Ribbon Cutting Ceremony Celebrates Return of Cruise Tourism to the Capital City
PROVIDENCE, RI – Mayor Brett P. Smiley today joined Governor Dan McKee, Rhode Island Department of Transportation (RIDOT) Director Peter Alviti, Commerce Secretary Liz Tanner, Providence Warwick Convention and Visitors Bureau (PWCVB) President and CEO Kristen Adamo, and American Cruise Lines Executive Vice President Paul E. Taiclet to celebrate the arrival of American Liberty, one of American’s newest 100-passenger Coastal Cats, marking the return of cruise tourism to Providence.
“We’re thrilled to welcome American Cruise Lines and the American Liberty to Providence,” said Mayor Brett Smiley. “This is a major step forward for our city’s waterfront, local economy and growing tourism sector. With the support of our state and tourism partners, we’re laying the foundation for a new era of opportunity along our shoreline.”
The event took place at 25 India Street on the newly installed floating pier adjacent to the Seastreak Ferry Terminal. This temporary dock, made possible through support from RIDOT and investment by American Cruise Lines, enables cruise tourism to begin immediately while long-term infrastructure planning for the site is underway.
“Rhode Island is a vibrant and welcoming destination, and bringing cruise tourism back to our Capital City is a testament to our state’s appeal,” said Governor Dan McKee. “American Cruise Lines has made a savvy decision to come to Rhode Island, and our community and economy are going to benefit.”
American Liberty is part of American Cruise Lines’ expanding fleet of 25 small ships and riverboats. The company’s cruises operate domestically, exclusively sailing U.S. rivers and coasts around the country. Providence is now a port of call on the company’s New England itineraries, offering passengers access to the city’s celebrated dining, historic architecture, and dynamic cultural scene.
“American Cruise Lines is delighted to return to Providence for our 2025 cruise season,” said Paul E. Taiclet, American Cruise Lines Executive Vice President. “The installation of the temporary dock was a remarkable team effort and we are so appreciative of the support and collaboration from Mayor Smiley’s team, Seastreak, RIDOT, RIDEM, CRMC and the City of Providence. We are optimistic about the growth of cruise tourism in Providence and are even more excited about designing and building a permanent small cruise ship gateway on the Providence waterfront for the 2026 season.”
City and state officials also noted that discussions are underway to explore the development of a permanent dock along the Providence River. The pavilion and site at India Street are envisioned as a long-term tourism gateway to the city.
“Ten years ago, we developed this spot for our successful Providence-Newport summer ferry, and are excited to see its use expanded for American Cruise Lines,” said RIDOT Director Peter Alviti. “We look forward to working with the City on future improvements to the India Street ferry terminal to enhance its usability for vessel operators and amenities for their passengers.”
“Rhode Island Commerce is proud to welcome American Cruise Lines and its travelers to our shores,” said Secretary of Commerce Liz Tanner. “This investment positions our state as a premier destination for travelers, creating a gateway to experience our culture, businesses, history and natural beauty.”
“We estimate that hotel business associated with American Cruise Lines this summer will result in more than 2,500 hotel room nights booked and a direct spend impact of more than $1.3 million,” said PWCVB President and CEO Kristen Adamo. “It is also a tremendous opportunity to showcase Providence, particularly the downtown and Fox Point neighborhoods. Both are culinary hotspots brimming with public art and cool shops to pick up a great souvenir. We are grateful to Governor McKee and Mayor Smiley for their commitment to this project.”
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About American Cruise Lines:
American Cruise Lines is the largest river cruise line in the U.S.A. with 25 small ships, 21 exploring the New England Islands and waterways around the country in 2025. The company’s award-winning fleet and domestic itineraries build on a 50-year history of delivering curated all-American explorations. Today, the company offers luxury river cruise experiences in 35 states and operates the only 100% U.S. flagged fleet of riverboats and small ships in the world, all sailing exclusively in the U.S.A.