American Cruise Lines Building New Coastal Ships, American Maverick and American Ranger

American Cruise Lines is building two new coastal ships: American Maverick and American Ranger.

The two Patriot Class vessels, which will each be able to accommodate 125 passengers, are scheduled to debut in 2026. They’ll launch on the heels of several other newships, including American Patriot, American Pioneer and American Encore.

American Maverick and American Ranger are the latest vessels to be constructed within the cruise line’s Project Blue series, following behind the recently announced American Patriot and American Pioneer. The initiative began with four new 100-passenger Coastal Cats, which were introduced in 2023 and 2024.

In total, Project Blue includes 12 small ships for the U.S. market. They’re all being built by Chesapeake Shipbuilding in Salisbury, Maryland.

When they debut in 2026, American Maverick and American Ranger will sail along the Eastern Seaboard. Each vessel will boast five decks and 100 percent private balcony accommodations; the fourth floor will also have all-suite accommodations that range from 420 to 620 square feet. Guests will be able to choose from 56 total staterooms, with options for single and double occupancy.

The fifth deck will feature the Sky Lounge, which will offer panoramic views, comfortable lounge seating, a walking track and a casual outdoor eatery called Back Porch Café. The ships will also have indoor fitness centers, a main lounge and restaurant on the first deck, a Bow Terrace and Horizon Lounge on deck three and other features.

Once the two new ships officially join the fleet, American Cruise Lines will have 24 small ships sailing on rivers and coasts around the country.

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