Chesapeake Bay Cruise
Baltimore, MD to Baltimore, MD
Set sail from Baltimore on a journey through the Chesapeake Bay, heading to the renowned "Historic Triangle" of Yorktown, Williamsburg, and Jamestown.
In Yorktown, walk the historic battlefields and visit authentic colonial homes that hold stories of the past. Meander through the preserved streets of Colonial Williamsburg, virtually unchanged since the era of the first English colonists. In Jamestown, uncover the beginnings of the first permanent English settlement in the Americas.
Find out why the area is famed as "The Crab Capital of the World," and sail on a genuine skipjack in Cambridge. Enjoy a trolley tour through the charming streets of Annapolis, where our expert local guide will share fascinating narratives of its 350-year history. Experience the unique cultures and historical insights of this unforgettable journey.
Upcoming Dates & Fares
Itinerary
Map & Itinerary Overview
This 8-day riverboat cruise takes guests to the "Crab Capital of the World," visits the U.S. Naval Academy in Annapolis, and many other historic ports, including Cambridge, MD, and Williamsburg, VA, that define our Chesapeake Bay cruises.
Pre-Cruise - Baltimore Four Seasons Package
Our Chesapeake Bay cruise itinerary includes an exclusive Pre-Cruise Package in Baltimore, making it effortless to join your cruise and explore the local sights. Enjoy a comfortable overnight stay at this top-rated five-star hotel, complete with breakfast. Follow this with a lively Baltimore City Exploration that takes you directly to your ship.
Take a narrated coach ride through the many scenic and historic treasures of Baltimore. Along the way, you will view the Inner Harbor, Fells Point - the oldest neighborhood in Baltimore, Little Italy, Lexington Market- the world’s largest continuously running market, the USS Constellation, the Hippodrome which opened as a vaudeville theatre in 1914, the grave of Edgar Allen Poe, and much more.
Stop to stretch your legs and explore the grounds at Fort McHenry, where in 1814 the heroic defense of the fort from attack by the British inspired Francis Scott Key to write the words to our U.S. national anthem. Also visit the Maryland Center for History & Culture which boasts a collection of artifacts, documents, and artworks that chronicle Maryland's past, from its early colonial days to the present.
Pre-Cruise Packages must be reserved at least 30 days before your cruise date. Please call (800) 460-4518 for pricing and availability.
Day 1 - Baltimore, MD
Begin your exploration before cruising from Baltimore, in this maritime city teeming with excitement and colonial history. Experience the bustling harbor scene, tour the decks of historic ships, and stroll along the charming cobblestone streets of the scenic Inner Harbor. As you journey further, cruise past Fort McHenry, the iconic bastion where the pivotal battle that inspired Francis Scott Key to write the "Star-Spangled Banner" unfolded. Engage with the vivid history and lively culture that Baltimore has to offer as you start your memorable journey. If there’s one thing Marylanders love, it’s the unique design on their state flag, peer into every window to see just how beloved this red, yellow, white, and black design is.
Day 2 - Yorktown, VA
Williamsburg, Yorktown, and Jamestown collectively comprise the renowned "Historic Triangle," each site echoing pivotal moments in American history. Explore Yorktown's port, where the decisive last battle of the American Revolution was fought, forever altering the course of history. Step back in time at the Jamestown Settlement, a comprehensive museum that brings to life 17th-century American history. Here, you can uncover the story of America's first permanent English colony, founded in 1607, through meticulously recreated environments and detailed exhibits. These locations offer a profound connection to the early days of the United States, inviting visitors to experience the struggles and triumphs of the nation's founders.
Day 3 - Williamsburg, VA
Colonial Williamsburg, meticulously restored to its 18th-century splendor, once served as the capital of Britain's vast empire in the New World. This historic site was the vital political and economic center of the Virginia Colony and has evolved into the premier living history museum on the globe. Here, visitors can explore an array of original buildings and faithful reconstructions, ranging from grand public buildings like the Capitol and the Governor's Palace to humble tradesmen's shops and taverns. Under the guidance of expert historians dressed in period attire, stroll through the narrow, time-worn streets that have preserved their colonial character. Engage with blacksmiths, cobblers, and other artisans practicing their crafts just as the first English colonists did. Colonial Williamsburg offers a vivid re-creation of a thriving colonial town, inviting you to step back in time and live the daily life and feel the revolutionary spirit of the era.
Day 4 - Cruising the Chesapeake Bay/St. Michaels, MD
Spend your day navigating the stunning waters of the Chesapeake Bay, North America's most illustrious cruising grounds. Known as the largest estuary in the United States, its name, "Chesapeake," derives from the Algonquian for "at a big river."
As you glide along the calm waters, the landscape stretches out with lush greenery, charming shoreline, and sailboats drifting peacefully in the distance. Sailing into St. Michaels, the iconic lighthouse with historic red-and-white stripes stands proudly and welcomes you at the entrance to the harbor. Dotted with fishing boats and yachts, St. Michaels showcases a timeless maritime charm and serves as the perfect introduction to the town’s blend of history, coastal beauty, and welcoming atmosphere.
Day 5 - St. Michaels, MD
Take a leisurely walk along the waterfront of St. Michaels or explore the delightful gift shops and chic boutiques on the tree-shaded Talbot Street. Upon docking at the Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum, once a bustling shipbuilding village, you’ll be transported back to the 1800s. Experience a vivid slice of maritime history that brings to life the era's robust shipbuilding legacy. As you wander through the museum's exhibits, you'll encounter antique boats, restored artifacts, and engaging stories of the people who shaped this coastal community. This immersive visit not only educates but also captivates, leaving you with a deep appreciation for Chesapeake Bay's storied past.
Day 6 - Annapolis, MD
This 18th-century port beautifully maintains its Colonial American allure. Annapolis, with its city streets lined with thousands of historic buildings showcasing a variety of architectural styles, is frequently described as a "museum without walls." The city's layout, with brick-lined sidewalks and period gas lamps, adds to the authentic historic ambiance, inviting you to step back in time. Verdant squares offer scenic views, enhancing the city’s charm and making it a visual delight. This lively city is also the proud home of the United States Naval Academy, a distinguished National Historic Landmark, adding a layer of prestigious military heritage to this famous port city.
Day 7 - Baltimore, MD
Explore the Inner Harbor bustling waterfront area ornamented with historic ships, where you can visit The National Aquarium, home to thousands of marine species, including sharks, dolphins, and sea turtles. Take an engaging journey through Fort McHenry, the historic site that inspired The Star-Spangled Banner and experience the Baltimore Industry Museum with exhibitions and artifacts that document the contribution of the workers and entrepreneurs who built Baltimore. A visit to Baltimore wouldn’t be complete without indulging in its famous seafood, especially the famous Maryland crab cakes.
Day 8 - Baltimore, MD
Your captivating Chesapeake Bay Cruise through history wraps up in the lively city of Baltimore, where it all started. Have one last breakfast aboard the ship before you disembark to either start your journey home or to extend your stay for further exploration. If you choose to linger, Baltimore offers an array of attractions, from vibrant cultural districts and historic sites to eclectic dining and shopping opportunities. Take your time to wander through the renowned Inner Harbor, visit world-class museums, and enjoy the local cuisine. You can’t leave without covering something in Old Bay Seasoning which pairs perfectly with fried potatoes or fresh seafood.
Before your cruise, treat yourself to a 1-night stay at the prestigious Four Seasons Hotel Baltimore, within walking distance to the waterfront, top restaurants, and popular attractions. On the morning of your cruise, enjoy breakfast at the hotel, luggage service, and a Baltimore City Exploration which concludes at the ship.
Pre-Cruise Packages must be reserved at least 30 days before your cruise date. Please call (800) 460-4518 for pricing and availability.
As you embark upon your journey, enjoy a Welcome Aboard Reception with cocktails, hors d’oeuvres and entertainment. Meet the crew, your onboard experts, and fellow guests. Learn more about the wonderful adventure ahead of you.
Enjoy a walking and trolley exploration of Historic Yorktown. Led by our knowledgeable guide, visit the Yorktown Victory Monument. Walk down Main Street and learn about the history and significance of Yorktown during the American Revolutionary War. Continue to the Gallery at York Hall where local artisans display their work, before boarding the Trolley for the return to the ship.
Activity Level: Moderate | ADA ACCESSIBLE: Yes
Explore the Jamestown Settlement and discover the story of the people who founded this historic town. Learn about the Native Americans of Virginia they encountered, through film, gallery exhibits, and living history. Visitors can board replicas of the three ships that sailed from England to Virginia in 1607 and explore life-size re-creations of the Colonists’ fort as well as a Powhatan village. In the outdoor areas, costumed historical interpreters describe and demonstrate daily life in the early 17th century.
Activity Level: Medium | ADA ACCESSIBLE: Yes
The American Revolution Museum at Yorktown tells the story of the nation’s founding, from the twilight of the colonial period to the dawn of the Constitution and beyond. Exciting indoor galleries feature period artifacts, immersive environments and films, including “The Siege of Yorktown,” with a 180-degree surround screen and dramatic special effects.
Activity Level: Moderate | ADA ACCESSIBLE: Yes
Board the Yorktown & Co. Steamer Wagon for a guided evening ride through the Historic Village and hear the many ghost stories that have occurred over the years. Listen to your guide connect historically correct information to recurring ghostly experiences in original buildings still standing from before the Revolutionary War. Hear past and present tales of paranormal activity, unmarked graves, footpaths that led Enslaved People to auction, and places locals will not go at night. Finish your riding tour visiting the Yorktown Monument with a nighttime scenic view of the Chesapeake Bay.
Activity Level: Low | ADA Accessible: Partial
Board a Yorktown & Co. open air historic steamer wagon at the Somerwell House c 1692, now Little York Confectionery. Delight in a narrated exploration by a National Park Certified Guide. Witness the site of the last major battle of the American Revolution. Walk to a viewing station at Surrender Field, where you can see original cannons from the Revolution displayed to commemorate America’s victory. Ride alongside the vast fields where the make-shift hospitals cared for the wounded, soldiers camped, and cannons and ammunitions were stored. Cross the stream to the location of George Washington’s camp headquarters, bow your head at site of the French Cemetery, or simply ride along and feel the weight of these hallowed grounds as you follow the timeline of battle and victory at Yorktown. Stop at the National Park Service Visitor Center Museum where you will see one of George Washington’s campaign tents, exhibits depicting the 1781 siege of Yorktown, Revolutionary War artifacts, and the campaign table used by General Cornwallis. After enjoy exploring Main Street, Little York Confectionery, Historic Mobjack Petite Café, as well as local Art Galleries and shops.
Activity Level: Low | ADA Accessible: Partial
Travel along the Colonial Parkway, which connects Williamsburg, Yorktown, and Jamestown, to witness beautiful views of the York River and the Virginia countryside without the obstruction of commercial traffic or signage. Upon arrival in Colonial Williamsburg, enjoy a guided walking excursion through this 18th-century city followed by free time to explore at your leisure.
Activity Level: Medium | ADA ACCESSIBLE: Partial
There are a variety of activities scheduled on board when the ship is underway, which vary depending on the itinerary and scheduled date. Enjoy destination-focused enrichment programs with special guest speakers who present topics related to the region and ports of call, including Art Classes, App-titude Classes (Tech Made Easy), Cooking Demonstrations, Mixology (practice of making great cocktails,) Trivia, Game Shows, and more.
Enjoy a guided walking exploration of historic St. Michaels, a charming waterfront town, named as one of the Top 10 Best Small Coastal Towns in America by USA Today. Explore the picturesque harbor front on Maryland's Eastern Shore, lined with bustling marinas and ornamented with boats of all shapes and sizes.
Stroll through St. Michaels' famed Historic District, as we rediscover 350 years of shipbuilding, classic historic homes, and the famous battle of St. Michaels from the War of 1812. Our exploration concludes along the community's quaint Talbot Street shopping district, lined with one-of-a-kind boutique shops, fabulous eateries, and towering church steeples.
Activity Level: Moderate | ADA ACCESSIBLE: Yes
This 18-acre waterfront museum, which is dedicated to furthering the understanding of the maritime heritage of the Chesapeake Bay area, features 10 exhibit buildings, a historic lighthouse, and a working boatyard. Docking right in the heart of the museum, American Cruise Lines’ guests can enjoy a private exploration of this fascinating museum.
Activity Level: Low | ADA ACCESSIBLE: Yes
The Classic Motor Museum is dedicated to appreciating and preserving America’s heritage of automotive innovation. Explore the museum to learn the history of motoring, from its earliest days to the current state of transportation. View everything from a Ford model T to today's Porsche 911 Turbo.
Activity Level: Low | ADA ACCESSIBLE: Yes
Soak in the sights along an eight-mile cruise on the Miles River. Your knowledgeable captain will be your guide, sharing fascinating stories as you glide past stunning 200-year-old mansions that reflect a bygone era. Keep on the lookout for the vibrant wildlife that calls this serene landscape home, from graceful herons to playful otters.
Aboard The Patriot, a charming replica of a 1930s steamship, enjoy a unique blend of nostalgia and comfort. Sip on your favorite drink from the full bar, with an array of beverages and delightful snacks available for purchase.
Activity Level: Low | ADA Accessible: No
Enjoy an adventure exploring the landscape surrounding the childhood home of Underground Railroad Conductor Harriet Tubman. Led by a certified National Park Service guide, view the setting of her escapes north. Visit Stewart’s Canal, the waterway dug by Harriet and her father, Ben Ross. View Harriet Tubman State Park and explore the Bucktown General Store, the site of her first known act of defiance.
Activity Level: Low | ADA ACCESSIBLE: Yes
A Colonial-attired guide will lead you through Annapolis' historic district and into the Maryland State House. Walk in the footsteps of George Washington, where in 1783, inside the State House, he resigned as commander-in-chief of the Continental Army. Continuing through the downtown area, pass many 18th-century mansions and learn about the significance of their beautiful architecture. Throughout your exploration, your guide will share Annapolis history with you, including stories of the famous statesmen that built these magnificent structures.
Activity Level: Moderate | ADA ACCESSIBLE: Yes
Step aboard the classic Harbor Queen for a narrated cruise along the Annapolis Harbor and the banks of the U.S. Naval Academy. Hear the history of the Academy, discover Annapolis' role as a historic seaport, and learn about the region's waterways. Along the way, catch of a glimpse of the Chesapeake Bay Bridge.
Activity Level: Low | ADA ACCESSIBLE: Yes
Founded in 1845 by Secretary of the Navy, George Bancroft, the Academy was started as the Naval School at Old Fort Severn. Experience “Life on the Yard” as you explore the Academy campus with a professional, certified guide. The excursion highlights life at the U.S. Naval Academy past and present and includes Lejeune Hall, Bancroft Hall, Tecumseh, Herndon Monument, Main Academy Chapel (when open) and the crypt of John Paul Jones, Revolutionary War hero.
Activity Level: Low | ADA ACCESSIBLE: Yes
Ride through the streets of the Annapolis Historic District as an experienced and knowledgeable colonial-attired guide provides historical anecdotes and narration throughout your journey. Pass Maryland's Governor's Mansion and the Historic State House, the country's oldest state capitol in continuous use. Other sights include Hammond-Harwood House, St. Mary's Church, and Charles Carroll House, as well as St. John's College, originally a young men's school that educated George Washington's grandsons. Enjoy a stop at the Maryland WWII Memorial which overlooks the scenic Severn River and the U.S. Naval Academy for an opportunity to stretch your legs and take photos.
Activity Level: Low | ADA ACCESSIBLE: Yes
Baltimore is a fascinating and beautiful city to view from the water. On this narrated cruise through the Inner Harbor, learn about the renaissance of Baltimore's waterfront as well as its fascinating maritime history. Highlights include the iconic Domino Sugar sign, Fort McHenry, the Key Bridge, Fell's Point, Under Armour, and more.
Activity Level: Low| ADA Accessible: Partial
Located in an 1860s oyster cannery on a five-acre waterfront campus, the Baltimore Museum of Industry interprets the diverse and significant human stories behind the city’s labor and industrial innovation. Baltimore is home to the nation’s first passenger railway, oldest gas company, first traffic light, first telegraph message received, the Linotype machine, and many other “firsts” in industry. Explore exhibitions and artifacts that document the contribution of the workers and entrepreneurs who built Baltimore into a manufacturing powerhouse and thriving industrial center.
Activity Level: Low | ADA Accessible: Yes
Led by a guide, take an engaging journey through the historic site that inspired The Star-Spangled Banner. Delve into the fort's strategic significance during the War of 1812, the Civil War, and WWII as you explore the impressive star-shaped architecture and immersive exhibits. Learn about key events and figures, while enjoying stunning views of the harbor. You will leave with a deep appreciation for American history and the enduring spirit of resilience.
Activity Level: Moderate | ADA Accessible: Yes
One of the largest attractions in Maryland, The National Aquarium boasts several exhibits including the Upland Tropical Rain Forest, a multi-story Atlantic Coral Reef, an open-ocean shark tank and many more. Learn about animals from all over the planet, from the depths of the ocean to the canopy of the rain forest, and discover the connection they all share with water.
Activity Level: Low | ADA Accessible: Partial
If you choose to extend your stay, a number of great excursions are available, including the Fort McHenry National Monument and Historic Shrine, Civil War Museum, and the city's many art museums.
