See More of America On a Domestic Cruise

American Cruise Lines ranked amongst U.S. News & World Report’s best river cruise lines for 2026-2027 and is known for its thoughtful, enriching itineraries, personalized service, and all-inclusive amenities and excursions. Domestic cruisers don’t have to worry about obtaining a passport or visa to visit the country’s diverse landscapes while taking in its history and culture. Along the way, onboard experts, historians, and entertainers provide regionally inspired lectures and performances, while guided shore excursions and overnight stays offer the chance to connect more deeply to places and people along the way.

Unlike large cruise ships, American Cruise Lines’ modern fleet accommodates between 90 and 180 guests. While smaller, these ships still float the same cruise atmosphere, relaxed and elevated by highly personalized service and access to smaller ports. Guests can also enjoy the most spacious staterooms available aboard river cruise ships, with many featuring furnished private balconies.

Beyond accommodations, regionally and culturally inspired meals, beer and wine with lunch and dinner, gratuities, onboard entertainment, and offshore excursions are all included. For even greater value, some select cruises come with complimentary airfare. If you’ve been searching for cruises with flights included, these offers make planning your next American adventure a little more affordable.

American Cruise Lines offers river, coastal, and Great Lakes cruises. You’ll go beyond sightseeing with guided excursions that immerse you in the history, culture, and traditions of each destination. Here are a few of The Travel Team’s favorite itineraries.

All of American Cruise Lines’ Columbia and Snake River itineraries take guests into the heart of the Pacific Northwest. Cruisers enjoy a front-row seat to towering waterfalls, rugged canyons, volcanic peaks, and fertile wine country. Guided excursions and onboard programming provide insight into the area’s Indigenous heritage, the Lewis and Clark Expedition, and the engineering achievements that shaped the region.

For travelers who want to experience even more of the American West, the National Parks & Legendary Rivers itinerary combines a Columbia and Snake River cruise with visits to some of the country’s most celebrated national parks. Beginning in Portland, Oregon, the journey includes a river cruise through the Columbia River Gorge before continuing by land to Glacier National Park, Yellowstone National Park, and Grand Teton National Park, ending in Jackson, Wyoming. Throughout the land portion of the journey, the trip includes accommodations, transportation between destinations, park admission, many meals, and the guidance of an experienced Adventure Guide who provides insight into each location.

The Great Lakes combine vibrant waterfront cities, fascinating maritime history, and unforgettable natural beauty into one remarkable cruise experience. With three itineraries to choose from, travelers can sail past scenic shorelines, visit charming port towns, experience engineering marvels like the Welland Canal, and discover the unique culture that has shaped communities throughout the region.

The American Great Lakes Cruise is one of The Travel Team’s top recommendations, taking travelers from Buffalo, New York, to Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Along the way, the itinerary visits destinations including Toledo, Detroit, Alpena, Sault Ste. Marie, Mackinac Island, Muskegon, and Holland. Guests can explore everything from renowned museums and maritime attractions to historic island communities and scenic waterfronts, creating a well-rounded journey that highlights the history, culture, and character of the Great Lakes from beginning to end. Select departures also include complimentary airfare, making this a great option for travelers seeking cruises with flights included.

American Cruise Lines offers 17 itineraries along the legendary Mississippi River, exploring America’s heartland from the Upper Midwest to the Gulf Coast. Whether sailing aboard a classic paddlewheeler or a contemporary riverboat, guests can enjoy spacious accommodations, private balconies, and included shore excursions while discovering the history, culture, and traditions that have shaped communities along the river for generations.

Our advisors highly recommend the Highlights of the Mississippi River cruise, which is ideal for travelers who want to spend extra time in New Orleans. The itinerary begins and ends in the city, including an overnight stay before disembarkation, while also visiting destinations such as Baton Rouge, Natchez, Vicksburg, and St. Francisville. During the cruise, guests can explore grand historic estates, Civil War landmarks, and charming Southern towns while enjoying expert-guided excursions, regional storytelling, and the distinctive Cajun and Creole flavors that define this iconic stretch of the Mississippi. As a bonus, complimentary airfare is available on select departures, making this one of American Cruise Lines’ featured cruise packages with airfare.

No matter which of American Cruise Lines’ nine New England itineraries guests choose, all showcase the region’s picturesque coastlines, maritime heritage, and charming seaside communities. A longtime traveler favorite, these cruises are especially popular during the fall foliage season, though summer sailings offer beautiful weather, bustling harbor towns, and unforgettable coastal scenery. Guests can explore historic ports, scenic islands, and local landmarks through enriching guided excursions.

The Maine Coast & Harbors itinerary is one of The Travel Team’s top recommendations. Beginning in Portland, the cruise visits destinations including Bath, Boothbay Harbor, Rockland, Camden, Bar Harbor, Belfast, and Bangor. Highlights include exploring the dramatic landscapes of Acadia National Park, enjoying a traditional Maine lobster bake, learning about the region’s maritime traditions, and discovering the unique character of each coastal community through locally guided excursions.