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Calling all Civil War buffs and geeks of travel: If you’ve ever wanted to explore the war between the North and the South in detail, or check out a bunch of states on your list in one trip. Go, American Cruise Lines there is a journey for you. It was a month-long trip to nearly all the major battlefields across 12 states and the District of Columbia.
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On May 4, 2024, passengers will depart from New Orleans on the Civil War Battleship Cruise, a 34-day winding trip along the Mississippi, Tennessee and Potomac rivers; inland waterways; and Chesapeake Bay.
Along the way, the itinerary includes visits to destinations in Mississippi, Tennessee, Kentucky, Alabama, Georgia, Florida, South Carolina, North Carolina, Virginia, Maryland and Washington, DC, before concluding on May 6. June 2024, in Gettysburg, Pennsylvania. The stops offer the chance to visit important sites such as Fort Sumter, Antietam National Battlefield, and Bull Run.
The cruisers would begin their voyage on American Melody and transfer to two other ships — American Symphony and American Eagle — during the voyage, allowing them access to additional locations that were key to the war. Shipping between ships and waterways is provided free of charge.
The onboard experience on each ship will be equally themed, featuring expert speakers who will discuss both sides of the war. Led by Bertram Hayes-Davis, great-grandson of Jefferson Davis who served as president of the Confederacy, the trip will offer a rare perspective.
“This cruise is one of the most comprehensive views of the Civil War ever offered,” Hayes-Davis said in a statement from American Cruise Lines. “Guests will experience the people, places, and events of the war as they visit the battlefields and stand where history was made. This is a unique opportunity to see the full scope of the battles in the Civil War. war and put them in the context of each other and the whole conflict.”
The ride is now open for reservation, with fares starting at $24,700 per person. Rates include accommodation, onboard entertainment and lectures, all meals, beer and wine with lunch and dinner, one hour of daily cocktails, Wi-Fi, daily shore excursions , one night’s hotel stay before boarding (extends trip to 35 days), transportation and any necessary hotel when transferring to another vessel, tips for crew, taxes and fees.
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