Cruise Description
7 Night Cruise sailing from Jacksonville to Charleston aboard Independence.
The Intracoastal Waterway is a protected network of bays, rivers, and canals which is home to the most beautiful historic cities in America, including Savannah, Charleston, Jekyll Island, and Beaufort. Your cruise will take you to the heart of each unique place. As you cruise between ports, expansive wildlife refuges and remote islands stretch out before you, offering an extraordinary view into the wilderness and wildlife of the South. This is a region of history, legend, grace, and beauty that will leave you inspired.
Note: Cruise operates in approximate reverse order to the itinerary outlined below.
Day 1 Charleston to Beaufort, SC
Docking along the banks of the tranquil Ashley River, you will have the opportunity to truly appreciate Southern antebellum culture. The scene of major Revolutionary War naval battles, legendary pirate tales, and Civil War sieges, Charleston is brimming with history. Visit historic Fort Sumter National Monument, experience the African-American influences of the area and stroll through magnificent parks, gardens and plantations. Warm Southern breezes, gas-lit lamps and cobblestone streets welcome you to the city that is best known as the site where the Civil War began.
Day 2 Beaufort, SC
Beaufort’s 500-year history includes Spanish and French explorers, Native American inhabitants, British settlements and significant Civil War battles. Today, horse-drawn carriages bring visitors through the narrow streets of this historic district past 18th and 19th century homes famous for unique Beaufort-style architecture. View tabby ruins, historic forts, elegant homes and majestic plantations and discover why Beaufort was once heralded as the “Newport of the South.”
Day 3 Hilton Head Island, SC
Hilton Head is a first class resort known for its championship golf courses and natural beauty. A boat tour of The Sea Pines Forest Preserve gives you a close-up view of Hilton Head’s indigenous plant and animal life, including the native, American Alligator.
Day 4 Savannah, GA
With historic city squares, beautiful flowering parks and classic Southern grace, Savannah has earned its nickname as “Hostess City of the South”. Recognized as the country’s first planned city, Savannah is still a bustling seaport with renowned historic districts that preserve its phenomenal 19th century wealth and opulence. Join a narrated tour of Savannah’s “Historic and Victorian Districts,” brave an evening Ghost Walk, or explore the area’s magnificent exotic shops. Discover why Savannah’s proud history, unbounded natural beauty and festive energy always make this stop a passenger favorite.
Day 5 Sapelo Island, GA
Experience the forested uplands, salt marshes, and beach dune systems as you spend the day in Sapelo Island. Take a narrated island tour to visit the top attractions of Sapelo’s Hog Hammock Community, the local lighthouse, and the mansion of the last millionaire to own the island of R.J. Reynolds.
Day 6 St. Simons Island / Jekyll Island, GA
Discover the fascinating history of Jekyll Island and St. Simons Island. Today Jekyll Island is part of Georgia’s Sea Isles and boasts “Millionaire’s Village” – 240 acres of extravagant homes and winter cottages recognized as a National Historic Landmark. St. Simons Island offers passengers an enthralling past of momentous 18th century battles and sprawling, antebellum plantations.
Day 7 Cruising to Amelia Island, FL
Discover the unspoiled beauty of Amelia Island, with its miles of quartz beaches and rolling sand dunes, surrounded by calm waterways and the Nassau Sound. Fernandina Beach, the island’s only city, now harbors a treasure trove of history, antiques, and collectibles just steps from your ship. Join a walking tour of Centre Street’s Historic District, with 50 blocks of restored 19th century Victorian homes and shops. You may also take a leisurely stroll along the shady tree-lined avenues and explore Amelia Island’s charm at your own pace.
Day 8 Jacksonville, FL Area (Amelia Island)
Take in the beautiful weather of northern Florida as you disembark from your tour of the South. Jacksonville offers a number of wonderful activities, including a tour of Cummer Art Museum, which houses an exclusive collection of art, including rare porcelain.
Cruise Itinerary
| Date | Activity | Arrive | Depart |
|---|---|---|---|
| 14/03 | Jacksonville, Florida | ||
| 15/03 | Amelia Island, Florida | ||
| 16/03 | Jekyll Island, Georgia, USA | ||
| 16/03 | St Simons Island, Georgia, USA | ||
| 17/03 | Sapelo Island, Georgia, USA | ||
| 18/03 | Savannah, Georgia, USA | ||
| 19/03 | Hilton Head, South Carolina, USA | ||
| 20/03 | Beaufort, North Carolina, USA | ||
| 21/03 | Charleston, South Carolina, USA |
Itinerary may vary by sailing date and itineraries may be changed at the cruise lines discretion. Please check itinerary details at time of booking and before booking other travel services such as airline tickets.