(GUILFORD, Conn.) —American Cruise Lines has announced the construction of American Maverick and American Ranger at Chesapeake Shipbuilding in Salisbury, Md. These new 125-passenger ships are the seventh and eighth vessels in the company’s Project Blue series of small ships for the U.S. market.
American Maverick and American Ranger will both begin cruising in 2026, directly following the 2025 debuts of American Patriot, American Pioneer, and new riverboat American Encore (2026).
American’s Project Blue series began with four 100-passenger Coastal Cats introduced in 2023 and 2024. The newest Patriot-class ships, American Maverick and American Ranger, and previously announced American Patriot and American Pioneer, represent the latest iteration in the ongoing series. All 12 Project Blue ships are being built by Chesapeake Shipbuilding.
American Maverick and American Ranger will be fully stabilized coastwise ships for smooth sailing along the Eastern Seaboard. The ships will increase the itinerary options for the company’s growing array of coastal cruises from Maine to Florida. American Cruise Lines remains the only cruise line in the world with a fleet of 100 percent U.S.-flagged riverboats and small ships, enabling fully domestic river and coastal itineraries.
American Maverick and American Ranger will offer five decks with elegant interior design and 100 percent private balcony accommodations – 56 spacious staterooms, for both double and single occupancy. The fourth deck on both ships will house all-suite accommodations ranging from 420 to 620 square feet.
The newest and most notable feature on American Maverick and American Ranger will be the fifth deck Sky Lounge; an entire deck dedicated to relaxation and recreation, offering panoramic views, comfortable lounge seating, a 360-degree walking track, and a casual outdoor cafe. Both new ships will also feature an expansive main lounge and restaurant on deck 1, with water views from every seat; a bow terrace and lounge on deck 3; and an indoor fitness center on deck 4.
When American Maverick and American Ranger begin sailing in 2026, American Cruise Lines will operate 24 small ships across the country.
Images and details for all American’s small ships and riverboats are available on the company’s website under the SHIPS tab.
– American Cruise Lines
