Now a chic and sophisticated city, Fort Lauderdale is lined with promenades for leisurely strolls, canals and waterways reminiscent of Venice, grand yachts, and stylish seaside cafes and bistros. And of course, its reputation of beaches and nightlife have drawn crowds from around the world.

Fort Myers is an enticing pearl on the Gulf of Florida. The scintillating turquoise water, warmed by a watchful sun, laps the gleaming beaches and awakens the laid-back nature in all of us. The historic district and riverfront walkway provide delightful diversions. The regional center of activity, Fort Myers calls to sunbathers and golfers alike.

Miami and its surrounding beaches sparkle with a cosmopolitan flair – unbelievable shopping, dazzling nightlife, and beach upon golden beach. With kid friendly attractions like the Seaquarium and Parrot Island Jungle mixed in with gourmet restaurants and trendy nightclubs, Miami is great for both families and couples.

This sophisticated beach town caters to the finer things in life. The colorfully ornate mansions that line the beachfront, along with the fine dining and elegant boutiques, all contribute to the ambiance. Romantic beaches, moonlit strolls, and carefree days all characterize this laid-back Gulf town.

More than 95 theme parks jam-packed with thrills and excitement – it’s no wonder why Orlando is the world’s #1 family vacation destination. Experience the magic of the Walt Disney World Theme Parks, and then ride the attractions and go behind the scenes at Universal Studios. See the Shamu show at SeaWorld, and discover the secrets of NASA at Kennedy Space Center – there are so many choices you can visit a different theme park everyday of the week.

Known for its city scrapers, Tampa is more then its business veneer. The kid-friendly Busch Gardens Africa, historic district of Ybor City, and downtown museums, make this metropolis a pleasant sidetrip from the miles of beaches.

Palm Beach County is sunny playground that offers the very best of fun in the sun. With over 47 miles of white sand beaches, Palm Beach enjoys mild tropical weather year-round. Whether you want to take part in activities like boating and diving, or simply sit back and watch sports like baseball, Palm Beach has something for everyone.

Days 1 & 2: St. Augustine, FL & Cruise Embarkment

St. Augustine, America’s oldest European settlement, is a charming historical town replete with a 17th century fort and city gates. Follow your guide through the 18th century Spanish Quarter as she expounds on the unique architecture and balconied houses left by the Spanish Empire. View the exquisite architecture of the Gonzalez-Alvarez House and the walled gardens near the Plaza de la Constitucion. At the end of the day, set sail on your cruise.

Day 3: Amelia Island, FL

With its pristine beauty, temperate climate, and calm waters, it is no wonder that Amelia Island was once the vacation destination of America’s rich and famous. During the 19th century Fernandina Beach was a vibrant Victorian seaport and was residence to fourteen foreign consuls; today it holds quaint historical gems. Enjoy a walking tour of the Victorian-style mansions and cottages in Centre Street.

Day 4: Georgia’s Golden Isles: Jekyll Island & St. Simons Island

Your next stop is Jekyll Island, once location of the richest, most exclusive, and most inaccessible club in the world. During the 19th century, wealthy industrialists and financiers such as the Rockefellers and Pulitzers came to Jekyll Island to enjoy its mild winters. Rediscover the opulent Jekyll Island Club Hotel, Millionaire’s Row, and Tiffany window of Faith Chapel.

Continue onto St. Simons Island, where Vice President Aaron Burr sought refuge after his duel with Alexander Hamilton. Visit the St. Simons Lighthouse, Christ Church, Retreat Plantation, and Fort Frederica on a trolley tour.

Day 5: Scenic Cruise

Cruise through the isolated Low Country toward Savannah on the Atlantic Intracoastal Waterway, passing the beautiful southern coastal scenery. Cruise through Little Mud River, Old Teakettle Creek, and Skidaway Narrows before docking in Savannah.

Day 6: Savannah, GA

Recognized as America’s first planned city, Savannah is a living museum. Explore the monumental historic district, where cobblestone streets are shaded by oaks and lined with wrought iron fences that predate the Civil War. Tour the over 800 historical buildings, vibrantly colored in hues of pink, red, blue, and green.

Day 7: Beaufort, SC & the Intracoastal Waterway

Cruise from Savannah through Ramshorn Cut, Calibogue Sound, and Skull Creek to Beaufort. Ride a horse-drawn carriage led by members of the local historical society, touring Beaufort’s century-old homes, the historic St. Helena Episcopal Church, and other buildings in this tree-shaded community listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

Day 8: Charleston, SC

Beautiful Charleston is the epitome of Southern Antebellum days. Narrow cobblestone streets are lined with stately homes, and the historic district is replete with colorfully painted pre-Revolutionary War structures and 18th century buildings with iron work embellishments. Highlights include 18th century Rainbow Row, the neoclassical Nathaniel Russel House, and the 1738 Drayton Hall Plantation.

Day 9: Journey Home

After a hearty southern breakfast, disembark from your cruise ship and transfer to the airport for a safe flight home.