Historic South & Golden Isles

Cruises Leaving out of Charleston SC

Can you cruise a small ship in winter? Yes, you can. One of our annual favorites is the Historic South & Golden Isles cruise, 8-days from Jacksonville to Charleston (or reverse).

Historic South
The ports of the South are living history! Explore wildlife refuges of untouched wilderness, the grace and beauty of antebellum society, and the layers of culture evident in all aspects of the cities, from the architecture to the cuisine!

Golden Isles
The Intracoastal Waterway is a series of protected bays, canals and rivers that wind between the eastern coastline of the US and outlying islands. Because you’re not out on open water, the chance of seasickness is decreased when compared to an ocean cruise.

Ports of call: Amelia Island, Florida; Georgia’s Jekyll Island, St. Simons Island, Sapelo Island, and Savannah; South Carolina’s Hilton Head Island and Beaufort

Cruise Details

Clock8 Days & 7 Nights

Double Occupancy from $4,425 pp/do*

Single Occupancyfrom $6,310 pp

CalendarMarch 14, 2024 | March 21, 2024 | March 28, 2024 | April 4, 2024 | April 11, 2024 | April 18, 2024

Book Now Request More Info

or call 800.578.1479

*Per person/double occupancy. Special single rates apply where listed. Excludes port fees.
Itineraries may operate in reverse.

Your Itinerary

    1Embark in Charleston, SC
    Charleston is dripping with history! Walk the cobblestone streets with gas-lit lamps as you learn how Charleston was the star location for many Revolutionary War battles, pirate lore, and Civil War sieges.

    2Beaufort, SC
    What could be more southern than a horse-drawn carriage tour of Beaufort? The tour will take you past buildings that have been preserved from their beginnings as pre-Civil War shops and later used as field hospitals or offices during the Civil War. An optional tour would be the Low Country Heritage tour to St. Helena Island where you’ll learn about life on a Southern plantation. The host of this tour will be onboard the ship in the evening for a private concert. If you want to venture out on your own, Parris Island Museum is a great free museum with military artifacts focusing on the history of the US Marine Corps. Hunting Island State Park is 5000 acres of walking through beaches, forests and marches.

    3Hilton Head Island, SC
    Let’s see some Alligators! We’ll head into the Sea Pines Forest Preserve in search of wildlife… including the American Alligator! The 600-acre preserve is home to many indigenous animals and plants, which your guide will expertly talk you through. It’s also just a great day to have your camera out and record some beautiful southern landscapes! In the afternoon, you’ll be able to relax on board or head into town for some shopping!

    4Savannah, GA
    The epitome of Southern wealth and elegance, Savannah is a historic preserve of 19th century architecture and opulence! You can choose from many tour options, including the Mighty Eighth Air Force Museum, a Trolley Tour of the city, or a Guided Walking Tour through the River St. section. But if you’re really brave… you’ll try the evening ghost tour! Go with someone you trust, so you have a hand to hold.

    5Sapelo Island, GA
    Enjoy the Narrated Island Tour to learn about Sapelo’s history, visit the R.J. Reynolds mansion, and the Sapelo Island Lighthouse. After touring the mansion, we’ll indulge in an oyster roast before heading back to the ship!

    6St. Simons Island & Jekyll Island, GA
    These islands have so much to offer! You won’t be able to decide. Just try to cram in as much as you can in your schedule, and have your camera ready at all times! St. Simons Island was the location of the Battle of Bloody Marsh, and you can tour the site with a private guide. This tour will also visit Christ Church, a beloved landmark on the island. You can choose to go shrimpin’ onboard the Lady Jane Shrimp boat! Watch for other wildlife, like pelicans and dolphins, while the captain takes you to his favorite spot. Tour Jekyll Island. This tour will take you to the Sea Turtle Village, a nesting ground for sea turtles, and a self-guided tour of the Georgia Sea Turtle Center. Then a tram tour will take you through the Island Historic District, where you’ll tour one of the island mansions and learn about the Jekyll Island Club! Explore Jekyll Island on your own on a bike. Get a trail map and explore the 20 miles of paved trails. Guided horseback tours are available on Driftwood Beach. Reservations required with Victoria’s Carriages and Trail Rides. Take a 3-hour guided tour on Jekyll Creek by kayak with a naturalist leading you through the salt marshes. Or rent a canoe on Rixen Pond.

    7Cruising to Amelia Island, FL
    Take in Florida’s third oldest city, Fernandina Beach, in a variety of ways. See it by river boat tour, which will also give you a chance to watch for marine wildlife. Or see it on a historic walking tour. Or head out on your own to visit the Great Florida Birding Trail or the Bird Emergency Aid and Kare Sanctuary on Big Talbot Island. Ride the beach on horseback with a visit to Kelly Seahorse Ranch, or book your horse-drawn carriage tour of Amelia Island’s historic district.

    8Disembark in Jacksonville, FL

historicsouth_700x1100

Cabin Categories

Cabin Single Price Double Price
Owner's Suite (Private Balcony)$7,825 pp
AAC (Private Balcony)$5,730 pp
AAL (Private Balcony)$5,405 pp
AA$4,585 pp
A$4,425 pp
Single (Private Balcony)$6,310

Ship Read more about the American Star

*Prices may vary due to seasonality

Onboard Experience

The American Cruise Line fleet of ships are the newest and most environmentally friendly small ships in the US. The cruise line prides itself on their hospitable staff, and that you’ll be graciously received no matter which ship you cruise on. The large staterooms with interior entrances ensure you have a relaxed, private area to watch the river from, or visit any of the many onboard lounges. Daily entertainment will be brought onboard, including musicians, historians and naturalists.

Regionally-Inspired Menus

American Cruise Lines uses fresh, local ingredients to show off the culinary glory of the region you’re cruising in. On the Mississippi River, that could mean Andouille Gumbo, a po’boy with red beans and rice, and bourbon pecan pie. In New England, you could find Littleneck clam ceviche on the menu followed by a spiced apple pudding with maple whipped cream. In the Pacific Northwest, you’ll find fresh fish on the menu, including shrimp bisque or Dungeness Crab cake, and a marionberry cheesecake that’ll make your mouth water! Your ship will provide you with a list of all the locally-sourced ingredients when you unpack.

Eagle Society

Once you’ve cruised aboard any American Cruise Line ship, you are an Eagle Society member. It’s free to be a member, but your loyalty to American Cruise Lines is greatly rewarded. You’ll receive Eagle Society luggage tags, and member-only gifts when you board each cruise. After 3 cruises, you’ll receive complimentary premium shore excursions. After 10 cruises, you’ll get a complimentary 11th cruise. There are special Eagle Society cruise dates every year. Plus all Eagle Society member benefits can be used when booking with USA River Cruises, plus you’ll still be eligible for our loyal customer benefits as well.

Book Today

Historic South & Golden Isles

Book Now Request More Info

or call 800.578.1479

logo-white