River Cruises in Florida

Journey Through America’s Tropical Waterways

River cruising in Florida offers a unique blend of scenic landscapes, relaxed pace, and deep-rooted history. Glide past moss-draped cypress trees, anchor off charming towns like Palatka and Amelia Island, and taste the flavors of the Old South in historic riverfront communities. Whether you’re tracing the footsteps of early Spanish explorers or birdwatching in coastal estuaries, every bend in the river brings a discovery.

From short weekend getaways to more extended immersive expeditions, Florida’s river cruises invite you to slow down, unplug, and savor the experience. The serene rhythm of life on the water combined with world-class cuisine, small-group excursions, and intimate ships creates a truly unforgettable journey through the Sunshine State.

Major Rivers for Cruising in Florida

Saint Johns River

The Saint Johns River is Florida’s longest river and one of only a few in North America that flows north. Stretching over 310 miles, it begins in the marshes near Vero Beach and winds its way to the Atlantic Ocean at Jacksonville. This slow-moving waterway is rich in history and ecological diversity, offering serene cruising conditions and access to some of Florida’s oldest and most historic settlements.

Jacksonville

Florida’s largest city by area, Jacksonville, combines vibrant urban life with natural riverfront beauty—cruise ships dock downtown, where guests can explore riverside parks, museums, and the arts district. Culinary experiences include seafood fresh from the Atlantic and Southern-fusion menus in riverside bistros.

Palatka

This quaint town is a window into old Florida, where time slows and hospitality runs deep. Known for its historic homes and the scenic Ravine Gardens State Park, Palatka is a popular stop on Saint Johns River cruises. Watch manatees swim beneath your boat or join a guided tour through oak-lined streets.

Green Cove Springs

Home to natural springs and a nostalgic riverfront promenade, Green Cove Springs offers a tranquil stop surrounded by nature. Stroll the historic district or soak in the views from Spring Park while enjoying a slower pace of life.

Astor

Nestled in the Ocala National Forest, Astor is a paradise for nature lovers. River cruises often include kayaking excursions or wildlife-viewing tours in this untouched part of Central Florida. The Saint Johns River here feels almost primordial, wrapped in wild palms and hanging moss.

Sanford

Near Lake Monroe, Sanford serves as a hub for arts, history, and nightlife. Explore antique shops, local breweries, or join a walking tour of its preserved 19th-century downtown. Its vibrant marina makes it a perfect launching point for day cruises.

Intracoastal Waterway (ICW)

Stretching more than 1,200 miles from Norfolk, Virginia, to Key West, Florida, the Intracoastal Waterway (ICW) is a vital passageway for cruisers seeking calm, protected routes. In Florida, it hugs the Atlantic coast, passing through salt marshes, barrier islands, and vibrant coastal towns. With its tranquil waters and scenic shorelines, the ICW is ideal for leisurely small-ship cruises.

Amelia Island

With its mossy oaks and Victorian architecture, Amelia Island is a coastal gem steeped in Southern charm. Cruises often begin or end here, offering access to pristine beaches, historic forts, and luxurious inns. Don’t miss the shrimp and grits or a ghost tour through Fernandina Beach.

St. Augustine

As the oldest city in the U.S., St. Augustine offers a captivating blend of colonial Spanish history and coastal beauty. Step ashore to explore the iconic Castillo de San Marcos or wander cobblestone streets lined with cafes, boutiques, and galleries.

Daytona Beach

Known for its beaches and motorsports, Daytona Beach also boasts a picturesque stretch of the ICW. River cruises offer a quieter take on this lively destination, with access to waterfront parks and inlets rich in dolphins.

Cocoa

Set near the Indian River Lagoon, Cocoa is a launchpad for excursions to the Kennedy Space Center. Many cruises linger here to explore the natural beauty of the Banana River or enjoy historic Cocoa Village’s riverside ambiance.

Palm Beach

Further south, Palm Beach offers a glamorous chapter of ICW cruising. Think luxury shopping, art museums, and Gilded Age mansions nestled against turquoise waters. It’s the perfect blend of sophistication and shoreline scenery.

Themed and Length-Based Itineraries

Short Cruises (3–5 Days)

Perfect for weekend travelers or first-time cruisers, short Florida river cruises typically focus on one region—like the Saint Johns River loop from Jacksonville to Palatka, or a coastal circuit between Amelia Island and St. Augustine. These cruises blend nature outings, historical sightseeing, and relaxing deck time.

Medium Cruises (6–9 Days)

These mid-length itineraries offer deeper immersion. A weeklong Saint Johns River cruise might sail from Sanford to Jacksonville, passing through Green Cove Springs, Astor, and Palatka with enriching excursions in each port. On the ICW, guests might sail from Cocoa to St. Augustine, discovering barrier islands, lighthouses, and local cuisine along the way.

Long Cruises (10+ Days)

Extended journeys often combine rivers and coastal waterways, such as a full Florida ICW cruise from Fernandina Beach to Miami, or a hybrid route between the Saint Johns River and Everglades estuaries. These itineraries emphasize regional cuisine, wildlife safaris, and deep cultural exploration through museums, Native American heritage sites, and historic architecture.

Special Interest Cruises

• Wine & Culinary Cruises: Savor Southern delicacies, sample local seafood, and attend chef-led cooking demos on board. Stops in cities like Jacksonville and Palm Beach highlight regional flavors.
• Art & History Cruises: These itineraries focus on St. Augustine, Palatka, and Green Cove Springs, with expert-led tours of forts, art galleries, and archaeological sites.
• Nature & Wildlife Cruises: Journey through the marshlands near Astor or the Indian River Lagoon, with birding walks, manatee sightings, and eco-excursions.
• Holiday Cruises: Celebrate the festive season with themed décor, live music, and visits to towns featuring Christmas parades and riverfront lights, such as Fernandina and Cocoa Village.

Life Onboard: The Florida River Cruise Experience

Ship Sizes and Ambiance

Most river cruise ships in Florida are small and intimate, accommodating 20 to 100 guests. This creates a relaxed atmosphere, with panoramic lounges, open-air decks, and a focus on personalized service. The shallow draft allows access to hidden ports and protected inlets unreachable by larger vessels.

Cuisine and Wine

Expect a culinary experience that’s locally sourced and regionally inspired. Many cruises offer seasonal menus featuring Gulf Coast seafood, Southern comfort classics, and desserts infused with Florida citrus. Onboard wine lists often highlight regional vineyards and pairings for multi-course dinners.

Excursions and Enrichment

Daily shore excursions are curated for cultural immersion. Join a historian in St. Augustine, paddle a kayak through the Ocklawaha tributary, or take a guided culinary tour of Palatka. Onboard enrichment includes expert lectures, cooking demonstrations, and regional music performances.

Something for Everyone

• Couples – Romantic, slow-paced cruises with scenic views, gourmet dining, and cultural charm
• Solo Travelers – Welcoming ambiance, small-group tours, and no-pressure social settings
• Families – Educational stops, wildlife tours, and engaging cultural outings for multigenerational groups
• Luxury Seekers – Boutique vessels with elegant staterooms, attentive service, and curated excursions

Set Sail into Florida’s Hidden Soul

"A Florida river cruise isn’t just about the destination—it’s about the journey through time, tides, and tradition. From the Spanish forts of St. Augustine to the cypress wetlands of the Saint Johns, each mile of water reveals a new layer of the state’s rich story. Relax, explore, and rediscover the Sunshine State from the water."