We talked about a cruise for several years but had no inclination to sail on any huge cruise ship. When National Trust for Historic Preservation advertised their Hudson River Fall Cruise (on American Glory) and noted it began in New York City (we are both of New York origin) we combined the cruise with some days in the city. It was an excellent decision. I don't know the expectations of those reviewers who complained about the state of the ship but as one who has sailed (wind) the west coast of Scotland in a small (34 ft) boat, the accommodations and state of the ship were excellent--very comfortable but still with a feeling of being at sea (even though were on a river) if the door to the balcony was left open. Even my wife, a non-sailor and prone to seasickness, was happy with the accommodations.
We also liked the informal dress code--jeans for me. Most of the staff were young and, occasionally, their experience showed (I noticed on mooring once one deckhand didn't know his knots) but their open, friendly attitude made the service very satisfactory in our opinion. The food was abundant and good. Likewise entertainment was good. The shuttles provided on disembarkation were appreciated. Shore excursions, mainly historic homes, were worth the sometimes long bus rides. The other passengers were easily approachable and conversations over dinner or at sights visited were interesting.
Lectures by the National Trust tour leader were ok albeit too long and rather unspecific relative to the sites visited. Most importantly, the fall colors on the Hudson were spectacular and our appreciation for the beauty of the river having seen it from the water has been increased. Surprisingly to us most of the passengers were older than we are (78 & 76) and one guy traveling alone was 90! So it gives us hope to take a few more.
Our cabin was clean with an adequate bathroom. It contained twin beds (our choice) with plenty of room to move about. A desk was provided and a small closet. Plenty of room for our two bags. The balcony had two chairs and a small table. Although the weather was cool it still provided a pleasant place to sit if on the leeward side of the ship. In summary, very satisfactory.