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The Roaming Boomers

Review: american cruise lines.

Posted by David Porter on Wednesday, February 14, 2024 · 14 Comments  

Here is our review of American Cruise Lines after sailing with them on their 8-day Great Rivers of Florida river cruise.

American Cruise Lines (ACL) is the leader in U.S. River & Coastal cruising and the largest domestic cruise line in the country.

The company offers a new fleet of 19 riverboats and small cruise ships, each accommodating just 90 to 180 guests. American is the only cruise line in the world with a fleet of 100% U.S. built & flagged riverboats and small cruise ships.

This distinction enables the company to offer all-domestic cruises that visit only U.S. ports of call along both U.S. rivers and coasts. The Line offers over 50 itineraries, which range from 6 to 60 Days in length, and explore in 35 U.S. states.

American’s small ships cruise along protected U.S. waterways from Alaska to Florida, and major U.S. rivers, including the Mississippi River (Ohio, Cumberland, and Tennessee Rivers); the Columbia and Snake Rivers; the Hudson River; and Florida Rivers (St. John’s and Tolomato). American Cruise Lines has over 50 years of experience cruising the U.S. and specializes in authentic American experiences, personalized service, and well-curated destination-focused cruises.

One of the ship’s crew members photographing the sunrise at Amelia Island.

Our Ship: The American Eagle

As I mentioned above, American Cruise Lines currently has 19 ships sailing on America’s rivers and coastal waterways. Here is a breakdown:

• Independence Class (3 ships) – these are the cruise line’s oldest ships, built in 2005, 2007, and 2010 and can accommodate 90 passengers. While I don’t know for certain, my guess is that maybe these ships will be retired as ACL continues to build out its Coastal Cat fleet.
• Coastal Class (2 ships) – These ships, built in 2017 and 2018, carry a maximum of 170 passengers and operate on both coasts of the United States.
• Classic Paddlewheelers (4 ships) – for those of you who might enjoy a little nostalgia, these ships operate on U.S. rivers and all four were remodeled in 2022.
• American RiverBoats (6 ships) – These ships built from 2018 through 2023 are ACL’s new series of American Riverboats.  They hold a maximum of 180 passengers and offer guests a modern experience and large staterooms.
• Coastal Cats (4 ships) – These are ACL’s newest line of ships. They hold a maximum of 100 passengers, with a very low draft, and offer guests entry into America’s coastal regions and rivers that have not been available heretofore. ACL plans to build 12 of these ships. Two are currently sailing, with two more arriving in 2024.

Carol with our character actor/tour guide in St. Augustine

Carol and I were very impressed with the American Eagle from the moment we stepped on the ship. The colors were bright and modern, but what is immediately most impressive is that their entry-level staterooms start at 300 sq/ft., and the ship holds a maximum of 100 passengers. Many other companies building small European-style river cruise ships are stuffing entry-level guests into staterooms that are 135 sq/ft. But here, you are certain to enjoy a stateroom that is over twice that size.

And for those of you who enjoy suites, the American Eagle offers four Sky Suites at 470 sq/ft and two Grand Suites at 620 sq/ft. Tip : book early to get a suite; they always sell out first.

We also found the ship to have enough public space aboard to comfortably accommodate everyone without any of the crowding found on other ships.

Public Spaces

• Restaurant – American specialties with plenty of space for all to be seated.
• Sky Lounge – The perfect place to read a book, play a board game, or hang out with new friends. And each morning, this is the spot for early risers to enjoy a continental breakfast.
• Lookout Cafe – Located just outside the Sky Lounge is the Lookout Cafe. It was a wonderful spot to enjoy the cruise on the very back of the ship, but it was also the spot where I could get an early-morning breakfast sandwich before the restaurant opened.  Carol and I enjoyed all of our breakfasts in the Sky Lounge and Lookout Cafe.
• Chesapeake Lounge – This communal space offered space to seat everyone and was used primarily for lectures on our journey, complimentary bar and hors d’oeuvres each night, after-dinner music, and was also the spot for our Super Bowl Party.
• Bow Terrace – This small space, just outside of the Chesapeake Lounge, offers a wonderful place to enjoy your morning coffee or an afternoon cruise with the wind in your hair. Carol and I spent quite a bit of time here as we sailed the Intercoastal Waterway.

Carol and I enjoyed sailing with ACL on their Great Rivers of Florida itinerary . We sailed on the St. Johns River, the Tolomato River, and the Intercoastal Waterway. We never felt a wave, and Amelia Island and St. Augustine were the stars of the show. One of our clients wrote on our Instagram Page that Amelia Island was her happy place. We had never been, but we’ll be back.

Carol and I sailed with ACL in one of their Vista Private Balcony Staterooms. To see the first impressions video of our stateroom, please CLICK HERE . Be sure to turn your volume up.

Roasted Beef Tenderloin w/ Carolina Stoned Ground Grits

The Cuisine

We found the cuisine aboard the American Eagle to be very good. In fact, every guest that we dined with aboard the ship agreed.

To the right is a photograph of our first meal aboard the ship. I was hoping for some southern grits on this cruise, and my wish was granted on our very first meal.

Each morning, at breakfast, we were given the day’s menu for lunch and dinner. We then made our selections and turned in the cards so that the kitchen would know how many of each item to have on hand. And don’t worry, if you change your mind, they could handle that as well.

And for those of you who might have dietary restrictions, on the first day of sailing, the cruise line offered a meeting with the chef to discuss your individual needs.

Oh, and for those of you who enjoy a treat during the day, there was “Cookie Time” each day at 10:00 and 3:00.

Best onboard service we’ve ever experienced.

I would be remiss if I didn’t bring this up. The experience, the atmosphere, and the vibe that the crew created on this cruise were the best we’ve ever experienced on any cruise ship.

I am struggling with how to explain this. We’ve certainly had outstanding service with friendly staff on any number of the cruises we’ve experienced. But this crew created an atmosphere aboard the ship that, I don’t know, endeared us all to them? And it just wasn’t me.  Every guest that we interacted with felt the same way.  Dare I say that we fell in love with the crew?

For example, from the moment we walked on the ship, Alicia, the ship’s Hotel General Manager, greeted us by name, and she was always magically around, making sure that we were delighted in every way. One passenger commented how she worked miracles to get a prescription aboard the ship, and we found in her a sincere desire to make us feel at home and well taken care of. And again, this just wasn’t me.  We heard the same from many of our co-passengers.

And it just wasn’t her. Wyatt, the ship’s cruise director, the chef, the servers, and the gal that cleaned our room each day were absolutely the best we’ve experienced.  Clearly, they’ve been trained well, and the desire to serve the guests on the ship was a part of the cruise line’s DNA.

Listen, you can have the best ships in the world, but if the staff and crew can’t make you feel at home and well taken care of, then forget it.

I must say, I wasn’t expecting this level of down-home, relaxed, yet professional service.

I want more.  In fact, I didn’t want to get off of the ship. If this ship was doing back-to-back itineraries, I would have begged and pleaded to stay aboard.

Summing It All Up

If I had to put a star on the whole experience, I would give it 4-stars.  They are not trying to be a floating Four Seasons. I would give their down-home cuisine 4.5-stars, and I would give their service 5-stars.

In short, with this level of experience available right here in the good-ole USA, and 50 different itineraries available around the country, and more new ships on the way, this is a wonderful way to cruise close to home. While offering you a wonderful opportunity to explore our country from the perspective of its rivers and coastlines.  I’m hooked, and we will be back.  In fact, I hear the San Juan Islands in the Pacific Northwest calling my name. And oh, what about the ability to visit all of the little towns and villages in the Atlantic Northeast?

I could go on and on, but I’m already approaching 2,000 words.  So, if you have questions, just put them below in the comments section and I’ll do my best to answer them.

How to Book a Cruise With American Cruise Lines

Of course, you can book a cruise directly with American Cruise Lines.

But did you know that booking with Roaming Boomers Travel or Amerian Cruise Lines will net you the exact same price?

Therefore, why not book your American Cruise Lines coastal or river cruise with us and take advantage of our expert advice and service?

We promise to work hard to earn your trust. And with us, you’re always a VIP.

For more information or to book a fun cruise with American Cruise Lines, please call Roaming Boomers Travel Services at (480) 550-1235 or use our convenient online information request ( click here ), and we’ll reach out to you.

Category: Travel News & Tips · Tags: American Cruise Lines

14 Comments on “ Review: American Cruise Lines ”

Your articles are always interesting and offer good advice. Your first hand experience adds believability to what you publish. We are interested in the ACL cruise along the Columbia and Snake Rivers.

We did the Maine cruise last year & the Historic South this year. I could notagree more with your review. A great company. Loved it that all veterans were recognized also.

I have been on two ACL cruises. The Lewis and Clark cruise on the Columbia and Snake Rivers, and the Upper Mississippi cruise. Really enjoyed both cruises. Have scheduled a New England Adventure cruise. Looking into San Juan Islands in Northwest.

We also went on Pearl Seas cruise on the Great Lakes.

Small ship cruising is very enjoyable. I would recommend any of the cruises to mature adults.

You’re back! Thanks again for sharing! 🙂

Thanks for your review- May I ask when (month) you took the Columbia/Snake cruise and if there were any optional excursions you took that you would recommend- Thanks

We did our cruise with another cruise brand in the first week of November. As the optional excursions are constantly in flux, we recommend that you choose an excursion that has interest for you. We really don’t have strong opinions on shore excursions.

We went in July. A couple of years ago. Most shore excursions are included. Went to Mt. St. Helens.

Thank you for sharing your experience with us. 🙂

Thank you for the kind words. 🙂 I’ll reach out to you privately to discuss a possible booking.

Thanks for stopping by and sharing your thoughts. We’re looking forward to helping our clients cruise closer to home.

We’re booked (through Roaming Boomers) on their Paddle boat this May going on the Columbia and Snake Rivers. We can’t wait. We will make sure to share our adventures and let you know our experiences. We are anticipating a fantastic trip and can’t wait. We are expecting this to be beautiful and awe inspiring as well as totally relaxing.

Hi Mary Lou,

You’re going to love it. We can’t wait to hear about your journey.

Great review Dave and Carol. We have sailed with ACL twice (Snake River and the southeast coast trip up from Amelia Island). Both were very enjoyable. We are doing the American Revolution cruise in Washington DC in 2 weeks. Again – we enjoy all parts of traveling with ACL. but mostly the crew. I get to know most of them by name – even dined several times with the entertainment duo on board and stayed in touch with both for several months afterwards.

Great to hear from you.

As people learn about these experiences that are available in their own backyards, so to speak, we’re finding interest growing. Carol and I are interested in quite a number of their cruises. When we were on our last cruise, the cruise director said that this cruise in Tennesee was really scenic: https://www.americancruiselines.com/cruises/mississippi-river-cruises/tennessee-rivers-cruise

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• Take a tour of beautiful Palatka.
• Enjoy the beauty of Blue Springs State Park
• Putnam Historic Museum
• Enjoy a horse drawn carriage ride through Green Cove Springs
• Experience the sights and sounds of Green Cove Springs during a guided tour
• Enjoy the sites of St. Augustine by tram
• Observe many exotic reptiles at the Alligator Farm and Zoological Park
• Tour the charming historic district of Fernandina with a local guide
• Explore the backwaters of Amelia Island and Eagan Creek on a narrated river boat cruise
• Discover the most intriguing places in Jacksonville during a narrated walking tour

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Continue to cruise St. Johns River to Lake George, which shares a border with the Ocala National Forest. The lake hosts a variety of wildlife ranging from migratory water birds to a number of marine animals. Local springs in Lake George feed enough salt to the system to make the habitat suitable for marine species like Atlantic stingray, striped bass and blue crab.

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In the late 1800s, oil millionaire Henry Flagler built out St. Augustine in an attempt to fulfill his vision of establishing an American Riviera along Florida's eastern shores. Although this "golden era" ended in the early 1900s, Flagler's legacy remains. Explore historic ruins, unique architecture, and the narrow streets of a city once used as a remote outpost by the Spanish Empire.

Discover the unspoiled beauty of Amelia Island, with miles of quartz beaches and rolling sand dunes. Fernandina Beach, the island's only city, harbors a treasure trove of history, antiques, and collectibles. Join a walking tour of Centre Street's Historic District, featuring restored 19th century Victorian homes and shops. Stroll along the tree-lined avenues and explore Amelia Island's charm.

Take in the beautiful weather of northern Florida as you disembark from your tour of the South. Jacksonville offers a number of wonderful activities, including a tour of Cummer Art Museum, which houses an exclusive collection of art, including rare porcelain.

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American Cruise Lines offers personalized, small ship river cruises throughout the United States. Enjoy the intimate, comfortable, and fulfilling experience of small ship river cruising aboard the newest fleet of cruise ships in the world. American Cruise Lines brings you to the greatest destinations along the inland waterways and rivers of the East Coast, Pacific Northwest, Mississippi and Alaska. Our modern fleet of ships offer a unique, personal voyage through America's historic waterways. With no more than 150 passengers onboard, our ships provide spacious accommodations and smooth travel through the protected waterways, sheltered harbors, and magnificent rivers of the United States of America.

A refreshingly relaxing atmosphere prevails onboard our small river boats. This intimate ambience is perfect for both congenial camaraderie and quiet relaxation. Each evening before dinner, passengers are invited to mingle and share their day's adventures over complimentary cocktails and hors d'oeuvres. The atmosphere for dining is informal - seating is unassigned and dress is resort casual. After dinner, guest speakers bring local history, nature, and culture alive with their knowledge and passion for American heritage. Set your own pace on your vacation, and relish in the casual comfort and exceptional care that has become the hallmark of American Cruise Lines.

Our friendly, professional all-American crew members offer an extraordinary quality of gracious hospitality and personalized attention to discerning passengers. This outstanding level of service is always available to make your journey memorable and relaxing. Your masterfully skilled chef creates delectable feasts for each meal. Carefully selected fresh seafood, meats, and produce are often purchased in the regions we visit, allowing you to taste the delectable flavors of the local area. Meals are prepared to order and served in the glass-enclosed dining room, where every seat offers a panoramic view.

American Cruise Lines’ staterooms, most at over 220 square feet, are by far the largest in their class. Most staterooms have private balconies and feature an exquisite private bath and a large, opening picture window, allowing you spectacular views of the scenery.

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Cruise Cancellation Protection is recommended and available, and allows for a refund of the cruise fare cost, up to the sailing date. For information on the Cruise Cancellation Protection Plan, contact American Cruise Lines, Inc. Passengers may cancel cruise reservations by sending a written request for cancellation to American Cruise Lines, Inc., 741 Boston Post Road, Suite 200, Guilford, CT 06437. Requests for cancellation should be sent by certified or registered mail, return receipt requested. In the event of cancellation, the total amount paid for fare, minus cancellation fees of $250 per passenger, will be promptly refunded based on the date of receipt by American Cruise Lines, Inc. of the written request for cancellation, in accordance with the following schedule: (i) 91 days or more prior to departure date, 100% of amount paid for fare less fees; (ii) more than 46 days, but less than 90 days prior to departure date, 50% of amount paid for fare less fees; (iii) 45 days or less prior to departure date, no refund will be made. The cancellation fees of $250 per passenger may be applied as a courtesy discount toward fare for a future cruise reserved with American Cruise Lines, Inc. within one year of the cancellation date. Fees paid for the American Cruise Lines Cruise Cancellation Protection Plan are non-refundable. For cancellations relating to group bookings, passengers should refer to the group booking agreement for terms and conditions.

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American Cruise Lines adds 2nd route that includes Punta Gorda

• BY Nancy Semon
• March 15, 2024
• Photo Credit:American Cruise Lines

American Cruise Lines’ Florida Gulf Coast & Keys Cruise has been fully booked since the cruise itinerary was added in December 2023. As a result of the cruise’s initial success, company officials will add a second ship that will follow the same route in December 2024.  

Starting and ending in St. Petersburg, the eight-day, seven-night cruise stops in Punta Gorda on Day 6.  

The itinerary “has been enormously successful,” American Cruise Lines company spokesperson Alexa Paolella said.  

The first ship in the line to cruise to Charlotte County is American Glory, a 56-room coastal cat with a guest capacity of 100, with six common areas.  

It was inaugurated in 2023 and first arrived in Punta Gorda on Christmas Day 2023.  

The last Florida Gulf Coast & Keys Cruise for the season began March 15, and the itinerary won’t resume until Nov. 25, when the second ship, American Legend, will join American Glory in transporting guests along the same route, with a sixth-day stop in Punta Gorda.  

American Legend is American Glory’s sister ship, which was also inaugurated in 2023 and has the same room and guest capacity.  

Beginning at the end of 2024, each of the ships will be anchored on Charlotte Harbor, two days apart.  

American Cruise Lines is accepting bookings through Jan. 31, 2026.  

Paolella said American Cruise Lines executives were pleasantly surprised to see how popular the Florida cruises are, and that the company is considering adding more Florida destinations.  

Currently, the cruise line also runs a Great Rivers of Florida Cruise, beginning and ending in Jacksonville. It traverses the St. Johns River and stops include Amelia Island and St. Augustine.  

Other cruises that stop in Florida begin farther north in Charleston, South Carolina, and Baltimore, and their southernmost stop is Jacksonville.  

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Punta Gorda/Englewood Beach Welcomes American Cruise Lines

Punta Gorda/Englewood Beach Welcomes American Cruise Lines!

Punta Gorda/Englewood Beach, FL – December 20, 2023 – The Punta Gorda/Englewood Beach Visitor & Convention Bureau (VCB) is thrilled to announce American Cruise Lines’ newest ship, American Glory, will begin its seasonal sailing from St. Pete to Key West, with a stop into Punta Gorda during an 8-day excursion.

On January 2, 2024, the Punta Gorda/Englewood Beach Visitor & Convention Bureau will be hosting a welcome event to greet American Glory passengers as they come ashore in Charlotte County at the Fishermen’s Village docks.  This will be American Cruise Lines second visit with their first inaugural cruise arriving on Christmas Day. Passengers will disembark the tender boat at 9am at the Fishermen’s Village docks, adjacent to King Fisher Fleet. Other tender boat arrivals will follow allowing passengers the opportunity to explore and visit local establishments throughout Punta Gorda on this day and other scheduled cruises throughout 2024.

Guests attending this special event on January 2, will enjoy live steel drum music as the VCB greets passengers and hand out goody bags. The ship’s Captain will also come ashore to receive two new books, Painting the Town and In Old Punta Gorda , signed by Mayor Lynne Matthews and Commissioner Bill Truex that will be added to the ship’s library.

Punta Gorda/Englewood Beach Visitor & Convention Bureau’s Executive Director, Sean Doherty stated, “We are excited to welcome the passengers of American Cruise Lines to our charming destination. Between all the events and activities that take place throughout the Punta Gorda area, as well as the unique attractions including the brand new Sunseeker Resort just across the river, there is something for everyone to experience and we hope will leave them wanting to come back for more.”

For additional information regarding the American Cruise Lines, please reach out to Alexa Paolella, Public Relations Manager at [email protected]   or their website at https://www.americancruiselines.com/cruises/southeast-us-cruises/florida-gulf-coast-and-keys .

ABOUT PUNTA GORDA / ENGLEWOOD BEACH Punta Gorda/Englewood Beach is Florida’s best-kept secret of a charming natural paradise located on the idyllic Southwest Gulf Coast. This coastal community surrounding the state’s second-largest harbor sits conveniently between Tampa and Naples. Outdoor enthusiasts will find a haven of vibrant experiences in the sun-soaked oasis of the Southwest Florida islands, characterized by almost year-round sunshine and sub-tropical weather. Relaxation and discovery await in miles of waterways and inland exploration trails filled with unspoiled natural beauty. From beaches to boating, hiking to harbor tours, fishing to nature paths; to sun, shelling, and fossilized sharks’ teeth, Punta Gorda/Englewood Beach immerses lively locals and active adventurers in a pure island experience. Most notably known for its 830 miles of pristine unparalleled shoreline, including captivating river passages, a mangrove-edged aquatic preserve, and more than a dozen miles of natural Gulf beaches, the Charlotte Harbor Gulf Island Coast includes the areas of Boca Grande, Don Pedro Island, Englewood-Cape Haze, Little Gasparilla Island, Manasota Key, Knight Island, Placida, Babcock Ranch, Port Charlotte, Charlotte Harbor and Punta Gorda.

To learn more about Punta Gorda /Englewood Beach, visit PureFlorida.com , call 941.743.1900 or discover the destination on Instagram, Twitter and Facebook @RealPureFlorida.

Punta Gorda/Englewood Beach VCB Media Contacts:

Lois Croft, Public Relations Manager Punta Gorda/Englewood Beach Visitor & Convention Bureau [email protected]

Mady Dudley, Public Relations Director Aqua Marketing & Communications (727) 433-2435/ [email protected]

Punta Gorda/Englewood Beach Visitor & Convention Bureau

Contact: Punta Gorda/Englewood Beach Visitor & Convention Bureau Tel: 941.743.1900 Email:  [email protected]

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• ACL-American Cruise Lines adding Punta Gorda (Florida) to...

ACL-American Cruise Lines adding Punta Gorda (Florida) to itinerary

ACL-American Cruise Lines , the USA's largest cruise company renowned for its smaller ships navigating coastal and inland waterways, will soon sail to Charlotte Harbor Florida. Tenders will transport passengers to Punta Gorda Florida , as revealed by Sean Doherty, tourism director, during an announcement on August 18th.

Starting in December 2023, the voyages depart from Saint Petersburg Florida on the newbuild/2023-launched motorized catamaran American Glory . On the 6th day, the vessel reaches Charlotte County, utilizing its tender boats to reach Fishermen’s Village in Punta Gorda.

American Glory's inaugural cruise departs on December 20th from St Petersburg FL, with the Charlotte Harbor stop on Christmas Day . An inaugural celebration is planned, and passengers can explore Peace River Wildlife Center and Alligator Bay Distillers. Captain Ralph Allen, owner of King Fisher Fleet, may offer excursions on his smaller boats. These boats navigate shallower waters than ACL's larger catamarans.

The voyage also includes visits to Marco Island and Key West FL before arriving in Punta Gorda. Passengers can explore attractions like the Military Heritage Museum and Peace River Botanical and Sculpture Gardens. The cruises are expected to boost the local economy. Weekly cruises are scheduled until March 8th, 2024, resuming on November 25th, 2024, through March 22nd, 2025. Cruises for 2025, beginning November 22nd, have already been posted.

American Glory is one of all 12 sisterships/identical catamarans built by Chesapeake Shipbuilding.  American Eagle and American Glory entered service this year, and in 2024 will be joined by American Legend for Gulf Coast USA voyages.

American Cruise Lines christens American Glory in Florida

The vessel was named by Key West’s Mayor Teri Johnston on Florida Gulf Coast & Keys itinerary  

American Cruise Lines

By Laura Hyde | 23 January 2024

American Cruise Lines has christened its newest coastal cat, American Glory, in Key West in Florida, USA. 

American Glory is currently sailing the company’s newest itinerary, ‘Florida Gulf Coast & Keys’, which operates roundtrip from St. Petersburg, Florida. The celebration, which took place while the ship was docked at Mallory Square, was attended by Charles B. Robertson, president and CEO of American Cruise Lines, and the Honourable Teri Johnston, Mayor of Key West and godmother of the ship, as well as port and marina officials, cruise guests and community members.  

“Docking in Mallory Square is a privilege, and we are honoured to be a new small piece of the Key West community,” said Robertson. “We are grateful to Mayor Johnston and proud to have her as godmother of American Glory. We look forward to continuing to build on our partnership with Key West and other Florida coastal towns.” 

American Glory was delivered by shipbuilders Chesapeake Shipbuilding in November 2023 . The 100-passenger vessel will sail American Cruise Lines’ ‘Florida Gulf Coast & Keys’ itineraries in March 2024 and again in November and December. American Glory and its sister ships will operate itineraries exploring the East Coast of America, from Maine to Florida, throughout 2024 and 2025.   

Watch a virtual 360-degree tour of American Glory here . 

Tags: Florida     American Cruise Lines     News     American Glory

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Port Canaveral, Florida, US

The beach is just the beginning of the adventures that await guests visiting Port Canaveral, located on the Atlantic coast of Central Florida. The white sands along the beach are made for long days in the sun, while the waters are ideal for sports, including some of the best surfing on the East Coast. Waterfront restaurants serve local seafood and festive drinks on patios overlooking the cruise ships’ arrivals and departures. Nearby, Cocoa Village offers tree-lined streets to stroll while shopping.

Port Canaveral, on Florida’s Space Coast, is an ideal launching spot to get to the nearby Kennedy Space Center and to Orlando’s famous theme parks, which are between 60 and 90 minutes away by car. Guests get to see NASA treasures and experience a space-shuttle-launch simulator and even have the chance to meet a veteran astronaut among the adventures at the Kennedy Space Center. Walt Disney World, SeaWorld Orlando and Universal Orlando Resort offer thrill rides, shows and attractions, and invite guests into their themed worlds of fun. 

Featured Shore Excursions

MSC makes another move to take on Royal Caribbean, Carnival

M SC Cruises has been making a major push into the U.S. market as it tries to win market share in Florida, New York, and Texas. The cruise line has been steadily adding ships sailing out of American ports and it's largely going after people who sail Royal Caribbean and Carnival.

The cruise line, of course, does not publicly identify which rivals it's targeting, but its next flagship MSC World America shares a lot of features with Royal Caribbean and Carnival's largest megaship.

Related: Carnival, Royal Caribbean make major change customers will love

"MSC World America is set to become MSC Cruises’ newest U.S. flagship when she is named at PortMiami on April 9, 2025. Guests will experience a new world of cruising as they explore seven distinct districts, each with its own atmosphere, facilities, and experiences waiting to be explored. MSC World America’s districts allow guests of all ages to choose their own vacation adventure and get the most out of their time on board," the cruise line shares on its website.

That's a bold move by the cruise line to offer something that rivals Royal Caribbean's ( RCL ) Oasis and Icon classes as well as Carnival's Excel class. 

MSC World America, which will sail out of Miami, isn't the cruise line's only move to expand its U.S. fleet. It's also bringing a second ship to Port Canaveral.

MSC Cruises grows its Florida fleet 

Currently, MSC Seashore sails out of Port Canaveral and offers a variety of sailings. In December 2025, MSC Grandiosa will begin sailing from there as well.

Bringing a second ship to Port Canaveral will give MSC Cruises’ guests a much wider selection of cruises. MSC Grandiosa will offer alternating 7-night Eastern and Western Caribbean itineraries. Meanwhile, MSC Seashore will sail 3- and 4-night cruises to Nassau and Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve, the line’s private island in The Bahamas.

A member of the cruise line's Merivigilia-plus line, Grandiosa will be the largest MSC ship to ever sail out of Port Canaveral. It's one of the cruise line's largest ships, with only its World Class ships, which include Europa and World America being bigger.

Grandiosa does have many of its own special features including an open area, the Galleria, which sort of mixes Royal Caribbean's Royal Promenade and downtown Las Vegas' Fremont St. Experience.

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"At any time of the day, the Galleria is the perfect place for dining, shopping, socializing or simply taking in the unique atmosphere. And when the sun sets, it takes on another life, with LED dome shows, concerts, discos, and parties late into the night," the cruise line shared.

MSC has big Caribbean plans

Royal Caribbean and Carnival have made the Caribbean the heart of the cruising world. They both sail multiple ships out of Miami, Fort Lauderdale, and Port Canaveral. The two rival cruise lines also sail to the Caribbean from New York/New Jersey, Baltimore, Galveston, and select other ports. 

MSC Cruises will step up its competition in the Caribbean in the Summer of 2024 with four ships sailing there from Miami, New York, and Orlando.

• Two ships will offer sailings out of PortMiami: MSC Magnifica with three to seven-night sailings including to the Key West (Florida), Costa Maya and Cozumel (Mexico), Isla de Roatan (Honduras), Belize City (Belize), Nassau and Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve (Bahamas).
• MSC Seascape will also sail from Miami offering seven-night sailings, calling at destinations including San Juan (Puerto Rico), George Town (Cayman Islands), Puerto Plata (Dominican Republic), Ocho Rios (Jamaica), Cozumel (Mexico), and Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve.
• MSC Meraviglia will set sail from New York, with seven-night itineraries including port of calls in Port Canaveral, Nassau and Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve.
• MSC Seashore will also offer the chance to visit the Caribbean’s prized gems with three to seven-night sailings from Port Canaveral to destinations including Nassau, Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve, Costa Maya and Cozumel.

MSC Cruises has been working to improve its private island, the MSC Marine Reserve. 

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"The new enhancements will include expanded excursion centers to support water activities and island tours, and additional food and beverage facilities including a second food hall and larger bars. Additionally, guests can expect enhanced swimming areas, including a new kids lagoon alongside improvements to the popular main lagoon," the cruise line shares on its website.

MSC Cruise has made inroads in growing its U.S. customer base at least partly by offering lower prices than Royal Caribbean and Carnival. It also sells packages that include internet and a drink package with fares that are often cheaper than its rivals before those items are purchased separately.

How to visit Australia without flying: Holland America launches new Grand Voyage

The long-haul flight can be enough to keep some U.S. travelers from visiting Australia . But a new Holland America Line itinerary will offer an alternate route.

The cruise line’s Grand Australia and New Zealand voyage will sail round-trip from San Diego, California in 2026, taking guests down under and back over 93 days.

"Our Grand Voyages are renowned for connecting guests with the world's most fascinating places while sailing roundtrip from the United States," Beth Bodensteiner, the line’s chief commercial officer, said in a news release . "Our team crafted this itinerary to show guests the parts of Australia and New Zealand they expect to visit, but also included frequently asked for, but rarely visited, ports throughout Papua New Guinea and the Solomon Islands."

When is Holland America’s Grand Australia and New Zealand voyage?

The cruise will depart on Jan. 4, 2026 aboard the line’s 1,432-guest Zaandam ship.

Where will the cruise sail?

The ship will visit 44 ports in 10 countries. Passengers will make their way to Hawaii first before heading to the South Pacific. The ship will then visit Australia – almost circling the country – and New Zealand, followed by Tonga and French Polynesia on the way back to San Diego.

The itinerary features two days of scenic cruising at the Great Barrier Reef and four late-night departures in Adelaide, Australia and the French Polynesian islands of Moorea, Raiatea and Huahine. Guests will also stay overnight in six ports, including Honolulu, Sydney and Auckland, giving them ample time to explore.

Short vs. long cruises: Which one is right for you?

How much does the cruise cost?

The cruise currently starts at $17,699 per person based on double occupancy, according to Holland America’s website . Travelers who book by June 16, 2025 can get perks like a Surf Wi-Fi package, airport transfers in San Diego, a 3% pay-in-full discount and more thrown in (though they vary by stateroom category).

Nathan Diller is a consumer travel reporter for USA TODAY based in Nashville. You can reach him at [email protected].