On May 3, 2023, alongside a bayou in Louisiana, American Cruise Lines announced the christening of American Serenade. The sistership now joins the Lines’ seven highly acclaimed American Riverboats.
State and local officials who welcomed the ship to this region were the Honorable Julia Letlow, U.S. Representative for Louisiana’s 5th congressional district, who christened the American Serenade in Vidalia, LA, on the Mississippi River. Honorable Julia Letlow and his godmother were joined by Paul Tackett – Executive Vice President – American Cruise Lines, Charlie Robertson – President and CEO – American Cruise Lines. “The christening shows the incredible breadth of river cruise options in the USA,” said Charles B. Robertson. “They also show the growth of American Cruise Lines and the range of places that we explore. We are so grateful to the communities who welcome us and look forward to a strong future together as we cruise the Snake and Mississippi Rivers.”
Brett Bullock – Director of Guest Experience for American Cruise Lines who was the Master of Ceremonies, Pastor Raymond Riley who offered the invocation, Honorable Buzz Craft – Mayor of Vidalia. Billy Nungesser – Lt. Governor of Louisiana in his brief remarks said, “These cruise lines up the Mississippi are a game changer for Louisiana and the city of Vidalia. They couldn’t have landed in a better place. It’s great to see a partnership working together across the river with these two great Mayors. I am excited about the future as we come out of COVID-19, and get back to those record breaking numbers we saw in 2019 for tourism. Surely this cruise line is going to be a great part of helping us get there.”
Also offering brief remarks was Honorable Dan Gibson – Mayor of Natchez who said, “It is no small thing that this cruise company – the largest cruise company on this continent – has chosen the Miss Lou to be a home port and a godmother port to two of their boats. That is unheard of, and I don’t think anyone across this country can claim such an honor and we salute you today. This means more tourist, more money, and more jobs coming to the Miss Lou and we are excited.”
The guests, crew, executives, attendees, as well as the five members of the christening court Mrs. Cora Mendoza – Former first lady of Vidalia, Mrs. Josephine Webster – Long time Educator of Vidalia, Mrs. April Craft – First Lady of Vidalia, and Mrs. Marla Gibson – First Lady of Natchez, and Teagan Kelly – Ms. Vidalia were entertained by the famous chorus girls called the Victory Bells, Jerry Craft and DJ Buzz.
The American Serenade accommodates only 180 guests and features the largest staterooms on any riverboat in the world. It has multiple dining and lounge options, as well as spacious sundecks and lecture rooms. It also features the hallmark architectural detail of the American Riverboat series, a four-story glass atrium in the center of the ship.
All seven of the company’s American Riverboats were built at Chesapeake Shipbuilding in Salisbury, MD. American Cruise Lines has four additional ships now under construction at the yard, the first two of which will debut later this year.
CHRISTENING COURT
About American Cruise Lines:
American Cruise Lines offers River cruising and Small Ship cruising in the U.S.A. American Cruise Lines continues to launch the newest U.S. built ships for Cruising Close to Home®. On all American’s cruises, guests discover the history, spirit, and culture of the United States aboard a sophisticated fleet of American riverboats and small cruise ships. In 2023, the company will operate 17 ships, each accommodating just 90-180 passengers, which cruise more than 50 domestic itineraries in 35 states. American offers domestic Flat Rate Airfare for all its U.S. cruises and Complimentary Pre-Cruise Hotel Stays in cities across the country.
