Chesapeake Shipbuilding launches American Melody

The vessel was launched into the Wicomico River at the yard in Salisbury, Maryland.  

Destined for the Mississippi in 2021

American Cruise Lines said American Melody is on schedule for its inaugural Mississippi River cruise season beginning in summer 2021.

Once complete, the five-deck vessel will have accommodations with private balconies for 175 passengers in 91 staterooms, including solo-occupancy rooms. Like other vessels in the series, American Melody will feature a multi-story glass atrium and a patented opening bow and retractable gangway.

Interiors by Studio DADO

It will be the line's first to feature interior design by Studio DADO, known for its work on oceangoing cruise ships.

Facilities include a casual outdoor café as well as a Grand Dining Room with river views from every table, spacious lounges, several open-air and shaded sun decks, a library, chart room, game room, fitness room and yoga/wellness studio, along with elevator access to all decks.

On the Mississippi, American Melody will join American Jazz, the line's third modern-style riverboat, delivered this year but yet to enter service due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

More to come

A fifth vessel in the modern series is set for 2022. American Cruise Lines said it plans to continue introducing one to two modern-style riverboats each year ahead.