Northeast Harbors Cruise
Boston, MA to New York, NY
New York, NY to Boston, MA
Join us on this cruise through the heart of New England, traveling from Boston to New York with a reverse itinerary also available. This immersive Northeast cruise is designed for small ships that can navigate historic harbors and coastal waterways.
Begin by exploring Boston’s historic waterfront before cruising to Plymouth, MA, where you spend a day in one of the country’s most significant harbor towns. Visit Newport, RI, and experience its cliffside walks and famed Gilded Age mansions. Along the Connecticut coast, explore Mystic, New London, and Old Saybrook, where local guides introduce you to maritime traditions and thriving arts communities shaped by centuries of seafaring history.
This New England cruise highlights the best of coastal life, from seafood to working ports to charming harbor villages. The voyage concludes with an evening cruise through New York Harbor, where you experience views of the skyline and the Statue of Liberty from the water.
Ask about our Current Savings and our Hotel Upgrade, which includes a 1-night stay at the luxurious Four Seasons Hotel Boston, MA, concierge luggage service from the hotel to the ship and, on the morning of embarkation, enjoy breakfast, a visit to the John F. Kennedy Presidential Library and Museum, and transportation to the ship.
Upcoming Dates & Fares
Itinerary & Excursions
*Exact itinerary & excursions will vary by cruise date
Map & Itinerary Overview
Explore the best seaport towns between the vibrant cities of Boston and New York. Step into American history in Plymouth and New London and discover the rich maritime influence of Mystic, CT; Sag Harbor, NY; and Newport, RI.
Day 1 - Boston, MA
Arrive in Boston and begin your cruise experience with a hotel stay, allowing personal time to explore one of the country’s most historically significant cities before boarding the ship.
Spend time discovering some of the most popular things to do in Boston, from walking the Freedom Trail and learning about the American Revolution to enjoying views along the Charles River. Visit renowned museums or spend time along the waterfront, where the city’s maritime history is still very much present. Quincy Market offers an easy stop for lunch or fresh seafood, while the surrounding streets reflect Boston’s mix of preserved landmarks and modern city life.
An optional hotel upgrade is available at the Four Seasons Hotel Boston. Call your Cruise Specialist 800-460-4518 for pricing and availability.
Day 2 - Day of Cruising
Board the ship in Boston and begin your New England adventure, transitioning from exploring the city to cruising along the Northeast coast. With Boston Harbor as your backdrop, it sets the tone for a relaxed and insightful journey.
After boarding, meet the crew, and take part in welcome activities as the voyage gets underway. Grab a cocktail as we raise a toast to you, soak in the atmosphere, and get excited for the days ahead.
Day 3 - Plymouth, MA
Discover the coastal beauty of Plymouth, known as one of the earliest English settlement sites in North America. Stroll along the waterfront where fishing boats still dot the harbor, then explore the streets of downtown Plymouth, lined with colonial-era architecture and locally owned shops that reflect the town’s enduring charm.
From riding the Plymouth Local Loop shuttle to stops like Plymouth Rock, Brewster Gardens, and Town Square, to visiting Pilgrim Hall Museum, where authentic Pilgrim artifacts and exhibits illuminate the Wampanoag and Pilgrim experience.
Day 4 - Newport, RI
Visit Newport, RI, a coastal town known for its historic districts and Gilded Age mansions. Take a stroll along the famous Cliff Walk, where rocky shores meet grand estates like The Breakers and Marble House, offering a glimpse into the Vanderbilt family’s influence at the turn of the century.
Local exploration continues in the downtown area, where colonial-era buildings house shops and cafés along the bustling waterfront, and stop at Fort Adams for an authentic New England Lobsterbake featuring fresh lobster, steamed clams, and a scenic harbor view.
Day 5 - New London / Mystic, CT
Explore the charm of Connecticut’s coastal towns with a visit to New London and Mystic. Mystic is a scenic village with a harbor lined with historic tall ships and a lively waterfront area. The town supports a rich arts scene, from local galleries like Russ Kramer’s, known for his realistic maritime paintings, to the nation’s leading maritime museum, Mystic Seaport, where visitors can explore a recreated 19th-century seafaring village and step aboard the 1841 whaleship Charles W. Morgan.
Nearby New London sits at the meeting point of the Thames River and Long Island Sound, offering a mix of coastal and urban scenery. Its cultural highlights include the Lyman Allyn Art Museum, which houses more than 17,000 objects spanning ancient to contemporary art, and landmarks such as the United States Coast Guard Academy.
Day 6 - Sag Harbor, NY
Discover Sag Harbor, a historic whaling port on Long Island where maritime history meets small-town charm. Stroll the narrow streets lined with whaler’s cottages, art galleries, and antique shops, each offering a glimpse into the town’s past and creative present.
Learn about Sag Harbor’s whaling history at the Whaling Museum and the Annie Cooper Boyd House, where local historians share stories of the industry and the people who built the village. For a more leisurely pace, explore Main Street at your own speed, enjoying boutique shops, waterfront cafés, and local wine bars.
Day 7 - Old Saybrook / Essex, CT
Visit Old Saybrook, one of Connecticut’s earliest settlements where the Connecticut River meets Long Island Sound. The town is known for its maritime roots and as the longtime home of silver screen icon Katharine Hepburn, with the Katharine Hepburn Museum offering a look at her life, film costumes, personal letters, and artwork, along with a screening in the historic theater.
Just a short trip away, Essex invites walking exploration along its waterfront streets, where colonial and Federal-era buildings reflect the town’s history. The Connecticut River Museum provides insight into regional maritime heritage, including the historic Turtle Submarine. Afterward, visitors can enjoy lunch at the Griswold Inn and spend time browsing local shops or strolling the charming streets.
Day 8 - New York, NY
As your ship approaches New York City, the skyline comes into view, with the Empire State Building rising above the streets, the Chrysler Building reflecting its Art Deco brilliance, and One World Trade Center standing as a symbol of resilience. Docked in Manhattan, you are well-positioned to explore the city.
Shore excursions offer visits to iconic sites such as the 9/11 Memorial & Museum, where the stories of those affected are shared, and allows time at the Memorial Pools and Survivor Tree. Other excursions highlight Midtown Manhattan, including Rockefeller Center, St. Patrick’s Cathedral, Bryant Park, Grand Central Station, and views of Central Park.
Day 9 - New York, NY
As your journey comes to a close, enjoy a final morning aboard with breakfast and the New York City skyline in the background. Take in a few last moments in port while reflecting on your unforgettable cruise through the Northeast.
Experience the essence of Boston with our optional hotel upgrade, 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.
Hotel upgrades must be reserved at least 30 days before your cruise date. Please call (800) 460-4518 for pricing and availability.
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.
Take a guided walk through Plymouth, America’s hometown. Follow the footsteps of the Pilgrims and visit Plymouth Rock, Cole’s Hill, Massasoit’s Statue, and Governor Bradford’s statue. Stroll down Leyden Street and Brewster Gardens while your guide shares stories of the Plymouth Colony and the Mayflower Compact. See Mayflower II, a full-scale replica of the 17th-century ship, and visit the Plimoth Grist Mill to watch corn being stone-ground using water power, just as it has been since 1636. Other highlights include beautiful historic homes and waterfront views, as well as living history exhibits that bring Plymouth’s past to life.
Activity Level: High | ADA Accessible: Partial
Step back 400 years and explore Plimoth Patuxet Museums with the guidance of onsite historians. Begin at the Historic Patuxet Homesite, where you will hear stories of the Wampanoag community, which has lived there for over 12,000 years. Then journey to the 17th-century English Village and experience life in the early Pilgrim settlement of 1627. Some highlights you may see along the way include the Craft Center, where artisans recreate 17th-century arts; the standing exhibit We Gather Together, which traces the history of Thanksgiving; and four museum shops offering locally made artisan items for sale.
Activity Level: Moderate | 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
Take a leisure stroll to Water Street, just a short distance from the ship. In 1920, to celebrate the 300th anniversary of the landing of the Mayflower, Water Street was converted from rows of factories to beautiful shops situated across from Plymouth Harbor. Shop for custom-made jewelry, unique gifts, local wines, and more.
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
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
Watch the unveiling of a traditional, old-fashioned lobsterbake, 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
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
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
Visit Fort Trumbull, a coastal stronghold spanning the American Revolution to the Cold War. Along the way, take in the massive granite fort and its ramparts overlooking the Thames River and harbor, the riverfront boardwalk, and the distinctive fishing pier on Long Island Sound. Your visit also highlights the fort’s role as a federal military facility, its pivotal place in the nation’s coastal defense system, and its connection to the early history of the U.S. Coast Guard. Discover how it was first built in 1777, destroyed after Benedict Arnold’s raid, and rebuilt to defend New London in the centuries that followed.
Activity Level: Moderate | ADA Accessible: Partial
Enjoy an exploration of the nation's leading maritime museum, with 19 acres situated along the Mystic River. Explore a recreated 19th-century seafaring village, where you can meet blacksmiths, coopers, printers, and carvers hard at work. Discover world-class exhibitions of history, art, and more in one of the onsite galleries. Step aboard the 1841 whaleship Charles W. Morgan, a designated National Historic Landmark, and the last wooden whaleship in the world. You will receive a lunch voucher prior to entering the museum that can be redeemed at either the Greeman’s Landing, Propeller's Coffee Bar, or Schaeffer's Spouter Tavern. Docents and interpreters are on site to educate and interact with visitors.
Activity Level: Moderate | ADA Accessible: Yes
Begin at the beautiful Saint James Church for a glimpse at the Louis Comfort Tiffany windows. Expand your knowledge of art and art history through the fascinating collections and exhibitions of the Lyman Allyn Art Museum. Established by a gift from Harriet Allyn in memory of her seafaring father, the museum opened the doors of its beautiful neoclassical building in 1932. Today, the museum houses a fascinating collection of over 17,000 objects from ancient times to the present; artworks from Africa, Asia, the Americas, and Europe, with particularly strong collections of American paintings, decorative arts, and Victorian toys and doll houses. Docents are available on site.
Activity Level: Low | ADA Accessible: Yes
Enjoy a self-guided exploration of the 33,000 artifacts found at the Submarine Force Library & Museum. Discover various exhibits featuring photographs and models that illustrate the history of submarine development. There will be docents available on site.
Activity Level: Low | ADA Accessible: Partial
Discover the storied past of New London’s Bank Street on a guided walk led by local historian Tom Couser, President of the New London Landmarks Board. As you explore, you’ll pass bustling mercantile buildings, former entertainment venues, and iconic storefronts that once defined this vibrant waterfront corridor. Stroll through the downtown district as your guide brings to life the people, businesses, and events that shaped Bank Street, revealing how its legacy continues to influence the city today.
Activity Level: Moderate | ADA Accessible: Partial
Step into the elegance of Eolia Mansion, the seaside summer home of philanthropists Mary Stillman Harkness and Edward Harkness, set within Harkness Memorial State Park. Your guide will share the story of their family and legacy during the Gilded Age, bringing this remarkable estate to life. Explore the 42-room Roman-style mansion, redesigned by architect James Gamble Rogers, along with the tranquil Oriental Garden, vibrant Italian Garden, formal Boxwood Parterre, and charming Alpine Rock Garden, influenced by landscape architect Beatrix Farrand. Together, the mansion and gardens offer a captivating glimpse into the refined lifestyle and enduring generosity of this extraordinary couple.
Activity Level: Moderate | ADA Accessible: Partial
Visit this engaging museum, just a short walk from the dock, and uncover the rich history of New London’s waterfront. Explore changing exhibits that bring the city’s maritime heritage to life, highlighting the people, vessels, and businesses that shaped the harbor. Enjoy time to browse at your own pace and stop by the Museum Shop for books and unique gifts before returning to the ship.
Activity Level: Low | ADA Accessible: Partial
Sag Harbor is truly one of Long Island’s hidden gems. Stroll down Main Street and discover the many unique boutiques and mouthwatering restaurants. Art enthusiasts will enjoy perusing the variety of galleries around the village. Wine connoisseurs can sip away happily at one of the local wine bars.
Experience the magic "behind the scenes" at Bay Street Theater and hear amazing stories and lure of the venue over the past 32 year. Peruse photos of Broadway greats and celebrities who have graced the stage. Learn about the Theater's history with performances by Broadway greats and celebrities including Bruce Springsteen, Julie Benko, Billy Joel, Jerry Seinfeld, Paul Reiser, Sarah Paulson, Cherry Jones, Richard Kind, Colin Quinn, Alan Alda, Alec Baldwin, Sutton Foster and so many more. You may even learn who resides in Sag Harbor today. This is a guided experience with restrooms on property. Guests will enjoy a tasting of local wines at the conclusion of the experience.
Activity Level: Low | ADA ACCESSIBLE: Yes
Experience a one-of-a-kind piece of history in the heart of Sag Harbor. After a devastating fire took the iconic cinema in 2016, a plan was set into motion to raise the beloved landmark from its ashes. Reopened to the public in 2021, the new state-of-the-art facility that exists today honors the memory of the original cinema while providing new services and amenities. This unique institution celebrates a century of filmmaking excellence, as well as the rich history of Sag Harbor Village. This experience includes a guided exploration by the cinema docent, a short screening in the flagship auditorium, an exhibition of rare photos by film photographer James Hamilton, a swag bag of Sag Harbor Cinema merchandise, a Sag Harbor Cinema signature cocktail provided in the rooftop bar, as wellas a tasting of local foods such as exquisite cheeses crafted on Long Island at Mecox Dairy Farm and Catapano Goat Farm.
Activity Level: Low | ADA ACCESSIBLE: Yes
Enjoy an intimate beer tasting at Kidd Squid Brewing Company with beer named after many local icons. This unique brewery is located in the Historic Sag Harbor Train Depot. During your visit, the owner will provide interesting details about the history of the building, the creation of Kidd Squid, and the reason behind the name. The tasting will consist of four beers.
Activity Level: Low | ADA ACCESSIBLE: Yes
Explore Sag Harbor history with a personalized guided experience at the Annie Cooper Boyd House and a self-guided experience at the Sag Harbor Whaling Museum. Learn about the industry and people who established Sag Harbor from local historians.
Activity Level: Moderate | ADA Accessible: Partial
Learn the art of sushi making from esteemed chefs at Sen, an upscale Japanese restaurant that has been a Sag Harbor staple for decades. Get a taste of both the local flavors from Montauk's docks, as well as authentic ingredients flown in from Tokyo's fish markets. Witness the breakdown of local fish, and master the art of making maki, onigiri, and handrolls. After, enjoy the fruits of your labor during a delicious lunch, featuring freshly made maki rolls, miso soup, salad, and mochi. Receive a gift as a memento of this enriching experience.
Activity Level: Low | ADA Accessible: Yes
This is a Signature shore excursion and should be reserved in advance. Please call (800) 894-8570 for information.
Start your day with private transportation to Downtown Essex. Enjoy a self-guided exploration of the Connecticut River Museum, which features exhibits that highlight artifacts with regional and historical significance. View the "Turtle Submarine," the first submarine used in combat and the first successfully launched in the early morning of September 7, 1776. Following the museum visit, walk down the street to The Griswold Inn for a delicious lunch. While on site, one of the owners will welcome you and explain the history of the Inn. You will also receive an Innkeeper's Log to take with you. After lunch, enjoy free time for shopping and strolling the charming streets of Essex, before boarding a boat for a 90-minute narrated exploration of the Connecticut River, during which you will learn about local history, wildlife, and nature found along the river. Notable landmarks include the Historic Essex Harbor and Hamburg Cove. This is a self-guided experience.
Activity Level: Low | ADA Accessible: Yes
Come experience a historic art colony with original structures. Explore the museum that consists of temporary and permanent American Impressionist works of art. After, relax and enjoy afternoon tea and cookies while you take in the beautiful landscape of the Lieutenant River.
Activity Level: Low | ADA Accessible: Partial
Take a short drive to Downtown Essex for an afternoon exploring. Visit the Connecticut River Museum, which features various exhibits that highlight artifacts with regional and historical significance. One collection found on the first floor of the museum is the "Turtle Submarine,” the first submarine used in combat which was successfully launched in the early morning of September 7, 1776. After the museum, spend time exploring the picturesque Main Street with its many shops and cafés. Or, choose to spend your whole afternoon strolling Essex.
Activity Level: Low | ADA Accessible: Yes
Enjoy a guided exploration of The Kate, the only museum of its kind dedicated to preserving the legacy of Connecticut's own Katharine Hepburn. Presenting an authentic view of the cultural and historical impact of Miss Hepburn and her family, exhibits feature costumes from her films, personal letters to family and friends, her 1975 Primetime Emmy Award, personal wardrobe clothing, framed artwork, and a special exhibits case.
Activity Level: Low | ADA Accessible: Yes
Begin a walking exploration of Old Saybrook with your local guide, discovering a quaint seaside town where the Connecticut River meets Long Island Sound. Delve into its early history as you stroll to the Nori restaurant for a tasting of Japanese-inspired small plates and sake. Continue to Fiore Pizzeria for a slice of Connecticut’s famous white clam pizza paired with house wine. Along the way, learn about Katharine Hepburn and the Borough of Fenwick. Conclude at Penny Lane Pub with savory bites and a refreshing beer, blending local flavor with engaging storytelling.
Activity Level: Moderate | ADA Accessible: Yes
This is a Signature shore excursion and should be reserved in advance. Please call (800) 894-8570 for information.
Be greeted by your guide at the ship as you board your motorcoach to travel to the 9/11 Memorial & Museum. Located at the World Trade Center, this museum honors those who were killed in the 2001 and 1993 attacks, those who risked their lives to help others, and the courage of those who survived. Enjoy a guided exploration, during which this poignant story is told through media, narratives, and a collection of monumental and authentic artifacts. After, explore the grounds on your own which include the Memorial Pools where the towers once stood, the Survivor Tree, and the 9/11 Memorial Glade.
Activity Level: Moderate | ADA Accessible: Yes
Journey through decades of innovation and achievement at this engaging museum. Step aboard the legendary aircraft carrier Intrepid and explore a remarkable collection that includes the world’s first space shuttle, a nuclear-armed submarine, dozens of military aircraft, a supersonic spy plane, and one of the fastest commercial airliners in history. As you wander the decks and exhibits, discover the stories behind these iconic machines and the people who built and flew them.
Activity Level: Moderate | ADA Accessible: Yes
See New York City from a fresh perspective aboard a beautifully designed 1920s-style yacht. Relax in the climate-controlled solarium or take in sweeping views from the open bow as you glide along the Hudson River past iconic landmarks such as the Statue of Liberty, Ellis Island, Battery Park, Governors Island, and Manhattan’s glittering skyline. Along the way, enjoy light narration that brings the city’s history and stories to life, all while sipping a complimentary drink.
Activity Level: Low | ADA Accessible: Yes
Why not stay an extra night or two to immerse yourself in the spirit of this vibrant city? Ask your onboard Hotel General Manager for recommendations on area hotels, attractions, and more.
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.
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.
Map & Itinerary Overview
Explore the best seaport towns between the vibrant cities of Boston and New York. Step into American history in Plymouth and New London and discover the rich maritime influence of Mystic, CT; Sag Harbor, NY; and Newport, RI.
Day 1 - New York, NY
Arrive in New York City and begin your cruise experience with a hotel stay, allowing time to explore one of the world’s most iconic cities before embarkation. Discover New York at your own pace, from strolling Central Park and visiting world-class museums to exploring vibrant neighborhoods filled with culture, cuisine, and history. Whether you choose Broadway lights, waterfront walks, or landmark attractions, New York City offers the perfect starting point for your coastal journey.
Day 2 - Day of Cruising
Board the ship in Manhattan and begin your New England adventure as you cruise away from the city skyline. As the ship departs, enjoy sweeping views of New York Harbor and iconic landmarks while transitioning from urban energy to relaxed coastal cruising.
Meet the crew, settle into your stateroom, and take part in welcome aboard activities. Raise a toast to the journey ahead, enjoy onboard dining, and unwind as the ship continues northward along the coast.
Day 3 - Sag Harbor, NY
Discover Sag Harbor, a historic whaling port on Long Island where maritime history meets small-town charm. Stroll the narrow streets lined with whaler’s cottages, art galleries, and antique shops, each offering a glimpse into the town’s past and creative present.
Learn about Sag Harbor’s whaling history at the Whaling Museum and the Annie Cooper Boyd House, where local historians share stories of the industry and the people who built the village. For a more leisurely pace, explore Main Street at your own speed, enjoying boutique shops, waterfront cafés, and local wine bars.
Day 4 - Old Saybrook / Essex, CT
Visit Old Saybrook, one of Connecticut’s earliest settlements where the Connecticut River meets Long Island Sound. The town is known for its maritime roots and as the longtime home of silver screen icon Katharine Hepburn, with the Katharine Hepburn Museum offering a look at her life, film costumes, personal letters, and artwork, along with a screening in the historic theater.
Just a short trip away, Essex invites walking exploration along its waterfront streets, where colonial and Federal-era buildings reflect the town’s history. The Connecticut River Museum provides insight into regional maritime heritage, including the historic Turtle Submarine. Afterward, visitors can enjoy lunch at the Griswold Inn and spend time browsing local shops or strolling the charming streets.
Day 5 - New London / Mystic, CT
Explore the charm of Connecticut’s coastal towns with a visit to New London and Mystic. Mystic is a scenic village with a harbor lined with historic tall ships and a lively waterfront area. The town supports a rich arts scene, from local galleries like Russ Kramer’s, known for his realistic maritime paintings, to the nation’s leading maritime museum, Mystic Seaport, where visitors can explore a recreated 19th-century seafaring village and step aboard the 1841 whaleship Charles W. Morgan.
Nearby New London sits at the meeting point of the Thames River and Long Island Sound, offering a mix of coastal and urban scenery. Its cultural highlights include the Lyman Allyn Art Museum, which houses more than 17,000 objects spanning ancient to contemporary art, and landmarks such as the United States Coast Guard Academy.
Day 6 - Newport, RI
Visit Newport, RI, a coastal town known for its historic districts and Gilded Age mansions. Take a stroll along the famous Cliff Walk, where rocky shores meet grand estates like The Breakers and Marble House, offering a glimpse into the Vanderbilt family’s influence at the turn of the century.
Local exploration continues in the downtown area, where colonial-era buildings house shops and cafés along the bustling waterfront, and stop at Fort Adams for an authentic New England Lobsterbake featuring fresh lobster, steamed clams, and a scenic harbor view.
Day 7 - Day of Cruising
Enjoy a relaxing day of cruising along the New England coastline. Take advantage of the ship’s open decks to watch the shoreline pass by or unwind indoors with panoramic views.
Onboard programs offer insight into the region’s maritime history, coastal culture, and natural landscapes. Enjoy leisurely meals, social gatherings, and evening entertainment as you savor a peaceful day at sea before reaching Massachusetts.
Day 8 - Plymouth, MA
Discover the coastal beauty of Plymouth, known as one of the earliest English settlement sites in North America. Stroll along the waterfront where fishing boats still dot the harbor, then explore the streets of downtown Plymouth, lined with colonial-era architecture and locally owned shops that reflect the town’s enduring charm.
From riding the Plymouth Local Loop shuttle to stops like Plymouth Rock, Brewster Gardens, and Town Square, to visiting Pilgrim Hall Museum, where authentic Pilgrim artifacts and exhibits illuminate the Wampanoag and Pilgrim experience.
Day 9 - Boston, MA
Your cruise concludes in Boston, one of the most historically significant cities in the United States. Enjoy a final breakfast onboard before disembarkation.
For those extending their stay, Boston offers endless opportunities for exploration, from walking the Freedom Trail and visiting renowned museums to strolling along the Charles River or exploring the vibrant waterfront. As you reflect on your journey through New England’s coastal towns and cities, Boston provides a fitting and memorable finale.