by Sarah Kuta
Last updated: 11:03 AM ET, Wed November 11, 2026
American Cruise Lines has launched its first Arkansas River cruise, opening a new U.S. river cruising destination for the company.
The inaugural nine-day sailing departed November 8 aboard American Serenade, one of the company's Mississippi River vessels. The voyage is among the fastest-selling itineraries American Cruise Lines has introduced, according to the company. Both of its November 2026 departures sold out shortly after they were announced in late 2025.
"American is proud to continue leading the way for U.S. river cruising, opening up more and more of the country each year for authentic explorations along U.S. waterways," says Charles B. Robertson, president and chief executive officer of American Cruise Lines.
Most of the nine-day cruises will operate between Tulsa, Oklahoma, and Little Rock, Arkansas, with stops in Muskogee, Oklahoma; Fort Smith and Van Buren, Arkansas; Dardanelle, Arkansas; and Little Rock. The company will also offer some itineraries between Memphis and Tulsa that include a stop in Little Rock.
Excursions will highlight the region's history and culture, including Art Deco walking tours in Tulsa, a scenic train ride through the Boston Mountains and a musical experience in Muskogee exploring the origins of the song "Okie from Muskogee." In Little Rock, guests will have opportunities to explore the state capital with local guides.
"Local guides offer a firsthand perspective on Little Rock's history, culture and character, creating meaningful connections between visitors and our community,” says Gina Gemberling, president and chief executive officer of the Little Rock Convention & Visitors Bureau. “We're happy to have the opportunity to showcase our destination and all it has to offer."
The company operates the largest fleet of U.S.-flagged riverboats and small ships, according to American Cruise Lines. The Arkansas River itinerary is exclusive to the company.
All 2026 departures are sold out. American Cruise Lines plans to offer six more nine-day Arkansas River cruises in 2027, with two departures in May and four in November. The schedule will expand in 2028, with sailings planned for March, April, May, October, November
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