Line Description
Fleet
In a second incarnation, American Cruise Lines launched itsfirst 49-passenger coastal ship in 2000, added a sister ship in 2002 and thenin 2004 and 2007 built two larger versions taking 100 passengers. The current fleet was built in the company's ownshipyard in Salisbury, Maryland. The first of two 210-passenger ocean-goingships is under construction in Canada for delivery in 2008.
Itineraries
All current itineraries are centered along the East Coastbetween Maine and Florida. Beginning in 2008, ACL will be offering a one-weekHudson River cruise during the fall foliage season and a full summer of Maine coastal cruises—currently the only cruise line to offer these itineraries. The cruisesare port intensive and provide a shared social experience amongst mostlyAmerican passengers and crew. The ocean-going ships coming online in 2008 willoperate more ambitious itineraries in Eastern Canada, St. Lawrence Valley, Great Lakes and Caribbean under the new brand of Pearl Cruises.
Dining and Decor
ACL offers the largest cabins in the American coastal cruiseindustry and, unique in this market, a good selection of cabins with balconies.The ships have multiple public lounges and provide a complimentary cocktailhour before dinner and wine with dinner.
Programs
The enrichment program is uneven and varies between highlyknowledgeable speakers to generalists that lack depth in the particularcruising region. Local guides in port often make up for the lack of expertiseon board. When the ships are chartered, the museum or affinity group providesspeakers. Entertainment is the occasional storyteller or musician, and as withthe other coastal fleets, there are no casinos, swimming pools, spas, duty-freeshops, or deck sports.
Onboard Experience
Socializing amongst the mostly retired passengers is theglue that makes the one-week cruises work so well. The mostly Americanpassengers, coming as individuals and as part of infinity groups, generallyfill most cruises and return to sample the new itineraries.
Competitors
As a result of the spaciousness and generous amenities,ACL's fares are amongst the highest in the small-ship industry. Competitorsinclude Cruise West, Lindblad and Majestic America Line.
