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American Cruise Lines Launches Yearlong 250th Celebration

ByHarrison Liu

American Cruise Lines is honoring America’s Semiquincentennial with a yearlong onboard celebration across its 2026 cruises. The company’s “Celebrating 250 Years of America” theme will be featured on every sailing in 2026, spanning itineraries in 35 states from Alaska to Florida. American says its distinctive, 100% U.S.-flagged fleet of riverboats and small ships will feature patriotic touches, expanded enrichment programming, and special events designed to highlight the nation’s history and culture.

American Cruise Lines’ American Pioneer docked at Mallory Square in Key West on Monday for its official christening ceremony. Photo credit: H. Liu
American Cruise Lines’ American Pioneer docked at Mallory Square in Key West. Photo credit: H. Liu

All American ships will add a commemorative 250th emblem on the bow and will unfurl oversized American flags along their sides on boarding day. On board, the celebration continues with themed programming and festive gatherings. Passengers can expect a 250th-inspired game show, daily U.S. history trivia, and patriotic Red, White & Blue cocktail parties. A special American 250 cocktail menu will feature drinks such as “The Spirit of 1776.”

The American Cruise Lines 250th anniversary logo will be emblazoned across the fleet's bows in 2026. Image: American Cruise Lines
The American Cruise Lines 250th anniversary logo will be emblazoned across the fleet’s bows in 2026. Image: American Cruise Lines

Land of Celebrations

Shore excursions will play a key role in the experience. American visits 160 U.S. ports of call, and passengers will have access to included excursions at every stop. Many destinations are planning their own events in 2026, including large-scale Sail 250 maritime celebrations in cities such as New York, Boston, Baltimore, and Norfolk.

American Glory cruises past the Statue of Liberty in New York Harbor. Image: American Cruise Lines
American Glory cruises past the Statue of Liberty in New York Harbor. Image: American Cruise Lines

Fourth of July sailings are expected to be especially festive. Ships positioned around the country will offer access to local fireworks displays and patriotic events. Passengers on the 52-Day Great United States Cruise will witness the fireworks over Boston Harbor.

Passengers may have opportunities to explore major exhibitions at the Smithsonian in Washington, D.C., or more intimate displays at regional museums such as the Wrangell Museum in Alaska. Museums and historic sites across the country are also debuting special exhibits tied to the 250th anniversary.

The line will also host ceremonies honoring veterans and screen patriotic videos produced exclusively for the anniversary year. Crew members will wear commemorative badges, and passengers sailing in 2026 will have access to collectible 250th keepsakes, including specialty pins.

American Cruise Lines’ celebratory 250th badge will be worn by crew members throughout the 2026 Semiquincentennial. Image: American Cruise Lines
American Cruise Lines’ celebratory 250th badge will be worn by crew members throughout the 2026 Semiquincentennial. Image: American Cruise Lines

At press time, American is currently offering complimentary airfare and savings of up to $1,000 per person on the Upper Mississippi, Ohio River, Music Cities and Maine Coast & Harbors itineraries. The offers apply to more than 50 departures between June and early September 2026 aboard eight riverboats and coastal ships.

For more Wave Season promotions, you can explore current offers from cruise lines across the industry at CruiseNews’ Wave Season Deals hub.

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