American Cruise Lines Riverboats
The line that has built the most new riverboats for America’s rivers.
Get Free Luxury River Cruise QuotesA Fleet Built for U.S. Rivers
American Cruise Lines has invested heavily in new riverboats for American waters, producing a series of modern designs with private balconies and large lounges. American Melody, launched on the Mississippi in 2021, carries 175 guests and has balconies on every cabin, and the line’s Columbia and Snake riverboats are all-outside with private balconies.
| River | Example cruises |
|---|---|
| Mississippi | Itineraries from about 8 to 22 days, including the complete river |
| Mississippi, Ohio & Cumberland | Music Cities between Memphis and Nashville, about 8 nights |
| Columbia & Snake | Classic 9-day cruise, shorter highlights, and longer voyages up to a 16-day Grand Columbia & Snake |
| Hudson | Limited fall cruises round trip from New York |
What the Fare Includes
- At least one guided shore excursion in every port, according to the line.
- Wine and beer with lunch and dinner, and an evening cocktail hour.
- Wi-Fi, according to the line.
- Taxes, optional excursions, insurance and gratuities are typically extra.
For more on cruise safety on rivers, see River Cruising Is Safe; for new ships coming, New Cruises.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long are American Cruise Lines river cruises?
Most are about a week, with shorter highlights cruises and longer voyages such as the complete Mississippi and the 16-day Grand Columbia & Snake Rivers cruise.
Do American Cruise Lines riverboats have balconies?
On its modern riverboats, many or all cabins have private balconies; American Melody has balconies on every cabin.
Where does American Cruise Lines sail on rivers?
The Mississippi, the Ohio and Cumberland (including Memphis–Nashville cruises), the Columbia and Snake in the Pacific Northwest, and a limited fall Hudson program from New York. It also runs coastal cruises.
Are American Cruise Lines riverboats small?
By ocean standards, yes — American Melody, for example, carries 175 guests — which keeps the atmosphere relaxed and boarding quick.
Choosing an American Cruise Lines Itinerary
Because American Cruise Lines sails so many U.S. rivers, the first decision is the region. The Lower Mississippi from New Orleans suits travelers drawn to Southern history, plantation houses and food; the Upper Mississippi suits lovers of quiet river towns and autumn colour; the Music Cities route links the blues of Memphis with the country music of Nashville; and the Columbia and Snake cruises follow the trail of Lewis and Clark through the Pacific Northwest. The fall Hudson program is the shortest trip from the Northeast’s big cities.
- Ask which riverboat sails your date — the modern riverboats and the paddle-wheel-style boats feel different.
- Compare balcony categories; on the newest boats, balconies are standard.
- Check whether a pre-cruise hotel package is offered for your itinerary.
- Longer voyages, like the full Mississippi or the 16-day Columbia and Snake, sell fewer cabins; book early.
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Our cruise advisors at Mister Cruise will compare American Cruise Lines itineraries and cabins for your dates.
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