European explorers found sanctuary in the bountiful lands of the Southeast centuries ago. Now, these tranquil waterways allow American Cruise Lines to provide guests with an exploration of history and natural beauty. Discover Southern charm as we cruise the Intracoastal Waterway or the early American ideal on our Chesapeake Bay Cruise. Our southern U.S. river cruises bring guests to unique, historic, and bucket-list destinations such as Tangier Island, Charleston, SC, Cambridge, MD, Washington D.C., Baltimore, and St. Augustine, FL.
Charleston, SC to Amelia Island, FL
Washington, DC to Washington, DC
Baltimore, MD to Jacksonville, FL
St Petersburg, FL to St Petersburg, FL
Jacksonville, FL to Jacksonville, FL
St Petersburg, FL to Jacksonville/Amelia Island, FL
Baltimore, MD to Washington, DC
*Offer Valid Only on New Bookings on Select Dates
As the southernmost point in the continental U.S., it’s no wonder Key West is an absolute paradise. Once a haven for pirates in the 1800s, it quickly became one of the wealthiest cities per capita in America due to its lucrative salvage industry. Today, its colorful streets, Hemingway’s former home, and century-old bars capture the rebellious, free-spirited charm that has attracted artists, writers, and everyone in between for generations.
The nation’s capital is a city where history is etched into every corner. Monuments and museums fill the National Mall, while cobblestone streets in Georgetown recall its colonial roots. Home to the White House and Supreme Court, Washington, D.C. is a place where American ideals and stories of progress come alive.
Charleston’s cobblestone streets and colorful homes transport you back to the past. As one of America’s oldest cities, its history is filled with tales of colonial grandeur, Revolutionary battles, and Civil War turmoil. The scent of jasmine floats through the historic districts, as it decorates centuries-old churches and preserved mansions standing as timeless reminders of its historical impact.
Known as the birthplace of the national anthem, the city’s history is tightly woven with American identity. Its Inner Harbor is surrounded by historic sites like Fort McHenry, where “The Star-Spangled Banner” was penned, and neighborhoods like Fell’s Point, filled with 18th-century rowhouses that echo the city’s seafaring roots.
Packing for a Southeast cruise will be dependent on the season. If cruising the southern USA during warmer months, it's important to bring lightweight clothing, sun protection, and light layers. If you're cruising during the colder months, make sure to pack layers to adjust to the changing temperature. No matter when you cruise, it's important to pack comfortable shoes and items like a rain jacket and umbrella to ensure you're ready for all weather.
There are three key seasons to cruise the Southeast: spring, fall, and winter. Springtime is great for mild weather, blooming flowers, and lighter crowds. Fall is the perfect time to see the magnificent leaves turn without the cold. Winter cruises offer a warm escape, festive holiday cheer, and serene coastal landscapes.
Our Southeast itineraries leave from Charleston, SC; Washington, D.C.; Baltimore, MD; Amelia Island, FL; St. Petersburg, FL; and Jacksonville, FL.
We emulate the warmth, charm, and graciousness of the South both on the ship and in the destinations we visit. From the personalized care you receive from our crew to the welcoming greetings ashore, every aspect of your cruise is designed to make you feel right at home. Be treated to the kind of hospitality that only the South can offer as you stroll through Charleston's historic cobblestone streets or wander the moss-draped avenues of Savannah.
Our cruises through the South offer guests an opportunity to delve deep into the region's history in a way that is both entertaining and educational. Even self-proclaimed history buffs will learn something new, as our onboard experts share unique insights, rare anecdotes, and lesser-known stories about the destinations we visit. From the Civil War to the civil rights movement, from Gullah culture in the Lowcountry to the legacies of old southern estates, explore the past and present of this remarkable destination.
Let us take you on a culinary journey from the plentiful shores of Chesapeake Bay to the scenic Intercoastal Waterway and the sun-soaked Florida Gulf Coast. Each meal is a celebration of the region's maritime heritage, featuring fresh, locally sourced ingredients that reflect the unique flavors of the coast. Indulge in Chesapeake Bay's renowned blue crabs, savor succulent seafood caught fresh from the Gulf, and enjoy vibrant dishes inspired by diverse cultural influences.
On your journey, be treated to some of the most breathtaking scenery of the U.S. Along Chesapeake Bay, cruise by rolling hills, charming waterfront towns, and sprawling estuaries, framed a stunning backdrop of colonial history. Navigating the Intracoastal Waterway between Charleston, SC, and Amelia Island, sail past lush marshlands and scenic barrier islands and along the Florida Gulf Coast, savor a panoramic display of sparkling turquoise waters, iconic white sand beaches, and diverse coastal wildlife.
