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Historic South Golden Isles Jacksonville, FL to Charleston, SC 7-Nights/8-Days
Small Ship Cruising Done Perfectly™
Contact a Cruise Specialist at 1-888-251-2059
Welcome
With over 30 years of experience, American Cruise Lines has perfected small ship cruising, allowing us to offer guests the best American cruise experience anywhere. With the newest fleet of ships, all-American crews, exciting shore excursions and unparalleled personalized service, American Cruise Lines is the only choice when it comes to planning your next cruise. We look forward to having you onboard soon.
Table of Contents
Ports of Call...................................................... 3
What to Bring................................................... 14
What Sets American Cruise Lines Apart........... 4
Onboard Food & Beverage................................ 14
Onboard Experience.......................................... 5
Getting to Jacksonville, FL and Your Ship.......... 15
Shore Tours....................................................... 5
Boarding Process............................................... 15
Location Highlights.......................................... 6–13
Cruise Conclusion............................................. 15
Independence 2
HISTORIC SOUTH & GOLDEN ISLES
A beautiful Savannah park
Ports of Call
Charleston SOUTH CAROLINA
Cruise along the Intracoastal Waterway and experience America’s Gilded Age from the northern Florida sunshine to the southern comforts of South Carolina that provides an abundance of natural beauty, regional cuisines and architectural treasures from plantations to centuries-old towns.
Jacksonville FL
St. Simons Island/ Jekyll Island, GA Sapelo Island, GA
Savannah, GA
N Beaufort Hilton Head Island
Savannah
GEORGIA
Sapelo Island St. Simons Island
Hilton Head, SC Beaufort, SC
Charleston, SC Contact a Cruise Specialist at 1-888-251-2059. Subject to change.
ATLANTIC OCEAN
Jekyll Island Amelia Island
Jacksonville FLORIDA
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What Sets American Cruise Lines Apart The newest and most environmentally friendly small cruise ships and riverboats The largest fleet of small cruise ships in America Seven ships carrying 50 to 150 passengers
A true all-American experience. American built, flagged, and crewed ships The largest staterooms with interior entrances and private balconies Elevator service to all decks of the ship
Open seating dining allows you to dine where and when you want 35 cruise itineraries to 28 states in America
The only cruise line with three authentic paddlewheelers
Complimentary cocktail hour every evening before dinner Complimentary wine and beer with lunch and dinner
Gracious hospitality and personalized service—that is the hallmark of American Cruise Lines Many spacious lounges and public spaces on each ship
Exquisite cuisine from American Cruise Lines’ staff of highly trained chefs Entertainment each evening
Historians, naturalists, or local experts join every cruise
Daily lectures ranging from history & ecology to culture & cuisine Exciting shore excursions show you the best of each area
American Star 4
Onboard Experience
Our mission is to make your exploration effortless by providing unsurpassed attention to detail amid the magnificent landscape. This is just one of the benefits of small ship cruising with American Cruise Lines. Onboard and ashore we will work with you to accommodate your specific interests and tastes. The cruise director will assist to set up special land adventures and the chef will sit down with you to understand any dietary preferences. One of our resident onboard experts will listen attentively and answer your questions about your specific areas of interest to make your cruise enlightening.
Other Amenities include: • • • •
Twin or king-sized bed Private bathroom Twice-daily stateroom service Satellite TV with DVD player
Shore Tours
Your onshore experience is as important as your onboard experience, so American Cruise Lines has taken special care to research and plan excursions at each port. With American Cruise Lines, you will experience what makes each destination a special place. Every tour will take you to the finest local sites at each port and give you true insight to the area’s culture, heritage and history. On each excursion, you’ll be joined by local experts, historians or naturalists to further enhance your experience.
Independence stateroom
The experience we provide means something different to everyone, but assistance is available at all hours for any request large or small. Our staterooms are the most spacious in small ship cruising and offer all the amenities of a modern hotel. Every stateroom has a picturesque view of the ever-changing scenery and most feature a private balcony. • • • •
Complimentary wireless Internet access Hair dryer Spacious closets/four-drawer dressers 110-volt outlets
Shore excursions come in one of three categories:
F
P
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Featured
Featured tours are complimentary to all guests.
Premium
Premium tours typically cost between $20 and $70 and can be paid for onboard, near the end of your cruise.
Signature
Signature tours are limitedavailability excursions. We recommend that you reserve and pay for these tours in advance with your Cruise Specialist.
Contact a Cruise Specialist at 1-888-251-2059. Subject to change.
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Jacksonville, FL area (Amelia Island)
Located on Amelia Island, Fernandina Beach is one of the most beautiful islands in Florida as its miles of sandy beaches and rolling sand dunes are a sight to see. Channel your inner explorer while browsing through Fernandina Beach’s Historic Centre Street and the Silk Stocking District. If you are either embarking or disembarking from Fernandina Beach, incorporate extra time for local excursions such as a visit to Florida’s oldest lighthouse or a Civil War era fort.
Shore Tour Options Amelia Island River Cruise
P
Enjoy a relaxing excursion professionally narrated by local historians and nature experts to have an well-rounded informative experience. Sightseeing attractions include: Fort Clinch, the Amelia Island Lighthouse and viewing America’s second oldest city from the waterway.
Walking Tour of Amelia Island
P
Explore the seaport of Fernandina Beach on Amelia Island as you walk through the town’s historic Centre Street and see the famous Palace Saloon and Florida House Inn. Visit the Silk Stocking District to view blocks of restored Victorian homes and inns. Discover the various historical figures who influenced the architecture and businesses of Fernandina Beach.
Tours available on the southbound itineraries ONLY.
Peach blossom 6
Contact a Cruise Specialist at 1-888-251-2059. Subject to change.
Jekyll Island, GA
Explore the 240 acres of extravagant homes and winter cottages that are part of Georgia’s Sea Isles and “Millionaire’s Village” on Jekyll Island. From its serene location, some of the wealthiest American men of the 19th century purchased the island, including J.P. Morgan, Joseph Pulitzer, William Rockefeller and Cornelius Vanderbilt.
Shore Tour Options Sea Turtle Center / Jekyll Island Tram Tour
P
Join a docent-led program to learn about marine turtles, their conservation and rehabilitation, as well as their life cycle before going on an optional self-guided exploration. Continue the excursion with a tram tour of the Jekyll Island Historic District where you will experience the longest ongoing restoration project in the southeastern U.S. at the Jekyll Island Club. Additional points of interest include: Tidelands Nature Center, Horton House Ruins, Indian Mound Golf Course
Sea turtle, Jekyll Island 7
Fort Frederica, St. Simons Island
St. Simons Island, GA
Visit the quaint atmosphere of one of Georgia’s Golden Isles, St. Simons Island, and its natural marsh and woodland environment. Learn of the momentous 18th century battles and elegant antebellum plantations in the islands 400-year old history.
Shore Tour Options Lady Jane Shrimp Boat Experience
P
Spend a relaxing afternoon on the retired shrimping vessel that has been refurbished to carry guests and teach them about the shrimping industry. Travel through the scenic Marshes of Glynn to see dolphins, seagulls and pelicans as your captain shares stories of his experiences on the waterways. Participate in assisting the captain with sorting shrimp from the catch of blue crab, puffer fish, sand shark, horseshoe crab, amberjack and more.
St. Simon’s Island Tour
P
Delve into the largest barrier island’s rich 400-year old history while on an afternoon trolley tour. Enjoy the guide’s enthusiastic storytelling of the tales about the island’s history as you pass by Fort Frederica, Bloody Marsh, Retreat Plantation and Christ Church. After an informative session, experience the area on a self-guided tour or browse the many souvenir shops, boutiques and jewelry stores of the island.
Additional points of interest include: St. Simons Island Lighthouse Museum, Maritime Center at Historic Coast Guard Station 8
Contact a Cruise Specialist at 1-888-251-2059. Subject to change.
Sapelo Island, GA
Experience the forested uplands, salt marshes and beach dune systems as you spend the day in Sapelo Island. Socialize with island descendants who will take you back in time to explore the history of the state protected land.
Shore Tour Options Narrated Island Tour
P
Enjoy a narrated bus tour of Sapelo Island by Island natives among fellow travelers. Sightseeing attractions include: Sapelo Island’s Hog Hammock Community, the mansion of R.J. Reynolds, Sapelo Island Lighthouse and the University of Georgia Marine Institute.
R. J. Reynolds Mansion
Lighthouse 9
Savannah, GA
Step onshore to the “Hostess City of the South” and be welcomed by Southern hospitality from residents and fellow travelers. Savannah is a continuously running seaport with renowned historic districts that preserve its phenomenal 19th century wealth and luxury prestige.
Shore Tour Options P
Trolley Tour of Savannah
Begin a leisurely guided tour of America’s first planned city dating back to the 18th century. You’ll visit Savannah’s “Historic & Victorian Districts” to see the Factor’s Walk, the Cotton Exchange and traditional streets and parks. Discover the history behind the city and how it continues to serve as a meeting place for residents and visitors among its 22 squares.
P
Guided Walking Tour
Join a local guide who will focus on the gardens, architecture and city history of Savannah. The tour covers approximately 2 miles, and provides many opportunities for photographs, inquiries and exploration. Sightseeing attractions include: Savannah’s oldest neighborhood, Colonial Park Cemetery, Savannah’s squares and the Cathedral of St. John the Baptist. Mighty Eighth Air Force Museum
A Savannah square
P
Located only minutes away from downtown Savannah, the museum features over 90,000 square feet of exhibits, interactive displays, historical artifacts and collections of aviation art. Treasure the quiet
solitude of the Memorial Gardens and the Chapel of Fallen Eagles which is a replica of a 16th century English Chapel on the grounds or see the museum’s popular exhibit of the WWII B-17 Flying Fortress.
Additional points of interest include: Forsyth Park, For McAllister Historic Park, Old Fort Jackson, Ralph Mark Gilbert Civil Rights Museum 10
Contact a Cruise Specialist at 1-888-251-2059. Subject to change.
Hilton Head, SC
Hilton Head, SC
From its rich history of Native American culture to European exploration and the Sea Island Cotton Trade, Hilton Head Island provides history enthusiasts with an abundance of opportunities for discovery. Today, Hilton Head Island is a first-class resort known for its championship golf courses and natural beauty. Channel your inner photographer and explore the Sea Pines Resort Forest Preserve for close up views of wildlife and horticulture on the 600 acres of land.
Shore Tour Options P
Alligator & Wildlife
Experience the pristine water lakes of the Sea Pines Resort Forest Preserve and its breathtaking 600 acres of land. Join an experienced Low Country Tour guide who will travel with you to experience sightings of not only alligators, but also Anhinga’s, Spotted Sand Pipers, Yellow-Bellied Turtles, Blue Herons, Ospreys, Wood Ducks and more.
Additional points of interest include: Coastal Discovery Museum, Harbour Town Lighthouse, Harbour Town Golf Links at Sea Pine 11
Horse-drawn carriage
Beaufort, SC
Step into the 500 year history of Beaufort’s composed, lively town from the Spanish and French explorers to the British settlements and noteworthy Civil War battles. Take in the sights of historic forts, elegant homes and grand plantations while traveling in the “Newport of the South.”
Shore Tour Options Low Country Heritage Tour
P
Step back in time among tour guides dressed in period clothing as the guides share stories and songs of the area. Visit Gullah communities and learn about the life of Southern planters or learn about the historic Penn School. Explore Lady’s Island, St. Helena, where you will walk the grounds of a Southern plantation and an old praise house.
Carriage Tour
P
Take an enchanted narrated horse-drawn carriage ride through the tree-lined streets of historic Beaufort. Enjoy the stories of the past and present owners of the Southern antebellum homes from an informative guide. Discover the many 18th century homes that avoided destruction during the Civil War when Union officers commandeered them as hospitals, offices and residences.
Additional points of interest include: John Mark Verdier House, Hunting Island Lighthouse, Henry C. Chambers Waterfront Park (CREHST) 12
Location Highlights Charleston, SC
Known for its rich history, well-preserved architecture, restaurant community and mannerly residents, Charleston remains as the oldest and second-largest city in the Southeastern United States. Enjoy the day walking through the city with its warm southern breezes, gas lit lamps and cobblestone streets. From the historic Fort Sumter National Monument to the popular Palmer House, begin your cruise in one of the friendliest cities in America.
Shore Tour Options Charleston City Tour
P
Enjoy a narrated bus tour of one of the most beautiful and historic cities in the South. Experience the colorful Rainbow Row, Catfish Row and the famous Charleston Battery.
Additional points of interest include: Aiken-Rhett House, Magnolia Plantation & Gardens, Charleston Museums
Charleston Battery Contact a Cruise Specialist at 1-888-251-2059. Subject to change.
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What to Bring
Casual resort attire is recommended both on ship and ashore. For dinner, men’s clothing might include a sports shirt and slacks with a sport coat or sweater. Women might find a sweater or a dress more appropriate.
We do recommend you bring the following: Comfortable resort attire Comfortable walking shoes Sunscreen
Hat Light rain wear Jacket for cool evenings
Camera Photo identification
Please do not hesitate to ask your Hotel Manager for any item that you may have forgotten.
Onboard Food and Beverage
For your dining delight, our American Cruise Lines culinary masters have created a delectable all-American menu, tailored with a delightful regional twist. Each meal is carefully selected and locally sourced seafood, meat and produce are of the highest quality. We offer complimentary wine and beer during lunch and dinner and each evening before dinner, we offer a complimentary cocktail hour allowing guest to mingle and relax. If you have any special requests or dietary needs, they will be handled with precision and care.
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Contact a Cruise Specialist at 1-888-251-2059. Subject to change.
Getting to Jacksonville, FL and Your Ship Your ship will be docked at the Fernandina Beach Marina.
Flying
Fernandina Beach Marina 1 South Front St. Fernandina Beach FL, 32034
To Charleston International Airport
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Train
Amtrak provides regular train service to the Jacksonville train station. The port is approximately 30 minutes from the station.
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Jacksonville International Airport is the best airport to fly into. The airport is serviced by many airlines and is approximately 25 minutes from the ship when traveling by taxi.
Market St
Broad St
Charleston Battery M urra y Blvd
Charleston
Arriving Early?
If you arrive the day before your cruise, there are several hotels within a few minutes of the ship. Please ask for the American Cruise Lines rate. Each hotel can arrange for a taxi service to the Fernandina Beach Marina.
Boarding Process
Boarding the ship takes place between 10 a.m. and 12:30 p.m. The ship leaves promptly at 1:30 p.m. (earlier if all passengers are onboard). From the moment you arrive, the American Cruise Lines deckhands will handle everything for you. From helping you with your luggage to assisting you onboard—we will handle everything with care. There are no restrictions on luggage, but it is recommended to bring as few bags as necessary. Suitcases less than 10 inches high may be stowed under your bed.
Cruise Conclusion
On the last day of your cruise, the ship will dock at the Charleston City Marina, 17 Lockwood Drive, Charleston, SC 29401. If flying home, we recommend you fly from Charleston International Airport. Taxis are typically available at the ship and American Cruise Lines offers transportation to the airport. 15
For more information, please contact a Cruise Specialist at 1-888-251-2059
We look forward to having you onboard soon.
741 Boston Post Rd., Suite 200 Guilford, CT 06437
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