East Coast Inland Passage Cruise

Baltimore is alive with energy, infused with colonial history. Explore its historical narrative aboard celebrated ships and stroll through the cobbled streets of the Inner Harbor. Visit the Baltimore Basilica with its stunning architecture and the iconic National Aquarium, showcasing a dazzling array of sea life. As you wander, don't miss the chance to sample Baltimore’s renowned crab cakes or explore the culinary delights in the bustling markets. This city offers a mix of historical exploration and delicious dining at every corner.

Welcome Aboard
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.

Stroll along the waterfront of St. Michaels or explore the quaint gift shops and boutiques on the tree-lined Talbot Street. Known as the "Heart of the Chesapeake," St. Michaels has a long history as a vibrant shipbuilding and seafood hub. As you arrive at the Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum, once a prominent shipbuilding village, you get a glimpse into the daily life of the 1800s. This area allows you to experience the maritime traditions of the past through restored ships and historic buildings. Also notable is the 1879 Hooper Strait Lighthouse, a significant historical landmark, offering educational exhibits and sweeping views that deepen your connection to this historical town.

Here, the impressive Nauticus stands as a beacon of naval history, showcasing the formidable Battleship Wisconsin, a symbol of American strength on the waters. Wander the cobblestone paths of the historic Freemason District, where well-preserved homes reflect the early days of America's founders. The Chrysler Museum of Art, a centerpiece of Norfolk's cultural scene, dazzles with its extensive glass collection, shedding light on the artistic endeavors that shape the city. As night descends, the waterfront comes alive, celebrating Norfolk's enduring spirit and its pivotal role in American history.

Nauticus and the USS Wisconsin - Complimentary Excursion
Nauticus is a maritime discovery center located along the waterfront in downtown Norfolk. Explore the onsite Battleship Wisconsin, which earned five battle stars during WWII and is one of the largest and last battleships ever built by the U.S. Navy. Discover the Hampton Roads Naval Museum, located on level II of Nauticus, and admire its rich collection of authentic uniforms, weaponry, underwater artifacts, detailed ship models and artwork. 

Activity Level: Moderate | ADA ACCESSIBLE: Yes

Kitty Hawk, NC, resonates with tales of daring innovation, where the winds have long been friends to dreamers of flight. This is where the Wright Brothers transformed their ambitious goals into tangible achievements, marking this area as a significant site in aviation history. As you walk, the expansive sands and resilient dunes at Kitty Hawk seem to retain the spirit of that significant first flight that forever changed the skies. The Wright Brothers National Memorial serves as a tribute to this monumental feat, inviting visitors to connect with the surge of those groundbreaking moments. As the evening settles, the skies above Kitty Hawk light up with golden and amber hues, paying daily tribute to the pioneers of flight against the stunning backdrop of the Atlantic.

Beaufort and Morehead City, NC, each display unique characteristics that contribute to the vibrant landscape of the Crystal Coast. In Beaufort, the town's deep maritime history is palpable among the weathered docks and colonial-era homes where stories of pirate encounters and sea traders thrive. Here, the North Carolina Maritime Museum stands out, showcasing artifacts like the Queen Anne's Revenge, Blackbeard's notorious flagship, and detailing the daily life of colonial seafarers.

Meanwhile, Morehead City offers a contrast as a lively marina, where fishing boats haul in their daily catch and seafood markets buzz with activity. The town is particularly noted for its annual Big Rock Blue Marlin Tournament, which attracts anglers from across the globe. As the sun sets, both towns light up their waterfronts, providing a picturesque setting for dining by the water or enjoying the cool sea breeze on a peaceful evening walk along the docks.

This port city seamlessly blends historical elegance with contemporary life along the Cape Fear River. The city's historic district showcases beautifully maintained homes and brick-lined streets that tell stories of a distinguished past. The bustling Riverwalk, lined with shops and cafés, serves as the city's center, offering stunning river views and a welcoming atmosphere.

Culturally rich, Wilmington is well-known for its arts scene, featuring performances at Thalian Hall, one of America's oldest continually operating theaters. Adjacent to the cityscape, the Battleship North Carolina stands as a formidable monument to WWII, inviting exploration and historical reflection. This port is perfect for leisure and learning in one setting.

After so much exploration, take it easy on the East Coast Inland Passage. This iconic waterway serves as a crucial watery roadway for cruisers heading both north and south along the East Coast. Experience the gentle sway of the sea and the unfolding beauty along this renowned path, where each mile brings a fresh perspective and a new appreciation for America's coastal landscapes.

A Day of Cruising
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.

This city, where history is vividly displayed on every colorful facade and intricate iron gate, winding between cobblestone streets and the gentle sway of palmetto trees. The air, filled with salt of the harbor and the sweet scent of jasmine, guides you through a town marked by its refined allure and historical depth. At the city's edge, the Battery promenade offers sweeping views of Fort Sumter, a silent guardian at the harbor's entrance. 

In the French Quarter, the spires of St. Philip's Church stand tall against the skyline, surrounded by art galleries and stately homes that line the aged streets. As you wander beneath grand oaks draped in Spanish moss, Charleston unfolds its soul, a blend of culture, history, and Southern hospitality that invites you to experience its calm beauty and timeless style.

Charleston Shop N' Stroll Shuttle - Complimentary Excursion
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

Beaufort's narrative is etched with tales of European explorers, Native American tribes, British settlements, and Civil War skirmishes. Today, horse-drawn carriages meander through the district's narrow streets, passing homes that date back to the 18th and 19th centuries, each displaying the distinctive Beaufort-style architecture—a showcase of historical resilience and elegance. These stately structures bear witness to a rich past, while historic forts and regal homes spread beneath ancient oaks, recounting the days when Beaufort was known as the "Newport of the South," a beacon of aristocracy and charm. Exploring Beaufort allows you to walk through history, where every corner and shadowed porch offers a story, capturing the enduring spirit and historical significance of the South.

Cypress Wetlands – Complimentary Excursion
Board your motorcoach with a knowledgeable guide who will provide local history as you make your way to Port Royal Cypress Wetlands. Upon arrival, explore the natural wonders of this diverse ecosystem. Discover the unique sights and sounds of this tranquil sanctuary and learn about the wetland's importance for local wildlife and its role in preserving the region's biodiversity. Stroll along the wooden boardwalk, surrounded by towering cypress trees and thriving marsh vegetation. Spot a variety of bird species, from elegant egrets to colorful songbirds, and keep an eye out for sunbathing alligators. 

Activity Level: Low | Accessible: Partial

Hilton Head stands as a premier resort destination, celebrated for its championship golf courses that sprawl across the landscape and miles of pristine beaches that edge the Atlantic. Embarking on a boat tour through The Sea Pines Forest Preserve offers an intimate glimpse of Hilton Head’s natural splendor, revealing the diversity of indigenous plant and animal life. Here, you might catch sight of the formidable American Alligator sunning itself along the banks. This island not only captivates with its leisure and luxury but also with its fascinating natural ecosystems, providing a perfect blend of relaxation and natural wonder.

Harbor Town – Complimentary Excursion
Step ashore via tender to explore Harbor Town, nestled along the waterfront and framed by picturesque yachts and moss-draped oaks. Enjoy a perfect blend of scenic charm, boutique shopping, and inviting places to soak in the coastal ambiance. At your own pace, stroll the quaint streets lined with locally owned shops featuring resort wear, handcrafted jewelry, nautical treasures, and unique gifts. Stop for an old-fashioned ice cream cone and enjoy it in one of the many shaded seating areas along the marina. For those with a love of history and a bit of adventure, visit the Harbor Town Lighthouse Museum and climb the 114 steps to the top for panoramic views of the harbor and beyond. Please remember to wear your cruise lanyard for complimentary entry into the museum.

Activity Level: Low, High (if exploring the lighthouse) | ADA Accessible: Partial   

Coastal Discovery Museum – Complimentary Excursion
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

Savannah mesmerizes visitors with its thick canopy of live oaks, cobblestone streets, and regal architectural landmarks, standing proudly as a busy seaport. The city is famed for its historic districts like the Victorian District, where the ornate details of 19th-century homes tell tales of old-world splendor. Listen in on the local lore with a narrated guided excursion that highlights significant sites and stories or brave a Ghost Walk after sunset to explore Savannah's spookier legends. The shopping scene is one to beat, with boutiques in the Historic District offering everything from handcrafted jewelry to vintage antiques. Each experience in Savannah is a step through a living museum, where the sights and sounds of the past meet the dynamic present under the expansive Southern sky.

Civil War Walking Exploration – Complimentary Excursion
Join your onboard historian for a captivating walk through the streets of historic Savannah, a city deeply intertwined with the legacy of the Civil War. This thoughtfully guided exploration begins in one of Savannah’s iconic squares, once the site of impassioned rallies for secession and the growing tensions that led to war.

Learn about the strategic importance of Forts Pulaski and McAllister, key coastal strongholds that played pivotal roles in the Union’s blockade strategy and General Sherman’s famous March to the Sea. Trace the footsteps of Confederate leaders to understand how Savannah’s role shifted from hub of resistance to a key objective in the Union’s Southern campaign. Discover the locations of once-bustling military headquarters, hospitals, and hidden spots tied to both the Confederacy and the eventual occupation by Union forces. Brandon will also explore the post-war period, painting a picture of reconciliation and reflection as figures like Jefferson Davis, Alexander Stephens, and Robert E. Lee returned to Savannah in the years following the war.  

Accessible: Partial | Activity Level: High

National Museum of the Mighty Eighth Air Force - Complimentary Excursion
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

The Webb Military Museum - Complimentary Excursion
Located in Historic Downtown Savannah, Webb Military Museum features military artifacts from the American Civil War to Desert Storm and honors the servicemen from all wars and branches. Original uniforms, headgear, and equipment are displayed in a walk-through setting. Many of the displays contain named groupings of servicemen, highlighting their stories of service. A visit to Webb Military Museum will certainly bring back one’s love of history and the realization of how much countrymen owe to the men and women in uniform. 

Activity Level: Low | ADA Accessible: Yes

St. Simons Island offers a glimpse into its historical significance, with well-preserved 18th-century battlefields where key events once shaped the region's future. The island also hosts expansive estates that portray the architectural styles and societal structures of early American life. As a sanctuary for diverse wildlife, the island is dotted with ancient oaks draped in Spanish moss, providing cool shade along its numerous walking paths. Notably, the St. Simons Lighthouse, a historical landmark, stands as a guidepost of maritime heritage, housing an extensive museum that chronicles the intricate history of the Georgia Coast. Here, each landmark not only tells a story of the past but also invites a deeper understanding of the cultural and natural tapestry that defines this picturesque island.

Explore the history of Jekyll Island, where, at the close of the 19th century, titans of American industry such as J.P. Morgan, William Rockefeller, and Cornelius Vanderbilt transformed it into an exclusive hunting retreat celebrated for its isolation. This private sanctuary served as a winter haven where America's elite could revel in luxury and privacy. Today, Jekyll Island is a cherished part of Georgia’s Sea Isles and is home to "Millionaire’s Village," a sprawling 240-acre area filled with opulent homes and winter cottages. This enclave has gained recognition as a National Historic Landmark, offering a window into the extravagant lifestyles of its former inhabitants. Jekyll Island now invites visitors to traverse its historic pathways, explore its grand estates, and uncover the stories of decadence and tradition that hide within its grounds.

Hofwyl-Broadfield Estate -Complimentary Excursion
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

Makers Art Café – Complimentary Excursion
If you’re feeling inspired and creative, why not stop by the Makers Art Café, just a short walk from the ship? Upon arrival, choose from the following art activities:

Sun and Sea Watercolor- This easy step-by-step exercise using watercolors and markers allows you total artistic freedom, resulting in a unique piece of art. Butterfly Art – Using black card stock in the shape of a butterfly, use a simple cotton swab to add color to one side of a wing. Press together and then your beautiful butterfly magically appears.
Marble Art- This low-pressure, high-return project lets marbles do the design work. You will take home an art piece like no other.
Watercolor Birds – From a simple cardboard shape and watercolor paints, create your own watercolor birds.
Bookmarks- With watercolors, stamps, and pens, make 3-4 bookmarks for yourself or as gifts.

Activity Level: Low | ADA Accessible: Yes

Unearth the pristine splendor of Amelia Island, where stretches of quartz-sand beaches and softly rolling dunes define the coastal landscape. Fernandina Beach, the sole city on the island, is a haven for history enthusiasts and collectors, filled with unique antique shops and intriguing finds. Take part in a guided walking excursion of Center Street's Historic District, where meticulously restored Victorian homes and quaint 19th-century shops line the cobblestone sidewalks. Embrace the island's tranquil charm as you stroll along its tree-lined avenues, each adorned with historic markers and shaded by ancient oaks, offering a glimpse into Amelia Island's storied past and calm environment.

Bask in the glorious sunshine of northern Florida as you step onto the shores of Amelia Island. Take a moment to savor the incredible experiences and cherished memories you've created on your journey thus far. To ensure your journey home is as seamless as possible, American Cruise Lines provides complimentary transportation to Jacksonville Airport, allowing you to depart with ease and convenience. As you bid farewell to this adventure, the team looks forward to welcoming you to the next one.