In a move that reaffirms its dominance in U.S. domestic cruising, American Cruise Lines has announced the addition of two new 125-passenger ships, American Maverick and American Ranger, slated to set sail in 2026. These latest vessels significantly expand the company’s innovative Project Blue series, which is dedicated to creating intimate, small-ship cruising experiences along America’s rivers and coastlines.
Project Blue’s Ongoing Success
The American Maverick and American Ranger will be the seventh and eighth vessels in the Project Blue series, following closely behind the 2025 American Patriot and American Pioneer launches. These two new ships will join a fleet with four coastal catamarans launched in 2023 and 2024 and the highly anticipated American Encore riverboat (set to debut in 2026).
The entire Project Blue series, comprising 12 ships, is meticulously crafted by Chesapeake Shipbuilding in Salisbury, Maryland, an affiliate of American Cruise Lines. This longstanding partnership ensures the utmost quality in ship design and construction, specifically focusing on meeting the demands of U.S. coastal and river cruising.
American Maverick and American Ranger will offer 5 decks with elegant interior design and 100% private balcony accommodations.
Fully Stabilized for Smooth Sailing
Both American Maverick and American Ranger have been designed with stability and comfort in mind, offering smooth voyages along the Eastern Seaboard from Maine to Florida. With five decks, these coastal ships will be equipped with cutting-edge technology and luxurious amenities to create an unparalleled cruising experience.
Guests on board will enjoy spacious accommodations, all featuring private balconies. The ships will offer a mix of 56 staterooms, catering to double and single occupancy, with various suite options on the fourth deck. These suites will range from an impressive 420 to 620 square feet, designed to provide travellers with extraordinary comfort and privacy.
Sky Lounge and Innovative Amenities
One of the standout features on both ships will be the fifth-deck Sky Lounge, which promises breathtaking panoramic views and ultimate relaxation. This unique space will include a 360° Skywalk, a walking track for passengers to enjoy strolls with ocean views, and a cozy Back Porch Café for casual outdoor dining. With such spaces dedicated to relaxation and recreation, the Sky Lounge is set to become a favourite for passengers looking to unwind as they sail along America’s stunning coastlines.
Both new ships will also feature an expansive Main Lounge and Restaurant on deck 1.
Additionally, passengers will have access to other top-tier amenities, including the expansive Main Lounge and Restaurant on Deck 1, which offers unobstructed water views from every seat. The third deck will feature a Bow Terrace and Horizon Lounge, perfect for enjoying the ocean breeze, while Deck 4 will house a state-of-the-art fitness centre, a remarkable inclusion for ships of this size.
Leading the U.S. Cruise Market
When the American Maverick and American Ranger debut in 2026, American Cruise Lines will operate a fleet of 24 small ships, the most extensive collection of wholly domestic river and coastal itineraries ever offered in the United States. The company remains the only cruise line with a fleet that is 100% U.S.-flagged, allowing for uniquely American experiences that cannot be found elsewhere.
This expansion directly responds to the rising demand for domestic cruising options, especially among travellers seeking to explore closer to home. By introducing new ships with world-class amenities and offering a range of itineraries showcasing America’s natural beauty and historical landmarks, American Cruise Lines sets the standard for luxury small-ship cruising.
A Glimpse into the Future
As American Maverick and American Ranger prepare to join the fleet in 2026, excitement is already building. These ships will expand the company’s offerings and provide new opportunities for travellers to experience the East Coast in a whole new way. American Cruise Lines’ commitment to innovation and passenger satisfaction shines through in every detail of the Project Blue series, solidifying its position as a U.S. cruise industry leader.
Visit American Cruise Lines’ official page to learn more about the new ships and view detailed deck plans, schedules, and itineraries.
Written by: Charmaine Lu
