American Cruise Lines offers over 400 meticulously planned cruise shore excursions, supported by personal guides who are well-versed in each region. At each port, there are typically two to four excursion options to choose from, allowing you to make every stop an unforgettable experience. Excursions are designed to highlight the unique culture, history, and natural beauty of each destination. Whether you're exploring Alaska's glaciers, savoring Southern flavors, or discovering New England’s quaint towns, the right excursion can transform your journey.
But how do you choose the best ones? Here’s your guide to picking excursions that perfectly complement your cruise experience.
Consider Your Activity Level
Before booking an excursion, assess how much activity you’re comfortable with. Are you up for a guided hike through Anacortes, WA, or would you prefer a leisurely walking tour of a charming coastal town? American Cruise Lines offers excursions for all levels of activity, ensuring there’s something for everyone. Guided, small-group excursions range from visits to museums, historic landmarks, and culturally enriching sites to more active adventures such as hiking, kayaking, and bicycling. Each excursion is led by a local guide and accompanied by an American Cruise Lines team member who is always available to assist.
Look at the Length of the Excursion
Excursion lengths can vary, from a quick stop at a local landmark to a half-day exploration. Knowing the duration is essential to planning your day and ensuring you're back on board in time to relax or catch your next activity. You can always explore a port on your own, sightseeing at your own pace for as long or as short a time as you need.
What is Your Budget?
Exploring every port is what your journey is all about. We understand you want to connect with the culture at each stop, which is why we offer three tiers of excursions: Featured, Premium, and Signature.
Featured excursions are always included in your fare, making it easy to visit Multnomah Falls when cruising the Columbia and Snake Rivers. Premium excursions typically cost between $20 and $50. For example, you might take a trip to a botanical rainforest in Wrangell, AK, or enjoy a dolphin exploration expedition in Marco Island, FL.
Signature excursions start at $120 and promise something truly special. Imagine the ultimate Elvis experience in Memphis, TN, with a comprehensive tour of Graceland, or exploring some of the nation’s most iconic lighthouses on a cruise through Casco Bay in Portland, ME.
With so many options to choose from, you can customize your cruise to ensure you don’t miss out on anything during your voyage.
Reserve Excursions Early
Popular excursions fill up quickly. Reserving early ensures you won’t miss out on that once-in-a-lifetime experience. Excursions with limited seating, like jetboat adventures or seaplane explorations, may sell out first. Call a Cruise Specialist or your Travel Advisor to book these at least 60 days before you sail. If you miss the chance sign-up in advance, your Cruise Director can assist you in signing up for available excursions while you're on board.
Read All Excursion Information Carefully
Details matter. Review the full itinerary, inclusions, and expectations for your chosen excursion. Knowing what’s included—transportation, meals, or guides—helps you prepare and avoid surprises. Some excursions may involve walking long distances or last longer than anticipated. Reading all the details ensures you’ll be prepared and able to enjoy the experience fully.
Diversify Your Excursions
With so much to do and see in each port, diversifying your excursions makes for a well-rounded trip. Try a museum visit in one port, a scenic boat ride in another, and perhaps a culinary tour to round it out. Variety keeps your cruise experience dynamic and engaging.
Consider What You Want to Experience from an Excursion
What do you hope to gain from your excursions? Are you craving relaxation, cultural enrichment, or an opportunity to feed your adventurous side? Tailoring your selections to align with your interests ensures a fulfilling experience. For example, on your Florida Gulf Coast & Keys cruise, you might visit the Everglades in Marco Island, take a seaplane adventure to Dry Tortugas National Park in Key West, stroll through the Peace River Botanical & Sculpture Garden in Punta Gorda, and then wind down with a trolley ride along the St. Pete Pier in St. Petersburg.
The choice is yours. You can design the perfect cruise experience for you with our wide variety of excursions.
Remember to Schedule Free Time
As exciting as excursions can be, don’t forget to leave room for downtime. Strolling the ship, enjoying a quiet afternoon, or simply soaking in the views is part of what makes cruising special. Our onboard team is always eager to make your time enjoyable and enriching. Join us for lectures, activities, or just good old-fashioned relaxation on board.
Excursions That Match Your Cruise
From historical walking tours to wildlife spotting and culinary tastings, American Cruise Lines offers excursions tailored to every region we sail. Explore the possibilities and start planning your dream trip today.
Picking the right excursions enhances your cruise experience and creates lasting memories. With these tips, you’ll be set to make the most of your journey.
