The Chesapeake Bay abounds in history and culture. From the vibrant harbor of Baltimore, travel to Yorktown, Williamsburg, and Jamestown, known as the "Historic Triangle."
In Yorktown, visit monumental battlefields and authentic colonial homes. Stroll through the narrow streets of a Colonial Williamsburg, nearly unchanged since the days of the first English colonists. In Jamestown, learn about this first permanent English settlement in the Americas.
Discover why Crisfield, once a small fishing village is now considered “The Crab Capital of the World,” and sail on an authentic skipjack in Cambridge. Take a trolley tour through the charming streets of Annapolis and listen to amazing stories about its 350-year history from our local expert guide.
Early Bird Discount: Book early and Save $400 or more per stateroom on this cruise.
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On your 7 day-cruise along the scenic shoreline of the Chesapeake Bay, you will pass shipwrights, marinas, and lighthouses, and glide into ports accessible only to small cruise ships.
Daily excursions subject to change.
Baltimore is a great maritime city, alive with excitement, colonial history, and a busy harbor scene. Explore its history aboard the decks of celebrated ships and on the cobblestone streets of the charming Inner Harbor. Visit Fort McHenry, where Francis Scott Key was inspired to pen "The Star-Spangled Banner".
Step back in time in a town that transformed the history of a nation. Yorktown is known for its monumental battlefields, authentic colonial homes, and storied past. Discover museum exhibits, recreated Continental Army camps and restored homes from the 1700's. Also visit Colonial Williamsburg, once the political and economic center of the Virginia Colony, today the world's premier living history site.
History comes alive at Colonial Williamsburg. As you stroll along its street witness many original 18th-century buildings, as well as those reconstructed to their 18th-century aesthetic. Interact with tradespeople who use real period tools and techniques, many of which have been around since the beginning of our civilization. These skilled men and women are true apprentices, journeymen, and masters, continuing to perfect their skills with the hammer, needle, or plow.
The River Walk Landing welcomes you to historic Yorktown. Enjoy complimentary trolley transportation throughout Yorktown with stops at the battlefields, historic buildings, and unique boutiques. Stroll the waterfront, dine at a historic restaurant, and admire the 18th-century architecture of a place known for its current charm and its storied past.
Settled in 1608 by Captain John Smith, the charming island of Tangier retains many customs and much of the appearance of an earlier era. Stroll through the delightful village, crab shanties, shops, and unique homes, on a personalized guided walking tour of the "Blue Crab Capital of the World."
Crisfield began as a small fishing village and grew to become the "Crab Capital of the World." Enjoy a guided stroll through downtown Historic Crisfield and hear stories spanning over four centuries. View the map that Captain John Smith created when he first met the natives in 1608. Listen to stories of the first settlers, and learn about the battles that took place in this town including those with pirates, the British in the Revolutionary War and the War of 1812, as well as the first naval battle of America.
Enjoy a ferry ride to the unique island of Tangier. Upon arrival, enjoy a buffet lunch at Lorraine’s Restaurant which will include Chesapeake Bay Crab Cakes, Clam Fritters, Virginia Ham, Potato Salad, Coleslaw, Green Beans, Hot Corn Pudding, Home-Made Rolls, Beverages, and more. Following lunch, explore the island at your leisure before heading back to the mainland. As you stroll through the streets, you will be transported back in time to experience the life of a true Chesapeake waterman. Stop in the charming Tangier Island History Museum for a self-guided tour and learn about the lives of the working watermen. Island locals offer narrated golf cart tours for $5/person.
Cambridge is an authentic Chesapeake town known for its rich history, beautiful buildings, and vibrant arts scene. Sail on an authentic skipjack or visit the Blackwater National Wildlife Refuge and witness the diverse wildlife and shorebirds that inhabit the area. Explore Oxford, a charming coastal village and one of the oldest towns in America. Discover its rich maritime history, with houses dating back to the late 1600s, fascinating museums, and the original Oxford-Bellevue Ferry.
The Harriet Tubman Underground Railroad Visitor Center immerses visitors in Tubman’s world through informative, evocative, and emotive exhibits. The many captivating displays illustrate how the Choptank River region shaped her early years and the importance she held for faith, family, and community. The exhibits also feature information about Tubman’s life beginning with her childhood in Maryland, her emancipation from slavery, her time as a conductor on the Underground Railroad, and her continuous advocacy for justice.
Since the 1880s, skipjacks - a type of sailboat developed for oyster dredging - have sailed the Chesapeake Bay. There once were as many as 800 of these vessels, but fewer than two dozen of the original dredge boats remain today. Of these, only a handful still dredge for oysters, the last remnant of America's surviving commercial sailing fleet. Visit the skipjack Nathan for a unique opportunity to experience your own skipjack journey on Maryland's Eastern Shore. Sail on the scenic Choptank River, help raise her sails, or take a turn at the helm.
Take a short walk to visit the Choptank River Lighthouse. The lighthouse keeper will greet you upon arrival and speak about the history of this lighthouse, a replica of a historic lighthouse that once guided mariners along the Choptank River. Also featured is a mini-museum for you to explore.
A charming, tree-lined and water bound village with a population of less than 1,000, Oxford is one of the oldest towns in America with a long maritime history. Enjoy a walking tour led by a local guide who will narrate the history of this picturesque town from its founding in 1683 to its prominence as an international shipping center and beyond.
Stroll along the waterfront of St. Michaels, or peruse the charming gift shops and boutiques on tree-lined Talbot Street. As you dock at the Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum, once a famed shipbuilding village, get a glimpse into life in the 1800's.
This 18-acre waterfront museum, which is dedicated to furthering the understanding of the maritime heritage of the Chesapeake Bay area, features 10 exhibit buildings, a historic lighthouse, and a working boatyard. Docking right in the heart of the museum, American Cruise Lines’ passengers will enjoy a private tour of this fascinating museum.
Enjoy this amazing cruise which focuses on Chesapeake Bay’s history, ecology, and economics. During your journey, witness critters on an oyster reef and try your hand at water quality testing. Bird watchers will enjoy the route, known for its eagle and osprey population and heron rookery. Don’t forget your camera!
This 18th-century port pleasingly preserves its Colonial American charm. With city streets boasting thousands of historic buildings in several different architectural styles, Annapolis is often called a "museum without walls."
This vibrant city is also home to the United States Naval Academy, a National Historic Landmark.
Annapolis, the state capital of Maryland, was founded in 1649, served briefly as the nation's capital in 1783 and boasts more existing 18th century buildings than any other city in the country. Your one-hour trolley tour travels through the charming streets laid out in the 1690s while your guide introduces you to 350 years of Annapolis' living history, architecture and folklore. Along the way, you will see and hear about three homes of the signers of the Declaration of Independence.
The first U.S. Navy ships were launched in 1797 and were aptly named the United States, the Constellation, and the Constitution. In 1825, President John Quincy Adams advised Congress to establish a Naval Academy in order to adequately prepare officers for service. Twenty years later, in 1845, the Naval Academy was formed by George Bancroft, Secretary of the Navy, with a class of 50 midshipmen and seven professors. Explore the Academy's historic grounds with our expert guide and experience "life on the yard." Witness the noon meal formation and take in breathtaking views of the campus.
Please Note: Passengers will need a Photo ID in order to participate in this excursion.
Spend your day visiting Baltimore, one of America's finest cities. A number of excursions are available for you and your travel group, many related to Baltimore's deep maritime history. Make sure you tour the Baltimore Aquarium and Civil War Museum as well.
On this 8-day cruise through the Chesapeake Bay, explore charming seaport towns, visit historic cities that shaped our nation, and learn about the rich maritime heritage of the area. As you cruise through the “Crab Capital of the World,” savor the finest seafood you have ever tasted.
We carefully select onboard experts and performers to host enrichment programs that bring the local history, nature, and culture of the Chesapeake Bay to life.*
*Entertainment times, days, and performers are subject to change.
Our team of master chefs takes great pride in offering you a customized menu, featuring premium locally sourced and regionally inspired cuisine.
Sample Dinner Menu
Highlights of this 8-day journey include:
Aboard our modern small ships, there are many options for spectacular viewing.
American Star offers guests a friendly and accommodating atmosphere, a hallmark of American Cruise Lines.
From charming small towns to gracious ports, the American Star brings guests to places of historic interest and magnificent beauty. On board, enjoy personalized service and gracious hospitality provided by an attentive, all-American staff.
Experience complete comfort in this spacious private sanctuary where you can feel right at home. At 350 sq. ft. the Owner’s Suite is quite roomy and offers a full-size bathroom. Enjoy a large sitting area, a writing desk, closet, and a private balcony offering expansive views from a stunning vantage point.
These 283 sq. ft. staterooms are located on the top deck which provides privacy and great panoramic views. The living space is comparable to that of a fine hotel room and offers a writing desk, a closet, a full-size bathroom and a private balcony.
AAL staterooms are a spacious retreat with all the amenities a modern traveler expects. Each room offers 263 sq. ft. of space encompassing a full-size bathroom, a private balcony, and a large opening picture window.
AA Category staterooms are the perfect place to unwind after a day of exploration. Each 258 sq. ft. room has a large opening picture window with views of the passing scenery. The rooms also offer full-size bathrooms and plenty of closet space.
A category rooms are a quiet enclave for total relaxation. They come equipped with a full assortment of modern amenities and a large opening picture window. Each room is 258 sq. ft. and is ideal for cruising the inland waterways of the East Coast.
The intimate atmosphere of each Single stateroom is ideal for the solo traveler. At 248 sq. ft. each room has a twin bed, a full-size bathroom, a private balcony, and plenty of room to spread out and make yourself at home.
With the latest in navigation and safety technology, the Independence is fully stabilized, allowing American Cruise Lines to reach even more fascinating destinations in smooth comfort.
The ship is equipped with the largest staterooms in the industry, most featuring a private balcony. Complete with an exercise area and putting green, the Independence offers guests a relaxed and casual atmosphere.
Experience complete comfort in this spacious private sanctuary where you can feel right at home. At 350 sq. ft. the Owner’s Suite is quite roomy and features a full-size bathroom. Enjoy a large sitting area, writing desk, closet, and a private balcony offering expansive views from a stunning vantage point.
These staterooms are centrally located on the top deck which provides stunning panoramic views. Enjoy 283 sq. ft. of comfortable living space, comparable to a fine hotel room. All also offer private walk-out balconies and a generously sized bathroom.
AAL staterooms are a spacious retreat with all the amenities a modern traveler expects. Each room offers 263 sq. ft. of space encompassing a full-size bathroom and a private balcony with scenic views.
These comfortable staterooms located on the main deck offer 258 sq. ft. of living space and are a perfect place to unwind after a day of exploration. They feature full-size bathrooms, interior entrances, and large opening picture windows for scenic views.
Single staterooms offer the solo traveler a quiet enclave to rest and relax. At 248 sq. ft., our Single suites feature twin beds, spacious bathrooms, and your very own private balcony.
Located on the main deck, our Single staterooms offer guests 207 sq. ft. of space with premium beds, spacious bathrooms, and an opening picture window with private views.
American Cruise Lines is proud to announce the newest addition to our expanding fleet of small cruise ships, the American Constitution. Designed with elegance in mind, this brand new coastal cruise ship will carry a capacity of just 175 guests and is uniquely designed to navigate the inland coastal waterways of the East Coast.
In the intimate atmosphere on board, guests will find the largest staterooms in the industry, spacious lounges, as well as observation decks and private balconies that offer spectacular views of the passing landscapes.
At up to 450 sq. ft., the American Constitution Owner's Suites are both spacious and elegantly appointed. Located on a private deck, each secluded suite offers our distinguished travelers amazing views from the private walk-out balcony. The well-furnished suites come fully equipped and offer a sitting area, writer’s desk, sliding glass door, and full-size bathroom.
With a generous up to 450 sq. ft. of relaxing space, each Veranda suite includes a private walk-out balcony to enjoy the panoramic views. Considered one of the finest staterooms on any cruise ship, guests will enjoy full-size bathrooms and large living area with sliding glass door.
At 368 sq. ft., our AAM staterooms are designed to offer the privacy you desire while cruising. Located on the fourth deck, these spacious staterooms are elegantly furnished and feature floor-to-ceiling sliding glass doors that lead to a private walk-out balcony where the grandness of the East Coast scenery can be enjoyed.
Featuring the most modern amenities, our spacious AAC staterooms offer the perfect retreat for travelers. With over 350 sq. ft., each stateroom offers all of the comforts of a fine hotel and is configured to maximize the interior living space. These stateroom also feature full sliding glass doors and a private walk-out balcony which provides spectacular panoramic views of the surrounding scenery.
Our AAL staterooms offer all the comforts of home and amazing panoramic views. At 350 sq. ft. each room includes an interior entrance, expansive private walk-out balcony, and a large sitting area. These staterooms are the perfect sanctuary to relax in after a day of exploration.
Centrally located, these 302 sq. ft. staterooms offer amazing views and easy access to the lounge areas. You will enjoy the expansive views out of your own large opening picture window. Each room comes equipped with a large closet and hotel-size bathrooms.
Solo travelers will find relaxing comfort in our Single staterooms complete with a walk-out private balcony. Enjoy one of the largest Single staterooms in the industry at 238 sq. ft., featuring a comfortable twin bed, large sliding glass door, and spacious full-size bathrooms.
Find modern amenities and relaxing comfort in our 226 sq. ft. Single staterooms. With a large picture window, twin beds and sizable bathrooms, these Single staterooms are perfect for solo travelers.
Cruise the scenic Chesapeake Bay with American Cruise Lines this fall and enjoy picturesque views during peak foliage from Baltimore to Annapolis. Delight your palate with fresh seafood from the "Blue Crab Capital of the World," as you pass shipwrights, marinas, and lighthouses, gliding into ports accessible only to small cruise ships. Immerse yourself in the colonial heritage of Yorktown and Williamsburg, and enjoy a guided tour of U.S. the Naval Academy, located in the heart of historic Annapolis.
Cruise the scenic Chesapeake Bay and delight your palate with fresh seafood from the "Blue Crab Capital of the World". On our 8-day Chesapeake Bay Crabfest cruise, you will sample tasty blue crab while learning about the culinary and economic importance of these Callinectes sapidus, or "beautiful swimmers."
* Prices displayed are per person based on double occupancy.
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