A Glimpse of Two American Cruise Line Ships

Oct 12

Written By: Travel Advisor, Greta Ramage

Growing up near the Mississippi and Ohio Rivers, I often saw cruise ships in port or cruising down our local rivers or lakes. These beautiful ships have always intrigued me and I was honored to recently tour two American Cruise Line vessels. Both included the Music Cities Itinerary which is a 9-Day Sailing along the Mississippi River, Ohio River, Lake Barkley, and the Cumberland River.

First, I met the American Symphony while she was docked in Grand Rivers, Kentucky for a guided tour. This modern riverboat offers spacious staterooms - the largest of any riverboat in the world! In the center of the ship guests will find a grand multi-story atrium with beautiful artwork. While cruising down the river to their next destination, guests can enjoy one of the many lounges, a game room, a fitness center, and dining in the Restaurant or Back Porch Café. On the 5th Deck, guests will enjoy amazing views while playing a game of shuffleboard, sunning, or on the walking track.

For my second tour, I met the American Splendor in Paducah, Kentucky. This ship is a paddlewheeler, one of only four in the fleet, and invokes nostalgia while also providing upscale comfort and amenities. Large staterooms with balconies and beautiful gathering spaces for guests make for a tranquil voyage down the river. Guests can enjoy a putting green on the top deck with amazing views, a fitness center, several lounges for gathering and snacks, and dining in the Restaurant or River Lounge. On the 2nd deck, guests can get a great view of the paddlewheel in action while cruising down the river.

American Cruise Line vessels are constructed in Maryland at Chesapeake Shipbuilding. Each is equipped with state-of-the-art navigation technology, top safety equipment, and beautiful features. The company celebrates “the small ship advantage”: small ships fit in port, the newest ships, the largest staterooms, and the most itinerary options ranging from 8 to 52 Days!

Itineraries include Mississippi, Pacific Northwest, Columbia & Snake Rivers, Southeast, and New England. New itineraries for 2026 and 2027 will offer the Gulf Coast, Oklahoma & Arkansas, and Great Smoky Mountains.

As the United States commemorates the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence in 2026, American Cruise Line will celebrate on many itineraries with special community events, commemorative gifts, and themed onboard programs.

American Cruise Line is the perfect choice for travelers wanting to explore New England, the Southeast, the Pacific Northwest, or the Mighty Mississippi on a smaller ship including itineraries with local historians and amazing shore excursions.