American Cruise Lines has celebrated the christening of its new riverboat, American Encore, in Lewiston, Idaho on 12 May. This marks the first time a riverboat has been christened in the state. The vessel embarked on its inaugural 9-day Columbia and Snake Rivers cruise from Stevenson, Washington on 6 May, following a hotel stay in Portland, Oregon.

Cathy McMorris Rodgers, a former Congress representative for Eastern Washington, was named the Godmother of American Encore. The christening ceremony featured speeches from key figures, including Captain Andrea Mickelson, Charles B. Robertson, CEO of American Cruise Lines, and local officials. The event also included a flyover, music by The Victory Belles, and a reception in the ship's Sky Lounge.

Robertson highlighted the significance of the new vessel, stating, “This is our 6th ship on the river and the flagship of our aggressive posture to up the game globally.” American Encore is designed to compete with European river cruises, offering more space per passenger than any other riverboat worldwide. It features five decks, 180 guest accommodations with private balconies, and the largest riverboat suite globally, the 1,500-square-foot Signature Suite.

The new Lewiston dock, built in partnership with the Port of Lewiston, enhances the region's tourism by allowing simultaneous visits from multiple riverboats. American Cruise Lines continues to expand its operations, significantly impacting local economies and tourism. The American Encore will sail the Columbia and Snake Rivers until November 2026, with future cruises already available for booking

This story was selected and published by a human editor, with content adapted from original press material using AI tools. Spot an error? Report it here.