Is the tour suitable for children?

Yes, the tour is family-friendly, with engaging storytelling and outdoor activities.

How long does the tour last?

The entire experience typically lasts around 2 to 3 hours.

Pets are not permitted on the estate or ferry, for the comfort of all guests.

Is there parking available?

Yes, there is parking nearby at the ferry dock.

Can I participate if I have mobility challenges?

Most areas are accessible, but some uneven surfaces may require caution.

Do I need to bring anything?

Bring layers, a camera, and an eager holiday spirit!.

Historic Christmas Tour at Plum Orchard, Cumberland Island | Guided Tour | History Tour

Cumberland Island, Georgia, offers a unique blend of natural beauty and rich history. The Plum Orchard Christmas Tour invites visitors to step back in time and experience holiday traditions amidst the island’s grand old mansion. Starting with a scenic ferry ride from the mainland, guests are transported to an era when the island’s estate was a vibrant hub of life and leisure. The highlight is exploring the beautifully decorated Plum Orchard mansion, where guides in period costumes recount stories of Christmas celebrations from the early 1900s. Seasonal ornaments, twinkling lights, and vintage decor make each room come alive with festive spirit. The tour isn't just about history—it’s a full holiday immersion. Visitors can indulge in seasonal treats and enjoy classic lawn games set on the estate grounds, echoing historic festivities. The experience offers a wonderful way for families and history buffs to connect with Georgia’s past while celebrating the season. The island's lush surroundings—oak-lined paths and salt marsh views—add a magical backdrop to this historic celebration. The Plum Orchard Christmas Tour is a standout experience on Cumberland Island, renowned for its serene environment and preserved heritage. It’s one of the few places where you can enjoy a historic holiday story coupled with scenic adventure, making it perfect for those seeking culture, history, and seasonal cheer in one trip. Whether you're a local or a visitor, this guided holiday journey brings stories alive and creates memories that linger well beyond the season.

About Cumberland Island Ferry

Cumberland Island Ferry operates scheduled ferry service from St. Marys, Georgia, to Cumberland Island National Seashore, providing transport for visitors, tours, and managed hunts.

The company facilitates departures to the island, returns to St. Mary’s, and specialized excursions such as the Lands and Legacies Tour, Plum Orchard Christmas Tour, and Cumberland Island Managed Hunt Ferry. The ferry ride typically takes about 45 minutes and connects travelers with the Museum and Visitor Center and the island’s historic and natural sites.

Tickets and reservations for tours and hunts are available online, with managed hunt registration that includes adult/child pair options and access to amenities at Plum Orchard Hunt Camp. The Lands and Legacies Tour is a motorized, roughly 5.5-hour guided exploration of the island’s cultural and natural landmarks, including Plum Orchard Mansion and the First African Baptist Church. Seasonal offerings such as the Plum Orchard Christmas Tour feature costumed guides, historical interpretation, and family-friendly activities.

The ferry service emphasizes safe and reliable transport across the Georgia coast and supports day visitors and tour groups traveling to Cumberland Island National Seashore. Visitors disembarking at St. Marys can explore the city’s National Historic District, local dining, and attractions after returning on scheduled ferry runs. As a local operator based in St. Marys, Cumberland Island Ferry provides destination-focused itineraries and direct access to one of Georgia’s most scenic national seashores.

Return trips to St. Marys provide a swift crossing back to the city’s historic waterfront and convenient access to dining, shops, and nearby transportation connections.