American Cruise Lines announced the construction of American Maverick and American Ranger, the 7th and 8th vessels in its ongoing Project Blue series of small ships for the U.S. market.
These new vessels, accommodating 125 guests, will both begin cruising in 2026, directly following the 2025 debuts of American Patriot, American Pioneer, and the 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 (2026), and previously announced American Patriot and American Pioneer (2025), represent the latest iteration in the ongoing series.
All 12 Project Blue ships are being built by Chesapeake Shipbuilding, the company’s affiliated shipyard in Salisbury, Maryland.
American Cruise Lines highlighted that the American Maverick and American Ranger will be fully stabilized coastwise ships, designed for smooth sailing along the Eastern Seaboard.
These new additions will increase the itinerary options for the company’s growing array of coastal cruises from Maine to Florida.
Both ships will feature 5 decks, with elegant interior design and 100% private balcony accommodations, offering 56 spacious staterooms, for both double and single occupancy.
The 4th deck on both ships will house all-suite accommodations ranging from 420 to 620 square feet.
The newest feature on American Maverick and American Ranger will be the 5th deck Sky Lounge, providing panoramic views, comfortable lounge seating, a 360° Skywalk (walking track), and a casual outdoor Back Porch Café.
Once the American Maverick and American Ranger enter service in 2026, American Cruise Lines’s fleet will comprise 24 small ships, offering the largest collection of fully domestic river and coastal itineraries in the United States.
