US coastal and inland waterway cruise ship operator, American Cruise Lines’ (ACL) ’American Liberty’, the company’s third new Coastal Cat, has passed sea trials.
ACL had accepted delivery of the 100-pax small ship from Chesapeake Shipbuilding early.
‘American Liberty’ is the latest ship in the company’s ongoing ’Project Blue’ series of 12 new small ships for US river and coastal cruising.
Several more ships in the series are already under construction, including the fourth Coastal Cat, ’American Legend’, which is due to begin cruising in November, 2024, plus four more ’Patriot Class’ ships.
“’American Liberty’ is the newest ship in our fleet, reflecting our ongoing commitment to building small innovative ships for America’s rivers and coasts,” said Charles Robertson, ACL’s President & CEO.
‘American Liberty’ will sail on her inaugural cruise on 15th August on a roundtrip from Providence, Rhode Island, along the New England Islands itinerary, visiting – New Bedford, Nantucket, & Martha’s Vineyard, MA; and Block Island, Newport, & Bristol, RI.
In addition, she will sail on some of ACL’s exclusive US itineraries along the East Coast throughout 2024 – cruises that blend the luxury of river cruising with the access and adventure of expedition cruising, while visiting only US ports.
‘American Liberty’ follows closely behind the arrival of sisterships, ’American Eagle’ and ’American Glory’ in 2023.
The company operates the only 100% US flagged fleet of riverboats and small cruise ships.
‘American Liberty’ has four decks and has the same catamaran bow as her sisters. She features elegant interior design and private balcony accommodation, including spacious single and double-occupancy staterooms, as well as suites.
She also offers a top deck for viewing, comfortable lounges both inside and out, a main restaurant, casual café, and fitness centre – unusual amenities on a ship of this size, ACL claimed.
