carter robertson american cruise lines

Chesapeake Bay Magazine

The Best of the Bay

Founder of Cruise Lines, Chesapeake Shipbuilding Dies

Chesapeake Shipbuilding, Salisbury, Maryland.

The founder of Chesapeake Shipbuilding on the Wicomico River, Charles Robertson, also a pioneer in the small ship cruise industry, has died at the age of 72.

Robertson started Chesapeake Shipbuilding in Salisbury, Maryland in 1980. The company designs and builds steel commercial vessels up to 450 feet, including passenger boats, tugs, and ferry boats. Its 15-acre shipyard produces its own designs exclusively.

He went on to found American Cruise Lines, Inc. and other affiliated companies, growing a niche market of coastal cruise ships. American Cruise Lines shared news of Robertson’s passing on its Facebook page:

“It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Charles A. Robertson, Chairman and CEO of American Cruise Lines, Pearl Seas Cruises, and Chesapeake Shipbuilding. He was not only an industry pioneer and maritime leader, but also an avid sailor and aviator. Carrying on his amazing legacy will be his sons Charles B., Clark, and Carter Robertson.”

According to his New York Times obituary, Charles Robertson died February 9 in New York City “following a courageous battle with cancer.” He leaves behind his wife, Carol Ann, all three sons, a granddaughter and two sisters.

American Cruise Lines, now the largest cruise company in the U.S., runs cruises up and down the East Coast, including historic cruises of the Chesapeake Bay. Chesapeake Shipbuilding built its ships American Constellation (2017) and American Constitution (2018). The shipbuilding company’s newest big project is a series of “modern riverboats.” American Melody  will begin its inaugural season on the Mississippi River in the summer of 2021, specifically designed to navigate the region.

When Robertson wasn’t running his cruise lines and shipbuilding operation, he sailed internationally and won events like the Newport Bermuda Race, the Queen’s Cup, and the National Championship in the Atlantic Class, all on a series of sailboats named Cannonball . He was also an aviator, flying modified ex- military aircraft in shows and demonstrations around the country, and making flights out of Easton, Maryland.

-Meg Walburn Viviano

Related Stories

Bay Paddle Success: Epic Journey from Havre de Grace to the Atlantic

After nine days of pushing his body to the limit, a teacher from outside Annapolis

VIDEO: Firefighters Battle Marina Fire in Southeast Baltimore

Two boats caught fire Wednesday morning at Anchorage Marina in Baltimore’s Canton neighborhood on the

Virginia Breaks Ground on Bay Bridge-Tunnel Expansion

A new tunnel is coming to the lower Bay. The Chesapeake Bay Bridge and Tunnel

• February 12, 2020
• Inland , News

American Cruise Lines, Inc. names Charles B. Robertson CEO

Charles B. Robertson’s appointment follows death of his father Charles A. Robertson (pictured above), American Cruise Lines founder, Chairman, and Chief Executive.

The Board of Directors of, Guilford, Conn., headquartered American Cruise Lines, Inc. said Monday that Charles B. Robertson has been appointed as its new Chief Executive Officer, effective immediately. His appointment follows the recent death of his father, Charles A. Robertson, the company’s founder, Chairman, and Chief Executive.

“My father was a visionary and pioneer of the cruise industry and it is an honor to lead the organization he created. My brothers and I have followed in his footsteps and will remember him as a tremendous leader, mentor, and father. We have prudently worked toward this transition, and with the support of our executives and employees, will continue our dedication to our guests and commitment to growth,” said Robertson.

Charles B. Robertson joined American Cruise Lines in 2003 and was named a Vice President in 2014. His direction at the company has been instrumental to American’s recent growth.

American is the largest cruise line operating on U.S. waters, with the newest fleet of coastal cruise ships and riverboats in the U.S. All ships accommodate 100-200 passengers, and are built, crewed, and registered in the U.S.A.

With over 35 itineraries in 25 states, American operates on the waterways of New England, Alaska, the Pacific Northwest, the Mississippi River system, and the Southeast.

RELATED ARTICLES

• April 24, 2024
• Inland , News , Shipbuilding , Shipping

Eureka Shipping to build new cement carrier for Great Lakes trade

• Dredging , Inland

Corps of Engineers to start dredging Cleveland Harbor

• Inland , Inland and Coastal , News

Photos: TTB 2024 in review

NTSB reports on an expensive partial sinking of a moored towboat

• April 23, 2024
• Inland , News , Technology

World’s first electric pusher tug is powered by EST-Floatech batteries

Charles B. Robertson new CEO of American Cruise Lines

Charles B. Robertson has been appointed as chief executive (CEO) of American Cruise Lines. The decision follows the recent death of his father Charles A. Robertson, who was the founder and chief executive of the organisation.

“My father was a visionary and pioneer of the cruise industry and it is an honour to lead the organisation he created. My brothers and I have followed in his footsteps and will remember him as a tremendous leader, mentor and father. We have prudently worked toward this transition, and with the support of our executives and employees, will continue our dedication to our guests and commitment to growth,” said Robertson.

Charles B. Robertson joined American Cruise Lines in 2003 and was named a vice president in 2014. His direction at the company has been instrumental to American’s recent growth.

American opens biggest season yet on the Columbia & Snake Rivers

American Cruise Lines announces 2024 Season of Exclusive Summer New England Cruises

Since you're here...

...there are many ways you can work with us to advertise your company and connect to your customers. Our team can help you design and create an advertising campaign

We can also organize a real life or digital event for you and find thought leader speakers as well as industry leaders, who could be your potential partners, to join the event. We also run some awards programmes which give you an opportunity to be recognized for your achievements during the year and you can join this as a participant or a sponsor.

Let us help you drive your business forward with a good partnership!

Yes, contact me I want to download the media kit

Comments are closed.

LATEST STORIES

Centara Hotels & Resorts open first overseas COSI property in Vientiane, Laos

Visit Chandanwari during Amarnath Yatra

OXO Living announces plans for “OXO The Residences” with architect Alexis Dornier

JW Marriott Khao Lak unveils the 'JW Garden' full farm model and wilderness park

Welcome, Login to your account.

Sign in with Google

Powered by wp-glogin.com

Recover your password.

A password will be e-mailed to you.

Welcome back, Log in to your account.

SIGN UP FOR FREE

Be part of our community of seasoned travel and hospitality industry professionals from all over the world.

• LOGIN / SIGN UP
• Middle East
• UK & Europe
• USA & Canada
• Hospitality
• HR & Careers
• Luxury Travel
• MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferencing, Exhibitions)
• Travel Tech
• Travel Agents
• Airlines / Airports
• Conferences
• Cruising (Ocean)
• Cruising (River)
• Destination Management (DMC)
• Hotels & Resorts
• Hotel Management Company
• Hotel Technology
• HR / Appointments
• Meetings, Incentives, Conferencing, Exhibitions (MICE)
• Travel Agents (all)
• Travel Technology
• Tourism Boards
• Industry appointments
• Travel Bloggers
• Podcasts – Features
• How to join
• RSVP Portal
• Event Photos/Videos
• Competitions
• Search for Jobs
• Destination NaJomtien BanAmphur BangSaray *NEW*
• จุดหมายปลายทาง นาจอมเทียน หาดบ้านอำเภอ บางเสร่ *NEW*
• South Australia Reward Wonders *NEW*
• Ponant Yacht Cruises and Expeditions
• Encore Tickets (Chinese Guide)
• Affordable Luxury in Thailand by Centara Hotels
• Rising Above the Oridinary by Conrad Bangkok
• The Best of Thailand
• Who is IWTA
• Philippines
• Recommend Someone
• Recommend yourself
• IWTA AWARDS
• TRAVEL CLUB

• North America

A Chat with American Cruise Lines’ CEO Charles A. Robertson

Contrary to the look of a traditional Mississippi riverpaddle steamboat, the new 345-ft.-long riverboat will sport a modern design, which Robertson says baby boomers have come to expect. “They’re part of the reason for the more modern boats, their expectation is a little different,” he said. But it’s not just baby boomers booking the line.

RELATED ARTICLES MORE FROM AUTHOR

• Travel Guides
• Africa & Middle East
• Asia & South Pacific
• Caribbean & Bermuda
• Latin America
• Agent Tools
• Travel Agent FAMs & Discounts
• Travel Offers
• Destination Weddings
• Eco & Sustainable Travel
• Hotels & Resorts
• Spa & Wellness
• Tour Operators
• Webinars/Reports
• About the RCAs
• 2023 RCA Voting
• 2022 RCA Winners
• 2021 RCA Winners
• Meet Our Editors
• Saint Lucia Expert (SLEx) Program
• Saint Lucia Romance Expert Program
• St. Vincent and The Grenadines Travel Pro
• Grenada Travel Expert
• Wellness Travel Specialist
• Get Educated: Saint Lucia Romance Expert Program
• Become an Expert — Saint Lucia Expert (SLEx) Program
• Enroll in the Saint Lucia Romance Expert Program
• Family Travel Association Affiliate Program
• ASTA Verified Travel Advisor Certification Program

Search Travel Market Report

• Packaged Travel
• Hotels & Resorts
• Destinations
• Retail Strategies
• Niche & Luxury
• Training & Resources
• Brian Israel
• Briana Bonfiglio
• Dan McCarthy
• Dori Saltzman
• Jennifer Arango
• Kelly Fontenelle
• Keri-Anne Slevin
• Louis Intreglia
• Sarah Milner
• Tom McCarthy

American Cruise Line Adds Flat Rate Domestic Airfare Option

U.S.-based small ship cruise line American Cruise Line (ACL) is adding a flat rate domestic airfare option to all of its U.S. cruises when its new season kicks off in late February. 

Starting then, all guests sailing on ACL will be able to get to one of 19 cruise hubs spread across 16 states with a flat fare. The airfare can be selected at the time of booking and will not move based on any future changes in fares. 

For ACL, the addition is “an added convenience when booking small ship cruises with us,” Carter Robertson, the EVP for ACL said in a statement announcing the news. 

“As a company, we are always looking for new ways to personalize our guest services from booking to boarding and the new flat-rate airfare will create a seamless experience for many of our guests.”

The move is another one for the growing cruise line, which has doubled its fleet over the past 5 years and now boasts operations in 31 states from Alaska to Florida. Aside from that flat-rate option, its fare will continue to include complimentary pre-cruise hotel stays, shore excursions, private cruise coaches, and more. 

MOST VIEWED

• Report: Delta Air Lines Plans to Drop Baggage Recheck on Arrival to U.S.
• Four Spots Onboard the All-New Sun Princess We’re Not in Love With
• Catering Strike Causes Delays at Toronto Pearson Airport
• Op-Ed: Why I Won’t Use Costco for Travel Again
• Delta Air Lines Is Changing the Way It Boards Flights
• Testing the Waters with Dori: The NCL Stranded Passenger "Fiasco"
• Margaritaville at Sea Offers Advisor-Only Pricing
• Taiwan Earthquake Update: Train Services Resume, Flights Operating Near Schedule
• Horseshoe’s Jubilee Tower Becomes the Versailles Tower at Paris Las Vegas
• California Bans Drip Pricing: What It Means for Travel Advisors
• The NCL Stranded Passenger “Fiasco”: Your Replies
• Here's What Each River Cruise Line Includes

Unique Ways Travel Advisors Enhance Their Clients’ Journeys

Here are some of the ways that advisors can enhance their clients’ journeys.

Subscribe today to receive daily in-depth coverage, analysis of industry news, trends and issues that affect how you do business. Subscribe now for free.

Subscribe to TMR

TMR sat down with a number of cruise line execs at three major industry conferences. Here's what they had to say.

Starting June 2024 Windstar will begin paying commission 29 days prior to the cruise departure.

Austin joined Explora Journeys in Nov. 2020 as the brand's chief sales officer. 

Celestyal is offering seven National Geographic Day Tours available across Greece and Croatia.

Suppliers from across the travel industry are expressing their gratitude to the trade.

Royal Caribbean cruise ships will not be returning to Labadee any time soon. 

Chesapeake Shipbuilding founder Charles Robertson, 72, dies

Charles Arthur Robertson, founder of Chesapeake Shipbuilding, died Feb. 9 in New York City at age 72 following a battle with cancer, according to The Hartford Courant .

Along with Chesapeake Building, a major employer in Salisbury, he was also founder, chairman and CEO of American Cruise Lines Inc. and Pearl Seas Cruises.

He was a recognized expert on cruise ship regulations in the United States and held an unlimited United States Coast Guard Master's License and a First Class Pilot's License, according to the Courant.

Robertson won national and international events, including the Newport Bermuda Race, the Queen's Cup and the National Championship, per his obituary.

He was the son of Charles Bennett Robertson and Mary Spangler Robertson. Carol Ann Robertson, his wife of 35 years, survives him. He is also survived by three sons, Charles and wife Kristen; Clark and fiancée Parinaz; and Carter; a granddaughter, Claiborne; and two sisters, Jean Anne Robertson and Lois Gorman, according to The Courant.

More: Chesapeake Shipbuilding moves riverboats into the modern era

More: Chesapeake Shipbuilding making big progress on American Cruise Lines vessel

Chesapeake Shipbuilding’s construction yard is located on 13 acres of level land along the protected waters of the Wicomico River in Salisbury. The company specializes in the design and construction of passenger vessels, tugboats, ferry boats and other vessels.

• Shippax Database
• Shippax Awards

Members login

To activate your existing membership, you have to recreate your password . This is only required the first time you login.

JavaScript must be enabled in order to be able to shop in our online store.

Getting access to our website

• Press Releases

Charles A. Robertson, American Cruise Lines Founder, Passes Away. Charles B. Robertson Named New CEO

The Board of Directors of American Cruise Lines, Inc. announced that Charles B. Robertson will be appointed as the company’s new Chief Executive Officer, effective immediately. This appointment follows the recent death of Mr. Robertson’s father, Charles A. Robertson, who was the company’s founder, Chairman, and Chief Executive.

“My father was a visionary and pioneer of the cruise industry and it is an honor to lead the organization he created. My brothers and I have followed in his footsteps and will remember him as a tremendous leader, mentor, and father. We have prudently worked toward this transition, and with the support of our executives and employees, will continue our dedication to our guests and commitment to growth,” said Robertson.

Charles B. Robertson joined American Cruise Lines in 2003 and was named a Vice President in 2014. His direction at the company has been instrumental to American’s recent growth. Both his leadership and history with the Line make him ideally suited to the Chief Executive role.

Feb 12 2020

• Share press release

The MSC Foundation, The MSC Group and Mercy Ships International join forces to build a new hospital ship

Apr 23 2024

DFDS initiates hybrid-electric ro-pax vessel design study with Incat for Channel Island tender

H2 Energy and DFDS publish new hydrogen propulsion feasibility study

Apr 17 2024

Cunard officially welcomes new ship QUEEN ANNE

Apr 21 2024

VARSOVIA interior photos

FRS Clipper unveils new management team

Apr 18 2024

DFDS appoints Karen Dyrskjøt Boesen as new CFO

Apr 19 2024

Tallink Silja Line’s new buffet menu offers a flavourful invitation to the nicest summer picnic at sea

Apr 24 2024

Get the latest news - for FREE

Receive our weekly newsletter with the latest news and unique special offers.

Don’t miss out!

The place to meet the ferry shipping industry!

American Cruise Lines CEO Details Continued Expansion Plans

• October 6, 2020

The CEO and President of American Cruise Lines, Charles B. Robertson, has announced the company’s continued expansion plans with new boats, itineraries, and health protocols.

While the operator’s ships remain inactive due to the recent CDC “No Sail” order extension, American has not had an “idle year,” Robertson said in a Monday press conference.

The two new riverboats announced are the American Jazz and the American Melody, which will both sail on the Mississippi River.

“This will give us 14 ships operating in more than 30 states from coast to coast,” the CEO said.

Robertson also promised three new itineraries for 2021: the Cape Codder, the Music Cities cruise, and the Alaskan Explorers cruise.

The Cape Codder will be visiting a “variety of small New England ports, including an exclusive partnership with the Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution.” The Music Cities cruise draws on American musical influences “as it cruises from Nashville to Memphis.” While the 11-day Alaskan Explorers cruise will visit more Alaskan ports than “we’ve ever been to before including spending two days in Glacier Bay,” Robertson said.

Fifty new shore experiences have also been announced by American.

“These are unique experiences that are focused on active excursions, culinary experiences, and musical performances onboard,” the Robertson said. “They also include a number of premium pre-cruise packages in luxury hotels around the country. This includes expanding our relationship with Four Seasons hotels in several of our departure port cities.”

While the company has come up with many exciting plans for the future, they do not “lose sight of the present,” Robertson said.

He explained that since spring 2020, the cruise operator adopted the slogan of “ready to operate, prepared to wait.”

“We have spent many months planning and implementing extensive new health and safety protocols that leverage our advantages with small domestic-only ships. These protocols were rolled out in March and include everything from onboard COVID-19 testing to shipboard medical personnel,” Robertson explained.

“American is fully ready to begin cruising and has the foundational strength to remain paused as long as necessary.”

Cruise Industry News Email Alerts

• Breaking News

Get the latest breaking  cruise news .  Sign up.

54 Ships | 122,002 Berths | $36 Billion | View

Highlights:

• Mkt. Overview
• Record Year
• Refit Schedule
• PDF Download
• Order Today

• 2033 Industry Outlook 
• All Operators
• Easy to Use
• Pre-Order Offer
• Advertising
• Cruise News
• Magazine Articles
• Quarterly Magazine
• Annual Report
• Email Newsletter
• Executive Guide
• Digital Reports

Privacy Overview