American Cruise Lines now has 7 new ships in the pipeline

All seven new ships are being built by Chesapeake Shipbuilding

With U.S. river and coastal cruises in growing demand, American Cruise Lines yesterday confirmed that it has seven new ships on order, all scheduled for delivery before the end of 2026. The new ships include six Project Blue series ships and a brand-new American Riverboat.

“The domestic cruise industry is the healthiest it has ever been. Demand for modern river products, new small ships, and unique exploration in the U.S.A. continues to grow,” said Charles B. Robertson, president & CEO of American Cruise Lines. “That demand is powered by destinations brimming with history and ships that provide the best onboard experience in the world.”

Three of the seven new vessels on order are yet to be named, and additional details about each boat will be announced over the summer. The new American Riverboat will be similar to its award-winning sisterships and will feature several new design elements that will continue to raise the standard for the global river cruise community.

The company plans to operate 21 small ships in 2025, and 24 ships in 2026, all exclusively sailing 100% U.S. itineraries along U.S. rivers and coasts. All seven new ships are being built by affiliated company Chesapeake Shipbuilding in Salisbury, Maryland.

Chesapeake Shipbuilding designs and builds steel and aluminum commercial vessels primarily between 100 and 400 feet. The yard has upgraded its production capacity significantly in recent years, by acquiring additional land, building two new hull fabrication buildings and investing in additional automated equipment.