meats and ingredients to provide the most delicious regionalized menus onboard. Sustainable cuisine supports the many small towns American Cruise Lines visits, and ensures the least impact on the ecosystem
of the regions cruised. Creating the ultimate dining experience for guests using sustainable ingredients is the driving factor behind the Cruise Local. Eat Local program, and is achieved by:
Sourcing produce, fish, and meats as near as possible to each cruise.
Supporting local farmers’ markets and small American businesses.
Communicating with local vendors and checking the Seafood Watch index to understand the current impact on fish populations.
Limiting waste by offering half portions and carefully customized options.
“This program not only enhances the culinary experience for our guests, but also supports local economies and a balanced environment,” said Timothy Beebe, Vice President of American Cruise Lines. “Nothing makes a menu more appealing than knowing it was developed based on well-informed decisions and a conscious effort to source locally.”
The executive chefs aboard American Cruise Lines take advantage of extended time in port to soak up the local flavor and apply it to the various dishes served onboard. From the fresh catch of the day, to homemade
ice cream topped with locally-grown berries, guests can expect the tastiest and freshest cuisine. Following is a regionalized sampling of what guests can expect from the Cruise Local. Eat Local program:
Columbia & Snake Rivers
Freshly caught Northwest salmon and sturgeon
Astoria honey, Rainier cherries, and heirloom tomatoes gathered at local farmers’ markets
Unique ice creams produced nearby featuring mint, huckleberries, and cherries
Mississippi River
Certified Berkshire pork from Berkwood Farms, a local vendor in Des Moines, Iowa
Artisan cheeses sourced from nearby dairy farms and creameries in Wisconsin
Freshly-made pralines, a New Orleans specialty
Southeast
Maryland blue crabs are served in a variety of ways, including seared, deep-fried, and roasted
Apalachicola Bay oysters, hand harvested in Florida
Fresh wild-caught Georgian shrimp completes shrimp cocktails, seafood salads, and entrees
New England
Fresh Maine lobster is offered in 28 different preparation styles
Maine Root Blueberry soda is a local specialty served onboard, made with Fair Trade organic cane
juice and Maine blueberries
Craft beers such as Lobster Ale and Allagash Beer from local breweries
American Cruise Lines offers more than 35 unique itineraries throughout the United States and is dedicated to sourcing locally on each cruise route. Click here for a full list of examples of locally-sourced foods, sample menus, and to learn more about the Cruise Local. Eat Local program.
