Grand New England Cruise
Boston, MA to Boston, MA
See all of New England on a this comprehensive 15-day grand New England cruise through historic waterways, where tales of America's past come to life. From the Mayflower's arrival to the Boston Tea Party, each harbor and shoreline holds stories of American history. Discover seaport gems such as Portland and Bath, Maine, where historic shipyards show their age, and Newport, Rhode Island, where grand mansions reflect the opulence of the Gilded Age. Enjoy a traditional lobsterbake luncheon by Maine’s water's edge, tasting the flavors of the region's maritime legacy.
As the day unfolds, retreat to the comfort of your ship, where camaraderie and culinary delights await. Engage in conversations with fellow travelers beneath the starlit sky, sharing in the day's discoveries. Experience the essence of New England's charm and hospitality, where every moment speaks to the enduring connection between land and sea.
Ask about our Current Savings and our Pre-Cruise Package which includes a stay at the Four Seasons Hotel, a Boston city tour, and transportation to the ship. See the Schedules & Rates tab for Current Savings.
Upcoming Dates & Fares
Itinerary & Excursions
Map & Itinerary Overview
On this epic journey, travel along the picturesque waterways of New England that tell the story of American history, from the Mayflower’s landing to the Boston Tea Party. A centuries-old shipbuilding tradition lives on here in shipyards along the shoreline and schooners that adorn the harbors.
Pre-Cruise - Boston Four Seasons Pre-Cruise Package
Experience the essence of Boston with our Pre-Cruise Package, offering a seamless transition into the heart of the city. Located downtown, your hotel provides easy access to all that Boston has to offer before your voyage begins.
Enjoy a narrated exploration of Boston on your way to the John F. Kennedy Presidential Library and Museum. Explore this fascinating destination, dedicated to preserving and providing access to the legacy of the 35th President of the United States.
As the day unfolds, bid farewell to the city streets and step aboard your awaiting vessel. Let American Cruise Lines handle every detail, from transporting your luggage to ensuring a smooth transition onto the ship. Cruise out of Boston Harbor in the afternoon, surrounded by the tranquility of the sea and the promise of adventure on the horizon.
Pre-Cruise Packages must be reserved at least 30 days before your cruise date. Please call (800) 460-4518 for pricing and availability.
Day 1 - Boston, MA
Begin your venture in one of the oldest cities in the United States. Founded in 1630, this city helped shape this nation. With influential moments like the Boston Tea Party and its impact on the American Revolution, Boston continues to impact America’s past, present, and future.
Board your modern vessel amongst the cobblestone streets and 18th-century architecture that makes this city the perfect place to push off for a New England adventure.
As we welcome you onboard for your voyage, we’ll share a toast to you, meet the crew, and get excited for the days to come.
Day 2 - Portland, ME
Perched on the shores of stunning Casco Bay, Maine's oldest seaport beckons with its impressive history spanning 360 years. Cobblestone streets wind through architectural, from stately Victorian mansions to weathered homes, each bearing witness to the city's exciting maritime heritage. Against a backdrop of granite cliffs and rolling waves, Portland's lighthouses stand sentinel, guiding ships safely to harbor through many stages of waters.
Day 3 - Bath, ME
Here, the river meets the sea in a graceful embrace and history creates the spirit of the town. Cobblestone streets bear witness to the craftsmen who shaped mighty ships that once ruled the ocean waves. Stately church spires rise against the backdrop of a skyline imbued with colonial elegance. In Bath, time feels suspended, as if the past is in every weathered brick and beam. It’s clear the legacy of shipbuilding and seafaring prowess endures, enticing you to explore its nautical past.
Day 4 - Boothbay Harbor, ME
In Boothbay Harbor, the textured coastline meets the Atlantic and history mingles with the salty air. Quaint streets hold the footprints of fishermen and sailors who once cast their nets and set sail for distant horizons. Established in the early 17th century as a fishing village, Boothbay Harbor grew into a hub of shipbuilding and maritime commerce during the 19th century, crafting vessels that traversed the world's oceans. Weathered docks hold stories of bustling trade that once fueled the town's livelihood, including its role in supplying ships during the Civil War. Against a backdrop of rolling hills and granite cliffs, the harbor stands as a testament to resilience and maritime ingenuity.
Day 5 - Bar Harbor, ME
In Bar Harbor, where cliffs embrace the sea in an eternal dance, history speaks softly through the rustling pines. Once a modest fishing village, Bar Harbor flourished into a haven for Gilded Age elites, drawn by its untamed beauty. Along the coastline, the Bar Harbor Inn stands as a symbol of opulence amidst the wild landscapes of Acadia National Park. Above, Cadillac Mountain stands tall, which you can get up close and personal with. Amidst nature's symphony of breeze and wave, Bar Harbor invites exploration, each cobblestone and trail a chapter in its captivating story of charm and prestige.
Day 6 - Bangor, ME
On the bend of the Penobscot River, Bangor sprawls as the third-largest city in Maine. Reigning supreme as the lumber capital of the world through most of the 19th century, this port town is known as the “Queen City”.
This city is also the hometown of celebrated horror author Stephen King. King used the streets of this very city to spin his narratives of twisted tales. You too can see where King’s monsters hide with a visit to the perfectly creepy Victorian home with a spider webbed wrought iron gate outside the author’s former home.
For an equally exciting, less macabre excursion, chart a boat on the calm waters of the Penobscot River, and try your hand at catching a smallmouth bass beneath the vast expanse of Maine's blue sky.
Day 7 - Rockland/Camden, ME
Along Maine's winding coast lies Rockland, a town surrounded by granite cliffs and Atlantic breezes. Nearby, Camden stands proudly, framed by the silhouette of Mount Battie, a guardian over its bustling harbor. Here, the ocean and sky engage in a perpetual ballet, their colors merging into a canvas of indigo and apricot as twilight descends. Amidst the art galleries and charming shops, the spirit of Andrew Wyeth's paintings endures, capturing the essence of this timeless coastal haven.
Day 8 - Portsmouth, NH
Portsmouth exudes a colonial charm, its streets abundant with tales of centuries past. The town's Federal-style architecture harks back to its bustling days as a pivotal port and shipbuilding center. At Market Square, history comes alive amidst the North Church and the Portsmouth Athenaeum, anchoring the heart of the community. Prescott Park offers a serene refuge, its colorful beauty a stark contrast to the urban hustle nearby. The iconic silhouette of the Portsmouth Naval Shipyard stands as a beacon of strength and resilience, a reminder of the town's enduring connection to the sea and its role in shaping the course of American history.
Day 9 - Gloucester, MA
Just a short distance from Boston, Gloucester holds the distinction of being America’s first seaport. Established long before the modern hustle and bustle, this city remains a beacon for the oldest active art colony in North America. For over four centuries, this historic town has captivated a diverse array of artists, fishermen, and tourists with its delightful waterfront and enduring maritime legacy.
Extending across more than 60 miles of New England coastline, Gloucester presents a series of spectacular coastal landscapes that shift from pebbled beaches to textured cliffs. The area is also famous for its fresh seafood, with local dishes rooted in the deep flavors of the Atlantic.
Day 10 - Provincetown, MA
Originally founded as an artists' haven, Provincetown is a premier summer destination on Cape Cod, celebrated for its kaleidoscope of, vivid architecture, unique shops, and stretching shorelines. The town's history is highlighted by landmarks such as the Pilgrim Monument, which marks the Mayflower Pilgrims' first landing in 1620. Provincetown's streets are lined with diverse art galleries and performance spaces that only bolster its creative origins. The culinary scene delights with fresh, local seafood and a variety of international flavors, enhancing the town's appeal as a vibrant seaside retreat. With its picturesque settings and welcoming community, Provincetown remains a perfect blend of historical charm and contemporary flair, offering a unique coastal experience that lingers long after summer fades.
Day 11 - Newport, RI
Located in Narragansett Bay, Newport is recognized globally as the yachting capital, where New England elegance meets rich historical intrigue. The city invites visitors to stroll along its beautiful beaches, through neighborhoods teeming with history, along lively wharves, and by the unobstructed waterfront. Newport's prestigious past is showcased on the "Avenue of the Mansions," featuring opulent estates that symbolize the wealth and social prestige of their era.
The Breakers, a 70-room Italian Renaissance-style palazzo inspired by the 16th-century palaces of Genoa and Turin, was built for Cornelius Vanderbilt II, representing the height of the Vanderbilt family's social and financial preeminence. Nearby, Marble House, another Vanderbilt home, this time for William K. Vanderbilt, stands as a testament to Beaux-Arts architecture, adorned with 500,000 cubic feet of marble. These homes were not just residences but extravagant venues for some of the most lavish social gatherings of the Gilded Age, reflecting an era when Newport was the playground of America’s wealthiest families.
Visit the cannons still standing at Fort Adams, named for President John Adams has been a part of American history from the War of 1812 through World War II. Built to protect Newport Harbor this fortification is now a state park known for its panoramic views and a venue for major events.
Day 12 - Martha's Vineyard, MA
Located off the Massachusetts coast, this island is celebrated for its historical significance and distinctive landscapes. This island features stretches of clean sandy beaches contrasted by the dramatic clay cliffs of Aquinnah, offering stunning ocean views. In Oak Bluffs, the whimsically styled gingerbread cottages display intricate trim and bright palettes, standing as relics of the Camp Meeting revivalist movement of the 19th century. Edgartown, with its stately Greek Revival homes once owned by whaling captains, reflects the island's prosperous whaling era, while its historic lighthouses, like Edgartown Harbor Light, have safely guided sea vessels since the early 1800s.
Day 13 - Nantucket Island/Martha's Vineyard, MA
Throughout the 18th and 19th centuries, Martha's Vineyard served as a hub for merchant ships, their holds brimming with exotic wares from distant lands. Today, this island remains a premier New England vacation destination, comprised of six distinctive towns. Historic Edgartown, the epitome of genteel charm, showcases rows of pristine white clapboard colonial homes. These structures, adorned with black shutters and surrounded by lush, meticulously sculpted gardens, exude an air of old-world affluence and quiet elegance.
Upon nearing the shores of Nantucket, the captain carefully anchors in the still, clear waters of the sound, presenting a spectacular seascape that blends seamlessly with the sky at sunset. Stepping onto the island, the cool sea breeze mingles with the scent of salt and old timber as you traverse the time-worn cobblestone streets. Nantucket is a visual feast of historic architecture, from the grand church steeples that rise above the rooftops to the quaint, weathered buildings that line the streets. The island, once a simple farming community, burgeoned into the epicenter of the American whaling industry, its streets and buildings evidence of seafaring history and commerce. Today, it thrives as a sophisticated resort community for you to explore.
Day 14 - Plymouth, MA
Plymouth, a coastal town famous for its contributions to American history, marks the site of the first Pilgrim settlement founded in 1620. At the center of Plymouth's historical narrative is the iconic Plymouth Rock in Pilgrim Memorial State Park, believed to be the landing spot of the settlers. Adjacent to this historic symbol, the Mayflower II, a meticulously crafted full-scale replica of the ship that carried the Pilgrims across the Atlantic, is usually moored, offering visitors a direct link to the early settlers' maritime journey. This ship functions as a floating museum, providing a hands-on educational experience. Beyond these landmarks visit the Plimoth Patuxet Museums, where you can be a part of the living history of the Pilgrims and the Native Wampanoag people.
Day 15 - Boston, MA
Here we are—where it all began—in Boston. If there’s something you missed our first time around; perhaps a Red Sox game at Fenway Park or a stop at the bar featured in the beloved sitcom Cheers, go ahead and extend your stay. Whether you choose to stay or head home, we’ll make sure you have a smooth disembarkation to get you where you’re headed.
Arrive in Boston the night before your cruise and stay at the highly acclaimed Four Seasons Hotel, conveniently located in the heart of downtown. The morning of embarkation, enjoy concierge luggage service, a full breakfast, and an exploration of the John F. Kennedy Presidential Library and Museum,concluding at the ship for a seamless embarkation process.
Pre-Cruise Packages must be reserved at least 30 days before your cruise date. Please call (800) 460-4518 for pricing and availability.
As you embark upon your journey, enjoy a Welcome Aboard Reception with cocktails, hors d’oeuvres and entertainment. Meet the crew, your onboard experts, and fellow guests. Learn more about the wonderful adventure ahead of you.
There is no better way to experience Portland’s craft wines, beers, and spirits than aboard the Maine Brews Cruise Bus. Led by an engaging guide, get an inside look at a local distillery, winery, and brewery where you can partake in samples. Along the ride, enjoy fun beer trivia and history. Whether you are an amateur sipper or a full-on connoisseur, this is an experience you won’t want to miss.
This is a Signature shore excursion and should be reserved in advance. Please call (800) 894-8570 for information.
Activity Level: Low | ADA Accessible: No
Drink through Portland beer history on this leisurely walking excursion. Visit and learn about notable Portland landmarks, including numerous former brewery sites, the U.S. Custom House, the Workingmen’s Club, the Mariners’ Church, the Seamen’s Club, and the working waterfront that was essential for importing many goods and the exporting of alcohol, during times of prohibition. As part of this historical journey, we will stop at 3 legendary Portland breweries for a sample of craft beer, including Shipyard Brewing Company, Sebago Brewing Company, and Gritty McDuff’s.
Activity Level: Moderate | ADA Accessible: Partial
Board the Elizabeth Grace for a cruise around scenic Portland Harbor and out into Casco Bay. While sipping local craft beer, keep your eyes open for potential seal sightings, as well as the multiple lighthouses, islands, and forts. Light refreshments, including non-alcoholic beverages are available throughout.
Activity Level: Low | ADA Accessible: Partial
Portland is Maine’s largest city-by-the-sea. The Old Port waterfront features working fishing wharves and converted warehouses with restaurants and shops. The Western Promenade is a public park atop a bluff, offering river and mountain views. Its surrounding district, the West End, is full of Victorian-era homes
Meet your local guide for a narrated exploration. View Longfellow’s boyhood home, sea captains’ houses and the elegant Victorian Mansion. Travel through historic neighborhoods overlooking the islands of Casco Bay in Portland Harbor. Stop at Portland Head Lighthouse in Fort Williams Park, a historic landmark and the most photographed lighthouse in America.
Activity Level: Low | ADA Accessible: Yes
Board the Elizabeth Grace for this exclusive, one-of-a-kind experience. The stone fortresses built in the early 19th century in Portland Harbor are imposing reminders of days in the not so distant past when the defense of our coastline required their presence. Despite their prominence, the forts are not easy to access for a variety of reasons, and most locals and visitors have never been to Fort Scammel, the only fort in the Portland Harbor to see active combat. On your way to the fort, enjoy some other great sights of the bay, including iconic lighthouses. Upon arrival, explore the grounds of this impressive historic structure.
This is a Signature shore excursion and should be reserved in advance. Please call (800) 460-4518 for information.
Activity Level: High / ADA Accessible: No
Explore Bath, the fourth largest seaport in the U.S. in the mid- 1800s. Led by a local guide, enjoy an immersive, personalized, and fun walk along the quaint, yet vibrant, streets of this picturesque downtown. As you view the places where history unfolded, hear stories about the prominent people and events of this 19th-century center of shipbuilding worldwide. Learn about Maine’s geologic features and natural resources, native peoples, European settlement, role in the Civil War and World Wars, as well as the post-war preservation efforts that made Bath what it is today. You will walk away with an understanding of Bath and Maine's roles in American history.
Activity Level: High | ADA Accessible: Partial
Explore the Maine Maritime Museum at your leisure and experience Maine’s rich seafaring history on the banks of the Kennebec River. From historic watercraft restoration to blacksmithing, lighthouses to lobstering, a Victorian home to contemporary interpretations of “maritime,” discover a connection to the past, present, and future of Maine’s waterways, and along the way discover the real Maine.
Activity Level: Low | ADA Accessible: Yes
Take this convenient shuttle to The Freeport Outlets, home to L.L. Bean Factory Store. Explore this laid-back shopping destination, featuring a variety of name-brand outlet stores, craft boutiques, and eateries.
Activity Level: Low | ADA Accessible: Yes
Long known as the “City of Ships,” Bath’s shipyards line its river’s edge and Bath-built vessels sail the seas of the world. Hop aboard the Bath Town Shuttle, which picks up at the Maine Maritime Museum, and enjoy a ride around town with stops at the General Store, Visitor Center, and Downtown area.
Activity Level: Low | ADA Accessible: Partial
Hop aboard the Rockin' Spartan Too for a private photography and sightseeing exploration by boat around the scenic Mid-coast Maine area captained by USCG Captain Dave Cleaveland, a longtime professional photographer in Maine. During the trip, you will have the opportunity to see eagles, osprey, seals and other wildlife, up to 10 lighthouses, several different rivers, working lobster boats, a Civil War fort, fishing villages, and Boothbay Harbor. Need a little help with your photography? Captain Dave will get you in the right spot for the best light for your photos and will help you with your photography skills.
Activity Level: Moderate / ADA Accessible: No
Visit the Gaffney family farm, Eros Oyster, a working oyster farm on Robinhood Cove, Georgetown Island. Be greeted by one of the farmers who will introduce you to the business, its history, and the technology used to grow oysters.
Take a short walk to the waterfront to see the operation up-close. View the nursery where oyster babies are fed 24/7 in giant test tubes, as well as the shaker table and tumbler where the farmers shape and sort the oysters at every stage of growth. See the culling tables where market-ready oysters are selected for delivery or shipment overnight to customers around the country.
At a scenic site overlooking the Cove, learn how to shuck (and eat) oysters on the half shell. Enjoy some just-harvested chilled oysters, which you can shuck yourself or with the help of a farmer. As you savor this delectable treat, you will have a chance to ask questions as well as purchase merchandise as well as additional oysters to bring back to the ship.
Activity Level: Low / ADA Accessible: Partial
Hidden on the Boothbay peninsula is New England's most extensive botanical garden. Immerse yourself in more than 300 acres of stunning gardens, walking trails, and educational resources. From the Native Butterfly and Moth House to the Rhododendron and Perennial Garden, there is something for everyone.
Activity Level: Low | ADA Accessible: Yes
Travel back in time on a scenic stroll through the 17th-century fishing village, Boothbay Harbor. Your guide will regale you with stories and historical facts about the village dating back to over 200 years ago. Some of the locations you may see along the way include: the Tugboat Inn, Bristol Marine Shipyard, Mariner’s Church, Historic Boothby Square, Fisherman’s Memorial, the Opera house, and more! Note: this excursion is held rain or shine.
Activity Level: Moderate | ADA Accessible: No
Acadia National Park encompasses 47,633 acres of granite-domed mountains and ocean shoreline. Enjoy an excursion that features two stops inside the Park: The top of Cadillac Mountain (highest point on the eastern seaboard at 1500+ ft.) and Thunder Hole with a spectacular ocean view. This excursion will take you to the must see places of Acadia, all the while providing you with the stories behind the sights.
Activity Level: Low | ADA ACCESSIBLE: Yes
Come aboard the Miss Samantha, a 56’ vessel with ample bench seating, a touch tank for ocean critters, and an open bow for photography and viewing opportunities. Watch experienced fisherman haul in lobster traps from the ocean floor as a professional naturalist describes everything and answers all your questions about lobster fishing and marine wildlife. Once the traps are hauled in, you can touch lobsters, crabs, sea cucumbers, sea stars, and anything else comes up from the sea floor. About half way through the cruise, you will head off to a small island to view seals basking on the rocks or swimming in the nearby water. Don’t forget to bring your camera.
Activity Level: Low | ADA Accessible: Partial
Experience a full day in Bar Harbor. Start the day with a guided driving exploration of Acadia National Park, which encompasses 47,633 acres of granite-domed mountains and ocean shoreline. This excursion will take you to the must-see places of Acadia, all while providing you with the stories behind the sights, including two stops inside the park: The top of Cadillac Mountain (highest point on the eastern seaboard at 1500+ ft.) and Thunder Hole with a spectacular ocean view.
Following your exploration of Acadia, enjoy an included lunch on shore in Bar Harbor. After this dining experience, you will be escorted to your Bar Harbor Nature Cruise, one of the most beautiful ways to experience Frenchman Bay and Acadia National Park. Begin your nature cruise, following the East Coast of Mount Desert Island with opportunities to see the most stunning shoreline of Acadia National Park. Look for bald eagles, peregrine falcons, harbor porpoise, seals, and other wildlife. Along the way, listen to a professional naturalist who is excited to share interesting stories of natural and human history, provide a running narrative, and answer your questions.
Activity Level: Low / ADA Accessible: Partial
Built in 1834, Bangor’s 264-acre Mount Hope Cemetery is the nation’s second-oldest garden cemetery and is on the National Register for Historic Places. It was designed by renowned architect Charles G. Bryant as part of a national movement to provide respite from grassless urban landscapes. Today it is still a lively place where people regularly walk and jog past tall trees and picturesque ponds. You may catch sight of turtles, frogs, muskrats, ducks, and occasionally even the resident great blue heron. During this Madame History guided excursion, visit some of the cemetery’s most unique and notable monuments, including the nation’s first Civil War memorial. You will also learn about 19th-century life in Bangor as told through gravestone symbology, mourning practices, and stories of Mount Hope’s most interesting permanent residents.
Activity Level: Moderate | ADA Accessible: Yes
Travel back in time to walk the streets of Bangor’s historic downtown with the notorious Madam Fan Jones, as she shares true and dramatic tales of the people and events that shaped the 19th-century “lumber capital of the world.” During the great lumber boom of the 1800s, the city of Bangor, Maine was famous for its wealth, refinement, and industry –and a good deal of vice and violence.
While the lumber barons, politicians, and other members of polite society spent time in their well-appointed offices and fine estates, those in their employ toiled deep in the woods, out on the mighty river, or in their factories. Lumbermen, river drivers, sailors, Irish laborers, and other members of the working class worked hard –and played harder– entertaining themselves with booze, brawls, and brothels -- like Fan's Sky Blue House of Pleasure -- in the infamous “Devil’s Half Acre” before stumbling back to tenements, ships, and the woods. This lively excursion shines a light on the city’s complex history while showcasing some of the monuments and architecture of the great city on the Penobscot.
Activity Level: High / ADA Accessible: Partial
One of the highlights of our New England itineraries is the traditional Lobsterbake. This tradition pre-dates America itself, beginning thousands of years ago with the Native Americans.
Our version of this long held New England summer tradition is very much the same, featuring fresh lobsters, steamed clams and mussels, warm corn on the cob, and baked rolls, prepared on a fire along the beach. In addition to the finest seafood in the area, we also feature live music presented by talented local musicians.
Activity Level: Low | ADA Accessible: Yes
Known as the Jewel of the Maine Coast, Camden is nestled between the Penobscot Bay and the rugged Mount Battie. Enjoy a narrated journey through Camden Hills State Park and a stop at the top of the mountain for stunning panoramic views of shining lakes, the busy harbor, and the islands of the Penobscot Bay. The exploration continues through the villages of Camden and Rockport, as well as the notable Rockport Belted Galloways. Next, stop at Rockport Harbor's Marine Park, featuring historic lime kilns, lobster boats, and the statue of Rockport's famous seal Andre.
Activity Level: Low | ADA Accessible: Yes
Just before enjoying the Lobsterbake Luncheon at Sharp’s Point South, visit the Sail Power & Steam Museum, a working “hands on” museum with sail making and rigging rooms. Enjoy “make ‘n break” gas stationery and steam engines, old ship building tools, hand tools, and architectural builder’s half models.
The museum has a complete boat shop with caulking tools, a working sail maker’s bench, and a navigation room with two working radars. Also in the museum is a shipwreck room featuring wrecks of 1898, a real working lime kiln, and an extensive model display of schooners and steam boats of the Penobscot.
Activity Level: Low | ADA Accessible: Yes
Explore the museums of Rockland with visits to Owls Head Transportation Museum and Farnsworth Museum. The Owls Head Transportation Museum has one of the finest collections of pioneer-era aircraft and automobiles in the world. More than 100 historic aircraft, automobiles, bicycles, carriages, and engines are on permanent display. Enjoy the museum’s outstanding collection, view late 19th-century automobiles, or even ride in a Model T.
The Farnsworth Museum features the permanent collection, “Maine in America,” which focuses on Maine artists and The Wyeth Center. The Farnsworth Art Museum is one of only two centers in the country dedicated to the three generations of Wyeths: N.C., Andrew, and James Wyeth.
Activity Level: Low | ADA Accessible: Yes
The neighborhoods of Portsmouth are a treasure trove of fascinating cultural buildings, historic architecture, and sculptures. Traveling by bicycle, see the city in a unique way while learning about its fascinating history from your friendly guide. Explore the city's five distinctive boroughs, stopping at historical landmarks, points of interest, and great places for photos including:
- Former North End/ "Little Italy"- Learn about the transformation of the area since the 1970s and stop at The Hill to view Little Italy's preserved historic buildings, some dating back to the 1700s
- Little Harbor - View the secret cove and the back channel. Hop off your bike for a short walk to the river and hear about the Wentworth Coolidge Mansion and a former visitor, George Washington
- Prescott Park - Learn about the Prescott Sister's transformation of the area into a waterfront park
- Former Frank Jones Brewery Lane – Listen to a story about the King of Ale
- New Sculpture Garden at Bohenko Park – View the new Portsmouth 400th sculpture Endeavor and the steampunk art sculpture
Activity Level: High | ADA ACCESSIBLE: No
Discover more than 350 years of history, from the area’s indigenous past to the present day, as you explore the oldest neighborhood in New Hampshire to be settled by Europeans, and the earliest neighborhood remaining in Portsmouth. Upon arrival, you will be given a brief orientation of the neighborhood and a map detailing the historic houses you may visit.
Enjoy a self-guided exploration of these historic houses on original sites, including elegant mansions, working-class homes, a colonial tavern that welcomed Patriots and Loyalists, and a 1940s corner store. Additionally, explore nearly a dozen heirloom gardens showcasing period design. Meet knowledgeable guides and costumed role players who can recount the stories of the families who lived here over the centuries, and watch artisans and tradespeople demonstrate the traditional arts, including coopering, weaving, and hearth cooking. Historical Interpreters are available at most houses to answer any questions you may have.
Activity Level: Moderate | ADA Accessible: Partial
Delight in an exclusive wine tasting experience at the historic and elegant Library Restaurant at the Rockingham Hotel. On the National Register of Historic Places, the hotel is one of Portsmouth's most valued landmarks, and over the centuries has played host to seven presidents. Enjoy a selection of locally produced wines, paired with delicious appetizers from a five-star fine-dining menu.
Activity Level: Low | Accessible: Yes
Admire the sophisticated architecture of this Georgian-style mansion and the beauty of 18th and 19th century decorative arts featured throughout its interior. Spanning five generations of household members, learn about the Moffatt, Ladd, and Whipple families as they forged lives for themselves in a "New World.” Hear the story of William Whipple, one of three signers of the Declaration of Independence, as well as Prince Whipple, the man whom Whipple enslaved during his residence here, and the likely author of the 1779 Petition of Freedom to the New Hampshire legislature. Learn about the strong, self-sufficient women who have maintained the property from its construction in 1763 to the present day. Explore the home’s beautiful historic garden and visit the onsite gift shop.
Activity Level: Low | ADA Accessible: No
During this excursion, you will have the opportunity to make your own 13-oz candle with the help of a "scent stylist.” Discover the magic of scent-blending, choosing from over 100 different fragrances. Be guided through the entire process as you select your scent combination, pick your vessel, set the wick, mix the fragrance oils, and pour the wax. All the candles are made from 100% premium soy wax, which is sustainable, renewable, and biodegradable. When you’re done, shop in the beautiful coastally inspired boutique featuring a wide selection of products. All participants of this excursion will receive a 10% discount.
Activity Level: Low | ADA Accessible: No
This convenient option will transport you to one of these local favorites:
- Portsmouth Historical Society Museum - View the exhibition, "The Matter of Memory," which explores the role museums play in preserving and creating individual and community memory. This exhibition is complemented by contemporary works that explore themes of memory and remembrance.
- Jimmy Jazz & Blues Club - Discover this architecturally breathtaking space which dates back to 1905 when it was first constructed as a YMCA. Now serving as a center for arts and culture, this club is considered a world-class “listening room,” built for music lovers and the inspiring artists who perform here.
- Albacore Park - Visit the USS Albacore submarine which stands as a testament to naval innovation. Delve into Albacore's interior; look through the periscope, and explore the control room, engineering spaces, and bunkrooms. Listen to recorded narration about the submarine's unique features, the daily life of its crew, and firsthand accounts from former crew members. Peruse the Visitors Center and gift store, where you can purchase submarine-themed books and gifts. Adjacent is the Memorial Garden, which pays tribute to all crew and officers who have been lost in the Submarine Service.
Activity Level: Low | ADA ACCESSIBLE: Partial
Enjoy a wonderful city exploration of Gloucester including a visit to the Fisherman's Memorial. Follow the exploration with a stop at Hammond Castle, a true European castle located on the New England Shoreline constructed between 1926 and 1929. The home, which sits on a rocky cliff overlooking picturesque Gloucester Harbor, was the residence and laboratory of inventor John Hays Hammond, Jr. who was pioneered the study of remote control and held over four hundred patents. Led by our expert guide, explore this medieval castle, which incorporated elements from several architectural periods and styles. View the most famous feature in the home, a gigantic pipe organ, an instrument designed and built by a collection of world-famous organ builders over a period of ten years.
Activity Level: Low | ADA ACCESSIBLE: No
Sail on board the Schooner Lannon (65-foot boat) and get a taste for what it was like to sail on a fishing schooner 100 years ago. Along your journey, sit back and take in the sights and sounds of Gloucester's coastline. Breathe the refreshing air and feel the wind on your face as you witness lighthouses, castles, scenic beaches, and magnificent waterfront homes.
Activity Level: Low | ADA ACCESSIBLE: No
Maritime Gloucester is a working waterfront, maritime museum, sea pocket aquarium, and so much more all rolled into one exciting destination. Learn about the rich maritime heritage of Gloucester along with its unique marine environment through interactive exhibits, the visitor center and more. The museum is a nonprofit educational organization built within a collection of historic buildings and on America's oldest marine railway. Galleries, exhibits, a wooden pier with unique views of Gloucester's harbor, and the home of two local working schooners are complimented by a seapocket aquarium and science education center that includes touch tanks and interactive experiences. You will have the opportunity to enjoy a presentation inside the upper gallery and a guided walk around the docks outdoors. There will be time to self-explore the aquarium and gift shop before returning to ship.
Activity Level: Low | ADA ACCESSIBLE: Yes
In your private SUV, enjoy this unique adventure that takes you on a rolling exploration along the Dune Shacks of Peaked Hill Bars Historic District. As you weave through the dunes, witness the shacks that come into view. Home to many American artists and writers from the 1920s to today, these wooden shacks provide inspiration amidst the shifting sands. Along the way, view the picturesque Pilgrim Lake as you listen to your knowledgeable guide share the history and ecology of this enchanting location.
This is a Signature shore excursion and should be reserved in advance. Please call (800) 894-8570 for information.
Activity Level: Low | ADA ACCESSIBLE: Yes
Enjoy the sights and history of Provincetown on a narrated trolley exploration. Travel to the beautiful Cape Cod National Seashore. Learn about America's first destination, see where the Mayflower first landed, and hear the amazing stories of Provincetown.
Activity Level: Low | ADA ACCESSIBLE: Partial
Visit Fort Adams, the well-known fort used to protect the harbor, and puts us just a short ride away from Newport’s bustling riverfront. View the “Officer’s Quarters” and ascend to the scenic overlook for a breathtaking view of Newport Harbor. Learn about past and future plans for the restoration of the Fort and enter the restored casemates to visit the latest historical exhibit. The listening tunnels beneath the walls of the Fort are a marvel of architecture and engineering and represent 180 years of American military history and culture.
Activity Level: Low | ADA ACCESSIBLE: Yes
Visit the iconic The Breakers mansion. A portrayal of the social and financial prominence of the Vanderbilt family at the turn of the century, the architecture of this seventy-room Italian Renaissance-style palazzo is remarkable. Take a leisurely audio tour of the home and learn about the Vanderbilt family and the inspiration for their building this impressive summer “cottage.” At the conclusion of the tour, you will have time to explore the bustling Newport waterfront at your leisure.
Activity Level: Low | ADA Accessible: Yes
Watch the unveiling of a traditional, old-fashioned lobster bake, followed by a delicious buffet. Be treated to fresh lobster, steamed clams and mussels, warm corn on the cob, and baked rolls. A true New England experience!
Activity Level: Low / ADA Accessible: Yes
Enjoy a complimentary shuttle into the center of town to enjoy stops in Newport at your leisure. Stops include:
- International Tennis Hall of Fame - Set in The Newport Casino, it’s a National Historic Landmark that was first opened on July 26, 1880, as a social club for Newport’s turn of the century summer elite. Its mission is to preserve and promote the history of tennis and celebrate its champions.
- Audrain Auto Museum - Founded in 2014 in Newport, Rhode Island with a mission of "Preserving, Celebrating & Sharing Automotive History," the Audrain Automobile Museum and historic Audrain Building was transformed into a captivating exhibition space, fit specifically for our cultural needs. The museum welcomes visitors with access to collections containing over 400 cars and motorcycles ranging from brass era Veteran cars to Supercars of today.
- The Red Parrot Restaurant - In the heart of downtown Newport where streets lined with shopping boutiques, visitor information, local favorites, and gift shops await.
- The Sailing Museum – This museum features National Sailing Hall of Fame and America’s Cup Hall of Fame exhibits. In the space once used as the Press Room for the America’s Cup the heritage of sailing is celebrated, the legends of the sport honored, and new sailors and innovators inspired. Interactive educational exhibits provide real-world applications of STEAM concepts that come alive through sailing; and visitors of all ages, non-sailors, and sailors alike, experience the magic that happens when wind and water meet.
- Transit Station - Access hub for the Newport City public transportation system with buses and trolleys taking visitors to all the highlight areas of interest such as the Cliff Walk and Bellevue Mansions.
Activity Level: Low | ADA ACCESSIBLE: Yes
Take a narrated exploration of historic and famous Newport. With the brilliant Atlantic Ocean on one side and some of the country’s most impressive properties on the other, this celebrated trail is an unforgettable one. Drive along the 10-mile, spectacular Ocean View Drive and Bellevue Ave— “Avenue of the Mansions.” The highlight of the excursion is a stop at the Breakers, a seventy-room mansion and National Historic Landmark built for Cornelius Vanderbilt II in 1895. A short stop will be made for picture opportunities at a beautiful waterfront lookout at Brenton Point State Park.
Activity Level: Low | ADA ACCESSIBLE: Yes
Featured Excursion
Led by an island native and author, learn about the past, present, and future of Martha’s Vineyard, from its role in the American Revolution to its transportation and commerce history¬. Pass by and get the inside story on popular local establishments, including the Martha’s Vineyard Times building, the Black Dog, Salvatore’s Italian Restaurant, and the Mansion House Hotel. Hear about the celebrities who have lived on the island, from Mike Wallace to Carly Simon, and discover the movies that have been filmed here, including the iconic movie Jaws.
Activity Level: Moderate | ADA Accessible: Yes
Explore Martha's Vineyard Museum, dedicated to preserving and showcasing the history, art, and culture of Martha's Vineyard and its residents. The museum's vast collections feature artifacts, documents, photographs, and artworks that chronicle the island's diverse heritage, from its Native American roots to its maritime history and contemporary life. With a diverse array of exhibits, the museum invites visitors to immerse themselves in the rich tapestry of Martha's Vineyard's past and present.
Activity Level: Low | ADA Accessible: Yes
Take this convenient island transportation around Martha’s Vineyard at your leisure. You can explore Oak Bluffs, Edgartown, or any other towns of interest. Step on and off the Vineyard Transit Bus as many times as you would like throughout the day as you stroll the cute shops and restaurants on the island. Maps, schedules and tips for riding the local bus are available on the ship’s port information table and online.
Activity Level: Low | ADA Accessible: Yes
Have you ever wanted to meet an alpaca, face-to-face? On this delightful excursion, Island Alpaca Co. will introduce you to the wonderful world of alpacas. Over 70 alpacas live on this 19-acre farm and enjoy grazing, hanging out in a 200-year-old barn, and meeting people. Explore the farm, pet alpacas, and learn about alpaca farming. After, visit the onsite store which offers all things alpaca, from sweaters, hats, scarves, and mittens to summer-weight garments, alpaca toys, décor, and more.
Activity Level: Low | ADA Accessible: Yes
Enjoy a narrated exploration of Martha’s Vineyard. Begin with the busy harbor town of Vineyard Haven, a year-round port which has been the entry port to the island since the mid-1600s. Travel to the scenic up-island countryside, passing through the historic farming towns of West Tisbury, and enjoying the scenic panoramic vistas of Chilmark. Prepare to be captivated by Aquinnah's stunning multi-colored clay cliffs, punctuated with the impressive Gay Head Lighthouse. Here, you will have time to capture the beauty in photographs and stretch your legs. Continue to Edgartown, viewing the Greek Revival Architecture of sea captain’s homes along the way. Upon arrival, enjoy free time to explore and shop, before returning to the ship..
Activity Level: Low | ADA ACCESSIBLE: No
Be enchanted as you discover this quiet 19th-century island which still retains the character of the whaling era. This narrated, historical exploration of the entire island includes a visit to the beautiful village of Siasconset, known for its rose-covered cottages. You will have some free time in town following the exploration. Stop in at the Whaling Museum, which recount’s the island’s role as a whaling hub.
Activity Level: Moderate | ADA Accessible: No
Enjoy a scenic ferry ride from Martha's Vineyard to Nantucket. Upon arrival, travel back to the 18th century as you step onto its timeworn cobblestone streets. Spend a half or full day exploring this charming island at your leisure. Admire the delightful rose-covered cottages, steeped churches, and manicured gardens. Peruse the many high-end boutiques and local restaurants. Stop in at the Whaling Museum, which recounts the island’s role as a whaling hub.
Activity Level: Low | ADA Accessible: Yes
Enjoy a scenic ferry ride from Martha's Vineyard to Nantucket. Upon arrival, travel back to the 18th century as you step onto its timeworn cobblestone streets. Once you arrive, board local transportation and enjoy a narrated, historical exploration of the entire island including a visit to the beautiful village of Siasconset, known for its rose-covered cottages. At the conclusion of the exploration, you will be dropped off in town where you can spend a half day exploring this charming island at your leisure. Admire the delightful rose-covered cottages, steeped churches, and manicured gardens. Peruse the many high-end boutiques and local restaurants and stop in at the Whaling Museum, which recounts the island’s role as a whaling hub.
Activity Level: High / ADA Accessible: No
Enjoy a journey 400 years back in time! Guided by museum educators, you will visit Plymouth Colony as it comes to life in the recreation of the early English Pilgrim settlement. You will be living history, not just watching a reenactment. Historical Performers, portraying real people who lived in Plymouth Colony, will educate, and captivate you with stories of Mayflower's crossing, life among the Pokanoket and other Native people, Pilgrim courtship, faith, politics and trade. This experience includes admission to the Henry Hornblower Visitor Center, Historic Homesite, 17th Century English Village, and the Craft Center.
Activity Level: Moderate | ADA ACCESSIBLE: Partial
Experience the past like never before at Plimoth Patuxet as you explore America's hometown and the story of its founding . Enjoy quintessential New England coastal charm as you visit Plymouth's idyllic seaside sites including Plymouth Rock, Cole's Hill and Massasoit's Statue, as well as Governor Bradford's statue. Following the footsteps of the Pilgrim's, visit Leyden Street, the original main street in Plymouth Colony; Town Square; Burial Hill; and the scenic Brewster Gardens and Town Brook - a historic source of water for both Indigenous Peoples of the region and the Pilgrims.
During a visit to Mayflower II and her dock-side exhibit, discover the events that lead to the historic crossing of the original Mayflower in 1620. Today, Mayflower II is a full-scale replica of the 17th-century ship. She is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and a historic ship in her own right. From the ship you will head towards the Plimoth Grist Mill, where you will see and learn how corn has been stone-ground in this location since 1636. Take home a piece of history with freshly made cornmeal, available for purchase at all of Plimoth Patuxet's Museum Shops. At their Main Campus you will experience the 17th-Century English Village and the Historic Patuxet Homesite, where thought-stirring encounters with history will broaden your understanding of the events that happened along these shores of change in the 17th-century.
Activity Level: High | ADA Accessible: Partial
This convenient option will transport you to one of these local favorites:
- Plymouth Rock, Brewster Gardens, Mayflower II - Visit Plymouth Rock, where the Mayflower Pilgrims were said to have stepped in 1620 to land in the New World. A short walk away is Brewster Gardens with beautiful sculptures along Town Brook where the Pilgrims settled in what was then called Patuxet.
- Town Square, Burial Hill, Plimoth Grist Mill - At the top of Town Square is the Mayflower Meetinghouse. Behind is Burial Hill and to the left is the 1649 Courthouse, a free museum filled with interesting items from Plymouths history. It is the oldest wooden Court House and the longest used municipal building in America.
- Plimoth General Store - Plimoth General Store combines the charm and character of a time gone by. Explore all its nooks and crannies, which feature dining, fine provisions, specialty gifts, unique jewelry, and home goods. Enjoy coffee and baked goods at the café.
- Pilgrim Hall Museum - See actual Pilgrim possessions and learn about the Wampanoags and the Pilgrims who participated in the Mayflower story through an exhibit and unique hand-made tapestry project.
- National Monument to the Forefathers - Thought to be the largest solid granite monument in the U.S., this 81-foot-tall statue was built to honor the passengers of the Mayflower. Designed by Boston sculptor Hammatt Billings, the monument features allegorical figures depicting the virtues of Faith, Morality, Education, Law, and Liberty.
- The Mayflower Society House - The Mayflower Society House was originally constructed in 1754 and enlarged in the 1890’s.The house has a long a grand history, including being the home of the great-grandson of Mayflower passenger Edward Winslow; wedding venue of Ralph Waldo Emerson in the 1830’s; the summer home of the wealthy Willoughby family of retail fame; and was redesigned by famed architect Joseph Everett Chandler.It is now the world headquarters of the Mayflower Society, and shows off a tremendous collection of 19th century architecture and artifacts.
Activity Level: Low | ADA Accessible: Partial
Why not stay a day or two more to visit Boston’s many fine museums, as well as the New England Aquarium? You may also choose to walk the popular Freedom Trail which includes historic landmarks such as the Bunker Hill Monument, the Old North Church, and Paul Revere’s house.