New England Islands Cruise
Providence, RI to Providence, RI
This round-trip itinerary is the best way to see timeless New England island ports. Our meticulously crafted excursions bring you close to the soul of each distinctive locale.
Island hop from the tranquil shores of Nantucket Island, where each cobblestone holds tales of the 19th century, to Martha’s Vineyard with its storybook gingerbread cottages. On a private exploration, see the cascading shorelines of Mohegan Bluffs on Block Island, a highlight of Rhode Island’s coastal islands. Venture to Bristol, Rhode Island, celebrated for its sailing yachts crafted during the “Golden Age of Yachting.”
A signature moment of our New England Islands adventure is the traditional lobsterbake luncheon, an enduring celebration of New England coastal cuisine. Revel in the fresh flavors of lobster, clams, and corn, all cooked over coals with newly harvested seaweed.
Cap off a day at a lively onboard cocktail party with your fellow travelers and dedicated crew.
Upcoming Dates & Fares
Itinerary & Excursions
*Exact itinerary & excursions will vary by cruise date
Map & Itinerary Overview
Go island hopping and experience the personalized adventure that American Cruise Lines offers, both on board and ashore. Discover charming Nantucket and beautiful Block Island, and admire the scenic coves and bluffs while you cruise Massachusetts and Rhode Island.
Day 1 - Providence, RI
Enjoy a 1-night stay in Providence, the state capital of Rhode Island, affectionately known as the “Renaissance City.” At your leisure, explore this dynamic destination where small-town simplicity blends seamlessly with big-city sophistication. Discover a thriving arts and theater scene, eclectic neighborhoods rich with character, and a renowned culinary landscape. Stroll along the picturesque RiverWalk and visit acclaimed institutions like the Rhode Island School of Design Museum.
Day 2 - Day of Cruising
Step aboard and feel the excitement build as you prepare to set sail on your New England Islands cruise. Head up to the sun deck to share the day with like-minded travelers and get to know our dedicated crew.
As the city skyline fades into the distance, glide through Narragansett Bay, where coastal charm and maritime tradition set the perfect tone for the journey ahead.
Day 3 - Martha's Vineyard, MA
Martha’s Vineyard is made up of six towns, each with its own character and allure. Enjoy a narrated exploration of this iconic Massachusetts island, beginning in the lively harbor town of Vineyard Haven, a year-round port that has welcomed visitors since the mid-1600s. Travel through the island’s idyllic countryside, passing the farming community of West Tisbury and taking in the panoramic views of Chilmark.
Be captivated by the striking, multi-colored clay cliffs of Aquinnah, crowned by the Gay Head Lighthouse. Take time here to stretch your legs and capture the scenery in photographs. Continue on to Edgartown, where elegant Greek Revival homes of sea captains line the streets.
Later, take a convenient afternoon shuttle to Oak Bluffs and explore at your own pace, from the colorful gingerbread cottages to scenic Ocean Park. Ride the Flying Horses Carousel, the nation’s oldest continuously operating carousel, and take time to browse local shops or relax at one of the many restaurants, cafés, or ice cream parlors.
Round out your excursion with a visit to a 19-acre alpaca farm, home to 70 of these gentle creatures. Tour the grounds, meet the animals, and learn about alpaca farming.
Day 4 - Nantucket Island, MA
Embark on a ferry ride from Martha’s Vineyard to Nantucket Island, a historic island off the Massachusetts coast, once a modest farming community that blossomed into the heart of America’s whaling industry. Step back in time as you stroll along its cobblestone streets, steeped in 18th-century charm.
Take a narrated, island-wide tour that highlights Nantucket’s maritime history and stunning coastal landscapes, including a stop in the village of Siasconset, famed for its rose-covered cottages.
Later, explore the island at your own pace. Admire the island’s quaint homes, graceful churches, and manicured gardens. Browse elegant boutiques and inviting local eateries and stop in at the Whaling Museum, which vividly tells the story of Nantucket’s legendary seafaring past.
Day 5 - Day of Cruising
As you make your way from Nantucket Island to Block Island, allow the sweeping 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 6 - Block Island, RI
Block Island, located 13 miles off the Rhode Island Coast, retains its unspoiled beauty thanks in large part to the Nature Conservancy, which has preserved more than 40% of the island from overdevelopment.
Begin your visit with a narrated exploration led by a spirited local guide. Ride along the dramatic Mohegan Bluffs on Block Island, rising 200 feet above sea level and stretching nearly three miles. Take in beautiful views of the Atlantic Ocean, the Southeast Lighthouse, and Old Harbor.
Or explore Block Island’s natural treasures by kayak along the calm waters of the Great Salt Pond. Accompanied by a naturalist, paddle past wading birds and graceful ospreys while learning about the pond’s rich ecology and diverse uses.
End your day with a visit to Old Town, where you can browse unique shops, enjoy local restaurants, and take in stunning island views.
Day 7 - Newport, RI
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. Explore The Breakers mansion, a 70-room Italian Renaissance-style palazzo built for Cornelius Vanderbilt II, a portrayal of the financial prominence of the Vanderbilt family at the turn of the century.
Discover the city’s many museums, including the International Tennis Hall of Fame, a National Historic Landmark that was first opened on July 26, 1880, as a social club for Newport’s summer elite.
View the cannons still standing at Fort Adams State Park. Named for President John Adams, it has been a part of the American story from the War of 1812 through World War II. Built to protect Newport Harbor, the fort is now a state park. View the “Officer’s Quarters” and ascend to the overlook to enjoy the view.
Day 8 - Bristol, RI
Known for hosting the oldest continuous Fourth of July celebration in the U.S., Bristol's enchanting downtown features classic New England architecture and streets lined with unique boutiques, historic pubs, and waterfront eateries.
Visit the Herreshoff Marine Museum, the place where the world’s finest yachts were built during “The Golden Age of Yachting.” View beautifully restored classic yachts, vintage boat designs, and exhibits highlighting over a century of maritime innovation. Within the museum, explore The America’s Cup Hall of Fame, honoring the visionaries behind this 150-year-old, world-renowned competition.
For nature enthusiasts, our Audubon Nature Center & Aquarium excursion features a guided hike through the Claire D. McIntosh Wildlife Refuge led by a naturalist. Walk along a scenic trail that winds through fields, woodlands, and a boardwalk overlooking Narragansett Bay. After the hike, be treated to an exclusive presentation featuring live raptors, including a majestic owl and a striking hawk.
Day 9 - Providence, RI
After your New England Islands journey, return to Providence to begin your travels home. Enjoy a leisurely morning before departing with complimentary transportation to the nearest major airport.
Enjoy a 1-night hotel stay, breakfast, and transportation to the ship. All luggage will be brought directly from the hotel and placed in your stateroom aboard the ship.
As you board the ship, be welcomed by the crew who will ensure that every detail of your journey is seamless. Take the time to meet fellow travelers, share stories, and immerse yourself in the relaxed atmosphere of small-ship cruising.
From panoramic deck views to thoughtfully designed lounges, every corner of the ship offers a chance to relax, socialize, and prepare for the memorable adventures that await.
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
Take a convenient afternoon shuttle to Oak Bluffs, where you can explore everything from gingerbread cottages to Ocean Park at your leisure. During your self-guided exploration, visit Flying Horses Carousel, the oldest continuously operating carousel in the United States. Spend time strolling through the shops and enjoying the numerous restaurants, cafés, and ice cream shops.
Activity Level: Moderate | ADA Accessible: Partial
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. Stroll past rose-covered cottages, historic churches, and manicured gardens, and enjoy browsing the island’s boutiques and local eateries.
Activity Level: High | ADA Accessible: No
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, Cooking Demonstrations, Mixology (practice of making great cocktails), Trivia, Game Shows, and more.
Block Island is a pristine island 13 miles off the coast of Rhode Island. Its unspoiled beauty is maintained thanks in large part to efforts of the Nature Conservancy who have preserved over 40% of the island from overdevelopment. Enjoy a narrated ride on a school bus (the only one allowed on the island) conducted by a spirited Block Island native guide. Travel along the Mohegan Bluffs, 200 feet above sea level, stretching nearly three miles, creating spectacular views of the ocean, the Southeast Lighthouse, and Old Harbor.
Activity Level: Low | ADA Accessible: No
Experience the natural treasures of Block Island while kayaking the calm, protected inner waters of the Great Salt Pond, otherwise known as New Harbor. On a guided exploration, enjoy up-close views of a variety of shorebirds, waders, and a local populations of osprey. Learn about the ecology, history, and multiple uses of the Great Salt Pond including oyster farming, recreation, and conservation, as well as the challenges of living on Block Island.
Activity Level: Moderate | ADA Accessible: No
Take a ride over to Old Town to explore the picturesque area on your own. Peruse the area’s unique shops and restaurants.
Activity Level: Low | ADA Accessible: No
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 Breakers, an iconic 70-room mansion that reflects the Vanderbilt family’s social and financial prominence at the turn of the century, with remarkable architecture inspired by an Italian Renaissance-style palazzo. 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 lunch. 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
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
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.
Activity Level: Low | ADA Accessible: Yes
Blithewold is a 33-acre summer estate with grand views of Narragansett Bay. This mansion has historical significance as one of the most fully developed and authentic examples of the Country Place era, and for its value in representing the influence of the Arts and Crafts movement. The property features a 45-room mansion filled with family heirlooms and is framed by a series of lovely gardens that range in character from historic to contemporary. Unique to Blithewold is an exceptional collection of rare and unusual plants, specimen trees, an accessible greenhouse, and whimsical stonework throughout the grounds.
Activity Level: Low | ADA Accessible: Yes
Explore historic downtown Bristol on your own, home of the oldest 4th of July parade in the country. Take time for shopping, enjoying local cafes, and strolling through this quaint town at your leisure. Discover charming boutiques, artisan shops, and friendly locals eager to share stories about the town’s rich heritage. Be sure to visit the waterfront for scenic views and a peaceful place to relax before continuing your adventure.
Activity Level: Low | ADA Accessible: Yes
Located directly across the street from where the ship docks, this museum is considered a maritime historic site and was the place where the world’s finest yachts were built during “The Golden Age of Yachting.” The America’s Cup Hall of Fame is a feature of the museum, honoring participating individuals of this 150-year old competition and most distinguished of all international sporting trophies.
Activity Level: Low | ADA Accessible: Yes
Visit Linden Place, a beautifully preserved Federal-style mansion built in 1810, complete with elegant gardens, period furnishings, and a rich collection of art and antiques that tell the story of its past. Your guide will reveal the fascinating history of the DeWolf family, from their prominence during the Industrial Age to connections with Presidents, ties to a world-famous theatrical dynasty, and the remarkable treasures they collected, many of which are still on display today. As you explore the mansion and its grounds, you’ll gain a deeper understanding of the social and cultural life of Bristol’s most influential families.
Activity Level: Low | ADA Accessible: Partial
Explore the bustling waterfront of New Bedford, once the world’s whaling capital and today one of the nation’s most important fishing ports. Your guide will bring the area to life with stories of local fishing families, shoreside businesses, and the vessels that keep this vital industry thriving. Take in sights like Palmer’s Island Lighthouse, Fort Phoenix, a busy fishing fleet, and the East Coast’s largest hurricane barrier. The morning continues with a scenic harbor cruise, where the captain highlights the scallop industry, the city’s whaling heritage, and current maritime events. The excursion concludes at the Fishing Heritage Center, where you can watch a short orientation film, engage with interactive exhibits, and browse a carefully curated gift shop.
Activity Level: Low | ADA Accessible: Yes
Step into the fascinating history of North American whaling at the New Bedford Whaling Museum. Explore its captivating exhibits, from massive whale skeletons and the world’s largest ship model to an impressive collection of contemporary art from Massachusetts’ South Coast. This self-guided experience lets you uncover the art, science, and culture of this vibrant maritime region at your own pace. After your visit, take a stroll through the charming streets of New Bedford and soak in the city’s rich heritage.
Activity Level: Low to Moderate | ADA Accessible: Yes
Stay an extra day or even a few nights to enjoy all that Providence has to offer. Take a walk through Waterplace Park, the backdrop for the famous WaterFire art installation that lights up the surrounding tidal basin most nights in the summer. Ask your on board Hotel General Manager for recommendations on area hotels, attractions, and more.
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