The cruise industry is experiencing a surge in demand for new ships, from large cruise lines to smaller operators. While big-ship cruise lines like Carnival Cruise Line, Norwegian Cruise Line, and Royal Caribbean International are adding new vessels to their fleets, smaller, 100-passenger ships are also feeling the need to increase capacity. The industry has seen strong demand since emerging from the pandemic, prompting operators to make aggressive moves in building new ships to meet the needs of travelers.
American Cruise Lines, a U.S.-focused, small-ship operator, is at the forefront of this wave of new ship construction. The company has been rapidly growing its lineup of ocean-going ships, with a focus on building coastal catamarans. Last week, the line christened its third new coastal catamaran in just over a year, with a fourth ship set to debut in November. American Cruise Lines has a 12-ship order called Project Blue to build coastal ships at the Maryland shipyard, Chesapeake Shipbuilding. The line plans to introduce two new coastal ships each year, with the goal of expanding its offerings and meeting the growing demand for domestic cruises.
The latest addition to American Cruise Lines’ fleet is the American Liberty, a 100-passenger ship that will sail New England Islands cruises into September. The ship will then transition to a mix of East Coast itineraries, including fall foliage cruises roundtrip from New York City and sailings further south between Charleston, S.C., and Amelia Island, Fla. The American Legend, the fourth coastal catamaran expected to join the fleet in November, will sail Florida Gulf Coast & Keys Cruises, catering to the high demand for this itinerary. The line plans to add two more ships in 2025, the American Patriot and the American Pioneer, as part of the Patriot class, offering larger cabins and more deck space for passengers to enjoy.
American Cruise Lines President and CEO, Charles Robertson, has expressed excitement about the growth of the domestic cruise industry, noting the increasing demand for modern river products, new small ships, and unique exploration opportunities in the United States. The company’s strategy of expanding its fleet to meet this demand has proven successful, with plans to continue adding new coastal ships in the coming years. Despite the challenges faced by the industry during the pandemic, American Cruise Lines remains optimistic about the future and is committed to providing exceptional experiences for travelers.
The cruise industry is in the midst of a new wave of ship construction, with operators like American Cruise Lines leading the way in expanding their fleets to meet the growing demand for domestic cruises. As travelers seek unique and immersive experiences closer to home, cruise companies are investing in new ships and innovative itineraries to capture this market. With the industry poised for continued growth, the future looks bright for cruise enthusiasts looking to explore the open seas aboard these new vessels.