Where to begin??? This was trip number thirteen (yes, 13) for me on American Cruise Lines, so to say I am a charter member of their fan club would be an understatement!! Since I've taken every East Coast itinerary: Golden South (2x), New England Islands, Hudson River, Chesapeake Bay, Mississippi River and Maine seven times, I'll offer a general review of cruising with this company and a specific one of the Maine one. To begin, American Cruise Lines builds each vessel in their own, company-owned, shipyard located in the Chesapeake Bay, so they are all-American right down to the hull. They have developed a trade-mark design that offers very large and comfortable cabins, luxury linens, balconies at almost every price-point, large and airy lounges, and much more. The majority of the ship's stewards and deck-hands are young, college students, if not professionally trained, all smiling and willing. To me, this is an added opportunity to enhance my cruise.

Each of the itineraries offers an opportunity to experience the very best of the region...in sights, history and food. Most trips combine cruising and shore visits in agreeable balance so that both of your cruising goals at met. The speakers are excellent, without exception!! You have the opportunity to be informed on the attractions of every port and often the biggest problem you will have is picking which shore excursions to select. And, there are fun activities, too. No one needs to be prepared to enjoy the lobster feast in Rockland, Maine!! And "walking across the bar" in Bar Harbor, ME is great fun. The food is excellent, well served and abundant, and the complimentary evening bar and wines with lunch and dinner add to your dining pleasure. As a disclaimer, there are no night-club shows in the evening, no casinos, no shopping emporiums...so if that is your cup of tea, this is the wrong company for you.

The professional members of the crew, from the Captain to the Cruise Director, Hotel and Dining Room Managers will meet and exceed your expectations, and their availability to the passengers is without precedence. Read more