American Cruise Lines expanding
Cruising doesn’t have to mean international flights or huge crowds. You can still experience that sense of exploration and ease — just closer to home.
American Cruise Lines made headlines this week with a big announcement: ten new U.S.-built ships are joining their fleet between now and 2028. The first, the American Pioneer, launches this fall. These smaller, 100–150-passenger ships — part of ACL’s new “Patriot Class” — are designed for U.S.-only routes that highlight America’s coastlines and riverways.
If you’re not familiar, American Cruise Lines operates more than 50 itineraries across 35 states and about 125 ports. Their trips cover everything from classic Mississippi River cruises to the Columbia & Snake Rivers in the Pacific Northwest, New England and Hudson River voyages in the northeast, and Florida-to-Gulf Coast routes that connect cities like Jacksonville, Mobile, and New Orleans.
Prices vary by region and season — typically starting around $4,700–$6,000 for weeklong sailings — but the experience is much more intimate than the giant Caribbean liners most of us picture when we hear the word “cruise.” These ships trade water parks for wraparound porches, small lounges, and front-row views of historic harbors.
A new reason to explore close to home
Domestic travel just got an unexpected boost. The One Big Beautiful Bill, signed into law on July 4, 2025, includes a provision expected to create a domestic travel tax credit — up to $4,000 annually for qualifying U.S.-based travel.
The credit hasn’t been fully detailed yet, and the IRS hasn’t released official guidance on how it will work or what kinds of travel expenses will qualify. But early summaries suggest that cruises beginning and ending in the United States could count, depending on how the rules are finalized.
If that holds true, it could make a big difference for travelers who want to see more of the country without crossing oceans or dealing with passports. Combine that incentive with American Cruise Lines’ steady expansion, and suddenly “cruising American” looks like a very smart option — and maybe even a deductible one.
So, if you’ve been curious about cruising but hesitant to go abroad, this could be your time to test the waters. Between new ships, fresh itineraries, and potential tax benefits, there’s never been a better moment to explore America by river or coast.
Disclaimer: I am not a financial advisor, and this is not tax or investment advice. Always confirm eligibility for any credit or deduction with a qualified professional before claiming it.
