Age Policy
American Cruise Line welcomes guests of all ages; however, the onboard experience is tailored primarily to adults. There are no age-specific programs for children, and most guests are mature travelers.
Dining Information
All meals are included and served in a single dining venue with open seating. Menus change daily and reflect the regions visited, featuring fresh ingredients and made-to-order dishes. Complimentary beer, wine, and soft drinks are typically included with lunch and dinner.
Fuel Surcharge Policy
American Cruise Line does not typically charge a separate fuel surcharge. Cruise fares are quoted inclusive of standard operating costs. Any pricing changes are outlined in booking terms prior to final payment.
Payments / Refunds
Deposits & Payments
American Cruise Lines does not use percentage-based deposits. Standard deposits are flat rates determined by sailing duration: $500 per person for cruises of 9 nights or less; $900 per person for cruises of 10 nights or more; and a flat $5,000 per person for specialized extended voyages (such as 32- to 55-day Explorations). Final payment is strictly due exactly 120 days prior to departure. A 24-hour grace period from initial booking permits a 100% refund, with all admin fees waived. Once this expires, the standard sliding scale applies. Modifications made after travel documents are formally issued incur a $50 administrative change fee.
Cancellation & Refunds
Cancellation penalties are structured on a sliding scale based on the days prior to departure.
91+ Days Prior to Departure
- Cancellation Penalty: $250 per person administrative fee
- Refund/Credit Eligibility: Remaining fare refunded; $250 fee credited toward a future cruise within 1 year.
90–46 Days Prior to Departure
- Cancellation Penalty: 50% of total cruise fare
- Refund/Credit Eligibility: 50% of cruise fare refunded, minus the standard $250 administrative fee.
45 Days or Less Prior to Departure
- Cancellation Penalty: 100% of total cruise fare
- Refund/Credit Eligibility: Total forfeiture (0% refund); $250 administrative fee fully retained.
Smoking Policy
All American Cruise Line ships are non-smoking indoors. Smoking is permitted only in designated outdoor areas, subject to local regulations and ship policy.
Travel Protection
American Cruise Lines offers a proprietary Cancel For Any Reason (CFAR) Protection Plan, which is a cancellation fee waiver program provided directly by the line and is NOT travel insurance (it does not cover medical emergencies, delays, or baggage). The Deluxe Protection Plan must be purchased within 14 days of the initial deposit and provides a 90% refund/credit up to 9 days prior to departure. The Basic Protection Plan can be purchased after 15 days of deposit but before final payment, providing an 80% refund/credit up to 9 days prior. The CFAR plan fee is non-refundable and ranges between 10% and 11% of the total cruise cost. Under both plans, a $250 per passenger admin charge is still deducted, and last-minute cancellations (less than 9 days prior) drop significantly and are issued as a Future Cruise Credit (70% or 80%) rather than cash.
Tipping Policy
Consistent with their luxury domestic branding, American Cruise Lines is fully all-inclusive. All tips and gratuities for the shipboard dining staff, stateroom attendants, bar staff, and lounge crews are built directly into the base cruise fare. No daily auto-charges are billed to onboard accounts, and prepayment is completely unnecessary. Crew tipping is neither expected nor required on board; however, guests are permitted to personally provide additional cash tips directly to individual crew members at their discretion.
Dress Code
Casual resort wear is recommended both onboard the ship and ashore. For dinner, men’s attire typically includes a sport shirt and slacks, with a sport coat or sweater being optional. Women typically find slacks and a nice top, a sweater, or a casual dress appropriate. Flat, rubber-soled shoes are highly recommended for the deck and shore tours.
Formal Nights
- Consistent with its focus on relaxed, premium domestic river and coastal cruising, American Cruise Lines does not feature any formal nights during its sailings.
Excursions
- Daily shore excursions are fully included in your cruise fare, such as hosted city walking tours with a certified local guide and narrated city orientation drives.
- Optional specialty excursions are available to book in advance (recommended) or while on your cruise
Why American Cruise Line?
U.S.-Focused Itineraries
American Cruise Line specializes exclusively in U.S. rivers and coastal destinations, offering in-depth exploration of America’s most historic and scenic waterways.
Small Ships & Personalized Service
With small passenger counts and high staff-to-guest ratios, American Cruise Line delivers attentive, personalized service and a relaxed onboard atmosphere.
Modern Fleet of U.S.-Built Ships
The fleet features modern riverboats and small coastal ships built in the United States, designed for comfort, stability, and panoramic viewing.
Cultural & Educational Enrichment
Expert-led lectures, historians, and local guides provide meaningful insight into American history, culture, and natural landscapes.
Regionally Inspired Cuisine
Menus reflect the destinations visited, highlighting local flavors and seasonal ingredients prepared fresh onboard.
Spacious Accommodations
Many staterooms include private balconies, full-size bathrooms, and generous living space compared to traditional river cruise ships.
Casual, Refined Atmosphere
There is no formal dress code, no casinos, and no large-scale entertainment — ideal for travelers seeking a calm, sophisticated cruising experience.
Convenient Domestic Travel
With no international flights required for most itineraries, American Cruise Line offers easy travel planning and seamless embarkation within the U.S.
FAQ
What is included in an American Cruise Line fare?
Cruise fares typically include accommodations, all meals, onboard enrichment programs, select beverages, guided shore excursions, gratuities, and onboard entertainment.
Are shore excursions included?
Yes, guided shore excursions are included at each port, focusing on local history, culture, and landmarks.
Is American Cruise Line considered luxury?
American Cruise Line is considered upscale and premium rather than ultra-luxury, offering high comfort, spacious ships, and inclusive pricing with a relaxed style.
Are gratuities included?
Yes, gratuities are generally included in the cruise fare.
Are children allowed onboard?
Children are allowed, but there are no children’s programs. The experience is best suited for adults and mature travelers.
What destinations does American Cruise Line sail?
American Cruise Line sails the Mississippi River, Columbia & Snake Rivers, Alaska, New England, Southeast U.S., Florida, and other U.S. waterways.
Is Wi-Fi available onboard?
Complimentary Wi-Fi is available on most ships, though connectivity may vary depending on location.
What is the dress code?
The dress code is casual and comfortable. There are no formal nights.
Does American Cruise Line have elevators?
Most modern American Cruise Line ships feature elevators serving multiple decks, though some areas may still require stairs.
