American Cruise Lines held the christening ceremony for its new ship, American Ranger, on September 24, 2026, at Historic Catskill Point in Catskill, New York. Passengers from the inaugural cruise, company executives, and crew members took part in the traditional bottle-breaking ritual and an al fresco meal on the upper deck. Susan Renner, longtime treasurer and chair of the board of American Cruise Lines, served as the ship’s godmother. Renner also was godmother to the sister vessel American Maverick.
American Ranger Ship Features and Design
The American Ranger is the fourth Patriot Class vessel built for American Cruise Lines. It accommodates 130 passengers in cabins that
all feature private balconies, including single cabins and suites. The ship’s design spreads over four decks and offers several lounges, such as an upper-deck lounge with a walking track, a chart room, a main restaurant, a casual café, a fitness center, and onboard laundry facilities. These amenities provide a modern experience uncommon on smaller river cruise ships of similar size.
Inaugural Hudson River Fall Foliage Cruise
The christening coincided with the American Ranger’s inaugural Hudson River fall foliage cruise, a nine-day voyage that began with an included hotel stay in New York City on September 18, 2026. The cruise departed New York City on September 19
and concluded in Albany on September 26. The ship’s itinerary included stops at Catskill, West Point, Sleepy Hollow, and Kingston/Hyde Park, New York, offering passengers scenic views and historic excursions along the Hudson River Valley.
Fleet Expansion and Future Ship Launches
American Cruise Lines launched three new ships in 2026, with the American Ranger being the third. The company plans to introduce three additional ships in 2027: the American Mariner and American Navigator, which are sister ships to the American Ranger, and the American Anthem, another modern American Riverboat. These fleet additions support the company’s focus on expanding domestic river cruising, especially on the Hudson River.
2027 Hudson River Itineraries and Unique Cruise Features
In 2027, American Cruise Lines will operate Hudson River cruises that depart from and return to Albany, with scheduled stops and excursions in New York City. Passengers on these cruises will have the opportunity to view the New York City skyline prominently, including the Statue of Liberty from the river. The Summer Classic cruises will start in June, with fall foliage cruises resuming in September. The company’s Hudson River itineraries include visits to significant landmarks such as the 9/11 Memorial & Museum and the Franklin D. Roosevelt Presidential Library, as well as stops for seasonal events like Sleepy Hollow’s Halloween
festivities.
Company Officials and Passenger Impact
Charles B. Robertson, president and CEO of American Cruise Lines, expressed enthusiasm about the christening. He stated, “We are thrilled to christen the American Ranger together with our passengers and crew, surrounded by the magnificent autumn scenery of the Hudson River Valley.” Robertson added, “Today, American Ranger assumes the title of the nation’s newest cruise ship, though it won’t hold it for long, as three more new ships will quickly follow in 2027.” The 2026 Hudson River cruises aboard the American Ranger are nearly sold out, with the final voyage scheduled for October 25. American Cruise Lines currently offers
the only overnight river cruises available on the Hudson River, providing expanded cruise options on American waterways with modern vessels and itinerary variety.
