Ambitious New Itinerary
American Cruise Lines has launched its most ambitious itinerary ever, featuring a 61-day extravaganza that will explore 20 states and navigate four of the most notable rivers in the United States.
Details of The Great United States Cruise
The newly introduced cruise, named The Great United States, will commence from Portland, Oregon, in August 2024, spanning across the country from west to east. Highlights of the journey include:
- Visits to national parks and Civil War sites.
- Exploration of rural areas and bustling urban cities.
- A sail on the Columbia and Snake Rivers in the American West.
- A comprehensive cruise on the Mississippi River, covering approximately 1,400 miles from New Orleans to St. Paul, Minnesota.
- A scenic journey along the coast of New England.
The trip will also include land excursions to Idaho, Montana, and Wyoming, complemented by a few connecting flights between ports. Excitingly, the journey will conclude in New York City, with a memorable sail past the Statue of Liberty.
According to Charles B. Robertson, President and CEO of American Cruise Lines, “The Great United States cruise is a fantastic showcase of our country and of the breadth of our offerings. A river cruise of this magnitude has never been executed before in the U.S., and only our company is capable of delivering it effectively.”
Fleets Involved in the Journey
This remarkable journey will involve three of the brand’s 18 ships: American Independence, American Jazz, and American Symphony. Each ship offers unique features that enhance the overall cruising experience. The Jazz operates in the Pacific Northwest with just 99 staterooms, each equipped with private balconies. For the Mississippi leg of the voyage, guests will board the American Symphony, a modern vessel accommodating 180 passengers, which was launched in 2022. The American Independence, comprising 51 cabins, will take guests through Maine and New England, before navigating New York’s Hudson River in October.
Pricing and Inclusions
The fares for this extensive two-month adventure start at $51,060 per person. This all-inclusive price encompasses meals, drinks, onboard activities, entertainment, Wi-Fi, connecting flights, hotel accommodations along the journey, tips for the crew, and port charges.
While this is the longest journey American Cruise Lines has organized, sources within the company indicate that it could be the first of many such ventures. “These long cruises have become tremendously popular,” reveals the source. “We are looking into expanding our offerings further in the future.”