(GUILFORD, Conn.) — American Cruise Lines’ newest modern riverboat, American Symphony, was christened Tuesday in Natchez, Miss., the vessel’s official godmother city. The christening marks the on-time delivery of American’s fifth modern riverboat in four years and the line’s continued growth on the Mississippi River.
American Cruise Lines and the city of Natchez hosted a joint celebration for the ship by welcoming cruise guests, as well as the communities of Natchez and Vidalia, to be a part of the official christening events. A festive presentation was held at the Natchez Convention Center that included musical performances by the Victory Belles, as well as speeches and special appearances from American Symphony’s official godmother, Asya Branch, Miss USA 2020 and Miss Mississippi 2018; the Mississippi Gov. Tate Reeves; Lt. Gov. Delbert Hosemann; Natchez Mayor Dan Gibson; Vidalia Mayor Buz Craft; and Charles Robertson, president and CEO of American Cruise Lines.
“American Cruise Lines led the last decade of river cruising on the Mississippi and, with new boats like American Symphony, will lead the next one,” Robertson said. “Natchez, Vidalia and all the towns along the way make the Mississippi the best cruising river in the world. We are so grateful for all the community involvement in tourism on the river and we are honored to make Natchez the godmother city of American Symphony.”
American Symphony will be quickly followed in early 2023 by sister ship American Serenade as well as two new small coastal catamarans, bringing American’s fleet to 17 small ships exploring in 34 states.
Accommodating 175 guests, American Symphony features five decks and offers private balcony staterooms, including suites and single staterooms. American Symphony also showcases American’s Modern Series hallmark — patented opening bow and retractable gangway, as well as the fifth deck skywalk with an ellipse skylight, which cantilevers over the fourth deck cafe below. American Symphony also offers lounges inside and out, a grand dining room, fitness center, and a wellness-yoga studio.
American Symphony’s sold-out inaugural cruise is following an eight-day Lower Mississippi River itinerary which originally departed from New Orleans on Aug. 27 and will conclude in Memphis, Tenn., on Sept. 3. The new riverboat will continue to explore the Mississippi throughout 2022, including holiday cruises in December.
– American Cruise Lines
