News Summary
American Cruise Lines will resume operations in Providence, Rhode Island, starting May 2024 with new New England island-hopping cruises. This initiative includes scenic stops at Nantucket and Block Island, reflecting a significant investment in the city’s waterfront. A temporary pier will support this effort, aiming to boost local tourism and the economy. Mayor Brett Smiley highlighted the importance of this project for local businesses, with eight-day cruise packages priced between $4,940 and $7,415. The return of the cruise line marks a renewed commitment to expanding in New England.
Providence, Rhode Island – American Cruise Lines is set to return to Providence with new New England island-hopping cruises, starting in May 2024. This initiative underscores a major investment in the city’s waterfront and aims to boost local tourism and the economy.
The new cruise package includes picturesque stops at Nantucket and Block Island, featuring scenic views of the Massachusetts and Rhode Island coastlines. Passengers can expect an enriching experience with an all-American menu designed by top chefs, reflecting the culinary offerings unique to the region.
To accommodate this cruise service, a temporary pier will be established at 25 India St., situated next to the SeaStreak Ferry terminal. This temporary docking location marks the first step in a broader effort to enhance the waterfront infrastructure in Providence, which is being pursued in collaboration with the city and state.
The waterfront project is divided into two phases. The first phase entails the provisional setup of the docking facilities, while Phase II aims to develop a permanent dock along the Providence River. This infrastructure development is crucial for establishing a stable and reliable homeport for American Cruise Lines’ New England Islands cruise, which will help attract more visitors to the area.
Mayor Brett Smiley emphasized the significance of this partnership, labeling it a major investment in both the local waterfront and Providence’s overall economy. The potential influx of tourists from the cruise service is expected to create new opportunities for local businesses and is a key element in re-establishing Providence as a prominent maritime destination.
The eight-day, seven-night cruise packages are priced between $4,940 and $7,415, offering an array of amenities and experiences throughout the journey. Passengers can look forward to engaging activities as they explore the historical and cultural richness of the islands included in the itinerary.
American Cruise Lines is a company based in Connecticut that specializes in smaller, U.S.-flagged vessels, allowing for more intimate cruising experiences with a passenger capacity ranging from 90 to 170. This focus on smaller ships enables the cruise line to provide personalized service and a unique experience not found on larger cruise liners.
Prior to this announcement, American Cruise Lines had not operated in Providence for four years, although it has successfully conducted cruises from nearby cities such as Boston and Portland, Maine. The return to Providence marks a renewed commitment to expanding operations in New England and taking advantage of the region’s natural beauty and coastal charm.
As the launch date approaches, city officials and cruise line representatives are optimistic about the positive economic impacts this initiative will generate. Local businesses and tourism stakeholders are encouraged to prepare for the anticipated increase in visitors, with hopes that the cruise package will allow Providence to emerge as a key player in New England’s tourism sector.
This new service is expected to enhance the overall travel offerings in the region and create lasting benefits for the city’s coastal communities as they welcome back American Cruise Lines this coming May.
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