The new hybrid catamaran vessels will have near-shore operating versatility and exclusively sail itineraries in the US, with a focus on small towns.
The "Project Blue" fleet will be built by Chesapeake Shipbuilding in Salisbury, with the first two ships, which are currently under construction, due for delivery in 2023.
Each vessel, which will measure 241 feet long and 56 feet wide, will be able to accommodate 109 passengers and 50 crew across 56 staterooms.
The hybrid catamaran design will enable both shallow draft access and stable sailing along lakes, rivers, bays, and America’s coastline.
The first two ships will debut along East Coast itineraries and will be named American Eagle and American Glory.
Charles Robertson, president and chief executive of American Cruise Lines, said the project started as a design challenge to create a boat small enough for New England harbors and stable enough for the Alaska Inside Passage.
"These boats can run almost anywhere, and because there will be 12 of them, they will be deployed all over the United States," he added.
"American has specialized in small ship cruising for over 30 years, and continuing to innovate and expand the possibilities for cruising close to home is central to our mission."
