American Launches American Encore With Historic Idaho Christening
American Cruise Lines has officially christened its newest riverboat, American Encore, at a ceremony in Lewiston, Idaho. The event marked what the company says was the first riverboat christening ever held in the state. The 180-passenger vessel is the newest addition to the company’s growing fleet of modern riverboats.
The christening ceremony took place on May 12 at American’s new Lewiston dock. Cathy McMorris Rodgers, who represented Eastern Washington and the Snake River region in Congress for 20 years, served as the ship’s godmother. She joined passengers, travel advisors, company executives, crew members, and local officials for the traditional blessing and bottle smash ceremony aboard the ship’s top deck.
Speakers included American Cruise Lines President and CEO Charles B. Robertson, American Encore Captain Andrea Mickelson, Port of Lewiston Commissioner Joe Anderson, Lewiston Mayor Dan Johnson, and Chesapeake Shipbuilding President Steven McGee. The event also featured a patriotic flyover and live music from The Victory Belles.
During the ceremony, Robertson described American Encore as “the flagship” of the company’s broader efforts to expand its river cruise operations.
The christening followed the vessel’s successful sea trials earlier this year. After departing Chesapeake Shipbuilding in Maryland, American Encore transited through the Panama Canal in order to reach the Pacific Northwest.
Columbia and Snake River Itineraries
American Encore began service on May 5 and is cruising the Columbia and Snake Rivers. Itineraries range from nine to 16 days and include stops tied to the Lewis and Clark expedition, Columbia River Gorge, regional wine country, and historic Pacific Northwest communities.
Lewiston plays an important role in the itineraries because it sits at the easternmost navigable point on the Columbia-Snake river system, roughly 465 miles inland from the Pacific Ocean.
According to American, American Encore’s inaugural season is already sold out.
Interiors and Onboard Amenities
American Encore is part of American’s modern riverboat series, which also includes American Melody, American Symphony, American Serenade, and American Legend. According to company materials, the vessels were designed with a contemporary style centered around open public spaces and panoramic river views.
Company materials describe large lounges, observation areas, outdoor deck spaces, and dining venues inspired by regional cuisine. Interiors use neutral tones, oversized windows, and residential-style furnishings to create a relaxed onboard atmosphere.
The ship’s Signature Suite is among American Encore’s most prominent accommodations. According to American, the suite spans more than 1,000 square feet and includes a separate living room, expansive balcony space, and floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the river.
The Signature Suite aboard American Encore features panoramic river views, a private balcony, and residential-style interiors. Credit: American Cruise Lines. The River Lounge aboard American Encore features contemporary design and panoramic views. Photo: American Cruise Lines.
The company currently operates 28 small ships and riverboats across the United States and describes itself as the country’s largest domestic cruise line.
