American Cruise Lines contracts two more modern riverboats

These will be the fifth and sixth in American's modern riverboat series, first introduced in 2018.

The to-be-named vessels will follow the 2021 debuts of American Jazz and American Melody on the Mississippi River.

Fleet doubled since 2017

American has more than doubled in size since 2017. Including the vessels announced today, the fleet will number 15: five small coastal ships, four classic paddlewheelers and six modern riverboats.

Plans for new coastal ships, too

In addition to the modern riverboats, American said it plans to continue building for its coastal itineraries.

'American’s two newbuilds are welcome news for the industry here at home. They closely follow the two riverboats we are introducing this year and demonstrate our ongoing commitment to growth and leading the US small ship market,' said Charles B. Robertson, president & CEO of American. 'While the pace of our newbuilds is increasing, we are committed to maintaining the small capacity of our ships, which continue to accommodate just 100 to 190 passengers. This distinction across our fleet truly enables us to deliver the personalized and sophisticated experience our guests have come to expect.'

Sisters of American Melody

American’s fifth and sixth modern riverboats will be sisters of the 175-passenger American Melody, beginning operations on the Mississippi this August. American Melody will showcase the line’s newest interior design concept created by Studio DADO of Miami.

New Skywalk

American Melody and the 2022 builds will also highlight new architectural elements, including a fifth deck Skywalk, a walking track cantilevered above the fourth deck, and an elliptical cutout above the riverboat’s outdoor café and lounge named Ellipse Café.

The modern-style riverboats also offer 100% private balcony staterooms, roomy suites, and five spacious decks with sky-lit atriums, grand dining rooms, indoor and outdoor lounges, and the line’s largest fitness studios.