American Beauty

Planned Mississippi debut

American Cruise Lines announced American Beauty on August 13, 2026, as a new riverboat for the Mississippi. The operator plans its first departure for September 2028, and the vessel is designed to accommodate 180 guests. The planned eight-day trip will travel along the Upper Mississippi between St. Louis, Missouri, and St. Paul, Minnesota. American Beauty is to be built by Chesapeake Shipbuilding in Salisbury, Maryland. At the time of the announcement, the vessel was described as the 29th boat in the company’s fleet plans. The itinerary calls for two different embarkation and disembarkation locations; the route follows the Mississippi. Trips along the Gulf Coast between New Orleans and Pensacola have also been announced. A comparison with smaller and larger cruise ships also puts the planned capacity in perspective.

Cabins by category and deck

The announced cabins differ considerably in size and location. The Signature Suite is planned to measure 1,500 square feet, the Grand Suite 600, and the Sky Suite 350. Vista, Premium, and Deluxe cabins are each listed at 300 square feet; the single cabin at 250. According to the deck plan, the Signature, Grand, and Sky Suites, as well as the Vista and single cabins, are on Deck 4. Premium is assigned to Deck 3 and Deluxe to Deck 2. Private balconies are planned for all cabin categories. 1,500 square feet is about 139.4 square meters, while 250 square feet is about 23.2 square meters. The Grand Suite is therefore about 55.7 square meters, and the Sky Suite 32.5; 300 square feet is about 27.9 square meters. The Signature Suite is also planned to feature a wraparound balcony, separate living and sleeping areas, a wet bar, and a bathtub.

Public spaces on the new vessel

Plans include a multistory glass atrium and elevators serving all passenger decks. Several restaurants, lounges, a café, and a fitness area are to round out the public spaces.

Trip planning and fleet context

The planned eight-day itinerary begins and ends in different cities. Guests can therefore plan their trip to St. Louis and their return journey from St. Paul separately. The American Cruise Lines fleet includes other river and coastal vessels. The schedule, amenities, and construction progress may change before the planned first departure.