Charles A Robertson

Robertson is founder, chairman and CEO of American Cruise Lines, Inc., Pearl Sea Cruises, Chesapeake Shipbuilding, and affiliated companies. His firms have designed and built 12 small cruise ships and approximately 70 other commercial vessels, up to 320 feet. Engaged in the maritime industry since 1973, Robertson pioneered the small ship cruise industry in the United States with his founding of American Cruise Lines, now the largest cruise company in the country. He is also a recognized expert on cruise ship regulations in the United States. He holds a USCG Master’s License and First Class Pilot’s License for unlimited tonnage and has been an expert witness for the United States Coast Guard before the NTSB and Congressional Committees. An avid sailor, he has won national and international events, including the Newport Bermuda Race, Queen’s Cup, and the National Championship in the Atlantic Class. An active commercial pilot, Robertson regularly flies modified ex-military aircraft and participates in shows and demonstrations around the country. He and his wife, Carol, reside in Talbot County, Maryland, and Old Saybrook, Connecticut. Their three sons, Charles, Clark, and Carter, are involved in family business interests. Robertson has served as a Trustee of Mystic Seaport since 1989.