American Cruise Lines christened their newest ship American Patriot in Newport, Rhode Island.
The event marked the debut of the line’s new Patriot Class. These are ships designed exclusively for cruising the USA.
American Patriot is the first in the new class. American Pioneer, American Maverick, and American Ranger will be launched by 2026.
The christening ceremony took place onboard and at Fort Adams State Park, just steps from the ship’s berth. Guests, local officials, Sail Newport members, and American Cruise Lines executives attended the celebration.
Ship’s godmother
The ship’s godmother, Susan Daly, president of Sail Newport, joined CEO Charles B. Robertson and co-founder Carol Robertson at the event. Guests witnessed the traditional bottle smash on the ship’s top deck, followed by a lobster bake picnic ashore.
American Patriot accommodates 130 guests and features private balcony staterooms, spacious lounges, and a fitness centre. It also includes a top-deck lounge with a walking track, a café, chart room, and full-service restaurant.
New Patriot Class ships include advanced features not typically seen on vessels of this size. American Cruise Lines now operates 25 small ships across U.S. rivers, coastlines, and inland waterways.
Major fleet expansion
American Cruise Lines is the largest U.S. river cruise line and offers luxury itineraries in 35 states. All ships in the fleet are U.S.-built, U.S.-flagged, and sail exclusively within the country.
The launch of American Patriot is part of a major fleet expansion ahead of America’s 250th birthday in 2026. New 50-day-plus itineraries will explore the nation’s waterways from Alaska to the Florida Keys. American Patriot and American Pioneer will sail many of these commemorative cruises throughout 2026.
With a history spanning 50 years, American Cruise Lines continues to deliver curated all-American travel experiences. Its mission is to help guests discover and re-discover the USA from the water.