American Cruise Lines has added American Ranger to its fleet, marking its third new ship of 2026 and fourth Patriot-class vessel. The 130-guest ship was christened at Historic Catskill Point in Catskill, New York, on September 24 during its inaugural Hudson River fall foliage voyage.
The ship’s accommodation spans six categories, including balcony cabins for solo travellers and a 500-square-foot Grand Suite with separate living and sleeping areas. All staterooms have private balconies. Shared spaces include the top-deck Sky Lounge, a walking track, a café and a fitness centre.
The inaugural itinerary included a New York City hotel stay on September 18, followed by embarkation the next day and arrival in Albany on September 26. Susan Renner, the company’s treasurer and board chair, served as the ship’s godmother at the christening.
American’s 2026 Hudson River programme operates between New York City and Albany, with stops including Catskill, West Point, Sleepy Hollow and Kingston/Hyde Park. For 2027, the line plans round trips from Albany with a New York City call, making the departure port an important detail when comparing seasons.
The company plans three further new ships in 2027: American Mariner and American Navigator, both sisters to Ranger, plus the riverboat American Anthem. We previously covered the American Pioneer debut, an earlier step in the expansion of its 130-guest Patriot-class coastal fleet.
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