Join a sunset river cruise along Florida’s Amelia River for a chance to see endangered right whales and support marine conservation. Experience stunning waters, wildlife sightings, and an event dedicated to protecting these incredible creatures.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
Hang tight — photos are loading
This usually takes just a second.
Difficulty
easy
Duration
2–3 hours
Fitness Level
Minimal physical activity required, suitable for all ages
Wildlife
History
The Amelia River area has been a vital shipping route since the 19th century, with maritime activity shaping its community and ecology.
Conservation
The event emphasizes sustainable tourism practices and supports local conservation initiatives to preserve the habitat of the right whales.
Amelia River Cruises
Join a sunset river cruise along Florida’s Amelia River for a chance to see endangered right whales and support marine conservation. Experience stunning waters, wildlife sightings, and an event dedicated to protecting these incredible creatures.
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.
Arrive early for prime viewing
Get to the dock at least 30 minutes before departure to secure a good spot and settle in for the best whale sightings.
Dress for the weather
Bring layers and sun protection to stay comfortable during the cruise, especially as temperatures can vary at sunset.
Bring binoculars
Enhance your viewing experience by bringing binoculars to spot distant whales and marine life.
Support conservation efforts
Participate in fundraising initiatives during the event to help protect the right whales and their habitat.
Sun protection
Wear sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses to stay protected during the daytime outdoor activity.
fall
Layers of clothing
Layer up to stay comfortable as temperatures can change during the evening cruise.
fall
Binoculars
Bring binoculars to get a closer view of distant whales and marine life.
Camera or smartphone
Capture the stunning scenery and memorable moments from the cruise.