American Cruise Lines’ new American Symphony was christened in late August in Natchez, Mississippi. As the line’s newest modern riverboat, she is the fifth in the American Riverboat series that has been introduced the past four years.

Accommodating 175 guests, the American Symphony features five decks, offering a gorgeous top-deck skywalk. The stunning use of glass affords unparalleled views throughout.

After being christened by her godmother, Asya Branch, who was Miss USA 2020 and Miss Mississippi 2018, the American Symphony sailed out on her inaugural cruise on the Mississippi River.

American Symphony christening in Natchez, Mississippi

American Symphony christening in Natchez, Mississippi

Special Inaugural Events

Prior to the christening of the American Symphony on August 30, a festive presentation was held at the Natchez Convention Center. It included musical performances by the Victory Belles, a vocal trio that performs on American Cruise Lines’ fleet. There were special appearances by  Charles B. Robertson, president & CEO of American Cruise Lines; Tate Reeves, the governor of Mississippi; Dan M. Gibson, mayor of Natchez; Lieutenant Governor Delbert Hosemann; Buz Craft, mayor of Vidalia, Louisiana (located across the river from Natchez); and the godmother, Asya Branch.

Following the celebration, cruise guests as well as people from the Natchez community then went to the Ferry Street Landing for the christening. Godmother Asya Branch was joined by honored guests Denise and Cynthia Patterson in christening the ship. Together with their late mother Lois, Denise and Cynthia Patterson have explored different destinations on 28 different cruises with American Cruise Lines.

More about the American Symphony

The American Symphony follows the successful debut of her sister ship, the American Melody. The 175-passenger American Symphony, as one of the Modern Series riverboats, has 100% private balcony staterooms, which range from 250 to 650 square feet; all have full-size bathrooms. Among the staterooms are gracious suites and single rooms.

Ellipse Cafe and Outdoor Lounge

Ellipse Cafe and Outdoor Lounge

Guests can enjoy spacious indoor and outdoor lounges, a grand dining room, a fitness center, and a wellness-yoga studio. Her four-story atrium is located in the center of the ship. The Deck 5 Skywalk cantilevers dramatically over the Deck 4 cafe. And the American Symphony showcases American’s Modern Series hallmark – a patented opening bow and retractable gangway.

Where She’s Sailing 

Following her inaugural sailing, the American Symphony then sailed out on an 8-Day Lower Mississippi River cruise itinerary, which departed from New Orleans and concluded in Memphis.

The American Symphony will continue to sail on the Mighty Mississippi throughout the rest of 2022. She’ll be offering some festive holiday sailings in December and then will feature a full season starting in 2023.

Skywalk

Skywalk

Delivering Authentic American Experiences

Long-term relationships that American Cruise Lines has been able to create over the years with the different towns and ports have helped it deliver authentic American experiences. These are curated and led by local guides, experts, and community members.

Over the past decade, American Cruise Lines has been a leader in Mississippi River cruising. And with the new riverboats that continue to be introduced, it delivers personalized all-American river cruises.

About American Cruise Lines

For over 30 years, American Cruise Lines has specialized in all-domestic cruising, and the company has grown, becoming the country’s largest U.S. cruise line. In 2022, American Cruise Lines’ fleet includes four classic paddlewheelers, five modern riverboats, and five small cruise ships. The sixth Modern Series riverboat, the American Serenade, will debut early in 2023.

By Cindy Bertram

Cindy Bertram has 15+ years of cruise industry expertise in marketing, content creation, sales, and training as well as social media. Her MBA from Loyola University Chicago complements her high creative edge and liberal arts BA. She can be reached at cindy@ptmgroups.com.

 

Photos courtesy of American Cruise Lines