Grand Florida Coast & Keys Cruise – American Ranger

Discover the unspoiled beauty of Amelia Island, with miles of quartz beaches and rolling sand dunes. Fernandina Beach, the island’s only city, harbors a treasure trove of history, antiques, and collectibles. Explore Centre Street’s Historic District, featuring restored 19th-century Victorian homes and shops. Bask in Amelia Island’s charm as you stroll along the tree-lined avenues.

Travel along one of the most impressive stretches of inland waterways in the United States, the Tolomato River. Witness many spectacular sites, including a rare glimpse of the Atlantic Ocean, visible over the Barrier Islands. Join our onboard naturalist on the open observation decks for views of native wildlife, captivating sunsets, hidden villages, and miles of pristine landscapes.

In the late 1800s, oil tycoon Henry Flagler developed St. Augustine in an attempt to fulfill his vision of establishing an American Riviera along Florida’s eastern shores. Although this “golden era” ended in the early 1900s, Flagler’s legacy remains. Explore historic ruins, unique architecture, and the narrow streets of a city once used as a remote outpost by the Spanish Empire.

Today is a day to truly relax without a care in the world. Revel in the bliss of the beauty that surrounds you. Enjoy fascinating enrichment presentations and festive onboard activities. Savor fine meals and cocktails. Relax in one of the many spacious lounges or enjoy a gentle breeze on the sun deck as you read a book or chat with new friends.

Imagine a place where you can meet an astronaut, charter a fishing boat, and steer a freighter simulator all in the same day. That place is Port Canaveral, also known as “Florida’s fun port.” Take a guided exploration of the Kennedy Space Center and witness the future of interstellar travel. Stroll The Cove, a dining and entertainment district along the waterfront, where you can listen to local entertainment and savor fresh seafood from the day’s catch.

Feel the tropical energy as you stroll along the palm-lined streets of this dynamic city. Explore Antique Row, home to over 40 antique shops, offering everything from 17th-century antiques to modern furnishings. Admire the candy-colored storefronts of Northwood Village, an eclectic enclave known for its art galleries and global cuisine. Visit Clematis Street, home to funky cafés and bars and accented with colorful murals. Hop on a trolley to The Square, an open-air plaza where live music reverberates as you shop. If you are a nature lover, visit the Palm Beach Zoo & Conservation Society and South Florida Science Center & Aquarium for up-close animal encounters.

This tiny sliver of land was once a family-owned coconut plantation which was donated to the community to preserve its beauty for all to enjoy. Explore an oasis of sandy beaches, beautiful nature preserves, and pristine state parks. Discover a nearby coastal barrier reef which is the only federally recognized underwater archaeological trail in the United States. Led by a local guide, hike a nature trail, or climb to the top of a historic lighthouse, where you can admire breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean and Biscayne Bay.

Enjoy a full day at Dry Tortugas National Park. Accessible only by boat or seaplane, this beautiful park features picturesque blue waters, amazing coral reefs and marine life, and a variety of incredible bird life. The park is also home to the 19th century Fort Jefferson, Fort Jefferson, was once used as a prison during the Civil War. Ride the Key West Trolley to all the major areas. Take advantage of the complimentary Key West Arts & Historical Society Cultural Pass which provides an opportunity to vist four iconic locations.

Experience a taste of Caribbean culture in this southern most town in the continental U.S. In addition to its stunning natural beauty, Key West has a rich history which is celebrated in the many museums of the island. Select from a variety of well-curated excursions, including the Key West Old Town Literary Walking Exploration or the Private Ghost Tour at Fort East Martello. In the evening, venture to the world-famous Duval Street, to enjoy a meal, listen to live music, or pick up a souvenir to take home.

Enjoy your time sailing from Key West to Marco Island on board one of our brand new Patriot Class ships. Admire the natural beauty that stretches out before you as you relax on your private balcony. Meet fellow travelers for lunch and attend an afternoon enrichment program presented by our onboard expert.

Flanked by nearly 100 miles of islands, bays, and estuaries that will never be developed, Marco Island is the largest of the Ten Thousand Islands, located at southern tip of Florida’s Paradise Coast. The island is home to stunning beaches and world-class golf courses, as well as beautiful parks to that are a paradise to those who relish the outdoors. After a day of adventure, dine at one of the elegant waterfront restaurants or peruse the artsy boutiques and designer outlets, before heading back to the ship.

Punta Gorda celebrates its roots with a thriving historic district, ornamented with Queen Anne-style wood frame homes of the mid 1880’s to the late 1910’s, Victorian architecture of the early 20th century, and structures reflecting the Neo-Classical revival of 1920’s Florida Land Boom. Home to a thriving artist community, enjoy open-air art shows and explore innovative galleries tucked throughout the city. Stroll along the palm-lined, harbor-front park for the chance to hear the spontaneous jam of local musicians who have been known to serenade the sunset. Punta Gorda is also rich in ecological treasures. Surrounding the city are maritime and costal habitats, which support over 600 species of birds, fish, and marine wildlife.

Stroll along the St. Pete Pier and admire the peaceful blue waters of Tampa Bay and the botanical wonderland, called the Sunken Gardens, which hides right in the middle of downtown. Art aficionados will love the Salvador Dali Museum which holds the largest collection of Dali’s work outside of Spain, as well as the Chihuly Collection on Central Avenue, a building designed specifically to house the work of this internationally renowned glass sculpture artist.

After breakfast on board, begin your journey home, reflecting upon the incredible experiences you’ve had and the wonderful new friends made.