AMERICAN CRUISE LINE REVIEW
Historic South/Independence
Getting on board was a breeze. Drop your bags and walk right on.
Ship decoration is adequate, not new. There are two public computers, greatly appreciated.
Dining room meals were varied and creative, with some occasional misses, and not always hot. Breakfasts are usually a problem on ships and resorts, but this one had huge variety, and a special every day. Lobster or crabmeat was available daily. Waiters aimed to please. All tables were for 6 or 8 people; we’d prefer not having to socialize three times a day.
Stateroom attendant was thorough, though not always timely.
We loved all our optional tours, though the price seemed a bit high. We chose
Amelia Isl. River Cruise
Sea Turtle Ctr and Jekyll Isl tram
Savannah walking tour
Lowcountry bus tour
Ft. Sumter ferry
Other places (Hilton Head, Charleston) we were able to walk by ourselves.
Staff: Special recognition for Amelia, Cruise Director, Dakota, waiter, and Sandy Balla, guest expert.
TVs had adequate selection.
Evening shows were generally OK to very good, especially Sandy lectures. Four nights were visiting musicians (heavy emphasis on oldies), and two were talks, and one game show.
Ship could do more for handicapped. Elevator was small, gangplank rickety. Buses and tenders need reserved seats for handicapped.
Free bus shuttle service to the airport completed an almost perfect trip.
Recommendation: Have a doyen from the Pat Conroy Center in Beaufort give a talk.
Turtle Rescue OK, Island tram tour top-notch.
Very nice bus tour of St. Helena Isl, but not allowed on grounds of plantation home.
Great walking tour.