American Constitution passes trials before first cruise

American Cruise Lines’ American Constitution has successfully passed sea trials conducted in Chesapeake Bay before this week’s maiden cruise.

With the US Coast Guard aboard, American Constitution underwent speed trials, an endurance run, and was tested for safety and manoeuvrability. 

With a capacity for 175 passengers in balcony staterooms, the sister ship to American Constellation measures 82 metres by 17 metres.

Powered by two Caterpillar low-sulphur diesel engines, the Modern Riverboat-class coastal vessel with full active wing stabilisation has an operating speed of 12 knots.

The name was inspired by the USS Constitution, the US Navy’s oldest commissioned naval vessel afloat and named by President George Washington.

American Constitution will prepare for its inaugural 10-day cruise, which leaves Baltimore on April 18.