American Cruise Lines christens fourth in Patriot Class ships

American Cruise Lines christened its new vessel American Ranger on the Hudson River in late September. The 243'x56' American Ranger is the third new ship the company has launched this year and the fourth of its Patriot Class ships.

The christening celebration took place on Sept. 24^t when the ship was docked at historic Catskill Point, Catskill, N.Y. Guests on its inaugural cruise, company executives, and crew members celebrated on the top deck with a festive cookout and the ceremonial bottle smash.

Susan Renner, American’s longtime treasurer and board chair, did the honors serving as the ship’s godmother. Susan is also godmother to American Ranger’s sister ship, American Maverick, christened earlier this year in Newport, R.I.

“We are so pleased to christen American Ranger with our guests and crew, surrounded by the Hudson River Valley’s magnificent fall scenery,” said Charles B. Robertson, president and CEO of American Cruise Lines. “Today, American Ranger assumes the mantle as the newest cruise ship in the country, but won’t hold the title for long, as she will be quickly followed by three more new ships launching in 2027.”

Next year, American Cruise Lines will introduce two more sister ships to American Ranger, American Mariner and American Navigator, as well as another modern American Riverboat, the American Anthem.

American Ranger features 4 decks and accommodates 130 guests in all private balcony staterooms, including Singles and Suites. The ship also offers many spacious lounges including a top deck lounge with a walking track, as well as a chart room, a main restaurant, casual café, fitness center, and a laundry room among other amenities unusual for small cruise ships of this size.

Last week’s christening took place during American Ranger’s inaugural 9-Day Hudson River Fall Foliage itinerary which began with an included hotel stay in NYC on Sept. 18. The ship embarked from the city on Sept. 19 and the cruise concluded in Albany, N.Y. Sept. 26.

ACL officials say the American Cruise Lines’ Hudson River cruises (both the Fall Foliage and the Summer Classic itineraries) are the only overnight river cruises on the market exploring this famous waterway.

The company’s 2026 Hudson River cruises are operating between New York City and Albany, with stops at Catskill; West Point; Sleepy Hollow; and Kingston/Hyde Park; and include guided excursions throughout the region. The 2026 cruises are largely sold out and the last cruise for 2026 begins on Oct. 25. 

In 2027, American’s Hudson River cruises will operate roundtrip from Albany and will also feature a stop and excursions in New York City, offering views of the Big Apple’s skyline while cruising right past the Statue of Liberty. In 2027 Hudson River Summer Classic cruises begin operating in June, and the Hudson River Fall Foliage cruises begin again next September.