On June 12, its small coastal ship American Constellation was the first cruise vessel to dock in Haines, Alaska in 622 days. To celebrate, the ship’s passengers were warmly welcomed on shore by Mayor Douglass Olerud, the Chilkat Dancers, and many members of the Haines community.
“We are thrilled to be back in Haines and appreciate the wonderful reception we received from the community. We have worked diligently throughout Southeast Alaska to coordinate with each port to ensure the safe resumption of domestic cruising,” said Charles Robertson, President & CEO of American Cruise Lines.
“We look forward to 12 dockings in Haines this year and many more in the coming years, as the popularity of experiencing Alaska’s majesty aboard small, new U.S. ships continues to grow.”
Once the welcome festivities concluded, guests began several guided tours of Haines. Excursions included kayaking on Chilkoot Lake and rafting in the Chilkat Bald Eagle Preserve, historical walking tours of Haines, an exploration of the Haines Sheldon Museum, and visits to local shops, restaurants, and other sites.
American Cruise Lines has been exploring Alaska since 2010 aboard small U.S. built ships, which visit only domestic ports. Itineraries range from eight to 15 days in length.
Each summer from June through September, American Cruise Lines’ ships operate between Seattle and Juneau, roundtrip from Juneau, and between Ketchikan and Juneau.
The line’s new 11-day Alaskan Explorer itinerary sails the Inside Passage, Clarence Straight, Tracy Arm, and Glacier Bay, and includes visits to Mendenhall Glacier, LeConte Glacier, and Chilkoot Lake.
American Cruise Lines voyages in general explore the Inside Passage, Frederick Sound, Glacier Bay, and Tracy Arm, and visit Juneau, Skagway, Haines, Petersburg, Ketchikan, and Wrangell, among other sites throughout southeastern Alaska.
All sailings include a complimentary pre-cruise hotel night in Juneau, and the newest Alaskan Explorer itinerary includes a hotel stay at the iconic Cape Fox Lodge for departures from Ketchikan.
American Constellation is one of American Cruise Lines’ newest coastal vessels, holding 175 passengers. It features some of the most spacious staterooms in the industry, and nearly all of them include a private balcony.
