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East Coast Inland Passage Cruise

Baltimore, MD to Amelia Island - Example 16 Day Cruise aboard American Liberty
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Travel the East Coast Inland Passage on a 16-day cruise aboard American Liberty. Start in Baltimore, and visit historic cities and coastal towns including Norfolk, Charleston, Savannah, Hilton Head, and Fernandina Beach. Tour preserved districts, Civil War battlefields, maritime museums, and iconic lighthouses. Explore sites like the Wright Brothers Memorial, Hofwyl-Broadfield Plantation, and the Battleship Wisconsin. Walk cobblestone streets in Beaufort, climb the Harbor Town Lighthouse in Hilton Head, and discover the charm of Savannah’s Historic District. Enjoy complimentary excursions, enrichment programs, and cultural activities throughout the journey. This route offers a rare chance to explore America’s coastal history through small towns, wildlife-rich wetlands, and historic ports.
Stroll through colorful CharlestonSee historic lighthouses on the American East CoastBaltimore's Inner HarborSee beautifully preserved architecture in Savannah, GAVisit historic Baltimore
Highlights
  • Stroll Baltimore’s cobbled streets and historic maritime Inner Harbor
  • Tour Jekyll Island’s Millionaire’s Village and grand historic estates
  • Join a Civil War walking tour through Savannah’s historic squares
  • Tour Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum in charming St. Michaels
Places Visited
Activity Level: Variable
Activity options vary depending on destination and operator. Activity level is determined by the range and intensity of activities you choose to participate in. Discuss with your Trip Planner which options are best for you.
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Full Itinerary

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Day 1: Baltimore, Maryland

  • 1 Dinner
Check into your hotel and explore Baltimore, known as “Charm City.” Visit the busy Inner Harbor, where tall ships, museums, shops, and restaurants provide plenty to see and do.

Discover the city’s role in American history, including Fort McHenry, which inspired the national anthem during the War of 1812. Sample Baltimore’s famous crab cakes and explore local markets for a taste of the city’s cuisine.

Walk through Mount Vernon and Federal Hill, historic neighborhoods featuring 19th-century architecture alongside vibrant arts and culture. For a different view, hop on a water taxi and take in the skyline from the harbor.

Day 2: Baltimore, Maryland | Embark

Board the ship and settle in as you begin your Chesapeake Bay journey. Cruise along its wide, winding waters and take in the landscapes that have inspired fishermen, sailors, and artists for centuries. Spend the day on deck with a drink, chat with fellow travelers, or watch the shoreline pass by. Sail south while spotting Chesapeake landmarks, including historic fishing villages and protected coastal habitats along the Eastern Shore.

Day 3: St. Michaels, Maryland

Known as the "Heart of the Chesapeake," St. Michaels has long been known as a vibrant shipbuilding and seafood hub. As your ship docks at the Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum, once a prominent shipbuilding village, you get a glimpse into the daily life of the 1800s.

On a guided tour, discover the maritime traditions of the past as you explore restored ships and historic buildings. Also notable is the 1879 Hooper Strait Lighthouse, a significant landmark, offering educational exhibits and sweeping views that deepen your connection to this celebrated town.

Add some flavor to your experience as you discover the artistry behind one of Maryland’s most celebrated craft distilleries. Gain insight into the meticulous craftsmanship of their premium spirits and be treated to a tasting. Later, stroll along the waterfront of St. Michaels or explore the quaint gift shops and boutiques on the tree-lined Talbot Street, a popular stop for travelers exploring Chesapeake coastal towns.

Day 4: Norfolk, Virginia

Discover this vibrant coastal city, home to the world’s largest naval base. Here, the impressive Nauticus stands as a beacon of naval history, showcasing the formidable Battleship Wisconsin, a symbol of American strength on the waters. 

Experience a one-of-a-kind journey through Virginia’s diverse marine world at the Virginia Aquarium and Marine Science Museum, where hands-on exhibits and fascinating sea life bring the ocean to life. Immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the Norfolk Botanical Garden on a guided tour through vibrant landscapes, wooded trails, and serene waterways. 

Visit the Chrysler Museum of Art, a centerpiece of Norfolk's cultural scene, which 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 America's story as a defining port along the Mid-Atlantic coast.

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

Day 5: Kitty Hawk, North Carolina

Kitty Hawk resonates with tales of daring innovation along North Carolina’s Outer Banks, 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. 

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 you walk, the expansive sands and resilient dunes at Kitty Hawk retain the spirit of that significant first flight that forever changed the skies. 

Day 6: Beaufort| Morehead City, North Carolina

Beaufort and Morehead City each display unique characteristics that contribute to the vibrant landscape of the Crystal Coast, also known as North Carolina’s Southern Outer Banks. The region’s deep maritime heritage is palpable among the weathered docks and colonial-era homes where stories of pirate encounters and sea traders thrive. 

Visit the Old Burying Ground, the town's oldest cemetery, where an expert in period dress shares fascinating stories of the town’s colorful past beneath the shade of centuries-old live oaks. Continue your journey at Fort Macon State Park, a coastal stronghold that once guarded the Port of Beaufort, from the War of 1812 to World War II. As you walk the grounds, enjoy sweeping views of the Atlantic and the distant Cape Lookout Lighthouse.

Day 7: Wilmington, North Carolina

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

Explore the legendary USS Battleship North Carolina as knowledgeable volunteer naval officers share stories from the 2,300 sailors who fought in every major Pacific offensive during WWII. Stroll the Memorial Walkway of this famous floating city.  

Visit the Historic Burgwin-Wright House, a unique dual-site featuring a 1744 colonial jail and an 18th-century urban townhouse furnished with period antiques. The property is a good example of what life was like in the days leading up to the American Revolution. Enjoy a guided tour of both buildings and finish with a leisurely stroll through the scenic gardens and exhibit hall.

Day 8: Day of Cruising

Take it easy during a relaxing day cruising 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, as well as an east-west course skirting the edges of the Gulf of Mexico. 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 the Southern Atlantic coastline.

Day 9: Charleston, South Carolina

Charleston played a significant role in both the American Revolution and the Civil War, and is also known for its well-preserved architecture and rich colonial heritage. Today, this city is also celebrated for its vibrant food scene, southern hospitality, and scenic waterfront views.  At the city's edge, the Battery promenade offers sweeping views of Fort Sumter, a silent guardian at the harbor's entrance.

Enjoy a guided visit to the Charleston Tea Garden, the largest commercial tea garden in the country, where you'll hop on a trolley to explore acres of lush tea fields. Then, take a scenic ferry ride to Fort Sumter, the hallowed site where the first shots of the Civil War rang out.

Step back in time at Magnolia Plantation and Gardens, the oldest public tourist site in the historic South Carolina Lowcountry coast and home to America's oldest public gardens. Magnolia has withstood the trials of time, offering a glimpse into Charleston’s enduring legacy.

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

Day 10: Beaufort, South Carolina

Once called the “Newport of the South,” the town's Historic District is one of the largest in the South. Showcasing a blend of Federal, Greek Revival, and Neoclassical styles, its architecture reflects 18th- and 19th-century prosperity and deep Southern roots across the Sea Islands of coastal South Carolina.

Take a narrated horse-drawn carriage ride through its lovely, tree-lined streets, passing key landmarks that reveal the city's history from its early colonial period through the American Revolution and Civil War to today.

On a guided exploration, learn about the way of life of Gullah Geechee people, discovering their unique culture with deep African roots, clearly visible in their arts, crafts, foods, and distinctive Creole language.

Join an excursion to the Port Royal Cypress Wetlands and enjoy the unique sights and sounds of this tranquil sanctuary.

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
 

Day 11: Hilton Head, South Carolina

This island retreat is an ideal destination for those seeking relaxation and exploration.

Choose from unforgettable excursions that showcase the Lowcountry’s native wildlife and scenic beauty. Cruise the calm waters on a Dolphin Discovery Cruise, where bottlenose dolphins ride the waves beside your boat, and expert guides share fascinating insights into their behavior.

Step further into the wild with a guided Alligator & Wildlife excursion through the 600-acre Sea Pines Forest Preserve. Drift across a scenic freshwater lake as you spot native species like the American alligator, surrounded by breathtaking natural landscapes on Hilton Head Island’s protected barrier coast.
Visit the Coastal Discovery Museum, where you can walk along boardwalks through salt marshes, accented with live oaks draped in Spanish moss, and imagine life on Hilton Head in days gone by.

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

Day 12: Savannah, Georgia

Savannah, a storied city along the Georgia Coast,  exudes a timeless allure, where cobblestone pathways wind beneath the shade of ancient oaks dripping in delicate Spanish moss. Many of these trees have stood for generations, shading buildings that date back to the colonial era.

Join your onboard historian for a captivating walk through one of Savannah's iconic squares, once the site of impassioned rallies for secession and the growing tensions that led to the Civil War. Discover the locations of once-bustling military headquarters, hospitals, and hidden spots tied to both the Confederacy and the eventual occupation by Union forces. 

Travel back in time at the American Prohibition Museum. Explore the fascinating story of America’s dry spell and delight in a libation at the onsite speakeasy.
Learn about Savannah's earliest cemeteries as your guide leads you to the Colonial Park Cemetery and witness the graves of famous residents, including American heroes.

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

Day 13: St. Simons Island, Georgia

St. Simons Island features 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 part of the Golden Isles along the Georgia Coast, the island is dotted with ancient oaks draped in Spanish moss, providing cool shade along its numerous walking paths. Notably, the St. Simons Lighthouse, stands as a guidepost of maritime heritage, housing an extensive museum that chronicles the evolving story of the Georgia Coast.
 
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, standing tall as a symbol of the island’s seafaring legacy.

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.

Makers Art Cafe – 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

Day 14: Jekyll Island, Georgia

Explore 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 exclusive isolation. This private sanctuary off the southeastern coast of Georgia served as a winter haven where America's elite could revel in luxury and privacy. 

Visit Jekyll Island, home to "Millionaire’s Village," a sprawling 240-acre area filled with opulent homes and winter cottages. This enclave has been designated a National Historic Landmark, offering a window into the extravagant lifestyles of its former inhabitants.

Discover the art of premium rum-making at the Richland Rum Distillery, an artisan copper pot distillery. Witness the entire process, from fermentation to bottling, and gain rare, behind-the-scenes insight into how one of America’s finest rums is created.

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

Day 15: Amelia Island | Fernandina Beach, Florida

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." Set on Florida’s northern barrier island coast, the island’s picturesque streets showcase Victorian-era architecture, local boutiques, and inviting cafés that reflect its layered past and relaxed coastal atmosphere.

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 16: Amelia Island, Florida | Disembark

Feel the breeze of the historic Northeast Florida island as you conclude your journey on the shores of Amelia Island. Reflect on the moments and experiences you’ve gathered along the way. Enjoy a relaxed morning before departing with complimentary transportation to the nearest airport.

Ship/Hotel

American Liberty

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Special Offers 23942
Promotional rates are available on select departures for a limited time. These offers cannot be combined with other discounts and are only valid on new bookings.  Please discuss with your trip planner about applicable dates and cabin types.
Applies to select departures

Per person starting at
$11,570 2-3 travelers
Rates are subject to change without notice. Book early to get the best rate.
Single Balcony
queen size bed and large bathroom, full-size private balcony, small wardrobe, drawer storage, TV Size: 280 sq. ft. including balcony
Premium Balcony
King or two twin-size bed configurations, large bathroom, wardrobe, ample drawer storage, TV Size: 310 sq. ft. including balcony
Vista Balcony
King or two twin-size bed configurations, large bathroom, wardrobe, ample drawer storage, TV Size: 310 sq. ft. including balcony
Sky Suite
King or two twin bed configurations are available, Large bathroom with double vanity, TV Size: 470 sq. ft. including balcony
Grand Suite
King-size or Two twin bed configurations, Living room, bedroom, interior and exterior dining areas, and a spacious master bathroom Size: 620 sq. ft. including balcony
Vista Balcony
AAM
Included
  • 15 Breakfasts, 13 Lunches, 14 Dinners
  • 15 Nights Accommodations
  • Accommodations as listed
  • Ground transportation as listed
  • Activities as listed
  • Meals as listed
  • Access to a 24-7 Emergency line while traveling
  • Snacks
  • Onboard Entertainment 
  • Onboard gratuities
  • Port charges and fees
  • Complimentary cocktail parties
  • Dining service
  • WiFi provided by Starlink
  • Wine and beer service each afternoon and evening
  • Resident historians and experts who lead discussions and enlighten as you sail
  • Personalized experiences with a dedicated guest programs staff
Excluded
  • Travel Insurance
  • Personal Expenses
  • Flight costs (please request a quote)
  • Additional excursions during free time
  • Fuel and transportation surcharges (when applicable)
  • Premium and Signature shore excursions

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