Join Amelia River Cruises for an engaging Shrimping Eco Tour in Fernandina Beach—a chance to operate shrimp nets, spot marine wildlife, and learn about estuarine conservation firsthand. Perfect for curious explorers and families seeking an authentic coastal experience.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
2–3 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; minimal physical activity required
Wildlife
History
Fernandina Beach has a rich maritime history, once a bustling port for cotton and timber trade, now preserved through local museums.
Conservation
Amelia River Cruises emphasizes eco-friendly practices, working to protect the fragile estuarine ecosystems and local wildlife through responsible tourism.
Amelia River Cruises
Join Amelia River Cruises for an engaging Shrimping Eco Tour in Fernandina Beach—a chance to operate shrimp nets, spot marine wildlife, and learn about estuarine conservation firsthand. Perfect for curious explorers and families seeking an authentic coastal experience.
Amelia River Cruises operates out of Fernandina Beach, Florida, offering guided boat tours that showcase the region’s coastal ecosystems, maritime history, and wildlife. The company runs a variety of excursions, including hands-on educational trips like the Shrimping Eco Tour in Tiger Basin, scenic outings such as the Cumberland Sound Sunset and Cumberland Coastal Tour, extended explorations like the Cumberland Island Tour, and adult-focused experiences including the Adult Twilight BYOB Cruise. Amelia River Cruises also hosts seasonal and fundraising events, notably the Right Whale Festival Fundraiser scheduled for November 2, 2025.
Each tour is described with clear itineraries and learning opportunities that highlight local history, estuary ecology, and observations of dolphins, manatees, nesting sea turtles, wading birds, and the island’s wild horses. Boats depart from Fernandina Beach and travel around Cumberland Island and nearby waterways, providing views of salt marshes, shrimp boats, historic sites connected to the Carnegie and Rockefeller families, and National Seashore landscapes. The fleet offers family-friendly one-hour and longer 1.5- to 2.5-hour options, as well as adults-only evening cruises with live music. Safety, guest education, and respect for wildlife are emphasized, with interactive elements like an on-board aquarium and hands-on net deployment during the shrimping tour. Visitors can choose cruises by duration, theme, or audience—families, history seekers, nature enthusiasts, or adults seeking relaxation—making Amelia River Cruises a focused operator for memorable, informative outings from Fernandina Beach.
Booking details, schedules, and seasonal availability are listed on the business's official site; reservations are recommended for popular tours and special events.
Location
Fernandina Beach, FL
Departures from a scenic coastal town
Tours Offered
6 Tours
Range of family and adult cruises
Special Event
Nov 2, 2025
Right Whale Festival Fundraiser date
Family-Friendly
All Ages
Options suitable for every generation
Select the Shrimping Eco Tour, sunset cruise, or adult BYOB evening—and secure a spot from Fernandina Beach now.
Wear Quick-Drying Clothing
Since you'll be handling nets and working around water, lightweight, quick-drying clothes are ideal.
Bring Sunscreen and Hats
Protection from the sun helps keep you comfortable during the outdoor parts of the tour.
Follow Wildlife Viewing Guidelines
Maintain a respectful distance from animals like dolphins and manatees for their safety and yours.
Arrive Early
Getting there fifteen minutes beforehand ensures a smooth start and time to settle in.
Sunscreen
Protect your skin from sun exposure during the outdoor portions of the tour.
summer
Sun Hat
A wide-brimmed hat helps shield you from direct sunlight.
summer
Light Waterproof Jacket
In case of rain, a light jacket keeps you comfortable.
spring|fall
Binoculars
Enhance wildlife viewing around the boat and estuary.