A small, expensive US coastal cruising ship for retirees
Overview. American Spirit is best suited to mature couples and single travelers sharing a cabin who want to cruise where the itineraries are more important than food, service, or entertainment.
The Ship. American Cruise Lines builds its vessels in its own shipyard in Chesapeake, Maryland. American Spirit is built specifically for coastal cruising and cannot venture far from the coastline. Its uppermost deck is open (good for views) behind the forward windbreaker, and the expansive open deck has many sunloungers, and a small putting green.
Inside, the public rooms include an observation lounge, with views forward and to port and starboard side (complimentary cocktails and hors d’oeuvres are offered before dinner); a library/lounge; a small midships lounge; and an elevator that goes to all decks.
Cruises are typically of seven days’ duration. Given the small number of passengers, there’s no waiting in line – you can board whenever you want. The ship docks in town centers, or within walking distance of most towns on the itineraries. The dress code is ‘no ties casual.’
It really is extremely expensive for what you get, but at least the cabins are of a better size and are slightly better equipped than those of smaller half-sister American Glory, but not as nice as those aboard American Star.
Accommodation. There are five cabin price grades (four are doubles, one is for singles). All cabins have twin beds that convert to king-size, a small desk with chair, color TV, and clothes hanging space. The seven most expensive cabins also have a DVD and CD player. Accommodation designated as suites also have a private balcony; although narrow, it has two chairs and a small drinks table. Some 23 cabins have a French balcony – you can open the door for fresh air, but it’s too narrow to place chairs on.
Dining. The dining salon has large, panoramic picture windows on three sides. There’s open seating (no assigned tables) and everyone dines at a single seating, at large tables, allowing you to get to know your fellow passengers.
The food is all-American fare, based on its ‘Cruise Local. Eat Local’ program; this includes sourcing produce, fish, and meats as near as possible to each cruise, and supporting local markets. There is no wine list, although basic white and red table wines are included. Note that on the last morning of each cruise, only Continental breakfast is available – quite poor considering the high cost of a cruise.
Entertainment. There is no formal entertainment, conversation with fellow passengers in the ship’s lounge/bar becomes the entertainment.
Spa/Fitness. There is a small fitness room with a bicycle and other machines.