American Cruise Lines Launches U.S.-Only Great Lakes 2026

American Cruise Lines will launch all‑domestic Great Lakes sailings May–August 2026 aboard the new 130‑guest American Patriot. The line will operate three 9‑ and 14‑day itineraries that start or end in Cleveland, Milwaukee or Syracuse and visit Lakes Ontario, Erie, Michigan and Huron. The cruises call only at U.S. ports—avoiding passports and customs—and include guided excursions to highlights such as Niagara Falls, Mackinac Island and the Soo Locks, along with small‑town cultural tours, lighthouse visits and glass‑bottom wreck tours. American Cruise Lines says the U.S.‑only program responds to sustained guest demand and marks the first time in decades an American ship will offer fully domestic Great Lakes cruises, a development Cleveland officials expect will boost the local economy. The American Patriot features private‑balcony staterooms and public amenities (sky deck, restaurants, fitness center), and sailings include pre‑cruise hotel stays, domestic airfare, Wi‑Fi, gratuities and some complimentary cocktails. Prices start around $8,675 for the nine‑day sailings and about $14,270 for the 14‑day itinerary.