The first contemporary riverboat in the United States, American Song, left the Port of New Orleans (NOLA) Oct. 6 on its inaugural cruise of the Mississippi River.
The boat is the flagship for American Cruise Lines riverboats and has a capacity of 184 guests.
“Inland river cruising is a quickly growing segment of our cruise portfolio,” Brandy D. Christian, Port of New Orleans president and CEO, said. “We appreciate our partnership with American Cruise Lines and are working together to provide an exceptional experience for river cruise customers. The history and charm of our vibrant city combined with the modern appeal of the American Song makes sailing from New Orleans on the Mississippi River truly unique.”
American Song will cruise the Lower Mississippi River for the remainder of the year. It will then be moved to the Columbia and Snake rivers. Its sister ship, American Harmony, will take over on the Mississippi River route.
In November, the 3,963-passenger Norwegian Breakaway will arrive in the Port NOLA. It will be the largest cruise ship to sail from the port.
In early 2020, the 2,700-passenger ship Disney Wonder will sail from the Port NOLA. It will be the first time Disney Cruise Line will have a homeport in Louisiana.