You can see Cumberland Island's shoreline and hear the stories behind it without paddling or steering anything yourself on a narrated tour with Amelia River Cruises & Charters. Kevin and Cecilia McCarthy started the company in the summer of 2000. Cecilia's family has lived on these shores for nine generations, lighthouse keepers and harbor pilots among them, and the narration covers pirates, the Civil War, the shrimping industry and families like the Carnegies.
The public cruises:
- Cumberland Island Tour (2.5 hours): the long history and wildlife route, watching for wild horses, dolphins and shorebirds.
- Cumberland Coastal Tour (1.5 hours): a shorter, relaxed version that works for all ages.
- Cumberland Sound Sunset Tour (1 hour): March through November.
- Adult Twilight BYOB Cruise (2 hours): live music and no narration, March through October.
- Shrimping Eco Tour (1.5 hours): hands-on, helping the crew haul an otter trawl net. The company says it reopens to the public in June 2027.
The boats range from the six-passenger Gail Force II to the Princess Amelia, a 120-passenger double-decker. Every boat is Coast Guard inspected, has a restroom and is covered, with clear windows that zip closed in rain. Leashed pets are welcome, and you can bring your own food and drinks, alcohol included. Tours run rain or shine, and bookings become final 24 hours after purchase unless you add trip protection.
One change for now: during the marina construction, which the company expects to run from after Labor Day 2026 through January 2028, the ticket kiosk has moved from 1 North Front Street to Parking Lot B on South Front Street, across the tracks from the Hampton Inn. Arrive 30 minutes early, since boarding starts 15 minutes before departure and downtown parking is paid by the hour. The Palace Saloon and the rest of historic downtown are a short walk away. If you're planning a wedding, memorial or company outing on a private charter, concierge service can pull the surrounding logistics together.