American Cruise Lines has christened American Jazz and American Serenade.

The sister ships are two of the company’s six American Riverboats.

Julia Letlow, US Representative for Louisiana’s fifth congressional district, christened American Serenade in Vidalia, LA, on the Mississippi river.

Meanwhile, the ceremony for American Jazz was held in Clarkston, on the Snake river. Jazz’s godmother is Nez Perce Tourism CEO Stacia L Morfin.

The godmothers were joined by guests, crew and executives, as well as state and local officials, who welcomed the ships to their respective region.

American Cruise Lines ‘demonstrates growth’

American Cruise Lines president and CEO Charles Robertson said: “The two christenings, one in a desert canyon and one on the bayou, show the incredible breadth of river cruise options in the USA.

“They also show the growth of American Cruise Lines and the range of places that we explore.

“We are so grateful to the communities who welcome us and look forward to a strong future together as we cruise the Snake and Mississippi rivers.”

Both Serenade and Jazz can accommodate up to 180 guests and feature the “largest staterooms on any riverboat in the world”, according to a statement.

The ships also have multiple dining and lounge options, as well as sundecks, lecture rooms and a four-storey glass atrium..

All six of the American Riverboats were built at Chesapeake Shipbuilding. An additional four ships are under construction at the yard, with the first two launching later this year.

Last year, the line also unveiled a plan to launch 12 identical sister ships to more than double the capacity for US domestic coastal cruises.

Image credit: Frank. Lewiston Tribune