Coastal Wildlife to See While Cruising the Southeast U.S.
Provided by of American Cruise Lines
The Southeastern United States is known for its beautiful natural landscapes, and it’s not just about the beaches and marshlands — the region is brimming with wildlife. Whether cruising along the Intracoastal Waterway or meandering through any of the many rivers, our small ships give you a front-row seat to the many types of Southeast wildlife.
Manatees
Often called “sea cows”, manatees are gentle giants that glide through the warm coastal waters of Florida. These slow-moving mammals thrive in shallow waters, and during the cooler months, they congregate around springs and warm water outlets. Over the years, they have become icons of Florida wildlife. The best time to see manatees is during the winter months when they seek out warmer waters.
Dolphins
Dolphins are a common sight along the Southeastern coast, particularly bottlenose dolphins. These playful creatures often swim alongside our cruise ships, providing an unforgettable experience. You can spot dolphins year-round, especially on your Southeast Sea Islands cruise, which will take you from Charleston, SC to Amelia Island, FL through the Intracoastal Waterway. Their social and curious nature means they’ll often make an appearance when you least expect it, so make sure to always be on the lookout for these distinct members of South Carolina's wildlife.
Sharks
Sharks are an important part of the marine ecosystem, and while they might seem intimidating, they are fascinating creatures to observe from a distance. The coastal waters of Florida and Georgia are home to various shark species, including blacktip and bonnethead sharks. If you're cruising in these areas, especially during the warmer months, keep your eyes peeled for these impressive animals. They are an important part of Florida and Georgia wildlife.
Loggerhead Sea Turtles
Loggerhead sea turtles are a beloved symbol of Southeast wildlife, with Georgia and South Carolina being key nesting grounds. These turtles can often be seen swimming near the shoreline, especially during their nesting season from May to October. Our cruises that explore these areas may offer glimpses of these gentle reptiles as they return to their birthplace to lay eggs.
Osprey
Ospreys are large birds of prey known for their fishing skills. Common throughout the Southeast, they can be spotted nesting along riverbanks and coastal regions. You'll see them soaring high above the water or perched on tree branches, scanning for fish. Cruises along the Chesapeake Bay and North Carolina rivers are prime areas for osprey sightings, particularly during the spring and summer months.
Alligators
No Southeastern wildlife list is complete without mentioning alligators. These ancient reptiles are a familiar sight in the swamps and rivers of Florida, Georgia, and South Carolina. Best seen during the warmer months, alligators bask along riverbanks and in marshlands. On our Southeast river cruises, you’ll often spot them lounging in the sun or stealthily gliding through the water.
You can discover more wildlife experiences with American Cruise Lines and plan your next adventure with them in the Southeast and beyond, including the 9-Day Southeast Sea Islands Cruise. For this cruise and others, visit americancruiselines.com.
Logo: Photo courtesy of American Cruise Lines.
Animal photos are Free Adobe stock images.