American Cruise Lines Reports Bookings Uptick

American Cruise Lines says it is seeing growing demand across its domestic portfolio of river and coastal cruises, reporting advance bookings for its 2021 season have brought passenger counts more than 25% ahead of the same time last year.

The company cites increased awareness of U.S. cruise options along with guests’ desire to support all-American businesses as the primary reasons for the increase.

The growth is also supported by the company's fleet and itinerary expansions, it said. In the past three years, American has doubled its fleet, to a total of 12 small 100-200 passenger ships operating across the country—all are 100% U.S. flagged. And the Line continues to build new ships each year.

American, which now offers more than 35 itineraries in the U.S., recently released its 2022 and 2023 schedules and announced an aggressive building program that remains on schedule.

“We have been building new small ship styles to suit every taste and we continue to expand our huge collection of curated itineraries, the options are endless with American. And the best part is you don’t have to travel abroad, or fly, to enjoy it all,” said Susan Shultz-Gelino, V.P. of Trade Relations for American.

“People want to travel, and they are beginning to plan experiences for later this year and in the year ahead. American’s modern fleet, unique itineraries, and low passenger counts, allow us to offer amazing domestic options, as folks begin to cruise again. The desire to travel and the American spirit for exploration is alive and well,” said David Luxeder, Director of Marketing for American.