American Cruise Lines will enter the Great Lakes cruise market with the debut of three brand-new itineraries for the 2026 season.
Sailing aboard American Patriot, the country’s newest small cruise ship, these US-only cruises will operate from May through August 2026.
“Guests have long asked for our style of cruising on the Great Lakes,” said Charles B. Robertson, President & CEO of American Cruise Lines. “We are now proud to offer these cruises as only American can, aboard a new small ship sailing 100% domestically.”
This marks the first time in decades that an American-flagged ship will offer domestic-only cruises in the Great Lakes. Unlike other cruise lines operating in the region, American Cruise Lines’ ships do not require international entry, allowing them to dock in the heart of small towns, city parks, and private marinas -offering “an authentic and exclusive experience not available with any other cruise line.”
The 2026 offerings include:
- A nine-day Great Lakes & Thousand Islands cruise between Syracuse, NY and Cleveland, OH, featuring visits to Niagara Falls, Boldt Castle, and the Susan B. Anthony House & Museum.
- A nine-day Lake Michigan & Upper Peninsula cruise round-trip from Milwaukee, WI, with stops in Green Bay, Escanaba, and historic Muskegon.
- A 14-day American Great Lakes cruise between Cleveland, OH and Milwaukee, WI, exploring Lakes Erie, Huron, and Michigan, with highlights including Mackinac Island, Detroit, and Holland, MI.
Each cruise includes a pre-cruise hotel stay, complimentary domestic airfare and fully guided excursions.
The American Patriot is designed for luxury and comfort, accommodating just 130 guests with private balcony staterooms, suites and solo traveller cabins. Amenities include a main restaurant with panoramic views, a casual café, top-deck lounge and walking track, fitness centre, elevators to all decks and a laundry room.
Cruises are now available for booking, with additional 2027 dates already planned.
