Cruisin' Amelia & Cumberland

Amelia River Cruises Team Lauds New Captain!

2011-12-07T17:35:00.000-08:00

There’s a new captain in Northeast Florida! Amelia River Cruises, historic and wildlife sightseeing boat tour operator, is excited to announce Marketing Director and Tour Narrator Lori Hoerl has completed the requirements necessary to obtain a 50-ton master’s inland captain license and the designation of captain. She is now acquiring more time on the water and other vessels to earn an upgrade to 100-ton master's inland designation.

The criteria for the license includes passing a Coast Guard exam, logging 360 days on the water with a minimum of four hours a day, and passing a physical examination and a first-aid exam.

Along with her roles at Amelia River Cruises, Hoerl was recently hired as captain for the Fernandina Harbor Pilot Association, where she transports harbor pilots to and from ships coming into and out of the local port. “It’s a nice contrast to the marketing world,” said Hoerl. “The challenge of pilot boat work requires the ability to sail in all kinds of weather and difficult conditions, and having to incorporate every imaginable boat handling skill everyday on the job.”

Sailing is a relative new world for Hoerl, who joined Amelia River Cruises three years ago. A Baltimore native, she moved to New York City to study opera and spent 17 years singing, acting and dancing. Hoerl relocated to Florida to pursue a simpler life and milder climate.

After learning the history, exploring the nature and experiencing firsthand the rustic beauty of Northeast Florida, she found a new passion and career. Hoerl is now an integral part of Amelia River Cruises, which offers narrated wildlife and history tours, as well as private charters and special sailings year-round.

“Lori’s passion for the water and love for the history and nature of the area, matched with her innate ability as a performer and entertainer, make her a natural fit at Amelia River Cruises,” said Owner Captain Kevin McCarthy. “We are extremely proud of her recent achievement as a licensed captain and are thrilled to have her as part of our team.”

Want to book your adventure aboard an Amelia River Cruise? Visit http://www.ameliarivercruises.com/ or contact Marketing Director Lori Hoerl at (904) 321-7372 or lorbell1@aol.com.

Georgia Florida Madness Comes to Amelia River Cruises

2011-10-28T09:12:00.001-07:00

It's that time of year again when the Gators and Bulldogs go at it in one of the longest-running college football rivalries in college sports history. The weatherman says our balmy 80 degree weather will turn 70-ish and bring on the cooler air that makes football that much more exciting and energizing to football fans.

Amelia River Cruises knows this is not just a football game but a weekend-long party as fans of both teams celebrate their respective college's history and legacy in this sports event.

To liven up things and get folks warmed up for Saturday's game, Amelia River Cruises will offer its Twilight Cruise - a two-hour sunset BYOB cruise geared toward adults only. Bring your favorite food and beverages and kick back while you enjoy the best sunset north of Key West, set to the tunes of live, local entertainers.

A MUST for those hangin' on Amelia Island and getting in the mood for the big game.

Visit us on the web at www.ameliarivercruises.com to purchase your tickets now or call 904-261-9972 for time of departure, to purchase tickets or for more information. Gators and Bulldogs welcome! :)

Fall on Amelia River Cruises - Abundance, Adventure, and Memories Galore!

2011-09-28T09:22:00.000-07:00

As the heat dies off and that wonderful breezy, crisp air returns to northeast Florida, Amelia River Cruises continues to offer an abundance of tours that bring you face-to-face with dolphins, exotic birds, wild horses and much, much more.

With an expanded menu of tours, families, adults, and children of all ages can find the perfect trip to encounter the rustically beautiful landscape and wonderful wildlife that make northeast Florida and southeast Georgia such a unique place to live and visit.

If you've been on one of our regular tours and you're looking for a new adventure, try one of our Eco-Tours with our marine biologist or, perhaps, a day-long excursion aboard one of our three Discovery Tours offered in the fall and spring of each year.

Our Eco-Tours are hands-on, interactive, and family-friendly offering the opportunity to drag an authentic Otter Trawl shrimp net, view the catch, and then learn of what we've discovered from our marine biologist. Then watch as we release the catch back into the wild.

Our Discovery Tours are unique day-long excursions offering all-inclusive packages to unique destinations throughout northeast Florida and southeast Georgia including Jekyll Island, St. Augustine, and Kingsley Plantation/Ft. Caroline. All include a narrated sail from Fernandina Harbor Marina by our owner, Captain Kevin McCarthy, lunch at a unique location, and an afternoon of history through live re-enactments, docent-guided tours, and/or self-guided tours.

Return transportation is provided via charter bus.

Our regular, daily tours continue to offer the local history, folklore, and flavor of Amelia and Cumberland Islands with views of spectacular wildlife and scenic views along the way.

ADULTS!!! Don't miss out on our BYOB Twilight Sunset Cruise especially for adults offering a two-hour sunset cruise with live, local entertainment and spectacular sunsets. No better way to kick back, relax and take it all in at the end of the day.

Check out our new website at http://www.ameliarivercruises.com/.

3rd Annual Rollin' on the River on Amelia River Cruises!

2011-08-17T10:26:00.000-07:00

What a great chance to give back to the local community and take in some of the most beautiful views of the wildlife and landscape that make northeat Florida and southeast Georgia so unique.

The 3rd anual Rollin' on the River to benefit our local Meals on Wheels for Pets returns to Amelia River Cruises Sunday, September 18, 2011. This year will feature a Twilight/Sunset Cruise with wine, food and live, local entertainment by Gray Edenfield and Dan Voll.

This two-hour sunset, music cruise departs Fernandina Harbor Marina at 6:30 p.m., returning 8:30 pm. Come enjoy good music, good food, and a spectacular sunset as you help raise funds for Meals on Wheels for Pets and support the elderly and their companions in our local community.

Tickets are $30 and include your sail, food, wine and two drink specials at local bars with presentation of your Amelia River Cruise ticket. Show your ticket at Cafe Karibo and get 50% off your first drink. Get $2 off your first drink at Indigo Alley. (must redeem the night of your cruise)

Tickets are available online now at http://www.ameliarivercruises.com/ or by visiting our ticket office downtown at the foot of Centre Street, to the right of Brett's Waterway Cafe as you face the boats. No phone calls please!

Meals on Wheels for Pets is a community, volunteer-based, registered charity that, for two years now, has provided food and healthcare for the needy pets of elderly and/or disadvantaged seniors of Nassau County receiving meals through the Meals on Wheels program run by the Nassau County Council on Aging.

During this time they have delivered nearly 10 tons of food, provided spay/neuter services for over 50 animals, and healthcare exams for numerous others. Your donation will support these services to ensure these pets remain in their homes, continuing to provide the love and companionship their owners depend upon each day. Visit them online at http://www.mow4petsnassau.com/ or contact them at 352-284-6106.

Rain date is scheduled for Sunday, September 25, 2011 (6-8 p.m. cruise).

Amelia River Cruises Discovery Tours are Back!!

2011-08-03T15:48:00.000-07:00

Don't forget the fall brings the return of our Discovery Tours - day-long excursions to unique destinations throughout southeast Georgia and northeast Florida. Every tour is personally hosted and narrated by owner, Captain Kevin McCarthy, and includes an all-inclusive day of sailing, lunch, historic tours of the destination and return via charter bus.

This fall we offer St. Augustine, Jekyll Island and Kingsley Plantation/Ft. Caroline. Check out the details and pricing at www.ameliarivercruises.com or to book your tickets online now!

www.ameliarivercruises.com / 904-261-9972

Twilight Cruises Just Keep Getting Better!

2011-06-19T09:12:00.001-07:00

What a great time we're having on the river with our Twilight BYOB Adult-Oriented Cruises! Fantastic music, fun people, and everyone just kickin' back, chillin' out, getting to know each other and drinking in the sunsets and rustically beautiful landscape and wildlife that make Amelia and Cumberland so magical!

Thanks to Larry LeMier for setting such a fun mood on the Saturday trip this week. Total strangers became friends and the river was filled with classic Clapton, Beatles, Allman Brothers and more! Couldn't ask for more to end a day...book online now at http://www.ameliarivercruises.com/.

The Music of the Night...

2011-06-10T09:13:00.000-07:00

Twilight Cruises are filling the river sounds of smooth Latin, jazz and easy rock tunes set against a backdrop of salt marshes, open air, spectacular sunsets and wildlife galore!

The gentle, giant manatees are back and the dolphins are dancing in the waves with new babies and playful grace as they spyhop our customers. Baby horses, Osprey, Great White Egrets, Great Blue Herons, Snowy Egrets and burning rainbows of color in the sky continue to dazzle our customers as they kick back and enjoy the mellow, easy end of day our Twilight Cruises have brought to Amelia.

Come hang out with us from 7-9 p.m. with your beverage of choice and snacks. Kick back, take in the sights and sing along with live, local entertainment every night through August 31st. Book online to save time at http://www.ameliarivercruises.com/ or call the office to reserve your seats at 904-261-9972.

More Great Photos from May!

2011-06-01T13:42:00.001-07:00

New Schedule Offers More Chances to See Our Amazing Wildlife and Landscape

2011-06-01T13:30:00.000-07:00

Hard to imagine making a living seeing dolphins, wild horses, alligators, manatees, exotics birds and much, much more! But here on Amelia River Cruises we're expanding our schedule to include four daily narrated, historic and wildlife sightseeing cruises through end of summer!

Newly added Eco-Tours are here! Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to noon, June 1 - August 31st! Explore the wetlands and magical backwaters that make up the Eco System of northeast Florida and see an authentic Otter Trawl Shrimp net demonstration.

Also newly added...seven nights a week - June 1 - August 31st - Twilight Adult-Oriented BYOB cruises offer live, local entertainment and a sunset that rivals Key West! Drink specials for local bars after your cruise included with purchase of your ticket. Departs nightly at 7 p.m.; returning at 9 p.m.

Check out the artist line up and other tour information at www.ameliarivercruises.com!

Amelia River Cruises Expands Its Schedule - Check out May Discoveries!!!

2011-06-01T13:16:00.000-07:00

Limited Seating - April 19th - 10:30 a.m. 2 hour Tour

2011-04-11T19:42:00.000-07:00

Due to private charters, we'll have only 40 seats for our 2-hour 10:30 a.m. cruise on Tuesday, April 19, 2011. First-come; first-serve basis, reservations are recommended. Call early to enjoy this spring of amazing wildlife! Baby #5 - Addison born just this past Saturday!

Things are Heating Up on the River!

2011-03-30T13:11:00.000-07:00

With spring in full swing on the river, we are so lucky to see the newborns arriving! Three baby horses and counting on Cumberland - Ethan, Ryan and Sophie! Baby dolphins everywhere and now even more tours for folks to come and experience the magic we see everyday. New ferry service to dinner at Oyster Bay! - on select Saturday evenings throughout 2011, join owner, Captain Kevin McCarthy, as we shuttle you over to Oyster Bay Yacht Club for a relaxing dinner before you return under the stars, hosted by Kevin as well. Visit www.ameliarivercruises.com for more details. White Oak Annual Celebration - ferry with Captain Kevin out of Fernandina Beach Harbor Marina on Sunday, April 10th, and arrive at 1 p.m. to enjoy the day's festivities, delicious dinner and trolley ride home on Amelia Island Trolleys. Call our office for more details or visit our website at www.ameliarivercruises.com. And don't miss out on our new summer Eco-Tours, beginning June 1st and running through August 31st this year. Join Kevin and naturalist/expert Andrea Margiotta as they take you on a 3-hour guided tour through the unique backwaters and drag an authentic Otter Trawl shrimp net. Passengers will learn about the flora and fauna, and view the sea life we drag up, as Andrea gives her expert narration on what we find before releasing the sea creatures back into the wild. More details are posted on our home page at www.ameliarivercruises.com. Two sneak peak tours open to the public for Eco-Tours - Thursday, April 7, and Saturday, April 16th. Don't miss out!

Two New Babies and More on the River!!!

2011-03-08T17:22:00.000-08:00

What an exciting weekend! Early arrivals with baby horse #1 - Ethan (beautiful thick white blaze down his face!), followed by #2 - Ryan (also a thick white blaze down his face)!...someone's dad/Stallion has been busy :) !!!

An official "challenge" of the Stallions on the south end beach of Cumberland as two beautiful stallion got up on their hind legs, kicked at each other and continuously circled each other to win those females! 2011 promises to be full of new finds!

Spring Has Sprung on Amelia River Cruises!

2011-02-28T09:30:00.000-08:00

Spring has definitely arrived on Amelia River Cruises! Our first baby horse on Cumberland Island - Ethan, three weeks old and still curious enough to stare at our passengers as we sail by. A stunning horse - has a beautifully thick, almost mask-like white blaze down his face.

First alligator spotted in front of the Greyfield Inn along the Cumberland River, with baby dolphins popping up along our journeys.

Lots of new tours coming this Spring and Summer too! New three-hour Eco-Tours slated for June - August, with an additional afternoon tour as well. Keep your eyes open for our newly-launched Discovery Tours, offering fun and informative day excursions to unique destinations throughout southeast Georgia and northeast Florida.

Beginning March 1st, we are 7 days a week at Amelia River Cruises, with ferry service between Fernandina Beach and St. Marys, GA by special request with 48 hour advance notice for groups on foot of 20 or more; cycling groups of 6 or more with bikes.

New web site almost ready for launching - check it out mid-March at http://www.ameliarivercruises.com/!

2010-10-06T18:34:00.000-07:00

Hard to imagine anything more beautiful or inspiring than seeing 14 new foals born into the wild on the beaches of Cumberland Island National Seashore; let alone the rustically beautiful landscape that is northeast Florida and southeast Georgia.

New baby dolphins, more Osprey than we've seen in a while and a few spectacular Bald Eagles that promise that, perhaps, our environment might be "hangin' in"...

Here's to a fantastic summer of 2010 and hopes that winter 2010/2011 will be kinder than the last!

Meals on Wheels for Pets - Rollin on the River #2...

2010-08-13T12:14:00.000-07:00

Come join us for a beautiful sunset, good food, wine and lots of great memories as Amelia River Cruises presents the 2nd annual Meals on Wheels for Pets "Rollin' on the River" sail.

This year we're offering a sunset sail on Sunday, September 12, from 6:30 - 8:30 p.m. Food and beverages will be offered beginning 6 p.m. on the dock with a narrated history and views of Amelia and Cumberland Islands along the way.

Come share a spectacular sunset, views of the wild horses of Cumberland Island, and the hospitality and humor of our Amelia River Cruises staff.

Email Lori Hoerl, Director of Marketing, at lorbell1@aol.com or call 904-321-7372.

Amelia River Cruises Spots Baby #14 - Casey!

2010-08-13T11:54:00.000-07:00

It doesn't get much better than sailing under a bright blue sky with a nice breeze and open space all around you, only to spot just a few feet in front of you...a newborn foal - #14 this year for us at Amelia River Cruises.

Born into absolute freedom, Casey now joins the wild horses of Cumberland Island National Seashore as seen here hangin' with her new mom. Precious!

Kevin McCarthy, Owner, Named Elderhostel Road Scholar

2010-07-31T18:24:00.000-07:00

All the crew send congrats to our owner, Kevin, for being named one of Elderhostel Program's Featured Road Scholars.

Designed to highlight extraordinary lecturers and instructors, the Elderhostel Program has recognized Kevin as a specialist in sharing his unique knowledge of wildlife, the shrimping industry, and the rich history and rustic beauty that define southeast Georgia and northeast Florida.

Kevin grew up in Gloucester, Massachusetts and settled in Fernandina Beach in 1968. He has spent 41 years sailing the waters of northeast Florida and southeast Georgia. He holds a 100 ton master’s license and developed his knowledge of the wildlife and history of this region exploring the waters that surround Amelia Island, Cumberland Island and St. Marys, Georgia.

Generations of Kevin’s family have been shrimpers, and he shares with participants his knowledge of shrimp farming and the future of the shrimping industry in the U.S.
Kevin considers himself a lifelong learner and thrives on the opportunities each day brings to explore new and familiar territory with passengers who share each respective journey.

Congrats again boss...

Babies Galore!!!

2010-07-12T11:43:00.000-07:00

What a great spring and summer we've had on the river....

15 new babies born on Cumberland Island, scores of baby dolphins and some of the most spectacular sunsets you can imagine!

How much better can life get than drinking in sunshine, waves, and new life beginning in the wild??? - life IS good!!!

Amelia River Cruises Sunset Cruise Specials Have Arrived!

2010-06-11T12:50:00.000-07:00

Check it out! Starting Monday, June 14, 2010 through year end 2010 Amelia River Cruises will offer a coupon to any passengers purchasing a sunset cruise ticket.

Coupon entitles you to:

Philly Cheese Steak, fries and a soda for $10 ($15 value) at Philly Boyz
Free well drink, beer, or house wine with the purchase of any appetizer or meal at O'Kanes
Free smoked fish dip appetizer with the purchase of any dinner at the Crab Trap

Come join uson the River!

A beautiful thing

2010-06-06T15:20:00.000-07:00

Sometimes, it's amazing how spectacular and unique each sunset around Amelia Island can be. Sometimes there is a horse to share the sight, sometimes other things lurking not far off, but always there is such wonderful peace to the end of day on Amelia...

Amelia River Cruises 4th of July Fireworks Sail!

2010-06-03T08:29:00.000-07:00

Come out and join us on Sunday, July 4th, at 9 p.m. and see the fireworks off the coast of Fernandina Harbor Marina up close and personal. Three vessels will allow 178 passengers to enjoy the fireworks of both Fernandina Beach and St. Marys, GA. Bring your pets, food and beverage of your choice (alcoholic and non-alcoholic allowed) and make an evening of it.

Reservations are recommended, but not required. Call 904-261-9972. $10 per person plus sales tax.

Spring Has Sprung on the Amelia River!

2010-05-13T14:33:00.000-07:00

With warmer temps finally stickin' around, we've seen 9 new foals born on the beaches of Cumberland Island, lots of manatees, and now we're gearing up for new children's shrimping tours and kayaking trips!

Check out our home page for ongoing specials on sunset cruises, extended day trips and more!

www.ameliarivercruises.com / call us at 904-261-9972

Horses, Dolphins and More!

2010-04-17T15:32:00.000-07:00

Spring has definitely sprung on Amelia Island. Baby dolphins, five new foals, alligators and a returning Osprey couple have been spotted. We can't wait to see the manatees soon!

Also, much to our delight, we were joined by Lola and Frankie, two stunningly beautiful Golden Retrievers who slept a little, socialized a little and won over everyone aboard.

Next up, Shrimp Fest! Come join us - all day on the hour; every hour ferry service out of St. Marys, Georgia 9-5 p.m. Sat 5/1; 9-4 p.m. Sunday 5/2.

Catch Captain Pajama Dave as he returns in his sporty coconut bra and grass skirt. A sight to be seen for sure.

An Amazing Day of Beauty and Inspiration!

2010-03-29T18:46:00.000-07:00

What a day we had...first a new foal, Riley, a stunning all-white new baby horse born on the beaches of Cumberland Island.

Then another and another, a total of probably 12 or more wild horses on Cumberland Island today. Cormorants, great egrets, snowy egrets, a great Blue Heron and dolphins decorated our journey throughout the salt marshes that line Beech Creek on this precious wilderness island.

Then the sunset, burning pinkish orange mirrored by an equally stunning full moon. We greeted a submarine on its way out to the Atlantic and were accompanied by Athena, a 5 month old Pit Bull who slepts as we made our way home.

Check out our website, Facebook page and blogs soon for Frankie and Lola, two canine Golden's who sailed with us the other day, and a few special shots of the tranquility that is Cumberland Island with its dancing dolphins and wild horses in their element.

Follow us folks and come join us someday!

On the Hour; Every Hour Ferry Service to Shrimp Festival 2010...

2010-03-23T20:28:00.000-07:00

Save the hassles of traffic, parking, etc.

Ferry over on our boats at $20 roundtrip per person and arrive at the foot of Centre Street in downtown, Fernandina Beach, FL, to enjoy a day of festivities and return to your car in St. Marys, GA.

First boat service is 9 a.m. running all day.

Call for schedule at 904-261-9972.

Amelia River Cruises Opens Up Season to Children's Tours

2010-03-23T20:26:00.000-07:00

Check out our new children's tours - Eco/Exploration, History or Shrimping History/Demo Tours Available for Summer Camps, Schools Groups and beyond.

Contact Lori Hoerl, Marketing Director, at 904-491-7617 for more details, schedules and pricing.

Kevin McCarthy Receives 2 Nominations in Chamber Awards!

2010-03-23T20:24:00.000-07:00

Congrats, Captain Kevin!

We applaud your tireless dedication to building the business community, fostering the preservation of the rich history of northeast Florida and southeast Georgia, as well as being such a sincere, ethical boss to work for.

Your nominations for Medium Business of the Year and the Inaugural Business Leader of the Year clearly recognize your lifetime of dedication to building a community we can be proud of, preserve and savor.

We love you, boss...you make each and every one of us feel as we are part of the family, cherished, valued and empowered. Hats off to you and Miss Cecilia. You are already a winner to all of us on the crew. We love you Kevin!

Georgia Bikers Enjoy the Cumberland Sound Ferry

2010-02-23T08:58:00.000-08:00

What a beautiful day it was last Saturday and what a great group of cyclists we had on our ferry! We really want to thank all the cyclists who hopped aboard the Cumberland Sound Ferry to come visit Fernandina and bike around the island.

Check out the photos! Come see us again soon guys and gals!

Pajama Dave Returns at Cupid!

2010-02-15T13:59:00.000-08:00

What a beautiful day we had as the weather cleared and gave us a warm, sunny day to host our first, annual Valentine's Day Champagne and Dessert sails!

Captain "Pajama Dave" was funny and charming as always, but extra adorable in his pink sparkly wings...way to take one for the team, Dave!

Come see Dave as....well, you have to be there - St. Patty's Day!

Sail to White Oak with Captain Kevin McCarthy

2010-02-12T12:59:00.000-08:00

Exciting news!

Amelia River Cruises will offer a unique sailing opportunity giving access to White Oak Conservation Center’s “A Celebration of White Oak” fundraising event, scheduled for Sunday, March 7th, from 12-4 p.m.

Amelia River Cruises will depart out of Fernandina Harbor Marina on Sunday, March 7, at 9 a.m., picking up additional passengers at St. Marys, Georgia in 10 a.m., arriving at White Oak approximately 12:30 p.m. Return transportation will be provided by Coastal Georgia Charters and Tours via shuttle bus. All inclusive transportation cost is $50 plus sales tax of 7%.

Seating for this special sail is limited and reservations are required. Interested passengers must reserve seating for the sail directly with the Amelia River Cruises office by calling Lori Hoerl, Director of Marketing and Operations, at 904-491-7617 or via email at lorbell1@aol.com. Tickets for the White Oak Event must be purchased from White Oak Conservation Center directly.

The sail up to White Oak will be hosted by owner, Captain Kevin McCarthy, with views of Amelia Island, Cumberland Island, St. Mary, Georgia and the wildlife seen along the way. An historical narration will be provide by Kevin, a local captain/historian who has lived in the area for over 40 years.

White Oak’s unique experience will offer guests the opportunity to see and learn about some of the magnificent wildlife at White Oak, including the elusive okapi and the Grevy’s zebra.

The Celebration highlighted event will offer specialized tours of the Conservation Center, presentations from staff and a delicious lunch along the St. Marys River. An exciting silent auction will include once-in-a-lifetime opportunities, including behind-the-scenes experiences at White Oak Conservation Center.

Space is limited for the event. Tickets are offered at $150 per person and are available by calling 904-225-3396 or visiting www.wocenter.org/events. Of the $150 ticket price, $75 is tax-deductible.

White Oak Conservation Center is one of the world's premiere wildlife breeding, research, and training facilities. All funds raised at “A Celebration of White Oak” will go directly to funding wildlife conservation programs.

Amelia River Cruises offer three daily tours Monday through Saturday during fall and winter season; seven days a week from March 1 through August 31 of each year. We are pet-friendly, handicap-accessible and bathroom-equipped. Private charters available upon request by calling 904-491-7617 or via email at lorbell1@aol.com.

Celebrate All Weekend Long This Valentine's!

2010-01-26T16:47:00.000-08:00

Amelia River Cruises & The Cumberland Sound Ferry invite you to celebrate all Valentine’s weekend as we ferry you to the 16th Annual Mardi Gras Festival & Parade in St. Marys, GA on Saturday, February 13th; followed by a day of Valentine’s Day Champagne and Cupid Cruises.

We’ve added a special 9 a.m. early ferry out of Fernandina Beach, FL on Saturday, February 13th, to allow passengers to catch the parade and full day of festivities lined up for the St. Marys Mardi Gras celebration. Activities include the parade at 10 a.m., arts & crafts, food, amusements and live entertainment on stage all afternoon.

To round out this long holiday weekend, treat yourself and that special someone to our first annual day of Valentine’s Champagne & Dessert sails, hosted by our very own Pajama Dave as Cupid, Sunday, February 14th.

Relax and enjoy breathtaking views as we share the rich history and beautiful landscapes of Amelia Island and Cumberland Island. As we head back, you'll enjoy romantic music, as well as champagne and dessert provided compliments of Cafe Karibo. Three tours sail Sunday, February 14th, at 10:30 a.m.; 2:30 p.m. and at sunset (5 p.m.)

Come see the wildlife and celebrate this romantic day with your favorite someone.

10:30 a.m. $36 plus tax for adults
$34 plus tax for seniors
$30 plus tax for children

2:30 p.m. $33 plus tax for adults
$31 plus tax for adults
$27 plus tax for adults

Sunset $30 plus tax for adults
$28 plus tax for adults
$24 plus tax for adults

Call for reservations: 904-261-9972.

Sail With the Filmmakers Schedule Extended

2010-01-25T07:30:00.000-08:00

As an official sponsor of this year's Amelia Island Film Festival, Amelia River Cruises & The Cumberland Sound Ferry have expanded and changed the ferry schedule for Friday, February 26, 2010 and Saturday, February 27, 2010 to allow passengers on both sides (Fernandina and St. Marys) to have access to the full screening schedule and reception in St. Marys.

Updated schedule as of Monday 1/25/10:

Fernandina departures:

2/26/10: 10 a.m. / 2 p.m. / 4 p.m. & 6:30 p.m.
2/27/10: 10 a.m. / 1:30 p.m. / 4 p.m. & 6:30 p.m.

St. Marys departures:

2/26/10: 9 a.m. / 11 a.m. / 3 p.m. / 5:30 p.m.
2/27/10: 9 a.m. / 11 a.m. / 2:30 p.m. / 5:30 p.m.

Hope to see you on the ferry and at the festival!

Kevin McCarthy Finalist for 2010 ROSE Awards!

2010-01-20T10:35:00.000-08:00

All of the crew at Amelia River Cruises are thrilled to find out that owner/captain, Kevin McCarthy, has been chosen as a finalist in this year’s ROSE (Recognition of Service Excellence) Award, a program of the North Florida Hotel & Lodging Association (NFHLA).

The ROSE Award committee met and reviewed 97 nominations before selecting Kevin among the finalists based upon the following criteria:

Ambassador for Jacksonville and the hospitality industry
Dependable
Passionate
Creating a positive impression for the visitor
Serving as a role model to peers
Commitment to great customer service

Congrats to our great boss, Kevin! We find out February 3rd if he wins the award, but in our hearts, he IS already a winner and the best boss around!

Film / Filmmaker Short-Listed for Oscar Come to Amelia Island Film Festival

2010-01-06T08:31:00.000-08:00

Documentary, Under Our Skin, short-listed for an Oscar, to be screened as part of the Amelia Island Film Festival on Friday, February 26, 2010! Q & A with filmmaker, Andy Abrahams Wilson, to follow. 11 a.m. at Indigo downtown Fernandina Beach, FL.

Come see the film about the emerging public health epidemic, Lyme disease, then sail with our filmmakers on one of three ferry rides to and from St. Marys, GA! Owner/Capt. Kevin McCarthy will narrate the trip to offer views of Amelia, Cumberland and St. Marys with a special reception upon arrival in St. Marys by The St. Marys Film Society!

Sail With the Filmmakers this February!

2010-01-04T10:38:00.000-08:00

Amelia River Cruises is excited to be an official sponsor of the Amelia Island Film Festival this February 2010. As part of the festival, Amelia River Cruises will host a full day of sailing with the filmmakers chosen for this year's event offering the general public the opportunity to see the beautiful waterways surrounding Amelia Island, Cumberland Island, and St. Marys, GA.

Our Cumberland Sound Ferry will take passengers to and from St. Marys, GA all day with a special reception by the St. Marys Film Society. We hope to find lots of wildlife and beautiful views to entice future filmmakers to come back and create movie magic right here in northeast Florida.

The Grinch Meets Fernandina Piracy...

2009-12-22T11:17:00.000-08:00

Here's something you don't see everyday...Pajama Dave as the Grinch meets the Pirates of Fernandina....

The Grinch Aboard our Lighthouse Tour!

2009-12-21T13:35:00.000-08:00

What a great evening we had as we were sent off by local Fernandina Pirates, to the sound of Ray Charles and other holiday tunes. As we sailed up the Amelia River, the sky gifted us an explosion of colors as the sunset off the back of our boat. As we entered Egan's Creek to make our way to the Amelia Island Lighthouse, Captain Pajama Dave, wowed the audience with his Grinch pajama pants and overall xmas ensemble ending with a romantic destination of the Lighthouse beneath a crescent moon.

Our first of many to come. Check out the photos at www.ameliarivercruises.com or on Facebook.

Merry Xmas to all!

Ben Sollee Pedals for Poverty & Performs Acoustically in Fernandina!

2009-12-14T10:14:00.000-08:00

After braving rainy, windy weather, Ben Sollee (cellist) and his crew hopped aboard the Cumberland Sound Ferry to sail over from St. Marys, GA to Fernandina Beach, FL on his 2nd tour to raise money for the poor as part of the larger OxFam program.

After rain prevented Ben from playing on the ferry, he offered up a fantastic acoustic performance at Fernandina Beach's own Intracoastal Wine Company. Ben then cycled on to Jacksonville, FL to play at Jack Rabbit's in historic downtown San Marco.

The Cumberland Sound Ferry is hoping to see lots more cycling action and musical events aboard the 80 passenger ferry.

Amelia River Cruises through the Holidays

2009-10-07T08:36:00.001-07:00

Amelia River Cruises and The Cumberland Sound Ferry offer special sails through Xmas!

Beginning with the Hay Days - Cumberland Sound Ferry service offers a scenic, water-based tour with bicyle and passenger service taking you from Fernandina Beach, FL to St. Marys, GA.

Build A Scarecrow - Ferry over at 10 a.m. out of Fernandina and arrive at the foot of Osborne Street in the heart of downtown, historic St. Marys, GA. Join in the building of your own scarecrow from 10 a.m. to noon at Orange Hall Museum (within walking distance of our ferry), then stay for lunch or a leisurely day of shopping or touring via trolley.

Magical Haunted History Tour - Friday, October 30, 2009 - 6 p.m. - 9 p.m. - bring us 40 or more passengers for our 4 p.m. ferry to St. Marys, GA and we'll bring you back under the stars at 9 p.m.

Moon Rise Sail - Monday, November 2nd, 4:30 p.m. - 6 p.m. - experience the sunset and the moon rise in one magical sail.

Christmas on the River - Start the holidays off with a magical sail to and from Jekyll Island, GA, with an all-inclusive sail, special meals, private sunset dinner, and itinerary of holiday activities and a two-night stay at the gorgeous Jekyll Island Club.

Narrated/hosted by our owners, Captain Kevin McCarthy and first-mate (wife) Cecilia McCarthy. For more information on events, call marketing director, Lori Hoerl, at 904-491-7617 or contact via email at lorbell1@aol.com. Visit us on the web at www.ameliarivercruises.com

Cumberland Sound Ferry Connects The Final Greenway Link!

2009-06-12T17:15:00.000-07:00

We were so excited to find out that Cumberland Sound Ferry is now an official and final link to the East Coast Greenway, completing cyclists access to non-stop adventures from Maine to Key West, Florida.

We look forward to seeing bikers making their way down the coast via our ferry connection to enjoy the added beauty of the landscape that makes up the Golden Isles of Southeast Georgia and Northeast Florida.

This spring has gifted us 7 new foals on the shore of Cumberland Island National Seashore, not to mention sightings of alligators, manatees, baby dolpins with mom, sea otters, sea turtles, wild hogs, and amazing exotic birds and views of geography you just can't see on foot.

As families start their summer vacations, we have been amused and touched by the spirit of young kids so enthusiastic and truly appreciative of the beauty and richness of the extraordinary wildlife and landscapes that we call home on our cruises and in our everyday work. Watching kids jump up and shout "There's a dolphin!" or as they smile as big as the world taking the wheel in open water is what it is all about.

There's nothing like a sunset cruise with obvious long-time friends who've shanghai'd a friend to stay just a day more to cruise with us, complimented with margaritas, wild horses and a gorgeous sunset.

We eagerly await new visitors to share our fun, fantastic face-to-face experience with nature, history and plain freedom on the open water. Check out owner and captain, Kevin McCarthy on WJXT News Channel 4 via our website at www.ameliarivercruises.com

Jacksonville Promo Sail A Huge Success!

2009-05-13T12:44:00.001-07:00

What a great day and sail we had for our first-ever Jacksonville promo sail of our Cumberland Sound Ferry! The skies cleared up and we had sunny weather for the duration of the sail to and from St. Marys GA out of the Port of Fernandina Beach.

Dolphins entertained and even followed our boat, we saw lots of wild horses including some of the new babies just born this spring. Food and an overwhelming welcome awaited our passengers and the remarks were just fantastic!

We hope to have more Jax visitors soon!

2009-05-10T21:12:00.000-07:00

Shrimp Festival and Spring 2009 brought views of 6 new baby foals or baby horses on the coast of the Cumberland Island National Seashore, as well as the return of manatees, baby dolphins, alligators, exotic birds and a special visit by an 8 foot manaray that attempted to join two passenger of our Cumberland Sound Ferry as he/she jumped into the air and nearly ended up in the front of our vessel during Shrimp Festival.

Sea otters have returned to jump on smaller boats docked below our ramp, much to the amusement of onlookers; not so much boat owners cleaning their paw prints.

Summer can't help but to promise more sightings of the above and so much more! Come sail with us and see the abundance of wildlife and natural landscapes that will stun you along the Golden Isles of SE Georgia and NE Florida.

Check it out...www.ameliarivercruises.com - or call 904-261-9972.

Cruisin' Amelia and Cumberland

2009-04-29T11:15:00.001-07:00

Getting ready for Shrimp Festival. Two full days of sailing on the Cumberland Sound Ferry to and from St. Marys Georgia and Fernandina Beach, FL. Hoping to see lots of wildlife - dolphins, manatees, and alligators.

check out our blog on Monday for what we find!