American Anthem 2027 Launch Set for Columbia & Snake Rivers

American Cruise Lines announced that American Anthem will cruise the Columbia and Snake rivers when the ship launches in May 2027. American Anthem is one of three modern American Riverboats currently on order at Chesapeake Shipbuilding in Salisbury, Maryland. Sister ship American Encore will launch in the Pacific Northwest this May, while American Grace is scheduled to enter service in 2028.

American Cruise Lines’ modern riverboat American Harmony sails through the Columbia River Gorge near Hood River, Oregon. Image courtesy of American Cruise Lines. — American Cruise Lines’ modern riverboat sails through the Columbia River Gorge near Hood River, Oregon. Image courtesy of American Cruise Lines.

The new roundtrip itinerary from Portland, Oregon begins with a pre-cruise hotel stay. Travelers embark in Stevenson, Washington and cruise west to Astoria, where the Columbia River meets the Pacific Ocean. The itinerary then charts east to Richland and continue through Clarkston and Hells Canyon.

American Anthem Debuts in 2027

The new Columbia and Snake rivers itinerary will be operated exclusively by American Anthem, a 180-passenger Modern American Riverboat. American Cruise Lines says the ship will mirror the design of sister vessel American Encore.

According to the line’s published 2027 sailing schedule, American Anthem is scheduled to operate 30 voyages during its inaugural season. The deployment includes 20 Columbia & Snake Rivers cruises, six sailings of the new 16-day Grand Columbia & Snake Rivers cruises and four National Parks & Legendary Rivers itineraries.

New Signature Suite on Anthem

American Anthem will also introduce a new 1,010-square-foot Signature Suite, which American Cruise Lines describes as the largest stateroom in its fleet.

American Cruise Lines' new 1,010-sq. ft. Signature Suite, debuting aboard American Anthem, will be it's largest stateroom in its fleet. Credit: American Cruise Lines — American Cruise Lines’ new 1,010-sq. ft. Signature Suite, debuting aboard *American Anthem*, will be it’s largest stateroom in its fleet. Credit: American Cruise Lines

Positioned at the bow of Deck 4, the suite is designed to offer 180-degree panoramic views through floor-to-ceiling glass doors and windows. According to the company, it will include a wraparound private balcony, separate living and sleeping areas.

The Signature Suite anchors a seven-category stateroom lineup, including Vista Balcony, Premium Balcony, Deluxe Balcony and Single Balcony accommodations.