New England Explorer Cruise
Boston, MA to Boston, MA
Join us for an unforgettable voyage along the beautiful New England coastline. Commencing and concluding in the vibrant heart of Boston, where echoes of the American Revolution still resonate. Visit small seaport towns which capture the essence of coastal New England. Guided by a seasoned local historian, lose yourself in the quaint charm of Bath, Maine, a jewel on the Maine Coast with its picturesque harbor and colorful fishing boats bobbing gently in the Atlantic breeze.
Ascend to the profound heights of Acadia National Park, a natural wonderland adorned with granite cliffs, dense forests, and hidden coves waiting to be explored. Stop in Bath, Maine centuries-old shipbuilding traditions still thrive, before setting sail aboard a traditional schooner in Gloucester, the oldest seaport in America.
Prepare to indulge in an authentic New England tradition with a lobsterbake luncheon. Feast on freshly caught lobsters, clams, and mussels, expertly steamed to perfection, while the lively strains of a local bluegrass band fill the air.
Retreat to the comfort of our intimate ship as we venture to Newport, a bastion of nautical opulence where the finest yachts in the nation are born, and discover the allure of Martha’s Vineyard, with its quaint harbors and iconic lighthouses along the shoreline. Cap off your maritime adventure with a whale-watching excursion in Provincetown, before returning to the ship for an evening of exquisite dining and convivial camaraderie beneath the starlit sky.
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 cruise out of Boston, discover the rich maritime heritage of New England. Explore the magnificent Newport mansions, learn about Gloucester's fishing history, and relax in picturesque Martha's Vineyard.
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
Along the shores of Massachusetts Bay, Boston captivates visitors with its blend of historic charm and modern vibrancy. Wander the cobblestone streets of Beacon Hill, lined with elegant Federal-style townhouses and gaslit lanterns, evoking a bygone era. Indulge in a culinary adventure at the bustling Quincy Market, where you can savor local specialties like clam chowder and lobster rolls amid lively street performers and bustling crowds. Immerse yourself in the rich history of the Freedom Trail, tracing the footsteps of revolutionaries at iconic sites like the Old North Church and Faneuil Hall.
Day 2 - Portland, ME
Perched beside the serene waters of Casco Bay, Maine's oldest seaport boasts a captivating 360-year history awaiting exploration. Experience the unique fusion of big-city energy and small-town charm, where bustling fishing vessels mingle with Victorian-era architecture adorning cobblestone streets. Allow yourself to be enchanted by the blend of tradition and modernity that defines this coastal gem. With excursions ranging from a beer-tasting walking tour to a lighthouse-spotting boat tour to making the city your own, there’s so much to do in this stunning port.
Day 3 - Rockland, ME
Brimming with energy and classic schooners, this enchanting village proudly stands as the "Tall Ship Capital of Maine". Bask in the glorious summer sunshine and invigorating sea breezes. Witness the graceful ships as they glide into the harbor, or peek into the quaint shops and vibrant art galleries.
Day 4 - Bar Harbor
Bar Harbor is a symphony of natural wonders, where ocean cliffs meet glacier-carved lakes and valleys, mountains rise boldly, and thick pine forests guard the shores. This breathtaking panorama has inspired legends like Thomas Cole and Frederic Edwin Church, capturing the essence of its beauty in their timeless masterpieces.
Anchored in tradition, Bar Harbor thrives on lobstering—a centuries-old industry that continues to flourish alongside boat building, the cornerstone of its robust economy. Yet, beyond the wild, untamed outdoors, Bar Harbor reveals a cultured soul with its cozy museums, cultural gems, and landmarks steeped in history, offering a mosaic of experiences.
Day 5 - Boothbay Harbor, ME
This charming, historic gem sparkles with a vibrant array of shops, boutiques, and idyllic harbors teeming with lobster boats, pleasure crafts, and windjammers. Boothbay reigns as the largest boating harbor north of Boston, proudly wearing the title of "Boating Capital of New England." It's a picturesque haven where the seafaring heart and the spirit of adventure come alive.
Day 6 - Bath, ME
Bath, affectionately hailed as the "City of Ships," is a testament to its storied past where shipbuilding isn't just an industry, but the heartbeat of the community. Each corner of the city, from its unique buildings to the lively corridors of its urban core, Bath's soul is etched with the marks of its maritime history. As you meander through the city's streets, you're greeted by avenues that feel like a walk through time—lined with architectural masterpieces showcasing the evolution of American design, from elegant Victorian homes to sturdy, industrial-era edifices.
Then there's the Maine Maritime Museum, a beacon for nautical aficionados. Far from your typical museum, it's a sprawling campus that invites you to step directly into Maine's maritime saga through immersive exhibits, from life-size ship replicas to interactive displays that recount the perilous adventures at sea and the meticulous art of ship crafting. This institution doesn't just tell a story; it plunges you into the depths of Maine's connection with the ocean, offering a glimpse into the lives shaped by the sea.
Day 7 - Gloucester, MA
Just a stone's throw from Boston, Gloucester boasts America's first seaport and the most venerable art colony on the continent. For more than four centuries, its scenic harbors have attracted fishermen, artists, and wanderers alike, creating a dynamic community brimming with creativity. Gloucester's natural beauty stretches over 60 miles of pristine coastline, offering breathtaking views. As you explore, don't miss the Hammond Castle, which showcases medieval-inspired architecture and fascinating exhibits, or Cape Ann Museum, where you can immerse yourself in local art and maritime history. The sea offers up its bounty, with fresh seafood a staple of the local fare, inviting you to relish the flavors that reflect the town's rich past.
Day 8 - Day of Cruising
As you make your way from the shores of Gloucester towards the elegant vistas of Newport, allow the sweeping New England panoramas to unfold around you. Embrace a day drenched in serenity, whether you're relaxing on your personal balcony with the horizon stretched wide or soaking up the sun on the deck, the waves become your soundtrack to relaxation. Join presentations from our onboard specialists, who bring the history of this water to life. This journey is not just a passage through water, but an opportunity to continue exploring New England.
Day 9 - Newport, RI
Tucked away in Narragansett Bay lies Newport, a crown jewel known globally as the “yachting capital”. Here, as you meander along its stunning beaches, amidst the lively hum of its wharves, and beside the tranquil beauty of its waterfront, you'll discover that Newport is a mosaic of experiences waiting to be explored. Stroll down the "Avenue of the Mansions," where the grand seaside estates offer a window into the utmost luxury of the Gilded Age.
Day 10 - Martha's Vineyard, MA
As you wander the serene paths of Martha's Vineyard, you might stumble upon the enchanting sight of wild roses and hydrangeas framing the iconic Gay Head Lighthouse. In the quaint village of Edgartown, you can indulge in the culinary delight of a freshly caught lobster roll, its meat spilling out of a buttery, toasted bun, a true taste of the island's bountiful waters.
Venturing further, the vibrant Farmers Market in West Tisbury offers a feast for the senses with its array of heirloom tomatoes, crisp apples, and homemade pies bursting with local berries. As the day wanes, find yourself sipping on a chilled glass of blackberry sangria at a cozy vineyard, the perfect end to a day spent exploring this New England paradise.
Day 11 - Boston, MA
Welcome back to the storied streets of Boston, a city where history breathes life into its modern hustle. Renowned for its signature hearty clam chowder, the legendary Fenway Park, the inspiring Boston Marathon, and the iconic bar that inspired Cheers, Boston is a hub of cultural richness and spirited tradition. Whether you're plotting the next leg of your journey or opting to delve deeper into the heart of this vibrant city, we're here to guide you through its winding streets, historic landmarks, and hidden gems.
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
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
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
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
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
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
There are a variety of activities scheduled on board when the ship is underway, which vary depending on the itinerary and scheduled date. Enjoy destination-focused enrichment programs with special guest speakers who present topics related to the region and ports of call, including Art Classes, App-titude Classes (Tech Made Easy), Cooking Demonstrations, Mixology (practice of making great cocktails,) Trivia, Game Shows, and more.
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
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
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
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.