Grand Florida Coast & Keys (Amelia Island to St Petersburg)

Considered to be the birthplace of Southern Rock music, it's only to be expected that music is such an important part of Jacksonville. With several iconic concert halls and countless bars and clubs, the city is a must visit for anyone interested in music. Other interesting sights include the largest urban park system in the US, a world class zoo, and several golf courses.

This secluded port is a playground of fun and history. With pristine beaches and crystal-clear waters, this coastal paradise offers endless opportunities for sun-soaked adventures and water sports. Amelia Island's colorful past, from its pirate-filled history to its colonial roots, adds depth to its laid-back atmosphere. Wander through the charming streets of Fernandina Beach, where Victorian-era architecture and quaint shops invite exploration.

Set sail along the majestic Tolomato River, an extraordinary waterway weaving through stunning landscapes. Behold the rare sight of the Atlantic Ocean peeking beyond the protected Barrier Islands, a captivating moment that few have the privilege to witness. Engage with our onboard naturalist as you stand on the open observation decks, where graceful sea turtles and slow-moving manatees swim beneath you and mesmerizing sunsets paint the sky in vivid hues. Discover hidden villages lining the riverbanks, each with its own story waiting to be uncovered.

Our next port town is a seasoned storyteller along the Atlantic coast. The city's skyline, adorned with Spanish moss-draped oaks, stands as a testament to its colonial roots, with the imposing silhouette of the Castillo de San Marcos fortress guarding the bay. Narrow alleys wind through the historic district, leading to architectural marvels like the Lightner Museum, housed within a former Gilded Age hotel dripping with opulence. The scent of salty sea air mingles with the aroma of freshly baked pastries wafting from quaint cafes lining St. George Street, where you can stroll beneath the gaze of the towering St. Augustine Cathedral, a beacon of faith since the 16th century.

Nestled along the Atlantic coast, this dynamic port boasts a rich history intertwined with America's space exploration endeavors, with iconic landmarks such as the Kennedy Space Center serving as a testament to mankind's quest for the stars. Discover fine sand beaches and bright blue waves crashing on the shores. Whether gazing at the stars above or setting sail into the boundless ocean, Port Canaveral embodies the spirit of adventure and discovery that defines Florida's Space Coast.

Widely known for the Kennedy Space Center, Port Canaveral is located in the city of Cape Canaveral, home to beautiful beaches and Brevard Zoo.

West Palm Beach emerges as a lively destination along the sun-drenched Florida coast, its skyline punctuated by sleek towers and swaying palm trees, casting shadows upon bustling streets steeped in history. This coastal city holds a rich past, with landmarks such as the Henry Morrison Flagler Museum showcasing the grandeur of its Gilded Age origins. Modernity intertwines with tradition as cultural institutions like the Norton Museum of Art offer glimpses into the city's artistic influence. Along the waterfront, the Intracoastal Waterway shimmers under the sun's rays, hosting a parade of yachts and sailboats. From the chic boutiques of Worth Avenue to the vibrant energy of Clematis Street, West Palm Beach invites exploration through not only the main streets but the alcoves of its stunning alleyways.

An idyllic island town located south of Miami Beach and east of Miami, Key Biscayne is characterized by its tropical greenery and renowned for its peaceful beaches such as Crandon Park and Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Park. The island hosts the Cape Florida Lighthouse, built in 1825, one of the oldest structures in the Miami area, providing expansive ocean and bay views. Historically significant, Key Biscayne served as a strategic and observation point during the Seminole Wars and later developed into a coconut farm before transforming into a luxurious resort community in the mid-20th century. The community atmosphere in Key Biscayne is relaxed with quiet, tree-lined streets. Discover the coastal barrier reef beneath the teal colored waves on the shores of this sliver of paradise.

Key West lies at the southernmost point of the continental United States, part of the Florida Keys archipelago. This island city is famed for its sun-soaked streets, lined with 19th-century wooden houses including the well-preserved home of President Harry S. Truman, known as the “Little White House”, reflecting its political history. Duval Street, the vibrant main artery of Key West, offers an array of shops, galleries, and restaurants, where the smell of the classic Key Lime Pie sticks to the air. The Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum is another prominent landmark, where the novelist lived in the 1930s and penned classics such as "To Have and Have Not." Key West's strategic location has made it a historical maritime center, highlighted by the Key West Shipwreck Museum, which explores its shipwreck salvaging past, adding to the island's diverse and eclectic character.

Located closer to Havana than Miami, Key West is synonymous for all that is fabulous. Whether it’s beaches, back country or just a brilliant time that you’re after, Florida’s most southern point holds a wealth of intrigue, both past and present. Famed for its unique originality, Key West is a condensation of the best of the sunshine state – fantastic weather, laid back attitude, deep-rooted history and masses of fantastic, fresh seafood; it’s little wonder that nobody ever wants to leave.Floating in the middle of the Gulf of Mexico, the island has two very definite personalities: bookish and bizarre. On the one hand, the literary festivals, exquisite Caribbean architecture and splendid art galleries attract the bourgeoisie, while on the other, the eccentricity and reticence to be associated with “the mainland” attracts all kinds of “happies” –new era hippies. The two dichotomies live peacefully side by side and have done ever since travellers started arriving in the 1960s — Key West being one of the three big K’s on the hippie path to enlightenment (Kuta and Kathmandu are the others).But past the idiosyncrasies of the Key Westers, and you will find an island that is literally brimming over with spectacular sights and wonderful wilderness. From Henry S. Truman’s Little White House and Ernest Hemmingway’s house and studio, to botanical gardens and marine sanctuaries, visitors will leave this fascinating island wanting more.Best seen by foot, bike or boat, this is an island to be explored al fresco.

One day is not enough for this port. There’s still time to visit Fort Zachary Taylor, built in the mid-1800s, which played a crucial role during the Civil War and Spanish-American War. Mallory Square, located on the waterfront, is the heart of Key West’s social life, known for its sunset celebrations that include skilled performers, artisans, and breathtaking sunsets. The Key West Lighthouse, built in 1847, stands as a beacon for mariners and now serves as a museum with a panoramic view of the island. The Audubon House & Tropical Gardens offers a glimpse into the life of a prosperous shipwreck salvager in the 19th century, surrounded by lush, tropical flora. These sites tell the stories of this unique island.

Located closer to Havana than Miami, Key West is synonymous for all that is fabulous. Whether it’s beaches, back country or just a brilliant time that you’re after, Florida’s most southern point holds a wealth of intrigue, both past and present. Famed for its unique originality, Key West is a condensation of the best of the sunshine state – fantastic weather, laid back attitude, deep-rooted history and masses of fantastic, fresh seafood; it’s little wonder that nobody ever wants to leave.Floating in the middle of the Gulf of Mexico, the island has two very definite personalities: bookish and bizarre. On the one hand, the literary festivals, exquisite Caribbean architecture and splendid art galleries attract the bourgeoisie, while on the other, the eccentricity and reticence to be associated with “the mainland” attracts all kinds of “happies” –new era hippies. The two dichotomies live peacefully side by side and have done ever since travellers started arriving in the 1960s — Key West being one of the three big K’s on the hippie path to enlightenment (Kuta and Kathmandu are the others).But past the idiosyncrasies of the Key Westers, and you will find an island that is literally brimming over with spectacular sights and wonderful wilderness. From Henry S. Truman’s Little White House and Ernest Hemmingway’s house and studio, to botanical gardens and marine sanctuaries, visitors will leave this fascinating island wanting more.Best seen by foot, bike or boat, this is an island to be explored al fresco.

The largest Barrier Island within Southwest Florida’s Ten Thousand Islands area, Marco Island is located on the Gulf of Mexico. It's celebrated for its sweeping white sand beaches and sparkling waters, particularly at Tigertail Beach, known for its shell-laden sands and natural tidal lagoon. The island is also a gateway to the Everglades, offering adventurers a chance to explore one of the world's most unique ecosystems via guided boat tours. Historical landmarks such as the Marco Island Historical Museum showcase the rich Calusa Native American heritage and the famed Key Marco Cat artifact. Along the island's serene waterfront, luxury resorts and seafood restaurants offer picturesque dining experiences, where sunsets paint the sky in breathtaking hues of orange and pink.

Perched on the edge of Charlotte Harbor, Punta Gorda captivates with its network of palm-lined streets and meticulously restored historical homes, particularly showcased in the Punta Gorda Historic District. The city is home to the Peace River Wildlife Center, where visitors can observe a variety of rehabilitated native animals in their natural habitats, emphasizing conservation and education. Charlotte Harbor Preserve State Park invites outdoor enthusiasts to explore its expansive network of kayak trails that wind through protective mangrove forests. Punta Gorda's Fishermen's Village combines a unique waterfront shopping and dining experience with a marina offering scenic cruises that highlight the natural beauty of the harbor. The city's commitment to maintaining its charming atmosphere and natural surroundings makes it a unique destination for those seeking a gentle pace and welcoming community spirit.

Our final stop in this grand itinerary impresses visitors with its artistic focus and oceanic views, especially at the Salvador Dalí Museum, which features an architecturally striking geodesic glass bubble known as "The Enigma." This museum houses an extensive collection of Dalí’s surrealist artworks, attracting art lovers from across the world. The city’s appeal extends to its expansive waterfront parks, including the historic Fort De Soto Park which spans five interconnected islands with pristine beaches, kayak trails, and the old fort remains. The Sunken Gardens offer a botanical oasis filled with exotic plants, colorful flowers, and fluttering butterflies, showcasing St. Petersburg’s commitment to botanical beauty. Meanwhile, the Grand Central District serves as a cultural hotspot with its eclectic art studios, unique shops, and innovative craft breweries, cementing its place as a center for both cultural and culinary pursuits in the Sunshine City.

After enjoying breakfast on board, you'll begin your journey home, carrying with you the memories of incredible experiences had along the way. Reflect on the vibrant cities, serene beaches, and a new understanding of the culture and history that have colored your travels. Thank you for cruising with us, and we hope to welcome you aboard again soon.