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Explore the country at your own pace and in complete comfort with an RV rental from Cruise America. 

A traditional motorhome with the self-contained features you expect. This economical family unit is a traditional favorite for those who want the walk-through convenience of a motorhome.

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Our compact plus unit is a fully self-contained RV. The floor plan features a unique rear kitchen design with all the amenities of a larger unit. The compact RV is the ideal unit for two adults of any age and a dinette folding to an extra bed allows for a child. With 6.5 foot/2 meter ceilings and walk-through convenience, even tall campers can enjoy the compact plus RV.

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Our compact unit is a fully self-contained RV. The floor plan features a unique rear kitchen design with all the amenities of a larger unit. The compact RV is the ideal unit for two adults of any age, and a dinette folding to an extra bed allows for a child. With 6.5 foot/2 meter ceilings and walk-through convenience, even tall campers can enjoy the compact RV.

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This custom built trailer provides the freedom to setup camp and use your own vehicle to get in and out of town.  It has all the amenities of a motorhome, but provides flexibility when you need it.

The Adventure Travel Trailer does not include an electrical generator. In order to use the air conditioner or microwave you must be connected to a 30 amp electrical circuit.

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Reposition an RV from one area of the country to another and receive discounts of up to 95% on your rental.

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A Cruise on Maine’s Coast with American Cruise Lines: Our Review

What to expect on a small-ship cruise along Maine's coast from American Cruise Lines

By Heidi Sarna

November 14, 2023

Heidi Sarna is the cofounder of QuirkyCruise.com , a guide to small-ship cruising.     

From popular Pacific Northwest routes along the Columbia and Snake rivers to sailings on the Mississippi and its tributaries, American Cruise Lines (ACL) offers an impressive array of river and coastal cruises in the United States.

In addition to the marquee voyages above, the line navigates the rivers of Florida, plies the Chesapeake Bay all the way up the Potomac to Washington, D.C., and does coastal New England with sailings focused on Maine .

I recently spent a week cruising in lobster country, traveling round-trip from Portland, Maine , tucking into islet-sprinkled bays along a coast longer than California’s. (ACL's Maine itineraries are available from June through October.) 

As with all American Cruise Lines sailings, a pre-cruise hotel night in the city of embarkation is included. This allows everyone to arrive the day before and explore a bit. We sampled Portland’s delicious food scene, lunching on lobster rolls at the Highroller and fresh halibut at Scales . 

The next day, we took a city tour aboard one of the two ACL excursion buses that would follow us the entire week. Then everybody boarded the ship.

Our home for the week was the 100-passenger American Eagle , launched earlier this year.

The first in a series of 12 new “Coastal Cats” in the pipeline, the hybrid catamaran-hulled vessels were designed to offer a fuel-efficient and smooth ride. Oddly, the American Eagle is the only one without stabilizers—all future “Cats” will have them, Captain Andrew Gillilan told me. That will include the Maine routes starting next season.

In the meantime, crossing a stretch of swelly open ocean on the first day from Portland toward Bangor resulted in some uncomfortable “bouncing,” as onboard lecturer Mark Wisner put it. I was fine, but my motion-sickness-prone husband was bed-bound for several hours until we hit sheltered water. Fortunately there was only one other choppy patch during the week.

We occupied a bright and spacious 310-square-foot Vista cabin, similar to many on board, with a large bathroom and private balcony.

Exceptional Excursions

Each day we docked or anchored offshore at a charming Maine stop, enjoying excursions highlighting the state’s vital role in the shipbuilding, lumber, and fur industries of the 19th century.

At least one tour per port was included in the fare. Others, such as a tour inspired by Stephen King’s fictional Derry, cost extra.

Local guides for excursions were excellent. Historian Sam Ladley walked us around the waterfront of charming Camden , referred to by some as the Newport, Rhode Island, of Maine, thanks to the affluent summer residents and pretty harbor full of schooners and yachts.

In Bangor , our cheeky guide was dressed in period garb and led the tour in character as Fanny Jones, keeper of a long-running brothel in the days when Bangor was the lumber capital of the world.

The itinerary in Bar Harbor began with a stroll through the lovely La Rochelle mansion, a 120-year-old seaside “cottage” built by the wealthy Bowdoin family (of Bowdoin College) as a summer residence. In the afternoon, we joined the Acadia National Park bus tour up to Cadillac Mountain  (pictured at the top of this page) for some hiking and scenic views of the jagged coastline.

Another day, a lobster bake in Rockland had us bibbed up and seated at picnic tables. As a folk band played in the background, we tore into fresh steaming whole lobsters along with mussels and corn on the cob.

Onboard Meals, Service, and Amenities

Back on the ship, I was delighted by the food. Lunch ranged from lobster rolls to delicious salads like a cobb with ahi tuna. For dinner there was broiled salmon, fried chicken, and prime rib, followed by tasty desserts, most notably the pies (I recommend the blueberry and also the peanut butter.)

The ship’s pleasant, windowed, open-seating dining room has tables for two, four, six, and eight. To dine, passengers wore everything from Harley-Davidson sweatshirts to blazers and silk scarves.

Overall, crew members were agreeable and mostly efficient, though service could be slow and sometimes dismissive, especially at dinner. Having a server in charge of handling only the water and wine might be a good idea.

American Cruise Lines’ 7-night Maine Coast & Harbors Cruise (plus a 1-night pre-cruise hotel stay) starts at $5,145 per person, including excursions and wine, beer, and cocktails at happy hour, during meals, and after dinner during the evening entertainment, which ranges from live music to comedy.

Other amenities include a small gym, a café serving breakfast and lunch on deck, and a large sun deck.

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EXPLORE OUR PORTS

Home to two of North America’s most highly rated cruise destinations, Maine offers more than our iconic lighthouses and lobsters. Full of thriving arts communities, a variety of outdoor recreation, artisanal shops, award-winning restaurants, and historic sites, a trip to coastal Maine will leave you relaxed and inspired.

With a cruise ship season running from late spring straight through to the famous fall foliage season—and winter cruising finally on the horizon in Canada New England—Maine is quickly becoming a must-see destination for every traveler.

Whether you are cruising between the picturesque waterfronts of our niche ports, island hopping on our bays, or exploring the wonders of Acadia National Park, a cruise to Maine never disappoints.

1. Portland

3. boothbay harbor, 4. rockland, 6. searsport, 7. bucksport, 9. bar harbor, 10. eastport.

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Portland, Maine, US

Squint your eyes and admit it: Doesn’t that skinny, bearded hipster walking down the cobbled street look a lot like a 19th-century sea captain heading to the wharf to check his ship? Modern Portland, first settled in 1633, carries the marks of both subsets of Mainers. The restored brick buildings and warehouses of the Old Port and the fine upright houses of prosperous captains, merchants and shipbuilders make the city’s past a living part of its present. And the waterfront is a going concern, not a museum: Fishing boats chug into and out of their berths, buoys clang, harbor seals bark. Those shop windows aren’t displaying hardtack, rope or hand salve, though. Juice joints, art galleries, bookstores (and comic-book stores!), worshipful temples to coffee, locavore bistros with national press, bespoke menswear designers and gelato shops all jostle for attention. Don’t limit your visit to the Old Port, though. Wander through the terrific art museum or take a tour of one of the city’s historic homes. Jump on a ferry or whale-watching boat and get out into the busy harbor. Head to the coast—craggy, windswept, dramatic—a glorious and undeniably New England panorama. Get out and take it all in. Welcome to Vacationland.

Featured Shore Excursions

Downeast Maine Cruise

This 8-day journey, round-trip from Bangor, is the ultimate Maine experience and the perfect blend of scenic landscapes, rich history, and delicious, fresh seafood. In Belfast, admire magnificent sea captain mansions and explore its dynamic working waterfront. Experience an authentic lobsterbake on the shores of Rockland, while listening to a local bluegrass band. Take an evening cruise as the sun is setting in Bar Harbor, one of the most beautiful ways to witness Acadia National Park.

Venture to Bath, known as the “City of Ships,” on board our brand new class of catamaran-inspired small ships, and learn its fascinating maritime history on a guided walking exploration. Board a local trolley for a narrated ride through picturesque Castine, one of the oldest communities in the North America, known for its century-old elms. In Boothbay, explore the largest botanical garden in New England, led by a naturalist. End your amazing adventure in Bangor, hometown of author Stephen King and once the “lumber capital of the world.”

Along the way, be treated to the best regional cuisine and an unsurpassed level of personalized service.

Ports of call include: Bangor | Belfast | Rockland | Bar Harbor | Bath | Castine | Boothbay Harbor

Cruise Details

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*Per person/double occupancy. Special single rates apply where listed. Excludes port fees. Itineraries may operate in reverse.

Your Itinerary

1 Bangor, ME Start your journey in Bangor, the third largest city in the state, located on the western bank of the picturesque Penobscot River. The proximity of the river made Bangor the "Lumber capital of the world" for much of the 19th century, earning the title of "Queen City" of Maine.

2 Belfast, ME Today, Belfast is a rare combination of quiet small town juxtaposed with a vibrant social and cultural scene. Many of the ornate historic buildings of downtown now serve as homes and workshops for a cadre of local artists and artisians. With a variety of hiking trails, including the Belfast Rail Trail, Belfast is also a great place to get close to nature.

3 Rockland, ME Rockland is an exciting town with a vibrant art culture and thriving lobster industry. Spend your time touring one of Rockland's unique museums, including the Owls Head Transportation Museum and the Farnsworth Art Museum. Explore downtown Rockland which features an eclectic collection of art galleries or relax on a park bench and watch classic schooners sail through the harbor.

4 Bar Harbor, ME Lobstering is a centuries-old industry that continues to thrive in Bar Harbor as well as boat building, another traditional business that is important part of the local economy. Though Bar Harbor region is best known for its outdoor activities, it is also home to small museums, cultural attractions, and historically significant landmarks.

5 Bath, ME Long known as the "City of Ships," Bath finds its identity in shipbuilding. From its architecture and cultural offerings to its urban downtown, Bath's shipbuilding roots define its character. Walk Bath's streets and admire the seaport's tree-lined avenues, graced with classic examples of American Architecture. Explore the nationally acclaimed Maine Maritime Museum, which offers a variety of exhibits about Maine's nautical history.

6 Castine, ME Castine, Maine is one of the oldest communities in North America, Continuously occupied since the early 1600's. Canopied under century-old elms, the city boasts pristine, well-preserved 18th and 19th century Georgian and Federal homes, complemented by a walkable village of shops, galleries, restaurants, and historic sites. Known for its rich maritime tradition, Castine is also home to the renowned Maine Maritime Academy, a nationally-recognized college which provides training for world-class mariners and engineers, scientists and other career professionals. For those who love the outdoors, there are plenty of opportunities, both inland and along the coast, to enjoy the natural beauty of woodlands and rolling hills, as well as the scenic splendor of the harbor.

7 Boothbay Harbor, ME Known as the "Boating Capital of New England," Boothbay Harbor overflows with fishing vessels and pleasure crafts in equal numbers. Walk along Boothbay Harbor's flower-lined streets, dotted with art galleries, antique stores, and specialty shops. Don't forget to visit the famous Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens.

8 Bangor, ME Your journey comes to an end in Bangor.

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A Super Fun Bar Harbor Cruise Port Itinerary (On Your Own)

By: Author Melody Pittman

Posted on Published: October 11, 2023  - Last updated: November 11, 2023

During our unforgettable Canada and New England vacation, my friend Angie and I sailed into the breathtaking port of Bar Harbor, Maine, aboard a Holland America cruise. As our last stop, we couldn’t wait to explore all this charming destination had to offer— from exploring picturesque Acadia National Park to catching glimpses of celebrity homes. We crafted a meticulously planned itinerary that perfectly suited our desires. Here is the Bar Harbor cruise port itinerary we created that left us with perfect Maine memories.

First, Rent a Car

As we had arranged in advance, Angie and I were promptly picked up at the port by Enterprise rental cars. After a 30-minute drive, we arrived at the airport and collected our vehicle.

Although reaching our destination and completing the necessary paperwork took some time, the rental price was reasonable, and we were pleased to have control over our day’s itinerary.

With excellent fuel efficiency, the car proved cost-effective, resulting in a total price of $140, including refueling and the rental itself. While the roads were easily navigable, cellular service was intermittent in certain areas.

To see how the cruise played out, check out this article about the Canada and New England cruise .

Seal Harbor

Located just 30 minutes from the Bar Harbor cruise port, we decided to take the scenic route toward Acadia National Park and explore the highly recommended areas. One such area is Seal Harbor, renowned for its stunning mansions and celebrity residences, including Martha Stewart .

Navigating through the winding roads of these charming neighborhoods can be a challenge when trying to find specific addresses of the homes you wish to see. Nonetheless, we strolled along, marveling at the magnificent multi-million dollar properties that dotted the landscape.

Venturing out to MDI (Mount Desert Island) is an absolute delight, as it is home to Bar Harbor and a cluster of upscale Maine towns. These towns are favored summer destinations for affluent socialites and boast impressive art galleries, exquisite dining options, and unique accommodation.

The charming city of Ellsworth, nestled on the way to Acadia National Park, offers a picturesque gateway filled with delightful attractions. There is plenty to enjoy, from museums to birding hotspots and the captivating Timber Tina’s  Great Maine Lumberjack Show  that runs throughout the summer. Take advantage of the incredible telephone museum, an intriguing dive into our communication history.

Among the charming towns, my favorite is  Northeast Harbor , reminiscent of serene hamlets in upstate New York. Its quaint village shops, captivating eateries, and an air of sophistication make it a playground for the affluent, including notable homeowners like the Rockefeller’s.

While exploring, visit Main Street Mercantile, a must-see shop brimming with souvenirs, glassware, household items, and delightful baby gifts. It’s truly a joy to uncover the hidden treasures of these enchanting small towns at your own pace.

Lunch at Trenton Bridge Lobster Pound

Angie and I share a love for food, and we were thrilled to indulge in some delectable fresh Maine lobster. I’m confident that you’ll feel the same way. After receiving a local recommendation, we eagerly went to  Trenton Bridge Lobster Pound . This charming restaurant has been serving customers since 1956. 

Here, you’ll discover some of the finest lobsters in the world, sourced from Mount Desert Island and sold within hours of being caught. It doesn’t get much fresher than that!

For our meal, we both opted for a Lobster Roll accompanied by sides of coleslaw and potato salad. The rolls were perfectly crispy on the outside and delightfully soft on the inside. What’s more, the rolls were generously filled with juicy lobster meat. A side of melted butter provided the ideal complement for dipping our lobster rolls, resulting in a truly divine bite.

Visit Acadia National Park

Acadia National Park, commonly known as the Crown Jewel of the North Atlantic Coast, is the premier attraction in Bar Harbor. It is easily one of the key reasons the cruise ships tend to visit here on their  Canada and New England itineraries . Our  Holland America ship  featured some fantastic Acadia National Park trips, but we wanted to see several other things in the area, hence curating our own itinerary. 

Immerse yourself in the grandeur of this massive park, spanning across half of Mount Desert Island. Begin your exploration by traversing Park Loop Road’s winding 27 miles, where scenic overlooks and captivating photo opportunities await at every turnout.

Marvel at the breathtaking views the oceanside cliffs offer, granting you a splendid vantage point of the park’s pristine beauty. Encounter the serene beach setting of Thunder Hole and Sand Beach, starkly contrasting the lush, tree-covered mountains. The rhythmic force of the surf lapping against the rocky shore will surely mesmerize.

During our visit to Acadia National Park , we unfortunately couldn’t find the time to explore the renowned Jordan Pond House and its scenic trail or indulge in the famous popover restaurant. Instead, we decided to head to Frenchman Bay, where we captured breathtaking photos of the stunning beachfront and the majestic mountains in the background.

Keep an eye out for the picturesque Porcupine Islands, the charming mounds of land rising from the shimmering waters of Frenchman Bay .

Cadillac Mountain

The pinnacle of Acadia National Park awaits at Cadillac Mountain, its granite-topped peak towering at an elevation of 1532 feet. As the highest mountain along the North Atlantic seaboard, this awe-inspiring summit treats visitors to a panoramic 360-degree vista overlooking Bar Harbor, Frenchman Bay, and the Cranberry Isles.

A close second in terms of natural beauty lies within Jordan Pond, an exquisite area framed by the majestic Penobscot Mountain and the iconic “The Bubbles.”

Watch for the wild blueberries that flourish in the area, adding a delightful touch to your journey. While witnessing the nation’s first sunrise may prove unlikely for cruising enthusiasts, Cadillac Mountain proudly holds this title. Trust me when I say the pictures depicting this remarkable spectacle are nothing short of magnificent.

Bass Harbor Head Light

Visiting Bass Harbor Head Light is a must for those passionate about lighthouses. Perched on the rugged granite shoreline of MDI, this historic beacon, dating back to 1855, stands as one of the most photographed lighthouses along the Eastern Seaboard.

While visitors can explore the impressive grounds, please note that the lighthouse is privately owned and not open for public entry.

Shop for Souvenirs in Bar Harbor

Downtown Bar Harbor, steps away from the cruise port, is the ultimate destination for all your souvenir needs. From unique and cheesy mementos to adorable and fantastic treasures, you’ll find practically every type of souvenir here. Spend your day leisurely browsing through the relaxed and fun offerings in this port.

Don’t miss out on visiting two must-see stores:  Cool as a Moose  and Fair Trade Winds. These stores are packed with goodies that will leave you spoiled for choice.

If you’re a jewelry enthusiast like myself, you’ll be thrilled to know that Maine is the source of the elusive watermelon tourmaline. The pieces available here are stunning. Additionally, upscale food products such as jams, jellies, sauces , syrups, and more are perfect for taking home as souvenirs.

No trip to this region of Maine would be complete without indulging in the flavors of blueberry. We highly recommend trying the blueberry soft-serve ice cream cone from CJ’s Big Dipper. Heavens to Betsy, it’s truly phenomenal!

As you stroll along the pedestrian-clad sidewalks and explore the immaculate stores, galleries, and wineries, it becomes evident why Bar Harbor has remained a beloved New England summer retreat for over a century.

Bar Harbor: A Visit to Remember

Upon completing our day tour, we returned the car to the airport. Angie and I were then chauffeured back to Bar Harbor, allowing us to explore the area near our cruise ship at our leisure. Opting for self-guided exploration in Bar Harbor proved to be an excellent decision. We avoided waiting for large groups to embark and disembark from buses, skipped unwanted destinations, and were not bound by rigid itineraries.

Planning your trip should be smooth. We hope that these recommended suggestions for the Bar Harbor cruise port mentioned above will enhance your experience in this remarkable destination.

**I was hosted on this cruise by Holland America, but our day on our own was at our own expense. As with all of our articles, opinions and reviews are 100% ours and unbiased. 

Read more about our cruises:

What to Expect from the Cruise Ports of Germany

What to Do at Amber Cove, Dominican Republic

Holland America’s Zaandam and Club Orange

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Maine Coast and Harbors Cruise

At a glance.

On this 8-day Maine Coast and Harbors Cruise sailing round-trip from Portland, ME aboard the 100-passenger ships, travel to charming ports famous for their shipbuilding, as well as to beautiful national parks with magnificent views and abundant wildlife. Explore quaint historic districts and charming villages, and dine on the freshest, locally sourced seafood prepared by our team of master chefs.

Maine is home to one of most spectacular coastlines in the country, set against a backdrop of a stunning national park with majestic mountains that reach up to the sky and native wildlife that embellishes the landscape. On this enchanting journey, discover the rich maritime heritage that leads you past the magnificent homes of sea captains and through a dynamic working waterfront. Admire the classic schooners of Camden Harbor and stroll through the picturesque gardens of Boothbay Harbor.

Experience the preparing and unveiling of a traditional, old-fashioned lobsterbake luncheon on the shores of Rockland, serenaded by a local blue grass band. Savor delicious clams, mussels, and buttery corn as you enjoy the picturesque New England landscapes.

In the evening, delight in the company of guests and crew as you return to your home away from home. Relax in comfort and admire the view as your small ship winds through scenic rivers, sparkling bays, and historic harbors.

Maine Coast and Harbors Cruise Details

--> day-to-day itinerary.

Pre-Cruise: Pre-Cruise Premium Package

American Cruise Lines custom Pre-Cruise Package provides you with a seamless way to experience Portland and easily board the ship. Arrive the day before your cruise and American Cruise Lines will handle the rest. The package includes a 1 night stay at the Marriott Residence, located in the heart of downtown and steps away from the dock.

Pre-Cruise Packages must be reserved at least 30 days before your cruise date.

Day 1: Portland, ME

Portland is a region that perfectly blends the present with the past. The Old Port waterfront is made up of working fishing wharves and converted warehouses that now host a variety of eclectic restaurants and shops.

Begin your adventure with a calm afternoon on the sun deck looking for whales and enjoying the stunning natural beauty of Maine’s rugged coast. Cape Elizabeth marks the entrance to the Portland Harbor where you can witness spectacular views as you start your journey with us.

Day 2: Bar Harbor, ME

The natural beauty that surrounds Bar Harbor is accented with ocean cliffs, glacier‐formed lakes and valleys, stunning mountain vistas, and pine forest. This beauty has been captured in the works of Thomas Cole, Frederic Edwin Church, and many other great artists.

Lobstering is a centuries‐old industry that continues to thrive in Bar Harbor as well as boat building, another traditional business that is an important part of the economy. Though Bar Harbor region is best known for its outdoor activities, it is also home to small museums, cultural attractions, and historically significant landmarks.

Day 3: Bucksport, ME

Explore the historic seaport town of Bucksport, with a beautiful waterfront ornamented with scenic gardens and reflective fountains. Bucksport was a central hub for paper-making industry once upon a time. Though, the town’s paper mill closed in 2014, it now serves as a training center for the Maine Maritime Academy.

The town is also particularly well-known for the Penobscot River and the iconic Penobscot Narrows Bridge and Observatory, which is taller than the Statue of Liberty. From this vantage point, view spectacular 360-degree views of the Bay, the Maine countryside, and the distant western mountains.

Day 4: Camden, ME

Full of classic schooners, this charming village is considered the “Tall Ship Capital of Maine.” Enjoy the warm summer sun and refreshing sea breezes as you relax and watch beautiful ships sail into the harbor. Walk Camden’s streets lined with shops and art galleries. Bring your camera to capture sweeping ocean vistas, placid coastlines, and panoramic views of Camden, Penobscot Bay, and the surrounding islands from atop Mount Battie.

Day 5: Rockland, ME

Rockland is an exciting town with a vibrant art culture and thriving lobster industry. Spend your time touring one of Rockland’s unique museums, including the Owls Head Transportation Museum and the Farnsworth Art Museum. Explore downtown Rockland which features an eclectic collection of art galleries or relax on a park bench and watch classic schooners sail through the harbor.

Day 6: Boothbay Harbor, ME

Known as the “Boating Capital of New England,” Boothbay Harbor overflows with fishing vessels and pleasure crafts in equal numbers. Walk along Boothbay Harbor’s flower-lined streets, dotted with art galleries, antique stores, and specialty shops. Don’t forget to visit the famous Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens.

Day 7: Bath, ME

Long known as the “City of Ships,” Bath finds its identity in shipbuilding. From its architecture and cultural offerings to its urban downtown, Bath’s shipbuilding roots define its character. Walk Bath’s streets and admire the seaport’s tree-lined avenues, graced with classic examples of American architecture. Or explore the nationally acclaimed Maine Maritime Museum, which offers a variety of exhibits about Maine’s nautical history.

Day 8: Portland, ME

After a refreshing and relaxing week of cruising Maine’s coast and harbors, end your journey where it began, in idyllic Portland. Enjoy breakfast on board, before departing the ship. You may decide to stay longer to explore this charming city, located in the heart of Casco Bay and steeped in maritime history.

--> Dates & Rates

Dates and rates are effective the date the information was updated on this site. Dates and rates may have changed by the cruise line prior to an update here. Contact Sunstone Tours & Cruises for the latest dates & rates.

Prices displayed are per person based on double occupancy.

Prices subject to change

• Cruise passage
• All gourmet meals
• Breakfast room service
• Cocktail hour each evening
• Entertainment aboard the ship
• Acclaimed enrichment program
• Wi-Fi throughout the ship
• Personalized service from a dedicated crew

Not Included

• Air transport to/from embarkation/debarkation destinations
• Most shore tours (unless otherwise noted)
• Port charges and fees

American Eagle

At a capacity of just 100 guests, American Eagle offers the best qualities of expedition adventure cruising with the refinement, luxury, stability, and land proximity of river cruising. The design of the ship allows rare access into small ports and ability to travel on almost any river or waterway in the U.S. With land never out of sight, American Eagle is a practical alternative to ocean expeditions, allowing for more time to explore each port in depth.

American Eagle Details …

American Glory

The 100-guest American Glory blends the best qualities of expedition adventure cruising with the refinement, luxury, stability, and land proximity of river cruising. Observation and sitting areas will be available at the bow, while a unique Swim/Activity Platform at the stern of the ship features a tender for local exploration. The shallow draft of the vessels allows rare access into small ports and ability to travel on almost any river or waterway.

American Glory Details …

American Independence

The 100-passenger American Independence is owned and operated by American Cruise Lines and sails overnight coastal, river, and inland waterways within the continental United States.

American Independence Details …

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America’s Most Scenic Small-Ship and River Cruises

Columbia and snake rivers.

T hese nine-day American river cruises on the American Queen Steamboat Company's American Empress sail from Vancouver, Washinton to Portland, Oregon and show you a glimpse at some of the most gorgeous scenery in the Pacific Northwest. From the paddle wheeler, you'll get to see the dramatic waterfalls at the Columbia River Gorge, the pioneer town The Dalles, and sea lions and filming sites from the hit 1980s film, The Goonies in Astoria.

Rivers of Wine Theme Cruise on the Columbia and Snake Rivers

These seven-night American river cruises on the UnCruise Adventure's S.S. Legacy sail round trip out of Portland, Oregon cruising a similar route to American Empress but focusing on wine. A sommelier and guest wine expert sail with passengers for the week, serving as an onboard resource and hosting tastings. There are also wine tastings, vineyard tours, and wine cave tours in Columbia Gorge, Walla Walla, Red Mountain, Columbia Valley, and the Willamette Valley and guests get to taste old-vine varietals and wines from eco-cultivated vineyards. River cruises are also popular across the pond.

Adventure Theme Cruise on the Olympic Peninsula

Sailing round-trip out of Seattle through Puget Sound and the San Juan Islands on an elegant little yacht, this seven-night cruise on UnCruise Adventure's Safari Quest includes kayaking, paddle boarding, and plenty of hikes. There are also opportunities to spot bald eagles, sea lions, and whales and to enjoy local seafood, including oysters and clams.

Upper Mississippi American Heartland Theme Cruise

This river cruise from Chicago to St. Louis is on American Queen Steamboat Company's newest ship, the American Duchess , a paddle wheeler as majestic as her older sisters, with the same iconic red paddlewheel. You'll see the towering skyscrapers of Chicago and get the perfect photo op of St. Louis's famed arch. The focus of this cruise is American history, and you can see towns that were settled as trading posts by French explorers, visit the site of the first Lincoln-Douglas debate in Ottowa, Illinois, and check out places from Mark Twain's writings in his hometown of Hannibal, Missouri. Want to learn even more of America's backstory? Start with these 16 best cities for American history buffs .

Ohio River Cruise

These 11-day cruise tours on American Cruise Line's Queen of the Mississippi travel from St. Louis to Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania visiting Louisville, Kentucky and Cincinnati (among other towns) along the way. You'll get a behind-the-scenes tour of Churchill Downs, home of the Kentucky Derby, and tour the Underground Railroad Freedom Center in Cincinnati. In Cape Girardeau, you'll see everything from Trail of Tears sites to Civil War battlefields. Best of all, expect plenty of bluegrass music and mint juleps along the way.

Music Cruise on the Cumberland River

These seven-night American river cruises from Nashville to St. Louis also on American Cruise Line's Queen of the Mississippi will take you to the Country Music Hall of Fame, the Grand Ole Opry, and the Johnny Cash Museum and then heads on to St. Louis for a celebration of blues music.

Mississippi River Bourbon Theme Cruise

Cruise up the Mississippi River from Memphis to Louisville on the American Queen Steamboat Company's American Queen, with private tastings and cooking demos along the way, as well as lectures by historians. This special sailing, offered annually in July, also includes the opportunity to sample rare and vintage bourbons as well.

Lake Michigan

On this eight-day cruise roundtrip out of Chicago on Blount Small Ship Adventures's Grande Mariner , you'll visit Mackinac Island, Michigan, home to historic homes and plenty of rocking chairs as well as Sturgeon Bay in Wisconsin's Door County, where you'll see lighthouses and plenty of yachts.

Lower Mississippi from New Orleans to New Orleans

See—and eat—the highlights of New Orleans—from beignets to po' boys—before setting sail on American Cruise Line's America Song . You'll head to Natchez and Vicksburg in Missouri for Civil War sites and St. Francisville and Houmas House, Louisiana for historic plantations with a stop in the middle in Baton Rouge to see the Louisiana State Museum and the capital buildings. Occasionally, the line also offers a food-themed cruise out of New Orleans, too.

Maine Coastal Cruises

Maine Windjammer Association's Lewis R. French is a dramatic 21-passenger schooner that offers two- to six-night cruises in the summer and through the month of September out of the town of Camden, Maine. The schooner, which dates back to 1871 and is a National Historic Landmark, has no engine, and powers through Penobscot Bay just with the wind in its sails. You can help out with the sails, and watch for porpoises and eagles.

Newport, Nantucket, and Martha's Vineyard Cruise

This sailing yacht, the Arabella , may winter in the Caribbean, but it summers in the northeast, home of lobster rolls, lighthouses, and clambakes. The five-night sailings in July, August, and September let you travel to the area's loveliest beaches under billowing white sails.

Chesapeake Bay Cruise

This seven-night cruise on American Cruise Line's Independence sails round-trip out of Baltimore to Oxford, St. Michael's, and Annapolis, Maryland as well as Yorktown and Williamsburg, Virginia. You'll visit coastal fishing villages and eat plenty of hard-shell blue crabs, and get to visit Baltimore's famed aquarium.

Hudson River Valley Fall Foliage Theme Cruise

This eight-day American river cruise on American Cruise Line's American Constitution sails round-trip out of New York City before taking you to Hyde Park, the Catskills, and West Point as well as Sleepy Hollow, all in upstate New York. But in addition to the history in the region, the highlight of the cruise is easily the changing colors of the autumnal leaves.

Savannah to Baltimore

Cruise one of our favorite 12-day American river cruises in the Southeast on Blount Small Ship Adventures's Grand Mariner and you'll spend your days exploring Beaufort by horse-drawn carriage and wander the cobblestone streets of Charleston, South Carolina as the port town of Annapolis. Read on to discover the best cruise to take every month of the year .

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