At a glance
- Duration:
- 16 Days
- Start/End:
- St Petersburg, FL to Amelia Island, FL, or reverse
- From:
- $12,360
- Time of Year:
- March - May; October - November
This 16-day Grand Florida Coast & Keys Cruise carries you in comfort along the entire Florida coastline, starting from Amelia Island, FL and ending in St. Petersburg, FL (or the reverse, if you prefer).
Your adventure begins amid the historic charm of Amelia Island, where you can stroll through the 19th-century homes and shops lining Centre Street’s carefully preserved historic district — a tranquil start infused with rich southern history. From there, the cruise gently unfurls down Florida’s Atlantic coast and Intracoastal Waterway. You’ll pass through quaint spots like Green Cove Springs, FL, once famous for its mineral springs, and the storied city of St. Augustine, FL, where centuries-old forts and Gilded Age architecture reflect a layered colonial past, blending history and legend.
The route continues with a peaceful cruise along the scenic Tolomato River, then on to the iconic Cape Canaveral, FL, where sea and space history converge. Whether you explore beachside serenity or visit the nearby space center, this stop is a distinctive blend of Florida’s coastal beauty and human ambition. Next, the cruise takes you to the refined atmosphere of West Palm Beach, FL, a city of art galleries, historic elegance, and relaxed coastal culture, followed by a serene visit to Key Biscayne, FL, with its lush landscapes, lighthouse charm, and tranquil waterfront ambiance. Then comes the heart of the Keys: two full days in Key West, FL. Here, the cruise immerses you in super-lively island culture, history, and natural beauty, from historic streets, literary heritage and lighthouses to tropical gardens, waterfront cafés, cultural tours, and unforgettable sunsets.
After departing the Keys, the voyage continues southwest along Florida’s Gulf Coast, stopping at Marco Island, FL, where you can savor the natural beauty of mangroves, tranquil beaches, and estuaries, before visiting charming Punta Gorda, FL, with its peaceful waterfront neighborhoods and vintage-Florida architecture. Finally, your journey concludes in St. Petersburg, where leafy boulevards, waterfront parks, and world-class museums await, a fitting finale that blends culture, relaxation, and the laid-back charm of Florida’s Gulf Coast.
Throughout the cruise, you’ll enjoy the comforts of a modern small ship: elegant staterooms, relaxed days at sea, thoughtfully curated shore excursions, and the opportunity to experience Florida’s full diversity, from Atlantic-coast history and space-age wonder, to tropical island life, Keys-style culture, and Gulf Coast serenity.
Grand Florida Coast & Keys Cruise Details
Day-to-Day Itinerary
Day 1: Amelia Island, FL
Begin with a hotel stay on enchanting Amelia Island. Walk Centre Street’s Historic District, where 50 blocks of meticulously restored 19th-century homes and shops showcase both elegance and endurance.
Your Grand Florida Coast & Keys cruise, starting on Amelia Island, comes complete with a Hotel Stay, providing you with a seamless way to board the ship and explore the local area.
On the morning of the cruise, meet in the hotel lobby and we will transport you to the ship to begin your cruise. All luggage will be brought directly from the hotel and placed in your stateroom aboard the ship.
Day 2: Day of Cruising
On embarkation morning, meet in the hotel lobby and we’ll escort you to the ship. Your bags are transferred directly to your stateroom, so boarding is seamless. Enjoy a welcome reception with fellow guests before setting out along the Intracoastal Waterway, a perfect afternoon for mingling and soaking in the passing shoreline.
Day 3: Green Cove Springs, FL
Along the banks of the St. Johns River lies the hidden gem of Green Cove Springs. Once a hub for healing with its famed mineral springs, it now boasts an infectious energy that blends history and modernity seamlessly. Picture-perfect Victorian architecture lines the streets of its historic district, each building telling tales of a bygone era. At Spring Park, the heart of the town, the crystal-clear spring waters still beckon, framed by ancient oaks draped in Spanish moss. Adventure awaits on the river, where boating enthusiasts skim the water’s surface and anglers chase the next big catch. From lively waterfront restaurants to quaint boutiques, Green Cove Springs is the perfect first stop on our Floridian travel.
Day 4: St. Augustine, FL
History comes alive in the nation’s oldest city. The Castillo de San Marcos looms above the bay, its coquina walls a reminder of Spain’s colonial might. Take a guided walk past Gilded Age hotels built by America’s wealthiest families or head to the St. Augustine Distillery for a taste of tradition with a modern twist.
Day 5: Cruising the Tolomato River
Glide along the Tolomato River with our onboard expert pointing out wildlife and history. The top deck is the place to watch as the sky shifts in fiery hues at sunset. Whether relaxing on your balcony, joining shipboard activities, or sharing stories with new friends, today is yours.
Day 6: Cape Canaveral, FL
At this storied port, space history meets seaside living. The Kennedy Space Center showcases humanity’s reach for the stars, while nearby beaches stretch with fine white sand and rolling surf. Here, the future of exploration feels as tangible as the ocean breeze.
Day 7: Day of Cruising
Sail toward West Palm Beach with a day to unwind. Read on the sun deck, linger in a lounge, or enjoy the quiet from your balcony. The evening features a signature cocktail hour followed by live entertainment.
Day 8: West Palm Beach, FL
A city shaped by elegance and artistry, West Palm Beach reflects both past and present. The Flagler Museum captures the grandeur of the Gilded Age, while the Norton Museum highlights global masterpieces. Meet gentle manatees at Manatee Lagoon before exploring boutique-lined Worth Avenue and lively Clematis Street, where even the side alleys brim with character.
Day 9: Key Biscayne, FL
Framed by palms and turquoise water, Key Biscayne radiates calm beauty. Visit the Cape Florida Lighthouse, built in 1825, then wander Vizcaya Museum & Gardens, a Mediterranean-style villa with opulent grounds. At the Miami Seaquarium, discover the marine life that thrives in these subtropical waters.
Day 10: Key West, FL
The southernmost city of the continental U.S. pulses with energy and story. Truman’s “Little White House” recalls presidential retreats, while the Hemingway Home preserves the life of the famed novelist. Duval Street hums with shops, galleries, and cafés, and the air is sweet with the scent of Key Lime Pie.
Day 11: Key West, FL
A second day allows deeper discovery. Walk the ramparts of Fort Zachary Taylor, witness sunset festivities at Mallory Square, or climb the spiral staircase of the 1847 lighthouse for sweeping island views. The Audubon House & Tropical Gardens offer a step back into 19th-century life, set among lush greenery.
Day 12: Day of Cruising
Sail from Key West to Marco Island with time to relax on deck or take in an engaging afternoon program hosted by our onboard expert.
Day 13: Marco Island, FL
Gateway to the Everglades, Marco Island pairs natural wonder with fascinating history. Board a guided boat through winding mangroves, then visit the Marco Island Historical Museum to view artifacts of the Calusa people, including the famed Key Marco Cat.
Day 14: Punta Gorda, FL
Punta Gorda brims with surprises. At the Peace River Wildlife Center, see native animals rehabilitated and returned to the wild. Fishermen’s Village combines waterfront shopping, dining, and marina views. And for something unexpected, meet giant iguanas, monitor lizards, and pythons at Iguanaland, the largest reptile zoo on the planet.
Day 15: St. Petersburg, FL
Art and nature define this Gulf Coast gem. The Salvador Dalí Museum holds the most comprehensive collection of his surreal works outside Europe. At the Sunken Gardens, discover a hidden paradise of exotic plants, orchids, and butterflies in the heart of the city.
Day 16: St. Petersburg, FL
Enjoy a final breakfast on board before beginning your journey home.
