By
Rebecca Gibson |
American Cruise Lines is to homeport a second riverboat in New Orleans, US, from spring 2015.
The 305ft American Eagle, which was recently delivered from the Chesapeake Shipbuilding yard in Maryland, is scheduled to arrive at the port later this month. Just like American Cruise Line’s Queen of the Mississippi, the newbuild will sail various eight-day itineraries on the Lower Mississippi River between New Orleans and Memphis. The ship will also offer several unique journeys including a 22-day Mississippi River cruise.
“American Cruise Lines’ investment in a second riverboat at the Port of New Orleans illustrates the growing demand for classic river cruising,” said Gary LaGrange, port president and CEO Gary LaGrange. “The line offers a cruise experience second-to-none on the Lower Mississippi River and we look forward to working with the company for many years to come.”
American Eagle accommodates 150 passengers and offers 84 staterooms, 78 of which feature large, private balconies.
“It’s evident that the style of cruising we’re offering is becoming increasingly popular,” said Timothy Beebe, vice president of American Cruise Lines. “We are meeting this growth in demand by introducing new vessels like American Eagle and a greater variety of sailing options to provide those interested with the most unique and upscale travel experience available on the Mississippi River.”
New Orleans has also been chosen as the homeport for six new Viking River Cruises’ vessels, which will launch on the Mississippi from late 2017.