisiana. Cruising along the Mississippi River will take you back in time to the era of Mark Twain, steamboats, plantations, jazz music, and southern charm. You will visit cities such as Memphis, Nashville, New Orleans, St. Louis, Minneapolis, and more. You will also learn about the rich history and culture of the Civil War, Native Americans, African Americans, Cajuns, Creoles, and pioneers.

American Cruise Lines offers several itineraries along the Mississippi River, ranging from eight to 22 days. Some of the highlights include visiting Graceland (Elvis Presley’s home), touring antebellum mansions and gardens, exploring Vicksburg National Military Park (the site of a major Civil War battle), enjoying live music and cuisine in New Orleans’ French Quarter, witnessing wildlife and scenery at Reelfoot Lake State Park (the largest natural lake in Tennessee), and cruising through Hells Canyon (the deepest river gorge in North America).

Columbia and Snake Rivers

The Columbia and Snake Rivers are two of the most scenic and adventurous rivers in America, flowing from Oregon to Idaho. Cruising along these rivers will allow you to follow in the footsteps of Lewis and Clark, who explored this region in their epic expedition across the continent. You will see stunning landscapes such as the Columbia River Gorge (a spectacular canyon carved by glaciers), Mount St. Helens (an active volcano), Multnomah Falls (the tallest waterfall in Oregon), Hells Canyon (the deepest river gorge in North America), and more. You will also learn about the diverse culture and history of Native Americans,

pioneers, fur traders, and settlers. You will also enjoy the local cuisine and wine, as well as the art and music of the region.

American Cruise Lines Prices

American Cruise Lines prices vary depending on the destination, itinerary, ship, cabin category, and season. Generally, the prices range from $2,000 to $10,000 per person, based on double occupancy. The prices include accommodation, meals, snacks, beverages (including beer and wine), shore excursions, onboard entertainment, Wi-Fi, and gratuities. The prices do not include airfare, transfers, travel insurance, or personal expenses.

To give you an idea of the prices of some of the most popular itineraries, here are some examples:

Mississippi River: An eight-day cruise from New Orleans to Memphis on the American Harmony ship costs $4,795 per person for a standard cabin with a private balcony. A 22-day cruise from New Orleans to St. Paul on the American Jazz ship costs $10,995 per person for a standard cabin with a private balcony. Columbia and Snake Rivers: An eight-day cruise from Portland to Clarkston on the American Song ship costs $4,295 per person for a standard cabin with a private balcony. A 11-day cruise from Portland to Spokane on the American Pride ship costs $5,795 per person for a standard cabin with a private balcony. New England: An eight-day cruise from Boston to Portland on the American Constitution ship costs $4,195 per person for a standard cabin with a private balcony. A 11-day cruise from Boston to Montreal on the Independence ship costs $5,695 per person for a standard cabin with a private balcony.

You can find more information about the prices and availability of American Cruise Lines itineraries on their official website or by contacting their reservation agents at 1-800-460-4518.

What are the ships of American Cruise Lines?

American Cruise Lines operates 13 ships that are classified into four categories: modern riverboats, coastal cruise ships, Victorian-style paddlewheelers, and expedition ships. Each ship has its own distinctive features and amenities, but they all share some common characteristics, such as:

They are small and intimate, with a maximum capacity of 190 passengers and a crew-to-guest ratio of 1:3. They are spacious and comfortable, with large staterooms that have private balconies, en-suite bathrooms, flat-screen TVs, and Wi-Fi. They are environmentally friendly, with advanced technology and design that reduce their carbon footprint and fuel consumption. They are American-built, flagged, and crewed, ensuring the highest standards of safety and service.

Here is a brief overview of the four categories of ships that American Cruise Lines offers:

Modern Riverboats

Modern riverboats are the newest and most innovative ships in the fleet, featuring a sleek and contemporary design that blends elegance and comfort. They have five decks that offer panoramic views of the scenery, as well as a grand atrium, a sun deck, a fitness center, a library, a lounge, and a dining room. They also have an elevator that serves all decks, making them accessible for guests with mobility issues. Some of the modern riverboats also have a retractable gangway that allows them to dock at any port without the need for a pier.

There are six modern riverboats in the fleet: American Song, American Harmony, American Jazz, American Melody, American Symphony, and American Serenade. They sail along the Mississippi River, the Columbia and Snake Rivers, and the coastal regions of Alaska and New England.

Coastal Cruise Ships

Coastal cruise ships are the classic and traditional ships in the fleet, featuring a charming and cozy design that reflects the style and culture of the regions they visit. They have four decks that offer scenic views of the coastline, as well as a sun deck, a fitness center, a library, a lounge, and a dining room. They also have an elevator that serves all decks, making them accessible for guests with mobility issues.

There are four coastal cruise ships in the fleet: American Spirit, American Star, American Constellation, and American Constitution. They sail along the coastal regions of Alaska, New England, Chesapeake Bay, Southeast USA, Florida, and Puget Sound.

as the Cruise Critic Editors’ Picks Awards, the World Travel Awards, the Travel Weekly Magellan Awards, and the Condé Nast Traveler Readers’ Choice Awards.

However, American Cruise Lines has also received some negative reviews from its guests, who have complained about its prices, cancellation policies, customer service, ship maintenance, and COVID-19 protocols. Some guests have also reported experiencing delays, disruptions, or cancellations of their cruises due to weather, mechanical issues, or river conditions. Some guests have also filed lawsuits against the company for various reasons, such as breach of contract, negligence, or personal injury.

To get a more balanced and objective view of American Cruise Lines, you can read the reviews of its guests on various online platforms, such as TripAdvisor, Cruise Critic, Trustpilot, and Consumer Affairs. You can also check the ratings and rankings of American Cruise Lines on these platforms, as well as compare them with other cruise companies that offer similar services and destinations.

What is the best river cruise in the USA?

The answer to this question may depend on your personal preferences, budget, and travel goals. However, based on the reviews and ratings of American Cruise Lines and other cruise companies that offer river cruises in the USA, we can suggest some of the best river cruise itineraries that you can choose from. Here are some of them:

Mississippi River: Lower Mississippi Cruise

This is a classic and popular river cruise that takes you from New Orleans to Memphis, or vice versa, along the lower section of the Mississippi River. You will experience the rich and diverse culture and history of the South, from the French Quarter and Bourbon Street in New Orleans, to the Civil War battlefields and antebellum mansions in Vicksburg and Natchez, to the birthplace of blues and rock ‘n’ roll in Memphis. You will also enjoy the southern cuisine, music, and hospitality along the way.

This cruise is offered by American Cruise Lines, American Queen Steamboat Company, Viking River Cruises, and Uniworld Boutique River Cruises. The duration is usually eight days, and the prices start from around $2,000 per person.

Columbia and Snake Rivers: Columbia & Snake Rivers Cruise

This is an adventurous and scenic river cruise that takes you from Portland to Clarkston, or vice versa, along the Columbia and Snake Rivers. You will follow the route of Lewis and Clark, who explored this region in their epic expedition across the continent. You will see stunning landscapes such as the Columbia River Gorge, Mount St. Helens, Multnomah Falls, Hells Canyon, and more. You will also learn about the diverse culture and history of Native Americans, pioneers, fur traders, and settlers. You will also enjoy the local cuisine and wine, as well as the art and music of the region.

This cruise is offered by American Cruise Lines, American Queen Steamboat Company, Lindblad Expeditions, and UnCruise Adventures. The duration is usually eight to 11 days, and the prices start from around $4,000 per person.

New England: Grand New England Cruise

This is a charming and historic river cruise that takes you from Boston to Portland, or vice versa, along the coastal regions of New England. You will experience the beauty and heritage of this region, from the colonial landmarks and museums in Boston, to the picturesque villages and lighthouses in Maine, to the scenic islands and harbors in Massachusetts and Rhode Island. You will also enjoy the fresh seafood, lobster, clam chowder, and other delicacies of New England.

This cruise is offered by American Cruise Lines only. The duration is usually eight to 11 days, and the prices start from around $4,000 per person.

Conclusion

In conclusion, American Cruise Lines is a great option for travelers who want to experience the best river cruises in the USA. The company offers a variety of destinations, ships, prices, and themes that cater to different interests and budgets. The company also provides personalized service, spacious accommodation, regional cuisine, onboard entertainment, and complimentary shore excursions. The company has received mostly positive reviews from its guests, who have enjoyed its service, accommodation, food, entertainment, and shore excursions. However, the company has also received some negative reviews from its guests, who have complained about its prices, cancellation policies, customer service, ship maintenance, and COVID-19 protocols. Therefore, before booking a cruise with American Cruise Lines, it is advisable to do some research and compare it with other cruise companies that offer similar services and destinations.

Questions and Answers

Here are some of the questions that you might have about American Cruise Lines and their answers:

Q: How can I book a cruise with American Cruise Lines?

A: You can book a cruise with American Cruise Lines by visiting their official website or by calling their reservation agents at 1-800-460-4518. You can also book a cruise through a travel agent or an online travel agency.

Q: What is the cancellation policy of American Cruise Lines?

A: The cancellation policy of American Cruise Lines depends on the type of cruise you book and the date of your departure. Generally, the policy is as follows:

If you cancel more than 90 days before your departure date, you will receive a full refund of your deposit and any payments made. If you cancel between 90 and 45 days before your departure date, you will forfeit your deposit and receive a refund of any payments made. If you cancel between 45 and 30 days before your departure date, you will forfeit 50% of your cruise fare and receive a refund of any payments made. If you cancel less than 30 days before your departure date, you will forfeit 100% of your cruise fare and receive no refund.

However, due to the COVID-19 pandemic, American Cruise Lines has introduced a more flexible cancellation policy that allows you to cancel your cruise up to 24 hours before your departure date and receive a full refund or a future cruise credit. This policy applies to cruises departing before December 31, 2023.

Q: What are the COVID-19 protocols of American Cruise Lines?

A: American Cruise Lines has implemented several COVID-19 protocols to ensure the health and safety of its guests and crew. Some of these protocols are:

Requiring all guests and crew to be fully vaccinated against COVID-19 at least 14 days before boarding the ship. Requiring all guests and crew to undergo pre-boarding health screening and testing for COVID-19. Requiring all guests and crew to wear face masks in public areas where social distancing is not possible. Reducing the capacity of the ships to allow for more space and ventilation. Enhancing the cleaning and sanitization of the ships and providing hand sanitizer stations throughout. Modifying the dining and entertainment options to allow for more flexibility and safety. Providing medical staff and equipment on board in case of any emergencies.

You can find more information about the COVID-19 protocols of American Cruise Lines on their official website or by contacting their customer service at 1-800-460-4518.