At a glance
- Duration:
- 8 Days
- Start/End:
- Charleston to Amelia
- From:
- $4,215
- Time of Year:
- February - December
Embark on an 8-day Historic South and Golden Isles Cruise, sailing from Charleston, SC, to Amelia Island, FL, aboard the 100-passenger American Star or American Independence. Cruise the Intracoastal Waterway, a protected network of bays, rivers, and canals that leads you through some of the most beautiful and historic cities in America.
Your journey begins in Charleston, with its charming cobblestone streets and antebellum homes, where the first shots of the Civil War were fired. Continue on to the picturesque town of Beaufort, where you’ll learn about southern plantation life from our resident expert dressed in period costume. Enjoy the serene beaches and abundant wildlife of Hilton Head before heading to Savannah, where you’ll tour the historic districts that reflect the city’s 19th-century wealth and opulence.
Next, visit Jekyll Island’s “Millionaire’s Village,” a National Historic Landmark featuring 240 acres of extravagant homes and winter cottages built over a century ago. Finally, conclude your adventure with a river cruise and a walking tour through the Victorian seaport of Fernandina Beach on Amelia Island.
Historic South and Golden Isles Cruise Highlights
- Jacksonville, FL
- Fernandina Beach (Amelia Island, GA)
- Jekyll Island, GA
- St. Simons Island, GA
- Savannah, GA
- Hilton Head, SC
- Beaufort, SC
- Charleston, SC
Historic South and Golden Isles Cruise Details
Day-to-Day Itinerary
Day 1: Charleston, SC
Charleston is known for its cobblestone streets, gas-lit lamps, and pastel antebellum homes. Rich in history, it has been the site of Revolutionary War battles, pirate legends, and Civil War sieges. Visit Fort Sumter, where the Civil War began, and explore the city’s African-American heritage. Enjoy the natural beauty of Charleston with a leisurely stroll through its parks and gardens. For more details, check out the official site.
Day 2: Beaufort, SC
Beaufort’s history blends European exploration, Native American culture, British settlements, and Civil War events. Today, horse-drawn carriages travel through the historic district, past 18th and 19th-century homes showcasing Beaufort’s distinctive architecture. As you explore, you’ll understand why Beaufort was once called the “Newport of the South.”
Day 3: Hilton Head Island, SC
Hilton Head is a premier resort destination, renowned for its championship golf courses and scenic beaches. A boat tour through the Sea Pines Forest Preserve offers an up-close look at the island’s native wildlife, including the American Alligator.
Day 4: Savannah, GA
Savannah, with its lush tree canopy, cobblestone streets, and grand architecture, remains a vibrant seaport. Its historic districts offer a glimpse into 19th-century wealth and opulence. You can take a guided tour of Savannah’s “Historic and Victorian Districts,” enjoy an eerie Ghost Walk in the evening, or browse the area’s charming shops.
Day 5: St. Simons Island, GA
St. Simons Island, recently named one of the most romantic destinations in the U.S., is steeped in history, Southern charm, and breathtaking natural beauty. Wander through its historic 18th-century battlefields and expansive antebellum plantations, and take in the stunning sight of majestic Southern Oaks draped in Spanish moss that line the island’s landscape.
Day 6: Jekyll Island, GA
Uncover the fascinating history of Jekyll Island, nestled among Georgia’s Sea Isles. This incredible destination is home to “Millionaire’s Village,” a 240-acre enclave of opulent mansions and winter cottages, now designated as a National Historic Landmark.
Day 7: Amelia Island, FL
Experience the natural beauty of Amelia Island, with its miles of pristine quartz beaches and rolling sand dunes. The island’s only city, Fernandina Beach, offers a rich blend of history, antiques, and collectibles. Take a stroll through Centre Street’s Historic District, where you’ll find 50 blocks of beautifully restored 19th-century Victorian homes and charming shops.
Day 8: Amelia Island, FL
Soak in the pleasant weather of northern Florida as you arrive on the charming Amelia Island. Reflect on the incredible experiences and lasting memories you’ve created throughout your journey. For your convenience, American Cruise Lines provides complimentary transportation to Jacksonville Airport.
