This Great Lakes cruising newcomer will call on six Michigan ports in 2026.

American Cruise Lines announced this fall that it will join the growing Great Lakes cruise industry with its new ship American Patriot.

It has 9- and 14-day itineraries planned for May to August. Carrying up to 130 passengers, the ship will visit Muskegon, Sault Ste. Marie, Alpena, Escanaba, Mackinac Island and Detroit, which are all experienced cruise ship hosts.

While other cruise itineraries often include stops in Canada, these itineraries are exclusive to the U.S., which means American travelers won’t need a passport.

American’s 2026 Great Lakes itineraries include a 9-Day cruise visiting the Thousand Islands and Niagara Falls, while an additional 9-Day itinerary highlights Lake Michigan, Green Bay and th

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