Roundtrip Jacksonville

Enjoy your complimentary stay at the pre-cruise hotel. The evening is yours to become acquainted with the city. For your convenience, our Hospitality Desk will be located in the hotel, and our friendly staff can assist with everything from general questions about your upcoming voyage to reserving premium experiences. Representatives from American Queen Voyages and our local port/city partner will be available to provide you with dining, entertainment and sightseeing options to maximize your time here. 

Native Americans saw the desirability of northeast Florida and Greater Jacksonville was their first year-round settlement area in North America. During the 18th and 19th centuries the region thrived as a hotbed for agriculture. Today, Jacksonville continues to flourish as a business center, though it isn't your typical Florida vacation destination. It’s not right on the beach like Miami and Fort Lauderdale, it’s not a family mecca with theme parks like Orlando and it’s not small and quaint like Key West. As a result, it doesn’t draw the crowds of the other tourism hot spots in Florida. Most travelers use this city primarily as a jumping-off point for the nearby beach communities of Amelia Island and Ponte Vedra Beach. Whether Jacksonville guests make a beeline for the neighboring white-sand beaches on the coast or choose to hike through neighborhood parks and breathe in local culture at a variety of bustling downtown attractions, Jacksonville piques curiosity, captures attention and demands exploration. This young and quirky city showcases its beauty in diversity. Contemporary urban areas and the undeveloped natural world accompany one another in creating an adventure-friendly vibe. Historic sites like the Kingsley Plantation, the Cummer Museum of Art and Gardens, and the Museum of Contemporary Art will appeal to the cultured and curious. And all visitors are sure to appreciate downtown’s Tudor mansions and new brand of Southern hospitality. Optional tours visit the Jacksonville Zoo, Basilica of Immaculate Conception, Historic San Marco Square and Veteran’s Memorial Wall, which honors local military heroes
 

Savannah, a Georgia port, is separated from South Carolina by the Savannah River. It’s known for horse-drawn carriages, cobblestone squares, lighthouses and manicured parks, such as Forsyth Park shaded by live oak trees covered with a veil of Spanish moss. A stroll through its historic district provides the proper backdrop for a renaissance of emotion. At the center of this impressive neighborhood is the landmark, Cathedral of Saint John the Baptist. The collaborative efforts of its architectural artisans have inspired a Southern-gothic aesthetic different from that of any other place. Savannah is well-known known throughout the country for its beautiful coastal landscapes, its well-preserved buildings and its rich, vibrant history. In this pedestrian-friendly city, art and trendy boutiques, enchanting ghost stories, the freshest catch from the coast, cocktails served at every meal, and mustard-based barbeque, all come together in a welcoming embrace. Savannah has a world-class reputation for hospitality, grace and charm and is consistently named one of the “world’s friendliest cities” by readers of Condé Nast Traveler magazine. Stand on just about any street corner and feel the rich personality of Savannah. This isn’t a city to rest on past accolades, though, as seen in the evolving Starland and Moon River districts, where collaborative people entice visitors to stay and savor Savannah just a little bit longer. No visit is complete without taking in the bounty of the centuries-old City Market and explore history at Davenport House and other intriguing highlights on an included narrated tour through the cobblestone streets.
 
Included Shore Excursions:
Savannah Hop On-Hop Off Tour
Riverside Park  Enjoy a day in the Tennessee sunshine in this 44 acre park overlooking the Tennessee River. Relax in front of the water at any of the pavilions or benches or take a brisk walk on the paved walking trails wrapping around the banks of the river.    
Tennessee River Museum  This museum, founded in 1992, is located in an old post office building in downtown Savannah that was constructed in 1939. The building is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Inside, exhibits and collections are dedicated to preserving the history of the Tennessee River Valley so that future generations have an accurate depiction of their heritage and history. 

Included Historic District Shuttle
Savannah Historic District Driving Tour:  Enjoy a relaxing ride through the streets of this National Historic Landmark. As we observe the many sights of the district, our knowledgeable local guide will present the historical context, insights, and stories behind the famous structures and areas including the Davenport House, one of the oldest brick structures in Savannah, and Chippewa Square from the award-winning motion picture “Forest Gump.” Throughout our driving tour, we will stop at two of Savannah’s historical destinations.
Savannah History Museum:  Walk through the history of Savannah, from its 1733 founding to today. Learn about Georgia’s military history as you see the state’s role in the American Revolution and Civil War. Continue through the timeline to experience exhibits featuring cultural artifacts such as the Forrest Gump Bench (taken from Chippewa Square) and the family carriage of the Girl Scouts’ founder, Juliette Gordon Lowe.
Forsyth Park:  Take a stroll in the pristine Forsyth Park, a 30-acre public landscape created in 1851, named for the governor of Georgia, John Forsyth. The park is home to a Civil War memorial, and a stunning fountain that pays homage to the design of the fountains in Place de la Concorde in Cuzco, Peru.

This South Carolina port is the quintessential Southern city, ripe with charm and hospitality. Charleston is a veritable living museum, its cobblestone streets overflowing with history. From horse-drawn carriages to the expertly preserved, candy-colored houses on waterfront Rainbow Row, traces of the past can be found everywhere. However, Charleston is also a bustling epicenter of culture, invigorating outdoor activity and fine dining that welcomes millions of visitors annually. In the spring of 1670, more than 150 English colonists and their entourage disembarked at Charleston harbor. The first name, Charles Town, was given to honor King Charles II. The settlement was in an excellent strategic location, so it had more than 1,000 residents in just 10 years. And in 1680s America, that was a lot, so the city port became popular, and the primary hub of commerce in the southern American colonies. Since it was so popular and developed, the city was attractive to pirates. And in 1718, the notorious Blackbeard blockaded the place. Fortunately, his wishes were fulfilled, and the city was free. As you can see, throughout the 20th century, lots of organizations started buying old and famous houses around the city and turning them into museums. And with so many historical sites, you can turn the whole place into a museum. It’s good that residents didn't want to lose the past as they managed to maintain much of the city’s authenticity. And in many ways, Charleston is the same as it was back then; not many 300-year-old cities can make the same claim. 

In the anchor town serving the barrier Golden Isles, wander downtown Brunswick’s streets, lined with swaying palms side by side with mossy oaks. Watch shrimp boats unload their fresh fare at the docks and perhaps sample their catches in a rustic seafood shack. Markers throughout town tell the history of this seaport George Washington proclaimed as one of the five original ports of entry for the colonies in 1789. However, American Queen Voyages guests may well wish to visit one of Georgia’s storied barrier islands – including St. Simons and Jekyll Island – just off the Brunswick coastline. According to the poet Sidney Lanier, across the Marshes of Glynn, “heavenly woods and glades” grace unspoiled, unhurried St. Simons Island. The little island is known for its salt marshes and sandy stretches of beach, home to birds like spoonbills and gannets. It is also home to the World War II Home Front Museum, where visitors gain a glimpse into life during that time as it was lived among three critical military facilities. The museum is housed in the historic St. Simons Coast Guard Station, built in 1936. Located just across the water from St. Simons Island, Jekyll Island was once home to some of America’s most wealthy and prominent citizens, including the Crane family, the Pulitzers, Morgans, Vanderbilts, Rockefellers, and Goodyear clan to name but a few. These privileged families used Jekyll Island as a hunting and golf retreat, spending lazy summers here and building historic homes that have been lovingly restored to their former glory.

Included Shore Excursions:
Brunswick Included Hop-on Hop-off Tour
St. Simons Island Lighthouse & Museum A.W. Jones Heritage Center:  This 104-foot structure was constructed in 1872 to replace the original lighthouse that was destroyed during the Civil War by the Confederate Army. Today, the St. Simons Island Lighthouse guides ships into the St. Simons sound. Climb the tower’s 129 steps to the top for a breathtaking panoramic view of the coast and surrounding islands.
WWII Home Front Museum:  Located in the historic Coast Guard Station, the WWII Home Front Museum tells the story of this coastal community during World War II. After two American ships were submerged by a German U-boat, civil defense actions were taken by many Americans, such as blackouts, rationing, and the purchasing of war bonds. Discover the American experience during wartime through the museum’s interactive galleries and exhibits.
St. Simons “Pier Village” Shopping on Mallery Street:  Stop by the unique shops and boutiques of St. Simons Island, where you will find one-of-a-kind treasures to remember your visit by. "

This Victorian-style seaport is the stomping ground of adventuresome legends. It tells tales of bootleggers and pirates, shrimpers and seamen. Downtown is an enchanting village that flaunts its historic district in rich, lovingly preserved architecture. This neighborhood boasts seafaring characters of all walks who continuously compose sagas of the sea. Eclectic shops, enchanting eateries and a welcoming atmosphere ensure that adventure here is unending.

Included Shore Excursions:
Fernandina Beach Included Hop-on Hop-off Tour
Amelia Island Museum of History:  Uncover the history of Amelia Island and Nassau County through this museum’s array of informative exhibits. Learn about each of the diverse communities that have resided on the island, such as the Timucua Native American tribe, colonial explorers, and pirates.
Amelia Island Museum of History:   Uncover the history of Amelia Island and Nassau County through this museum’s array of informative exhibits. Learn about each of the diverse communities that have resided on the island, such as the Timucua Native American tribe, colonial explorers, and pirates.
The Maritime Museum of Amelia Island:  Dive in to the maritime history of the region as you explore comprehensive exhibits on shipwrecks, pirates, and treasures. Examine the museum’s many artifacts and historical memorabilia collection, spanning through multiple time periods.
Marlin & Barrel Distillery:  Tour the facility and get a behind the scenes look at the distilling process of handcrafted spirits: Venture Vodka and Bearing Light Rum.
St. Peters Episcopal Church:  St. Peter’s Episcopal Church was constructed in Fernandina Beach from 1881-1884. Step through the ornate entrance and revel in this elaborate example of the Gothic Revival architectural style.
Palace Saloon & Coca-Cola Sign:  Visit the Palace Saloon, a pre-prohibition bar that has been dubbed “Florida’s Oldest.” According to legend, this saloon was serving up drinks to local patrons until midnight on the eve of the 18th Amendment. Palace Saloon was also the first liquor bar to offer Coca-Cola and features a vintage painted “Drink Coca-Cola” advertisement on its exterior.
Amelia Island Welcome Center & Shrimp Museum:  Explore this maritime museum on the harbor front, dedicated to the story of shrimping in Amelia Island. Learn about the traditions carried out through generations that have christened Amelia Island as the “Birthplace of the Modern Shrimping Industry.”
Downtown Shopping:  Take a stroll through the historic downtown to find a treasure of your own. Browse through the collection of independent shops that line the streets downtown for apparel, collectables, or the perfect souvenir.

 

Port Canaveral is 59 miles from Orlando; the estimated travel time is one hour. Orlando is home to more than a dozen theme parks. Chief among them is Walt Disney World, comprised of the Magic Kingdom, Epcot, and water parks. Another major destination, Universal Orlando, offers Universal Studios, Islands of Adventure, and the Wizarding World of Harry Potter. If you have decided to stay local, welcome to Florida’s space coast, home to the Kennedy Space Center, sugary beaches, and plenty of outdoor adventures. If you are visiting from up north or the Midwest and fun in the sun is paramount, use this port to get some need Vitamin C. You have two close-by beaches to experience: Jetty Park offers lots of amenities and a vibrant scene, whereas Cheri Down Park has more of a low-key vibe. Other outdoor pursuits include discovering the nature paths and wildlife that make this area home. Depending on how much time you have, anglers may be able to participate in a fishing charter. The rich waterways are home to some world-class inshore fishing for popular sport fish like redfish, snook, speckled sea trout, and tarpon. Exploration Tower is seven stories of fun and education but if you have never been before, your time is better spent at the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex. It’s not too far and prepare to be impressed. If you prefer to stay nearer the port (10 minutes), grab a bite or a cold drink at the Cocoa Beach Pier, extending 800-feet over the Atlantic.

Included Shore Excursions:
Port Canaveral Included Tour
Valiant Air Command Warbird Museum:  Explore this expansive museum and hangar dedicated to the preservation and restoration of combat aircraft. The Valiant Air Command and Warbird Museum features a collection of nearly 50 aircrafts spanning from World War I to present day, many of which still make routine flights! Inside the museum you will also find the Memorabilia Hall, which displays flight artifacts including flight gear, uniforms, weapons, and more.
American Police Hall of Fame:  Visit the nation’s first national police museum and memorial at the American Police Hall of Fame & Museum. Established in 1960, the museum features nearly 11,000 artifacts and exhibits dedicated to informing the public of law enforcement history and practices. The memorial lists over 9,000 officers who lost their lives in the line of duty, and honors all law enforcement officers who made the sacrifice to protect and serve their communities.
 

n 1955, the second most populated city of The Bahamas was little more than a pine forest. There were no beach resorts, no casinos or yachts in the harbor. Grand Bahama was one of least developed islands of The Bahamas, a place where a few hundred people made their living off the sea. No one could have imagined the island would become a Caribbean playground, save for Wallace Groves, an American financier from Virginia who owned a lumber company on the island. Groves saw the possibilities of the island as a tourist destination. Less than a hundred miles away was the United States and American vacationers were already streaming into Cuba by the tens of thousands. Consequently, in 1955, Groves approached the Bahamian government with his idea to build a town that catered to both industry and tourists. Shortly after, Freeport was born. Over 30 years later, the result is a community completely tailored to the getaway tourist, a paradise offering almost every kind of vacation activity imaginable. The Bahamas has long been one of the most eco-friendly destinations in the world. Rainbow-laden waterfalls and underwater caves beg visitors to embrace a childlike wonder of the world. Wander through beaches dewed with tidal pools and sand ripples as polychromatic fowl fly overhead. Dive into cool water to explore the mind-blowing communities of coral reefs under the surface. The Port Lucaya Marina is home to the Underwater Explorers Society, which offers a wide variety of diving, dolphin experiences, shopping, and much more. 

Included Shore Excursions:
Freeport Highlights Tour Including Port Lucaya Marketplace
Embark on a journey through Freeport as you make your way to one of the island’s most iconic attractions – Port Lucaya Marketplace. During your tour, enjoy thoughtful narration from your local guide. Witness the vibrant sites of the city such as millionaire’s row, where the island’s most luxurious and extravagant homes are located. While you travel throughout Freeport, you will discover the foundations behind the cultural traditions that are found at Port Lucaya. Port Lucaya is the premier shopping destination for visitors to Grand Bahama Island. Spanning across nine-and-a-half acres, the marketplace features over 40 specialty boutiques, 120 handicraft vendors specializing in bags, hats, and baskets, in addition to 11 restaurants. Sip on a famous fruit daiquiri, shop for the perfect souvenir, enjoy local entertainment and dance along to Bahamian music as you explore this must-see stop in Freeport. 

Ah, another day on the Ocean – a day to rise with the sun and meet with friends in the restaurant of your choosing over breakfast...or sleep in and order room service. Gather in the Compass Lounge for snacks and games...or take in the view from deck with your favorite cocktail in hand. This day is yours to craft as you desire.

As your American Queen Voyages journey concludes, there are other opportunities for you to take in the town -- whether it's an optional premier post-cruise experience or a quick transfer to the airport for your final trip home