Holidays in the Southeast Cruise
Charleston, SC to Amelia Island, FL
Amelia Island, FL to Charleston, SC
Step into the radiance of the holiday season on the Holidays in the Southeast Cruise from Charleston to Amelia Island. Be greeted by charming seaport towns, each decked out in seasonal finery. Explore Charleston with its historic residences and cobblestone streets, lit up by the annual Festival of Lights. Enjoy a horse-drawn carriage ride through the lovely town of Beaufort and a Dolphin Discovery cruise in Hilton Head.
Stroll through the historic squares of Savannah, where the elegance of the 19th century is beautifully decorated with reds, greens, and blues for the holidays. Then, visit Jekyll Island’s “Millionaire’s Village,” once a winter haven for the wealthiest American families. On Christmas Eve, delight in the melodic singing of professional carolers during our complimentary cocktail hour. Welcome the New Year with distinctive Southern charm.
Allow our all-American crew to attend to your every need as you enjoy festive holiday meals prepared by our culinary experts. Celebrate the magic of the yuletide with an array of activities. Learn more about regional holiday customs, enchanting musical performances, spirited caroling, and a merry gift exchange with your companions. Witness a master chef at work during a gingerbread-making demonstration and craft your own delectable holiday creation. Relish a journey brimming with seasonal enchantment.
Upcoming Dates & Fares
Itinerary
Map & Itinerary Overview
On this Golden Isles River cruise through the Intracoastal Waterway, get into the holiday spirit as festive decorations adorn homes, storefronts, and boats. Enjoy the annual Charleston Festival of Lights, stroll through the cobblestone streets of historic Savannah, GA, and explore the seaport of Fernandina Beach on Amelia Island with its Victorian homes and inns decorated by local designers. Southern hospitality makes the holidays especially enchanting.
Day 1 - Charleston, SC
Charleston, SC, exudes Southern elegance with its beautifully maintained historic architecture, from colonial homes to pastel-colored Georgian buildings along the iconic Battery. Its cobblestone streets and private gardens set the stage for a thriving culinary scene that highlights Lowcountry specialties like shrimp and grits. During the holiday season, Charleston dons a festive attire with the historic district decked in garlands, wreaths, and twinkling lights. The atmosphere is crisp with the scent of seasonal treats and sounds of holiday carolers, positioning Charleston as a top holiday destination.
Day 2 - Beaufort, SC
Beaufort comes alive with festive energy during the holiday season, beautifully located in the heart of the Sea Islands. The historic downtown is captivating, showcasing preserved architecture from a bygone era, under canopies of majestic oak trees adorned with Spanish moss. The streets transform into a holiday canvas with twinkling lights and seasonal décor filling the streets. Landmarks such as the Beaufort Arsenal Museum offer insights into the town's military past, while the John Mark Verdier House museum provides a glimpse into life in the 19th century. The Beaufort River enhances the cityscape, providing a scenic venue for holiday boat parades, where decorated vessels reflect their festive lights upon the water, adding to the town’s holiday allure.
Day 3 - Hilton Head Island, SC
Renowned for its natural beauty and expansive beaches along the Atlantic Ocean, Hilton Head is a captivating resort destination. The island harbors a rich history, highlighted by its Civil War era Fort Walker, a key site during the Union blockade of Southern ports. The Coastal Discovery Museum offers visitors a deep dive into the island's cultural and ecological heritage, including its significant Gullah cultural influences. A key attraction is the iconic lighthouse at Harbour Town, providing breathtaking panoramic views and standing as a beloved emblem of the island. Hilton Head welcomes you into a wonderland of lights with draping blue canopies and twinkling palm trees along its streets. Over on Dove Street, get into the holiday spirit with cheer at every turn during their yearly festival of lights on the island. With its world-class golf courses, extensive bike trails, and abundant watersports, Hilton Head remains a dynamic haven for outdoor enthusiasts throughout the year and holiday season.
Day 4 - Savannah, GA
Wrapped in Spanish moss and shrouded in mystery, Savannah invites wanderers to explore its historic streets and shadowy squares. The city's architectural beauty, from colonial to Victorian, often houses to spectral residents, with each stately home boasting its own ghostly tales. In typical southern fashion, Savannah lights up during the holidays with opulent decorations. Lampposts wrapped in evergreen garland, warm sparkling lights, and large round wreaths on every door are all completed with iconic red velvet bows. This city brings the holidays to life with none of the cold or slushy snow. The famed Bonaventure Cemetery, known for its ethereal charm, serves as both a scenic marvel and a site for spine-tingling stories popularized by "Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil." Ghost tours meander through the historic district as twilight deepens, offering chilling glimpses into the city's haunted past. Along the riverfront, a blend of historic ambiance and cultural flair draws visitors to its array of shops, galleries, and dining options, making your day full of possibilities.
Day 5 - Cruising Intracoastal Waterway
Cruise this classic waterway, a vital route for north and southbound East Coast cruisers, and an east-west pathway along the edges of the Gulf of Mexico. As you travel, enjoy views of expansive blue waters meeting the sky at the horizon, complemented by the coastal landscapes where greenery meets sandy beaches and rocky shores. Navigate through changing sceneries, from lively harbor towns to serene stretches of natural beauty, offering a showcase of the region's diverse ecosystems. While onboard we’ll make sure the spirit of the holidays comes to life with seasonal feasts, activities, and serving plenty of cheer. This maritime highway is more than just a path; it's a gateway to a visual feast of water and land, providing a peaceful backdrop for a memorable journey.
Day 6 - Jekyll Island / St. Simons Island, GA
Jekyll Island holds a captivating history as a former exclusive haven for America's Gilded Age tycoons, with the grand cottages of “Millionaire’s Village” standing as stately reminders of opulent early 20th-century retreats. What better place for some holiday shopping? Make your loved ones—or yourself—feel like a famed millionaire with a gift from any of the festive shops in this port town. The island is covered in a canopy of live oaks and Spanish moss which resembles dripping icicles with bright white lights during this season, leading visitors along peaceful paths to pristine beaches and the historic ruins of Horton House, one of Georgia’s oldest tabby structures.
St. Simons Island is marked by its well-known lighthouse, which has been guiding ships since 1872 and offers expansive views from its towering watch over the village and Atlantic waters. Its maritime forest and calm marshes host a variety of wildlife, while the lively Pier Village features quaint shops and eateries that offer a taste of local culture and seaside enjoyment. Together, these islands offer a compelling blend of peaceful natural settings and engaging historical narratives, inviting visitors to experience the unique charm of Georgia’s coastal jewels.
Day 7 - Amelia Island, FL
Enveloped in the charm of the Old South, Amelia Island boasts a storied past, marked by the banners of eight different nations since the 16th century. The island's historic district, Fernandina Beach, features a delightful array of Victorian-era architecture, where horse-drawn carriages roll down streets lined with quaint boutiques and inviting eateries. The sun-drenched shores and gentle waves of its pristine beaches offer a perfect setting for relaxation or gentle strolls. With palms wrapped in lights and a 40-foot colorfully decorated evergreen, Amelia Island’s “Dickens on Centre” event transforms the historic downtown into a Victorian-inspired holiday festival. Fort Clinch State Park, another highlight, invites exploration with its well-preserved 19th-century fort set against a backdrop of expansive coastal scenery. Engaging festivals throughout the year celebrate everything from local shrimp to classic cars, making each visit to this enchanting island a unique encounter with its rich culture and laid-back lifestyle.
Day 8 - Amelia Island, FL
Enjoy one final breakfast on board as you prepare to disembark in Amelia Island. We at American Cruise Lines are grateful that you chose to spend your holidays with us. Thank you for making us part of your festive season—we hope your journey has been as delightful as the destinations we've explored together.
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.
This enriching exploration will take you to destinations along the Gullah/Geechee Cultural Heritage Corridor. Learn about the way of life of Gullah Geechee people, descendants of Africans who were enslaved on the rice, indigo, and Sea Island cotton plantations of the lower Atlantic Coast. Discover their unique culture with deep African roots, clearly visible in their arts, crafts, foods, and distinctive creole language. Learn about how Gullah music influenced many other musical genres including gospel, R&B, soul, hip hop, and jazz.
Activity Level: Low | ADA Accessible: Yes
Renowned writer, Pat Conroy, chose Beaufort, SC, as the setting for many of his books. On this captivating excursion, explore sites from Pat's writing life aboard a golf cart, including homes in the historic Point where Pat lived and wrote, sites related to his teachers and friends, his parents' grave site, and locations connected to the filming of The Prince of Tides and The Great Santini. Visit the Conroy Center at 601 Bladen Street where you can see artifacts from Pat's life, including his writing desk and chair, the Great Santini's fight jacket, and the handwritten prologue to The Prince of Tides. Tour guests get a 10% discount on purchases of gifts and books at the Conroy Center.
Activity Level: Low | ADA Accessible: No
Take an enchanting narrated horse-drawn carriage ride through the lovely tree-lined streets of historic Beaufort, a sophisticated and charming town, offering visitors a true Lowcountry experience. Pass by the area’s key landmarks and listen to your guide retell the history of the city from its early Colonial period to the American Revolution and Civil War through today.
Activity Level: Low | ADA Accessible: No
Explored by the Spanish, the French, and the English, Beaufort has a rich historic charm that abounds with beautiful antebellum homes, moss-draped live oak trees, and friendly local charm. On this guided walk through the historic district, learn about its fascinating history, as well as the many Hollywood films shot on location here. Among some of the iconic movies that have used this charming town as a backdrop include the Great Santini, The Big Chill, Forrest Gump,The Prince of Tides, and many others. As you stroll, your expert guide will be happy to answer any questions you may have.
Activity Level: High | ADA Accessible: No
Take a cruise to find out how playful, endearing, and amazing bottle-nose dolphins truly are. Not long into your adventure, someone will catch sight of a pod of dolphins swimming nearby, as they come up for air every few seconds. Witness dolphins riding alongside the boat, or surfing in the wake behind, so be sure to bring your camera for this excellent photo opportunity. Your knowledgeable guide will share bottle-nose dolphin facts with you, such as how the shallow waters around the island provide the perfect place for dolphins to find food. With this insight, you will able to appreciate these intelligent and beautiful water creatures even more.
Activity Level: Low | ADA Accessible: Partial
We will anchor in Hilton Head and tender into shore, where you will be greeted by our local guide for one of our most popular shore excursions in the area. Embark on a private boat tour of the Sea Pines Resort Forest Preserve. This 600-acre preserve features some of Hilton Head’s many indigenous plants and animal species, including the American alligator. Your guide will provide an engaging and educational tour while you enjoy the breathtaking views of the freshwater lake.
Activity Level: Low | ADA Accessible: Partial
Visit the Coastal Discovery Museum for a fun-filled learning experience. Here, you can discover and explore the wonders of the South Carolina Lowcountry. Take a leisurely stroll around the Museum's majestic 68-acre property. Investigate the salt marsh on the boardwalks. Marvel at the beauty of the Spanish Moss dangling from Live Oaks. Take a step back in time to imagine life on Hilton Head years ago. Start off your excursion with a museum introduction before exploring on your own.
Activity Level: Moderate / ADA Accessible: Yes
Enjoy a narrated ride to The National Museum of The Mighty 8th Airforce. Throughout the journey your local expert will engage with you and discuss the fascinating Mighty 8th Museum and share some amazing Savannah history. The Eighth Air Force was activated in January 1942 only a short distance from Downtown Savannah. The museum features over 90,000 square feet of exhibits, interactive experiences, artifacts, and a collection of aviation art. Hear the unforgettable stories of bravery, experience a bomber mission and briefing, and see the ongoing restoration of the World War II B-17 Flying Fortress. Members of the Eighth Air Force are currently in the spotlight with the release of AppleTV's Masters of the Air!
Activity Level: Low | ADA Accessible: Yes
Meet the Old Town Trolley right at the ship to begin a fully narrated experience. Enjoy open-air sightseeing allowing you to get the perfect pictures. Learn about over 270 years of history as expert tour conductors relate the stories, sights, and landmarks of Georgia’s First City! Join them as they turn back the pages of time, covering over 100 points of interest and relive the rich legacy of this charming and alluring southern town while simultaneously experiencing all that cosmopolitan Savannah has to offer. You will be given a trolley pass that will allow you to enjoy the city of Savannah at your leisure or you can join us for a private guided exploration in the afternoon.
Activity Level: Low | ADA Accessible: Yes
Start off your exploration with an onboard introduction to the Savannah Plan. After, explore Savannah on foot led by a local guide. Beginning at the river, discover the city’s marvelous streets, squares, and structures. Meander up through the fascinating Factor's Walk, a row of red brick buildings along the bluffs, where cotton brokers/factors bargained during cotton's heyday. Travel to Savannah's oldest neighborhood and admire the eclectic architecture that surrounds you. The walk ends on Wright Square in the heart of the city. From there, you may enjoy time to explore more squares, shop in the city market, or return to the ship with your guide.
Activity Level: High | ADA Accessible: Yes
When darkness falls on Savannah, the city takes on a different personality. As daylight fades and gas lamps illuminate the Historic District, enjoy a beautiful, romantic, and haunting view of Savannah. A local guide will offer a fascinating narrative, delving into history you may not have read in school, sharing juicy anecdotes about the colony's beginnings, as well as tales from the Revolutionary and Civil Wars. Learn the stories behind notable monuments and statues in Savannah's famous squares.
Activity Level: High | ADA Accessible: No
Experience the American Prohibition Museum like never before! Travel back in time with an authority on all things Prohibition and explore the fascinating story of America’s dry spell. Learn about the creation of income tax and read about the mobsters during that time period. By the time you hit the speakeasy, you will have plenty to discuss over a libation.
Activity Level: Low | ADA ACCESSIBLE: Yes
Learn about Savannah’s earliest cemeteries, grounded in fact and actual history, as your guides leads you to the historic Colonial Park Cemetery. View the oldest and newest tombstones still existing in the cemetery, explore the graves of famous residents, including American heroes, and hear tales of unusual causes of death. Witness tombstones vandalized by Sherman’s soldiers and listen to a recent story of how some of its inhabitants accidentally reappeared.
Activity Level: Moderate | ADA ACCESSIBLE: No
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.
The Christmas tradition of Gingerbread houses originated in Germany during the 16th century. These cookie-walled houses were originally decorated with foil and gold leaf. Eventually the tradition made its way to the U.S. Enjoy a gingerbread making demonstration by a master chef and try your hand at making one of your own creations.
The largest barrier island in the Golden Isles, St. Simons has a rich, 400-year history. As your spirited guide tells the tales of the island’s history, you will see the St. Simons Island Lighthouse, the Bloody Marsh, and the beautiful Christ Church. After the excursion, you will enjoy an hour to shop and explore St. Simons on your own.
Activity Level: Low | ADA Accessible: Yes
Visit the Georgia Sea Turtle Center, devoted to the study, care, and rehabilitation of sea turtles and their environment. On a self-guided exploration, learn about marine turtles, their conservation and rehabilitation, as well as their life cycle. Hop on a tram to the Historic District where you will travel through Millionaire’s Village, 240 acres of extravagant homes and cottages. Some of the wealthiest American men of the 19th century vacationed on the island, including J.P. Morgan, Joseph Pulitzer, William Rockefeller, and Cornelius Vanderbilt. Next, visit the Jekyll Island Mosaic Museum which celebrates the past and present of this multi-faceted Island.
Activity Level: Low | ADA Accessible:Yes
Explore Richland Rum Distillery, an artisan copper pot distillery, dedicated to crafting Richland Single Estate Old Georgia Rum. Gain firsthand knowledge of all aspects of the creating rum, including processing of unrefined pure cane syrup, fermentation, distillation, aging, and bottling. At the conclusion of your excursion, enjoy a tasting of four their award-winning rum named by Forbes as the best rum in America.
Activity Level: Low | ADA Accessible: No
A rice plantation from 1806 to 1915, Hofwyl-Broadfield features acres of moss laden live oak trees, remnants of rice levees and a dairy operation, and seven nineteenth century buildings. Explore the onsite museum detailing the history of the plantation and of rice growth on the South Atlantic Coast. Enjoy a guided exploration of the main house, filled with antiques original to the home and the family who once lived here, including 18th and 19th-century furniture and Cantonese china. View the buildings behind the house where workers lived and worked. The site also includes a nature trail that leads back to the Visitor Center along the edge of the marsh where rice once flourished.
Activity Level: Moderate | ADA Accessible: No
Spend a relaxing afternoon on the Lady Jane, a retired shrimping vessel that has been refurbished to carry guests and teach them about the shrimping industry. Help sort shrimp, blue crab, puffer fish, horseshoe crab, skate, amberjack, and others while the captain shares stories about a fisherman’s experiences on the water.
Activity Level: Low | ADA Accessible: No
Experience "old Florida" on this guided kayaking experience. Paddle Florida's black water known for its highly reflective properties that enhance the already natural beauty of the creek. Meander through this peaceful wooded environment and enjoy viewing various seasonal aquatic vegetation while keeping an eye out for birds and other native wildlife. As a keepsake of your time on the water, receive a complimentary digital memory photo album. This kayaking excursion is a great for all levels of kayakers.
Activity Level: Moderate | ADA Accessible: No
A visit to Amelia Island is incomplete without an exploration of its scenic waterways. Discover the backwaters of Amelia Island and Eagan Creek on this narrated cruise as you learn the history of Fernandina, America’s second oldest city. Highlights include Fort Clinch, the Amelia Island Lighthouse and, of course, viewing the island from this beautiful waterway.
Activity Level: Low | ADA ACCESSIBLE: Yes
Join a local guide for a leisurely walk through the lovely seaport of Fernandina Beach on Amelia Island. Your walk will begin at the City Marina and will continue to the center of town weaving through historic streets including both residential and business districts while viewing restored Victorian homes, inns, churches, and more. Stop at the Palace Saloon, home to a mahogany bar created by Adolphus Busch, founder of Anheuser-Busch, followed by an exploration of historic neighborhoods, stopping at the Phelon Verot House, St Michaels Church, Silk Row, and the First Presbyterian Church. View stunning Victorian and Queen-Anne architectural homes along this route. The exploration will end with a gathering next to the Historic Courthouse, where your guide will tell a remarkable tale of an influential islander from its past.
Activity Level: Moderate | ADA ACCESSIBLE: Yes
Visit Fort Clinch State Park, located on a peninsula near the northernmost point of Amelia Island at the entrance to the Cumberland Sound. Admire the scenic landscapes that surround you, including sand dunes, planes, maritime hammock and estuarine tidal march. Explore the 19th-century Fort Clinch, which served as the area base of Union operations throughout the Civil War.
Activity Level: Moderate | ADA ACCESSIBLE: Partial
This guided exploration will take you on a journey back in time as you travel through the historic downtown of Fernandina Beach, known as Old Town Fernandina. A waterfront neighborhood located on a bluff above the Amelia River, it has historic homes dating to the mid-1800s and is the only Spanish town in Florida with the original site plat remaining. Continue to the "Silk Stocking District," where many of Fernandina Beach's most prominent citizens of the 19th century built their homes, concluding your experience in the picturesque North End of the island.
Activity Level: Low | ADA Accessible:Yes
Why not spend an extra day in this tranquil setting, with miles of pristine quartz beaches and a picturesque historic downtown with plenty of options for shopping and dining? Ask your onboard Hotel Manager for recommendations on area hotels, attractions, and more.
Explore Magnolia Plantation and Gardens founded by Drayton family in 1676. It is the oldest public tourist site in the Lowcountry with the oldest public gardens in America having survived for centuries from the American Revolution through the Civil War and beyond. On this excursion, learn the history of this grand estate and view thousands of beautiful flowers and plants in an inviting tranquil landscape. While on site, you will enjoy the nature train, plantation home, and the gardens.
Activity Level: Low / ADA Accessible: Yes
Take a ferry ride over to historic Fort Sumter, where the Civil War began. Once aboard the ferry, experience a relaxing cruise to historic Fort Sumter. Upon arrival, enjoy a self-guided exploration. National Park Service Rangers will be available to answer any questions you may have about the history of Fort Sumter, its pivotal role in the Civil War, and the events which led to the outbreak of America’s bloodiest war. On the grounds, explore a very enlightening museum with many historic artifacts as well as a souvenir shop. After your visit, enjoy a scenic cruise back to your departure point
Activity Level: Low | ADA ACCESSIBLE: Partial
Explore downtown Charleston on your own. Take time for shopping and strolling along the cobblestone streets of this picturesque waterfront town.
Activity Level: Low | ADA ACCESSIBLE: Yes
Visit Charleston Tea Garden, the largest commercial tea garden. Hop on a trolley that will take you throughout the property to view the many acres of tea fields. Stop at the tea factory to learn about the tea production process and all the equipment that is used. The Bigelow family, William Barclay Hall, and the entire staff of the garden are ready to bring you this engaging experience on picturesque Wadmalaw Island. Visit the gift shop and enjoy a hot or iced tea at the “Tea Bar.”
Activity Level: Low | ADA Accessible: Partial
Featuring over 700 displays and two million lights, the Holiday Festival of Lights located on James Island is a cherished holiday tradition in Charleston that has been ranked on the AmericasBest.com Top 10 list. Enjoy a three-mile ride, where you can admire a wide array of dazzling designs for the holidays.
Only available on select dates.
Map & Itinerary Overview
On this Golden Isles River cruise through the Intracoastal Waterway, get into the holiday spirit as festive decorations adorn homes, storefronts, and boats. Enjoy the annual Charleston Festival of Lights, stroll through the cobblestone streets of historic Savannah, GA, and explore the seaport of Fernandina Beach on Amelia Island with its Victorian homes and inns decorated by local designers. Southern hospitality makes the holidays especially enchanting.
Day 1 - Amelia Island, FL
Enveloped in the charm of the Old South, Amelia Island boasts a storied past, marked by the banners of eight different nations since the 16th century. The island's historic district, Fernandina Beach, features a delightful array of Victorian-era architecture, where horse-drawn carriages roll down streets lined with quaint boutiques and inviting eateries. The sun-drenched shores and gentle waves of its pristine beaches offer a perfect setting for relaxation or gentle strolls. With palms wrapped in lights and a 40-foot colorfully decorated evergreen, Amelia Island’s “Dickens on Centre” event transforms the historic downtown into a Victorian-inspired holiday festival. Fort Clinch State Park, another highlight, invites exploration with its well-preserved 19th-century fort set against a backdrop of expansive coastal scenery. Engaging festivals throughout the year celebrate everything from local shrimp to classic cars, making each visit to this enchanting island a unique encounter with its rich culture and laid-back lifestyle.
Day 2 - Jekyll Island / St. Simons Island, GA
Jekyll Island holds a captivating history as a former exclusive haven for America's Gilded Age tycoons, with the grand cottages of “Millionaire’s Village” standing as stately reminders of opulent early 20th-century retreats. What better place for some holiday shopping? Make your loved ones—or yourself—feel like a famed millionaire with a gift from any of the festive shops in this port town. The island is covered in a canopy of live oaks and Spanish moss which resembles dripping icicles with bright white lights during this season, leading visitors along peaceful paths to pristine beaches and the historic ruins of Horton House, one of Georgia’s oldest tabby structures.
St. Simons Island is marked by its well-known lighthouse, which has been guiding ships since 1872 and offers expansive views from its towering watch over the village and Atlantic waters. Its maritime forest and calm marshes host a variety of wildlife, while the lively Pier Village features quaint shops and eateries that offer a taste of local culture and seaside enjoyment. Together, these islands offer a compelling blend of peaceful natural settings and engaging historical narratives, inviting visitors to experience the unique charm of Georgia’s coastal jewels.
Day 3 - Day of Cruising
As you travel, enjoy views of expansive blue waters meeting the sky at the horizon, complemented by the coastal landscapes where greenery meets sandy beaches and rocky shores. Navigate through changing sceneries, from lively harbor towns to serene stretches of natural beauty, offering a showcase of the region's diverse ecosystems. While onboard we’ll make sure the spirit of the holidays comes to life with seasonal feasts, activities, and serving plenty of cheer. This maritime highway is more than just a path; it's a gateway to a visual feast of water and land, providing a peaceful backdrop for a memorable journey.
Day 4 - Savannah, GA
Wrapped in Spanish moss and shrouded in mystery, Savannah invites wanderers to explore its historic streets and shadowy squares. The city's architectural beauty, from colonial to Victorian, often houses to spectral residents, with each stately home boasting its own ghostly tales. In typical southern fashion, Savannah lights up during the holidays with opulent decorations. Lampposts wrapped in evergreen garland, warm sparkling lights, and large round wreaths on every door are all completed with iconic red velvet bows. This city brings the holidays to life with none of the cold or slushy snow. The famed Bonaventure Cemetery, known for its ethereal charm, serves as both a scenic marvel and a site for spine-tingling stories popularized by "Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil." Ghost tours meander through the historic district as twilight deepens, offering chilling glimpses into the city's haunted past. Along the riverfront, a blend of historic ambiance and cultural flair draws visitors to its array of shops, galleries, and dining options, making your day full of possibilities.
Day 5 - Hilton Head Island, SC
Renowned for its natural beauty and expansive beaches along the Atlantic Ocean, Hilton Head is a captivating resort destination. The island harbors a rich history, highlighted by its Civil War era Fort Walker, a key site during the Union blockade of Southern ports. The Coastal Discovery Museum offers visitors a deep dive into the island's cultural and ecological heritage, including its significant Gullah cultural influences. A key attraction is the iconic lighthouse at Harbour Town, providing breathtaking panoramic views and standing as a beloved emblem of the island. Hilton Head welcomes you into a wonderland of lights with draping blue canopies and twinkling palm trees along its streets. Over on Dove Street, get into the holiday spirit with cheer at every turn during their yearly festival of lights on the island. With its world-class golf courses, extensive bike trails, and abundant watersports, Hilton Head remains a dynamic haven for outdoor enthusiasts throughout the year and holiday season.
Day 6 - Beaufort, SC
Beaufort comes alive with festive energy during the holiday season, beautifully located in the heart of the Sea Islands. The historic downtown is captivating, showcasing preserved architecture from a bygone era, under canopies of majestic oak trees adorned with Spanish moss. The streets transform into a holiday canvas with twinkling lights and seasonal décor filling the streets. Landmarks such as the Beaufort Arsenal Museum offer insights into the town's military past, while the John Mark Verdier House museum provides a glimpse into life in the 19th century. The Beaufort River enhances the cityscape, providing a scenic venue for holiday boat parades, where decorated vessels reflect their festive lights upon the water, adding to the town’s holiday allure.
Day 7 - Charleston, SC
Charleston, SC, exudes Southern elegance with its beautifully maintained historic architecture, from colonial homes to pastel-colored Georgian buildings along the iconic Battery. Its cobblestone streets and private gardens set the stage for a thriving culinary scene that highlights Lowcountry specialties like shrimp and grits. During the holiday season, Charleston dons a festive attire with the historic district decked in garlands, wreaths, and twinkling lights. The Festival of Lights at James Island County Park is a seasonal highlight, where over two million shimmering bulbs illuminate the landscape, attracting visitors from afar. The atmosphere is crisp with the scent of seasonal treats and sounds of holiday carolers, positioning Charleston as a top holiday destination.
Day 8 - Charleston, SC
Enjoy one final breakfast on board as you prepare to disembark in Charleston. We at American Cruise Lines are grateful that you chose to spend your holidays with us. Thank you for making us part of your festive season—we hope your journey has been as delightful as the destinations we've explored together.
