American Encore riverboat passes sea trials

The American Encore riverboat. Credit: American Cruise Lines

American Cruise Lines said its new riverboat, American Encore, has completed sea trials and is underway to the Columbia and Snake rivers in the Pacific Northwest. The vessel is part of the company’s series of modern U.S. riverboats and includes updated onboard amenities, interior design features and new engineering systems.

Following sea trials, American Encore departed Chesapeake Shipbuilding in Maryland, where it was built, and began a monthlong transit to the West Coast. The vessel is traveling along the Eastern Seaboard, will pass through the Caribbean Sea and is expected to transit the Panama Canal anytime now. It will then proceed north along the Pacific Coast to the Columbia River near Astoria, Wash.

American Encore accommodates 180 guests and is designed to offer a smaller-capacity onboard experience. The vessel includes staterooms with private balconies, along with multiple lounges and observation areas intended to provide views from different points throughout the ship.

The vessel includes a Signature Suite measuring more than 1,500 square feet. The suite features a wraparound balcony with outdoor seating and dining space, as well as panoramic views. Interior amenities include a living area with a wet bar, refrigerator and half-bath, along with multiple televisions. The bedroom includes a walk-in closet, seating area and access to the balcony. The bathroom includes heated floors, a soaking tub positioned near windows and a separate water closet.

During the voyage, the vessel is under the command of Capt. Andrew Gillilan, supported by officers and crew, as well as shoreside operations personnel. The crew is monitoring navigation systems and equipment, tracking weather and ocean conditions, and communicating with the company’s operations center in Connecticut.

American Cruise Lines said it has introduced multiple new vessels in recent years as part of a broader fleet expansion in the U.S. river cruise market. The company operates small ships across domestic itineraries and continues to expand infrastructure, including dock and waterfront access, in select regions.

The company operates vessels on the Columbia and Snake rivers and offers itineraries in the Pacific Northwest, including voyages that incorporate visits to nearby national parks. Sailings vary in length and are scheduled throughout the operating season.

American Encore’s inaugural season on the Columbia and Snake rivers is scheduled to begin May 5 and run through mid-November. Additional details on the vessel’s christening and inaugural sailing are expected to be announced.