Great Rivers of Florida Cruise
Jacksonville, FL to Jacksonville, FL
Begin your round-trip journey in Jacksonville, where exploration awaits. Board your ship and set sail along the St. Johns River, Florida’s longest river, which has long served as a vital waterway for transportation, commerce, and recreation.
Voyage to Green Cove Springs, renowned for its mineral springs, historically dubbed the "original fountain of youth." Discover Jekyll Island and St. Simons Island along the Southeast Coast, once an exclusive retreat for America’s wealthiest families, before exploring St. Simons Island, home to landmarks like the St. Simons Lighthouse and centuries-old ruins.
Immerse yourself in the laid-back coastal vibe of Amelia Island, with a legacy of eight different flags having flown over its shores. Spend a day cruising the Tolomato River in Northeast Florida, and enjoy a serene journey through lush salt marshes and diverse wildlife habitats.
Explore the labyrinth of narrow alleys in historic St. Augustine, where history is tangible through cobblestone streets and timeless architecture. Return to Jacksonville, the largest city by area in the continental United States, offering a unique blend of urban life and natural beauty.
Upcoming Dates & Fares
Itinerary & Excursions
*Exact itinerary & excursions will vary by cruise date
Map & Itinerary Overview
This Florida 9-day Jacksonville, FL round-trip cruise features fascinating stops such as Green Cove Springs, St. Augustine, and Amelia Island.
Day 1 - Jacksonville, FL
Begin your journey with a seamless one-night stay in Jacksonville at a deluxe riverfront hotel, offering comfort, scenic views, and convenient access to the cruise dock. Take time to explore the city’s character-rich neighborhoods. Stroll through Riverside, one of Jacksonville’s most historic districts, known for its tree-lined streets and eclectic architecture, or visit San Marco, with its art galleries and European-style squares. Savor fresh seafood at one of the many acclaimed restaurants along the waterfront, where the St. Johns River in Jacksonville provides a picturesque backdrop.
Day 2 - Day of Cruising
Board the ship and raise a toast as we begin along the legendary St. Johns River in Florida, one of only a few rivers in the world that flows north. Settle into your spacious stateroom, where your luggage is waiting. Take a moment to explore the ship’s inviting amenities, meet fellow travelers, or simply relax on the sun deck as the Florida riverbanks drift by.
Day 3 - Green Cove Springs, FL
This riverfront town is known for its crystal-clear spring at Spring Park and Victorian-era architecture district shaded by oaks and Spanish moss. Once famed for healing waters, today it blends history, charm, and lively river activity.
On a morning walk, admire the picture-perfect Victorian architecture that lines the streets of its historic district, each building telling tales of a bygone era. In the afternoon, take an airboat ride along the tributaries of the St. Johns River in Clay County as you learn ecological facts about the area and local wildlife.
Later, visit a local coffee roasting house to get a behind-the-scenes look at the coffee roasting process, from beans to the perfect cup.
Day 4 - Jekyll Island / St. Simons Island, GA
Jekyll Island and St. Simons Island, Georgia, hum with lively energy, offering scenic beaches, charming shops, and fresh seafood.
Uncover the fascinating narrative of Jekyll Island, nestled among Georgia's Sea Isles, where history comes alive amidst the opulent grandeur of "Millionaire's Village." Spanning 240 acres, this enclave boasts extravagant homes and winter cottages, a testament to the lavish lifestyles of America's elite.
Spend a laid-back afternoon aboard the Lady Jane, a fully restored shrimping boat on a cruise through the scenic Marshes of Glynn, just south of St. Simons Sound. Keep an eye out for seagulls, pelicans, and maybe even dolphins while learning about the local ecosystem and the traditions of the working waterfront. Admire the St. Simons Lighthouse on Georgia’s coast, standing tall as a beacon of maritime history.
Tap into your creative side with an afternoon at Makers Arts Café and visit Hofwyl-Broadfield Estate to learn about the marshes where rice planting once flourished.
Day 5 - Amelia Island, FL
Once a haven for pirates, soldiers, and smugglers, Amelia Island has flown under eight different flags, earning it the nickname "The Isle of Eight Flags." Today, visitors can stroll through historic Fernandina Beach, where Victorian-era architecture, local boutiques, and inviting cafés reflect the island’s rich past and laid-back culture.
Join a guided kayaking adventure through calm blackwater creeks of “Old Florida,” keeping watch for native wildlife, including birds, turtles, and other local species.
Explore the 19th-century Fort Clinch, which served as the area base of Union operations throughout the Civil War. Walk through well-preserved brick barracks, watchtowers, and artillery positions, and get a glimpse of daily military life through interpretive displays and reenactments.
Day 6 - Cruising the Tolomato River
Cruise this pristine inland waterway framed by marshes, barrier islands, and glimpses of the Atlantic. Pass historic waterfronts of Northeast Florida and untouched natural landscapes perfect for birdwatching and photography. Engage with our onboard naturalist as you stand on one of the open observation decks, where graceful sea turtles and slow-moving manatees swim beneath you. Discover hidden villages lining the riverbanks, each with its own story waiting to be uncovered along the Tolomato River.
Day 7 - St. Augustine, FL
Historic St. Augustine is a seasoned storyteller along the Atlantic Coast. The city's skyline, adorned with Spanish moss-draped oaks, stands as a testament to its colonial roots, with the imposing silhouette of the Castillo de San Marcos fortress guarding the bay.
Led by a costumed guide, experience a time in St. Augustine when it was a resort for the rich and famous, and guests came for the season to the “Newport of the South.” Get a first-person account of how sleepy St. Augustine became a destination during the Gilded Age. Or explore the beautiful streets and countless attractions of St. Augustine on your own aboard the Old Town Trolley, making a variety of stops throughout the town.
Learn about the production process of making bourbon on a tour of the St. Augustine Distillery, a locally owned artisanal spirits distillery located in a restored 1917 ice plant. After, sample their premium bourbons under the guidance of a Certified Bourbon Steward.
Day 8 - Jacksonville, FL
Jacksonville is Florida’s largest city by area, offering a unique blend of urban energy and riverfront beauty.
Join your guide on an exploration of downtown Jacksonville, uncovering stories of Andrew Jackson, the Great Fire of 1901, and the city’s rebirth as a hub of architecture and commerce. Travel along the scenic St. Johns River to view landmarks like EverBank Stadium (home of the Jacksonville Jaguars) , the USS Orleck, and the iconic Florida Theatre, made famous by Elvis Presley. Conclude with a drive through the charming Riverside/Avondale historic district and a sweet stop at the original Peterbrooke Chocolatier for a taste of their signature chocolate-covered popcorn.
Day 9 - Jacksonville, FL
Reflect on the fantastic experiences and the bonds formed with new friends as you prepare for your travels home. For guests flying home, we offer transportation from the ship to Jacksonville International Airport, ensuring a relaxing end to your Great Rivers of Florida cruise.
Enjoy a 1-night hotel stay, breakfast, and transportation to the ship. All luggage will be brought directly from the hotel and placed in your stateroom aboard the ship.
As you board the ship, be welcomed by the crew who will ensure that every detail of your journey is seamless. Take the time to meet fellow travelers, share stories, and immerse yourself in the relaxed atmosphere of small-ship cruising.
From panoramic deck views to thoughtfully designed lounges, every corner of the ship offers a chance to relax, socialize, and prepare for the memorable adventures that await.
On this narrated walk, learn about the economy, agriculture, industry, and military of Green Cove Springs. This heritage river community is home of the first golf course and first resort hotel in Florida. Your local guide will lead you through Spring Park to view native and naturalized flora, cross the foot bridge, and stroll by “Spring Run” on your way to the city’s historic spring. Excursion highlights include the location of the notable “Water Cure” business - the famous Qui Si Sana (Here is Health) Hotel once owned by J.C. Penney. See the extraordinary Palace Opera House and Motion Picture Shows. Then return to the waterfront to stroll by some historic private homes.
Activity Level: Moderate | ADA Accessible: Yes
Green Cove Springs has had many identities through the years, including “White Sulfur Springs,” “the Saratoga of the South,” the world’s largest “Mothball Fleet,” and “Little Detroit.” During this interactive sightseeing drive, learn about the town’s famous residents, architecture, history, and local culture with photo stops along the way. Travel through the historic district, continuing to nearby military sites, and visiting the birthplace of Southern Rock. At the end, take a short walk across a footbridge to see the famous spring from which the town got its name.
Activity Level: Low | ADA Accessible: Partial
Experience a fully narrated ride aboard a 15-passenger high-performance airboat. Cruise through parts of Trout Creek, Six Mile Creek, and Palmo Cove which are tributaries of the historical St. Johns River. Along the way, view the flora and fauna of these freshwater creeks as you learn historical and ecological facts about the area and local wildlife.
Activity Level: Moderate | ADA Accessible: Yes
Get a behind the scenes look at the coffee roasting process, from beans to perfect cup. Learn about the art of coffee production, different roasting techniques, and how Spring Park Coffee sources and brews their beans to create unique and flavorful blends. After, enjoy a freshly brewed cup of coffee, complemented by locally baked goods. As a memento of this unforgettable journey, take home your very own bag of Brass Tacks Coffee to enjoy and savor at your leisure.
Activity Level: Low | ADA Accessible: Yes
The largest barrier island in the Golden Isles, St. Simons has a rich, 400-year history. Enjoy this excursion as your spirited guide tells the tales of the island’s history. Pass by the St. Simons Island Lighthouse, the Bloody Marsh site of the famous 1742 battle, and the beautiful Christ Church. The final stop will be at the St. Simons Island Lighthouse Museum. Explore the museum’s exhibits, climb the lighthouse for panoramic views, and learn about the island’s maritime heritage. From there you will have free time 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 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 Biron Teas, founded by Andi and Roland Biron, a husband-and-wife team who combine Andi’s education in Alternative Medicine with Roland’s culinary and luxury hotel experience to create beautifully balanced teas and tisanes.
Learn about the history and life cycle of tea from leaf to cup and view the machinery that takes the leaves and packages them into a biodegradable pyramid tea bag. Hear about their garden and the elements needed to make their tea taste unique. Then enjoy a sampling of 4 teas, complemented with a variety of local bakery pastries. Guests can also purchase teas to take home.
Activity Level: Low | ADA Accessible: Yes
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. 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
Wander the streets of historic Downtown Brunswick, Georgia, guided by an expert who shares stories and insights about one of the state’s oldest cities. Pass through the Old Town Brunswick Historic District and along streets named for English dukes and earls—Egmont, Norwich, and Dartmouth—honoring the founders of Georgia in 1732. Along the way, explore notable homes and landmarks that bring the town’s history to life, and discover how this coastal gem has grown since 1771 into a community rich with culture, charm, and unexpected surprises at every turn.
Activity Level: High | ADA Accessible: Yes
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 Beach, one of Florida’s oldest cities. Highlights include Fort Clinch, the Amelia Island Lighthouse and, of course, viewing the island from this beautiful waterway.
Activity Level: Low | ADA Accessible: Yes
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
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, plains, maritime hammocks, and estuarine tidal marsh. 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
Step back in time as you explore Amelia Island aboard a comfortable, heated, and climate-controlled van. Passionate and experienced local guides will greet you and take you on an unforgettable journey around the Historic Downtown District, the Old Town area of Fernandina, and the Golden Years Historic Homes featuring amazing Victorian architecture. Hear tales of old that will bring to life the true history of this unique island, the only place in America to have flown eight independent flags. Get to know when each of the eight flags dominated the island and hear about interesting characters who paved the way. Along your journey, enjoy complimentary beverages including soft drinks, chilled water, and a selection of wines and beer.
Activity Level: Low | ADA Accessible: No
Explore Amelia Island from the water aboard a Go-Cat Boat, guided by an expert who shares insights into the island’s history and natural beauty. Cruise through scenic backwaters, taking the wheel to drive your own boat or riding along as a passenger while watching for playful dolphins, graceful sea birds, and other local wildlife. Pause at Fort Clinch for photos and a glimpse into the fort’s storied past before returning to the historic waterfront of Fernandina Harbor, where the sights and scenery capture the distinctive charm of Amelia Island.
Activity Level: Moderate | ADA Accessible: No
Step back in time on a guided trolley tour through Old Town Fernandina, the historic heart of Fernandina Beach. Pass waterfront homes dating to the mid-1800s in Florida’s only Spanish town that retains its original site plat, and travel through the elegant Silk-Stocking District, where many of the island’s most prominent 19th-century residents built their stately homes. Conclude your journey in the scenic North End, with opportunities for photo stops along the way, while your guide shares stories of the town, architecture, and local culture that make Fernandina Beach a distinctive and memorable destination.
Activity Level: Low | ADA Accessible: Yes
Travel through Amelia Island with a knowledgeable local guide who brings the island’s rich history to life. Pass through downtown Fernandina, Old Town, and the Golden Years Historic Homes, where stunning Victorian architecture reflects the stories of the past. Along the way, hear how Amelia Island became the only place in the U.S. to have flown eight different flags and learn about the colorful figures who shaped its unique and enduring character.
Activity Level: Low | 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, Cooking Demonstrations, Mixology (practice of making great cocktails), Trivia, Game Shows, and more.
As a city with nearly 500 years of history, St. Augustine is no stranger to tragedy. Pirates, yellow fever, fires, foreign invasions, and unsolved murders are just a few pieces of the dark history St. Augustine has experienced. This narrated evening exploration will focus on the macabre side of the city. Learn about the trials and tribulations the citizens encountered and how they learned from them, moving toward the modern city we all know and love.
Activity Level: High | ADA Accessible: No
Join a local historian and storyteller for an entertaining walk along the narrow brick passageways of the Oldest City, along a path that few visitors get to see. Learn about the legends and secrets of St. Augustine. Of all the tales you hear, one will be a complete lie. Have fun mingling along the way to figure out which outlandish story is false. At the end of the exploration, whoever guesses which story is a lie wins a prize.
Activity Level: Moderate | ADA Accessible: Yes
Experience a time in St. Augustine when it was a resort for the rich and famous and guests came for the season to the “Newport of the South.” With Henry Flagler or one of the other Flagler contemporaries as your guide, visit the Venetian Renaissance gem of Flagler Memorial Church. During your walk, view a variety of historic gems including the old Ponce de Leon Hotel, Villa Zorayda, and the old Alcazar Hotel and courtyard. Get a first-person account of how sleepy St. Augustine became a destination during the Gilded Age.
Activity Level: Moderate | ADA Accessible: Yes
The St. Augustine Alligator Farm and Zoological Park is one of Florida’s oldest attractions. For over a century, millions of visitors have been lured by the presence of reptiles, long regarded as mysterious, dangerous, and frightening. The St. Augustine Alligator Farm has also inspired the popularization of the alligator which has become a symbol of the state. Observe many species of animals, including a wide variety of exotic reptiles, found nowhere else in Florida.
Activity Level: High | ADA Accessible: Yes
Join us for a tour and tasting at St. Augustine Distillery, a locally owned and operated artisanal spirits distillery located in a restored 1917 ice plant in historic St. Augustine. Learn about the history of bourbon, the story of the distillery’s founding, and the production process. After your tour, enjoy 4 tastings during which you can engage all of your senses while sampling their premium bourbons under the guidance of a Certified Bourbon Steward.
Activity Level: Low | ADA Accessible: Yes
Cruise through the beautiful streets of St. Augustine on the Old Town Trolley making a variety of stops throughout the town. Explore at your leisure and enjoy countless attractions throughout the day, including the St. Augustine History Museum, the Old Jail, Potter's Wax Museum, and San Sebastian Winery.
Activity Level: Low | ADA Accessible: Yes
Enjoy the history and culture of the largest city in the continental United States. Led by your engaging professional guide, travel downtown by motorcoach to hear the exploits of the city’s namesake, Andrew Jackson, and the famous architects who descended upon the city after the Great Fire of 1901. From the ashes, skyscrapers were built and a banking center emerged with secret underground tunnels. Your journey pauses outside the historic Florida Theatre made famous by Elvis Presley. The St. Johns River is the perfect backdrop as you travel along the north and south riverbanks, viewing the Jaguar Stadium, USS Orleck, St. John’s Cathedral, and Friendship Fountain. Stop at the Jacksonville Memorial Wall to pay tribute to our fallen veterans and hear stories of local military heroes. Next, drive to the nearby Riverside/Avondale area, considered to be one of America’s greatest neighborhoods. Admire the historic houses that make up the picturesque community along the river with their varied architectural styles. Continue to the original Peterbrooke Chocolatier to taste their famous signature chocolate-covered popcorn.
Activity Level: Low | ADA Accessible: Yes
Ride through Jacksonville’s historic districts aboard an electric bike. Led by your guide, travel through the architecturally diverse neighborhoods of Avondale and Riverside, widely regarded as some of the most distinctive in Florida. Pass notable art installations and landmarks while learning how Jacksonville’s past and artistic community have shaped its unique character. Along the route, enjoy a planned rest stop and take in the sights, stories, and local flavor that make this immersive journey both engaging and memorable.
Activity Level: Moderate | ADA Accessible: No
Visit the Cummer Museum of Art & Gardens for an enriching journey through art, history, and nature. Explore more than 5,000 works spanning the ancient world to contemporary masterpieces, including European Masterworks and American Art, at your own pace. Step outside into the gardens, listed on the National Register of Historic Places, and stroll through the formal Italian Garden, the Olmsted Garden, and past the iconic Cummer Oak. Along the way, enjoy scenic views of the St. Johns River and take a moment to soak in the beauty that makes the museum and gardens a cherished cultural destination.
Activity Level: Low-Moderate | ADA Accessible: Yes
Why not stay an extra night or two to immerse yourself in the spirit of this vibrant city? Ask your onboard Hotel General Manager for recommendations on area hotels, attractions, and more.