American Glory
Fodor’s Expert Review
Ship Overview
Bos...Petersburg
Bos...Petersburg
American Glory joined the American Cruise Lines fleet in 2023 as part of its Coastal Cats Class. As a catamaran with a 7-foot draft, she can navigate shallower waters with ease.Read More
Her itineraries follow the warmer weather. She heads south as the north cools. Included in her Florida itineraries are the Gulf of Mexico and Florida Keys.
On the Atlantic side of Florida and the southeast coast, American Glory explores the inter-coastal waterways and rivers of Florida, Georgia and the East Coast Inland Passage all the way to Baltimore.
When she continues to New York, she explores the Hudson River. After finally completing her Maine explorations, she reverses her journey down to Florida.
Although carrying only 109 passengers, American Glory offers guests several public places where they can find a quiet place. Several outside decks provide space for viewing the scenery or enjoying a light meal; American Glory never feels crowded nor confining.
Tucked away in an alcove, The Study offers a computer for public use. Other inside areas include the Chesapeake Lounge where lectures, happy hour and entertainment take place. The Sky Lounge offers snacks and beverages throughout the day. The Sun Deck on the top of the ship has lounge chairs, sofas, and deck games. There are some covered areas to escape the sun.
American Glory, like other ships in the American Cruise Lines fleet, is flagged in the USA and sails with an American crew. The boat was built in the USA with parts made in America. Its itineraries expose guests to the places where important historical events took place.
Sailing only in American waters, all boats in the American Cruise Lines eliminate the need for passports.
WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW
What to expect on board
Staterooms & Cabins
American Glory set sail in late 2023 and still has that new ship smell. The staterooms have ample space with plenty of storage with a large closet for hanging clothes and several drawers in a dresser, in the desk and in the bedside tables.
The desk area has a Keurig coffee maker with pods for coffee. Tea is also available. The grand suite and sky suite categories have refrigerators.
The coastal cats boast some of the largest river cruise staterooms.
Several single cabins make solo travel comfortable.
The large, flat-screen television features many channels and a remote. Announcements are kept to a minimum. The daily schedule details the following day’s activities.
Most staterooms have a balcony. Staterooms on the main deck have large picture windows.
Bathrooms have adequate storage and feature Beekman toiletries. Robes and slippers are provided.
The construction techniques used in American Glory have resulted in a vessel with few high thresholds to contend with in the interior hallways. The entry to the stateroom, bathroom and many corridors have no high thresholds to navigate.
The bathroom has grab bars in the shower and there is a small curb to enter the shower.
That makes American Glory easier to navigate with a wheelchair, walker or even when the boat is rocking. Although there is just one accessible room on American Glory, the lack of high thresholds in staterooms and interior hallways makes much of the ship accessible for those with mobility issues.
Be sure to contact a specialist prior to booking to ensure that you will be accommodated. The captain has the final say.
Food & Drink
The main restaurant with window walls makes dining a visual pleasure. Although there are set dining times, guests may arrive at anytime during those times and may choose to sit wherever they want.
Most of the tables are smaller, but families traveling together may request and reserve a larger table.
Meals include a meat, seafood and vegetarian option. Those with dietary restrictions should contact American Cruise Lines in advance alerting the kitchen to their dietary needs.
The chef often sources local foods. Fish dishes are quite popular on coastal itineraries.
Besides the main restaurant, there are quick meals served at the Lookout Café–hotdogs, burgers, quesadillas. Breakfast, lunch and snacks are served during various hours. It’s the ideal option for those seeking nourishment when the main dining room is closed.
During the day, guests will find that the Sky Lounge has beverages and snacks available. Fresh-baked cookies arrive at 10:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m.
At lunch and dinner, wine and beer are included with the meal. A selection of several varieties appears on the daily menus.
Guests are asked to sign up for their lunch and dinner choices during breakfast. This prevents wasting food and gives the kitchen a ballpark number of the quantity of specific items.
At cocktail hour, also complimentary, there are finger foods served. There is no buffet on American Glory. Room service is a possibility.
Although all beverages except for premium liquors are included, there is limited bar service. During the day, guests will find beer, wine, soft drinks, coffee and tea in the Chesapeake Lounge.
Guests may order their favorite wine, beer or cocktail in the restaurant during lunch and dinner. Before dinner, during the happy hour, beverages are served with hors d’œuvres.
When entertainment starts in the evening the bar is open. After the entertainment is completed, the bar closes.
Entertainment
American Cruise Lines is registered in the USA and its entire crew are Americans. It should come as no surprise that ACL focuses on the history and treasures of the USA.
Lecturers share the history of the area that American Glory will visit. The Cruise Director shares port information including locations of shops and dining opportunity.
During the day, guests may grab a board game, puzzle, or engage in an organized activity like trivia.
In the evenings, local performers play a variety of styles of music ranging from country to pop.
Spa & Fitness
American Glory uses its space for passengers, not for revenue. There is no spa and no spa or salon services are offered. Occasional yoga sessions and meditation options are listed on the daily schedule.
There is a small, but adequate gym with machines that provide a workout for a variety of muscles. On the top deck, there is a small walking track.
Key cruising tips
Health & Safety
No medical facilities are available onboard. Because American Glory is usually within a short distance of the shore and has a flexible schedule, medical assistance may be just a short sail away. A First Responder can coordinate with nearby medical teams in case of emergencies. Both defibrillators and oxygen are on the boat. However, guests with severe medical situations need to think about the gravity of sailing with a life-threatening condition.
Helpful crew assist cruise guests down the often steep gangway. There are elevators to each deck.
Dress Code
The dress code is casual during the day. Many guests enjoy dressing in a country club casual or nice-evening-out fashion for dinner.
Junior Cruisers
History is an important element of the itineraries and excursions that American Glory offers. Young sailors interested in American Glory would visit several historical spots and learn geography.
However, the reality is that although children are welcome, there are no programs specifically dedicated to them. When there are children sailing, it’s usually during school holidays.
Service
The all-American crew performs different duties throughout the day. They are friendly and efficient. They remember your name, choice of beverage and other personal requests.
Tipping
Crew gratuities are included in the fare. Guests are requested not to offer additional tips.