What is a Coastal Cat?

American Cruise Lines latest builds are called Coastal Cats. Why? Find out more below…

Following the launch of the American Eagle and the American Glory, American Cruise Lines is launching another two “Coastal Cats” named the American Liberty and the American Legend.

(American Eagle, Image Courtesy of American Cruise Lines)

This marks the fourth ship to be released in this twelve ship “go anywhere” series, built and designed in the US by Chesapeake Shipbuilding. These small ships have capacities of approximately 100 guests.

(Ship Design of the “Coastal Cats”, Image Courtesy of American Cruise Lines)

Catamaran ships are innovative watercraft characterized by their unique twin-hull design, where two parallel hulls are connected by a bridge-like structure. This design enhances stability, speed, and maneuverability on the water. The broad separation between the hulls reduces the water resistance, allowing catamarans to glide smoothly through the waves and achieve higher speeds than traditional monohull vessels.

The increased stability is particularly advantageous in rough seas, providing a more comfortable and safer ride. Catamarans are known for their versatility, serving various purposes from leisure cruising to high-performance racing and ferrying. The dual-hull configuration also offers more deck space, making catamarans popular for passenger transport and luxury yacht applications. Overall, the catamaran’s design showcases a balance of efficiency, stability, and speed, making it a preferred choice for a wide range of maritime activities.

American Cruise Lines “Coastal Cats” are a little different than a traditional catamaran, instead opting for a proprietary hybrid catamaran design. This design allows for smoother sailing across all bodies of water, including rivers, lakes, bays, and protected coastlines across America. Their streamlined, efficient and environmentally friendly design also makes them the greenest small cruise ships in all of America.

American Cruise Lines’ small ship itineraries offer all-inclusive onboard experiences and feature hundreds of exciting shore excursions across the country. All cruises deliver incredible value and include complimentary onboard enrichment and entertainment, fine cuisine, wine and beer with both lunch and dinner, and a festive cocktail hour with hors d’oeuvres each evening. Most of their ships will also include complementary alternative casual dining, breakfast room service, and Starlink Wifi. All rooms will be 100% outward-facing accommodations and nearly all staterooms have private furnished balconies and full-size sliding glass doors.

(AAM Suite aboard American Eagle, Image courtesy of American Cruise Lines)

These new ships have allowed American Cruise Lines to introduce more itineraries and more experiences than ever before. In 2024 American Cruise Lines will visit 125 U.S. ports of call, and thanks to the “Coastal Cats” will have an additional 9 new itineraries to choose from. These itineraries range from exploring the glaciers around Alaska, to the Smoky Mountains of Tennessee, to a cruise that takes you to Yellowstone, Glacier, and the Grand Teton National Parks.