(GUILFORD, Conn.) — American Cruise Lines christened its latest modern riverboat, American Encore, on May 12 in Lewiston, Idaho. The vessel, built by Chesapeake Shipbuilding in Salisbury, Md., completed sea trials in March and is now operating on the Columbia and Snake rivers in the Pacific Northwest.
During the voyage west, American Encore was helmed by Capt. Andrew Gillilan along with other officers and crew. The riverboat’s nautical team was supported each day by American’s shoreside operations team. While underway, American Encore’s crew closely monitored the riverboat’s navigation systems and equipment, keeping watch of ocean and weather conditions, and continually relayed information to American Cruise Lines’ fleet operations center in Connecticut.
American Cruise Lines has introduced 20 new ships in the past decade and catapulted the domestic U.S. river cruise market into the mainstream. The tour operator has 28 new small ships for U.S. cruises around the country and eight riverboats specifically for the Columbia and Snake rivers.
American Encore features five decks and accommodates 180 guests in private balcony accommodations. The riverboat showcases a four-story glass atrium and introduces American’s newest stateroom category, the Signature Suite. At 1,500 square feet, it is the largest riverboat suite in the world, offering a wrap-around balcony, panoramic views, separate living and sleeping spaces, and a hotel-sized bathroom with soaking tub and heated floors. Other onboard amenities include a grand dining room and casual cafe, multiple indoor and outdoor lounges, top deck lounge and outdoor walking track, large gym, complimentary laundry room, and elevators to all passenger decks.
American Encore is the newest and most elevated ship in the company’s series of modern American riverboats, first introduced to the U.S. market in 2018 with American Song. American Encore will be followed by sister ships American Anthem in 2027 and American Grace in 2028.
The christening also included ongoing recognition of the new dock that was recently built through a partnership between the cruise line and the Port of Lewiston. The Lewiston dock provides additional space for American’s growing fleet and host of itineraries in the region – also allowing the company’s riverboats to visit Lewiston and Clarkston simultaneously. The dock enables better access to many shore excursions for cruise guests and provides the local community with enhanced waterfront access year-round.
– American Cruise Lines
