American Cruise Lines Christens American Pioneer in Key West

Nearly 100 passengers, crew, company executives and government officials and company partners gathered on the top deck of American Pioneer on Monday as American Cruise Lines christened its newest vessel while docked at Mallory Square. The celebration marked the company’s third ship to enter service along Florida’s coasts, underscoring a growing partnership between the cruise line and the island community.

American Cruise Lines’ American Pioneer docked at Mallory Square in Key West on Monday for its official christening ceremony. Photo credit: CruiseNewsj. — American Cruise Lines’ *American Pioneer* docked at Mallory Square in Key West on Monday for its official christening ceremony. Photo credit: CruiseNews.

President and CEO Charles B. Robertson opened his remarks by reflecting on the company’s growing presence in Key West.

“This is our third ship christening, and we absolutely love it here,” Robertson said. “This is day one of our third season in Key West, and the trajectory we’ve been on has made this the fastest-growing itinerary. From our very first docking only two years ago, we have three ships in this market, each brand new and each mission-built for South Florida.”

“We aren’t stopping there,” he added. “We hope to turn three ships into 10. We’ve done it in other places across the country, and we have the shipyard order books to prove it.”

American and Key West Strengthens Ties

Robertson then introduced Key West Mayor Danise “Dee Dee” Henriquez, who also christened the company’s last new ship, American Legend, as godmother in February 2025.

“Here in Key West, a community built by the sea and defined by its maritime spirit, it feels especially fitting to welcome the American Pioneer,” Henriquez said. “To her crew and future passengers, may American Pioneer be a vessel of safe passage, cherished memories, and lasting friendships.”

Key West Mayor Danise “Dee Dee” Henriquez and American Cruise Lines President and CEO Charles B. Robertson exchange plaques during a traditional “plaques and keys” ceremony marking the American Pioneer’s maiden call at Mallory Square on November 10, 2025. Photo credit: CruiseNews. — Key West Mayor Danise “Dee Dee” Henriquez and American Cruise Lines President and CEO Charles B. Robertson exchange plaques duringAmerican Pioneer’s maiden call at Mallory Square on November 10, 2025. Photo credit: CruiseNews.

After her blessing, Mayor Henriquez broke the traditional champagne bottle against a brick tied to the ship’s railing. The brick was brought from Chesapeake Shipbuilding in Salisbury, Maryland, where American Pioneer was constructed, linking the shipyard and the Florida ceremony.

Key West Mayor Danise “Dee Dee” Henriquez breaks a champagne bottle to christen American Pioneer during a ceremony aboard the ship while docked at Mallory Square on Monday. Photo credit: CruiseNews. — Key West Mayor Danise “Dee Dee” Henriquez breaks a champagne bottle to christen *American Pioneer* during a ceremony aboard the ship while docked at Mallory Square on Monday. Photo credit: CruiseNews.

Captain Jim Abbruzzi, master of American Pioneer, reflected on the significance of the moment for both passengers and crew.

“I think both christenings are a special event, and it is christenings that bring good fortune, safety, smooth sails,” Abbruzzi said. “In most beginnings, the stories and memories of all of us sail on thereafter. So to all the passengers and crew of the American Pioneer, this is chapter one. Let’s get it started.”