Extended U.S. River Cruises to Honor America’s 250th Birthday
American Cruise Lines is introducing several grand voyages for 2026 that will take guests on epic journeys across America’s legendary rivers and stunning coastlines. These extended cruises will offer travelers a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to explore the United States like never before, from the stunning Inside Passage of Alaska to the sun-kissed shores of the Florida Keys, and from the historic city of Charleston, South Carolina, to the nation’s capital in Washington, D.C. This series of 50+ day river cruises is the company’s way of celebrating America’s past, present, and future while offering an in-depth exploration of the country’s rich geography, history, and cultural heritage.
New Bucket-List Cruises for 2026
The new 50+ day cruises will take travelers on a journey through 18 states, visiting national parks, historic landmarks, and picturesque river towns. Each of these immersive itineraries combines extensive exploration of the U.S. with the luxury and comfort of American Cruise Lines’ small ships. These new cruises follow the success of the company’s inaugural Great United States Cruise, launched in 2024, and are designed to offer guests a deeper connection with the land while celebrating the nation’s 250th anniversary.
The Great United States Cruise 2026
The Great United States Cruise is one of the flagship offerings of the 2026 series. This 52-day, 51-night journey will sail from Portland, Oregon, to Boston, Massachusetts, running from May 29 to July 19, 2026. Travelers will have the opportunity to explore 18 states, from the Pacific Northwest to the New England coastline, visiting three national parks—Yellowstone, Glacier, and Grand Teton—along the way. Guests will cruise along the Columbia and Snake Rivers, down the Mississippi River, and through the picturesque waters of New England. The cruise will culminate with a grand celebration of America’s 250th birthday in Boston, where guests will enjoy the city’s 250th anniversary festivities, including a spectacular fireworks display over Boston Harbor.
Spring Across America Cruise
Another exciting addition is the 51-day, 50-night Spring Across America Cruise, which will take guests on a stunning journey from Charleston, South Carolina, to Juneau, Alaska, from April 3 to May 23, 2026. This voyage will visit 10 states and feature highlights such as cruising through the Gulf Coast of Florida, visiting Dry Tortugas National Park, and exploring the Lower Mississippi River. The adventure continues as travelers head to the Inside Passage in Alaska, including a visit to Glacier Bay National Park.
Great American Fall Foliage Cruise
For those looking to experience the majestic beauty of fall in the United States, the Great American Fall Foliage Cruise offers a 55-day, 54-night journey from Juneau, Alaska, to Washington, D.C. Sailing from September 5 to October 29, 2026, this cruise will explore 18 states and travel through Alaska’s stunning glaciers, the Columbia and Snake Rivers, the Upper Mississippi River, and the New England coastline. Guests will also cruise the Chesapeake Bay before concluding the journey with a visit to the nation’s capital. This will be the first time in over 70 years that small cruise ships have docked so close to Washington, D.C.’s national monuments, offering travelers an up-close view of the U.S. capital’s iconic landmarks.
The Civil War Battlefields Cruise
A more historical-focused cruise, the 36-day Civil War Battlefields Cruise, offers a poignant exploration of the U.S. Civil War. Running from May 5 to June 9, 2026, this 36-day journey from New Orleans, Louisiana, to Gettysburg, Pennsylvania, will visit 12 states, exploring battlefields and historic Civil War sites such as Fort Sumter, Shiloh, and Antietam. This cruise offers a deep dive into the history that shaped the U.S., providing an emotional and educational journey through some of the nation’s most significant historical landmarks.
Unmatched Comfort and Curated Experiences
American Cruise Lines is known for offering intimate and luxurious river cruise experiences. With a fleet of the newest riverboats and small ships in the U.S., guests will enjoy spacious staterooms with private balconies, elegant dining options, and multiple indoor and outdoor lounges for breathtaking views. Each itinerary includes daily excursions, entertainment, and curated experiences designed to offer a deeper understanding of America’s culture and history. Guests will also have access to expert guides and historians, who will enrich their journey with informative talks and shore excursions.
Fully Curated Travel Experience
In addition to the luxurious accommodations and carefully planned itineraries, American Cruise Lines offers a fully curated travel experience. This includes all meals and beverages (including alcohol), daily excursions, WiFi, and port charges and fees. A dedicated cruise concierge will assist with all aspects of the journey, from booking flights and hotels between cruise segments to providing personalized recommendations for shore activities. With prices starting at $45,645 per person for the Great United States Cruise, American Cruise Lines offers a premium, hassle-free travel experience that caters to the discerning traveler.
Booking and Pricing
Reservations for these extraordinary 50+ day cruises are now open, and travelers can select their preferred cruise based on itinerary and stateroom type. A deposit of $5,000 per person is required to reserve a spot on these bucket-list adventures. Whether guests are celebrating America’s 250th birthday, revisiting historical landmarks, or simply enjoying the beauty of the U.S., American Cruise Lines offers an unparalleled way to explore the country’s diverse landscapes.
Conclusion: Experience America Like Never Before
American Cruise Lines invites travelers to celebrate America’s Semiquincentennial in style with its extensive array of 50+ day U.S. river cruises. Whether journeying through national parks, along iconic rivers, or exploring historical landmarks, these cruises offer the most comprehensive and luxurious way to experience America. In 2026, travelers will have the unique opportunity to explore the U.S. like never before, with all the beauty, history, and culture that make the country truly one-of-a-kind.
