New Cruise Launching In Surprising U.S. Destination For First Time In Decades

You won’t assume hopping aboard a cruise ship with no passport is a brilliant thought, but it surely’s really one of many newest journey tendencies — and continues to develop.

There is not any denying a visit to Alaska, Hawaii, the Caribbean, or perhaps a grand journey to Europe are phenomenal decisions, however corporations like American Cruise Strains take satisfaction in exhibiting off missed waterways proper right here in our personal yard.

Set to reach in 2026, their newest vacation spot is certain to be a shocker!

For the first time in decades, vacationers trying to keep away from lengthy flights, but nonetheless wish to get pleasure from a multi-day tour on scenic waters can guide a cruise one in every of America’s prettiest lakes.

The Midwest and cruises could look like they go collectively like oil and water at first look, however when you’re driving on the huge Nice Lakes, American Cruise Strains is definite you will neglect in regards to the far-flung paradises as you traverse charming harbor cities and vibrant blue lakes.

The American Cruise Strains Expertise

Ever seen a mega-ship? One take a look at it may be overwhelming — particularly, with the considered all of the bratty, obnoxious youngsters sharing the pool with you.

Consider American Cruise Strains because the anti-mega ship.

Providing cozier digs with out the flash of casinos, screaming youngsters on waterslides, and nonetheless offering all-inclusive facilities with out the occasion vibes.

As such, count on spacious rooms (for cruise requirements), domestically sourced, tailor-made meals menus, and 24/7 hospitality — together with free booze, so you’ll be able to convey the occasion to you moderately than attending a tacky disco.

Higher but, gratuity is included too!

A visit with ACL feels extra like a boutique lodge with attentive service than a large resort on water, and the accolades converse for themselves.

In keeping with their official website, “American Cruise Strains is essentially the most awarded US River and Small Ship cruise line”.

A pre-cruise lodge keep can also be included for all itineraries earlier than boarding, so you’ll be able to relaxation assured your journey is in good palms from the get-go.

The Nice Lakes Welcomes First Cruise In A long time

Now not do vacationers need to fly cross nation to such locations as San Diego or Miami to set sail for an epic cruise. Should you did, that may be fairly a wonky path to the Nice Lakes.

As an alternative, vacationers can set sail from the Midwest, which can sound odd, however in accordance Charles B. Robertson, President and CEO of American Cruise Strains, “company have lengthy requested for our fashion of cruising on the Nice Lakes”.

Including, “we are actually proud to supply these cruises as solely American can, aboard a brand new small ship crusing 100% domestically”.

That is proper — no treks into the land of maple as all new Nice Lakes adventures will keep within the U.S. of A.

In keeping with TravelAge West, the “American Patriot” will host as much as 130 company on the next itineraries.

9-day possibility:

• Departing from Milwaukee, count on hit up quite a few historic websites, together with the Harley Davidson Museum, USS Silverside Submarine Museum, and Fayette Historic Townsite, amongst others, together with a cease within the land of “cheeseheads” by visiting the Nationwide Railroad Museum in Inexperienced Bay on the Lake Michigan & Upper Peninsula cruise.

Departure dates: June 24, July 1, August 1 and August 8, 2026

• Setting sail from Syracuse (technically Oswego) and Cleveland, you will conquer Lake Erie and Lake Ontario with some cool stopping factors alongside the best way, together with Boldt Fortress and a glass-bottom tour to a well-known shipwreck, and a go to to the Susan B. Anthony Home & Museum on the Great Lakes & Thousand Islands cruise.

Departure dates: Might 22, Might 29, June 5 and August 27, 2026

14-day possibility:

• Getting rid of from Cleveland and Milwaukee, you’ll be able to add 5 days to your itinerary on the American Great Lakes journey and nonetheless benefit from the astounding surroundings of Lake Erie, Lake Huron, and Lake Michigan, plus some pleasant stops alongside the best way, together with on of our favourite hidden gems right here at Journey Off Path, the timeless, car-free island of Mackinac, and much more underrated Silver Lake Sand Dunes.

Departure dates: June 12, July 8, July 20 and August 15, 2026

It is already been introduced extra dates will launch in 2027, however up to now ACL is remaining hush-hush about it.

Sam Sears

Sam, our Lead Author & Journalist primarily based in San Diego has visited 36 international locations and written over 1000 articles with a deal with sharing his personal journey experiences and shining a lightweight on lesser-known gems.