American Cruise Lines Launches First Domestic Great Lakes Cruises for 2026 Redefining U.S. Small-Ship Travel

Published on September 26, 2025

American Cruise Lines is set to transform U.S. domestic travel with the launch of its inaugural Great Lakes cruise itineraries for the 2026 season. Responding to growing traveler interest, the line will operate three exclusive routes aboard the American Patriot, the newest small cruise ship in the country, sailing from May through August 2026.

For decades, travelers seeking an authentic Great Lakes experience have faced limited options, often restricted to international vessels or ports geared toward foreign arrivals. With this new offering, American Cruise Lines brings small-ship cruising to the heart of U.S. ports, allowing guests to dock in scenic town centers, city parks, and private marinas—a unique approach unmatched by any other operator in the region.

New Itineraries Offer Distinctive U.S. Adventures

The Great Lakes program introduces three distinct journeys catering to a variety of interests and timeframes. A 9-Day Great Lakes & Thousand Islands cruise navigates Lake Ontario and Lake Erie between Syracuse, New York, and Cleveland, Ohio. Highlights include sailing past Boldt Castle in the Thousand Islands, glass-bottom boat excursions to local shipwrecks, wine tasting at Coyote Moon Winery, a visit to the Susan B. Anthony House & Museum, and an awe-inspiring trip to Niagara Falls. Travelers will also experience the Amish way of life through an exclusive visit to Bricker’s Amish home and a guided tour of Cleveland’s iconic cultural landmarks, including the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame and the Cleveland Art Museum.

Another 9-Day itinerary focuses on Lake Michigan and the Upper Peninsula, departing round-trip from Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Guests explore the historic Fayette Company Town, the National Railroad Museum in Green Bay, Muskegon’s lighthouses and USS Silverside Submarine Museum, and enjoy a docent-led tour of the Harley-Davidson Museum. The journey blends small-town charm, regional heritage, and natural beauty, offering an immersive Midwest experience.

For travelers seeking a longer voyage, the 14-Day American Great Lakes cruise spans 800 miles across Lake Erie, Lake Huron, and Lake Michigan between Cleveland and Milwaukee. The itinerary features Detroit’s Henry Ford Museum, Greenfield Village, and Motown Museum, historic Mackinac Island with its iconic Grand Hotel, Michigan wineries, Silver Lake Sand Dunes, Holland’s Dutch Windmill, and additional cultural and recreational stops along the Lakes. Guests also enjoy leisure activities such as paddleboarding, kayaking, and beachside excursions on Lake Michigan, blending relaxation with enrichment.

American Patriot Combines Comfort and Elegance

The American Patriot is designed for both comfort and intimate exploration. Fully stabilized for smooth sailing, the ship accommodates 130 guests with private balcony staterooms, including suites and single cabins without additional supplement. Spacious lounges, a top-deck walking track, a main restaurant with panoramic views, a casual café, a chart room, fitness center, laundry facilities, and elevators to all decks ensure a seamless onboard experience.

Seamless Travel Experience

All itineraries include a pre-cruise hotel stay, complimentary domestic airfare, daily guided excursions, and onboard enrichment programs. Fares also cover meals, cocktails, Wi-Fi, and gratuities, creating a comprehensive travel package that removes the hassle of international travel requirements. Travelers can embark and disembark at U.S. ports, eliminating the need for passports or cross-border logistics, making these cruises accessible and convenient for American travelers.

A Milestone in U.S. Domestic Cruising

American Cruise Lines’ Great Lakes expansion leverages more than 50 years of experience in river cruising to deliver a curated, small-ship experience in domestic waters. By opening up access to these iconic lakes, the line offers a fresh way to explore American culture, history, and natural beauty. Guests can expect a combination of luxury, personalized service, and immersive excursions that highlight the best of the Midwest and Northeast, redefining domestic cruising for years to come.

With departures scheduled throughout May to August 2026 and additional dates in 2027, American Cruise Lines invites travelers to experience the Great Lakes in a way only possible aboard a small, domestic ship. From stunning landscapes and historic sites to authentic local experiences, the new itineraries promise to deliver a cruise adventure unlike any other in the United States.