Yankee Seaports

Pre-Cruise

Our Four Seasons Hotel Pre-Cruise Package offers a complete Boston experience. Located in the heart of downtown, the hotel puts the city at your fingertips and allows you to arrive at your leisure the day before your cruise.

The package includes a full breakfast at the Four Seasons on the morning of your cruise, followed by a Boston City Exploration. American Cruise Lines handles everything, including transportation of your luggage to your stateroom aboard the ship. The excursion concludes at the ship, in time for embarkation and a relaxing afternoon cruise out of Boston Harbor. 

Pre-Cruise Packages must be reserved at least 30 days before your cruise date. Please call (800) 460-4518 for pricing and availability.

Excursions & Entertainment

• Four Seasons Pre-Cruise Package - Boston
  Four Seasons Pre-Cruise Package - Boston

  Arrive to 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 take part in a narrated city excursion which visits sites such as Faneuil Hall and Quincy Market, concluding at the ship for seamless embarkation where your luggage will be waiting for you in your stateroom.
  
  Pre-Cruise Packages must be reserved at least 30 days before your cruise date. Please call (800) 460-4518 for pricing and availability.

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Day 1 - Boston, MA

Start your journey, in Boston, Massachusetts, a vibrant city with historic neighborhoods that tell the story of American history. Explore Faneuil Hall, where citizens of Boston first gathered to rally for the cause of independence from Great Britain and where George Washington toasted the nation there on its first birthday. Visit the North End, the oldest neighborhood, home to the famous Old North Church and Little Italy. Take time for shopping at Quincy Market and enjoy the diverse lineup of street performers.

Excursions & Entertainment

• Welcome Aboard
  Welcome Aboard

  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.

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Day 2 - Plymouth, MA

Founded in 1620, Plymouth, MA, this coastal town was the site of the first Pilgrim settlement. With a quintessential New England feel, Plymouth County is has some of the most renowned historical monuments and beautiful coastal landscapes in the country. Explore the distinguished Massachusetts Maritime Academy and nearby Hyannis, site of the Kennedy Compound.

Excursions & Entertainment

• Massachusetts Maritime Academy - Complimentary Excursion
  Massachusetts Maritime Academy - Complimentary Excursion

  Founded in 1891 in Boston, MA, Massachusetts Maritime Academy (MMA) is the largest and oldest continuously operating maritime academy in the country. Come explore this “special mission” campus and its state-of-the-art simulators and labs while you interact with MMA cadets and staff. Discover the 360-degree Full Bridge Simulator, the Emergency Operations Training Center, the Marine Engineering Labs, green technologies, and more. Throughout your excursion, learn about the history of the Academy and surrounding areas from those who know it best. 

  Activity Level: Moderate | ADA ACCESSIBLE: Yes

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• The Hyannis Experience
  The Hyannis Experience

  During this carefully curated excursion, explore the charming village of Hyannis with stops at the John F. Kennedy Hyannis Museum, Veterans Memorial Park, Cape Cod Maritime Museum, and St. Francis Xavier Church. Take time to stroll down picturesque Main Street and peruse some of the many locally-owned shops. Lunch is included. 

  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

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• Historic Patuxet and Plymouth Colony
  Historic Patuxet and Plymouth Colony

   A walking tour presented by Plimoth Patuxet Museums has been customized to connect your Plymouth experience to America's Founding Story. Visit Plymouth Rock, Cole's Hill and Massasoit's Statue; Leyden Street (original street of Plymouth Colony), Governor Bradford's statue, Brewster Gardens and Town Brook (water supply for the Pilgrims) and Town Square and Burial Hill (location of the Fort/Meeting House).

  Step aboard the historic Mayflower II. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the Mayflower II is a full-scale replica of the 17th-century merchant ship that brought the Pilgrims in 1620.  Also, see and learn how corn was stone-ground in 1636 at the Plimoth Grist Mill. Then, enjoy taking home a piece of history with freshly made cornmeal or Sampe available for purchase at one of the 3 retails stores along the waterfront. Stop at the mill to purchase Plimoth artisan products.  

  Activity Level: Moderate | ADA ACCESSIBLE: Partial 

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Day 3 - Newport, RI

Nestled within Narragansett Bay is Newport, the yachting capital of the world. As you stroll along the beautiful beaches, historic neighborhoods, bustling wharves, and scenic waterfront, you will find Newport offers something for everyone. Visit the Herreshoff Marine Museum and America's Cup Hall of Fame. Explore Newport's fabled past with glimpses of opulent seaside estates along the "Avenue of the Mansions."

Excursions & Entertainment

• Fort Adams Exploration - Complimentary Excursion
  Fort Adams Exploration - Complimentary Excursion

  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 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

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• Avenue of the Mansions
  Avenue of the Mansions

  Travel back in time to the epicenter of 19th-century opulence as a knowledgeable guide takes you down one of the most architecturally impressive avenues in the world. Learn about the owners of the homes and their monetary successes as you travel along the spectacular Ocean View Drive and Bellevue Avenue, stopping at the “grande dame” of them all, 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: Partial

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Day 4 - New London/Mystic, CT

Dating back to the Revolutionary War, New London has been the backdrop of some of the most significant scenes in American History and was once the second largest whaling port in the world. Learn about the city’s storied past, which has been preserved and honored at historical landmarks and museums. Visit nearby Mystic, home to the nation’s leading maritime museum, as well as an amazing aquarium, showcasing thousands of animals, from beluga whales to African penguins.

Excursions & Entertainment

• New London Harbor & the United States Coast Guard Academy
  New London Harbor & the United States Coast Guard Academy

  Travel by motorcoach to see the main highlights of this charming port city. Drive through Main Street viewing New London’s top sights, iconic landmarks, and unique neighborhoods. Stop by Fort Trumbull, built to protect the New London Harbor from British attack, later serving as part of the country’s coastal defense system. Venture to The United States Coast Guard Academy for a walking tour with a local guide.

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• Mystic Aquarium
  Mystic Aquarium

  Visit one of the nation’s leading aquariums. Learn about our ocean planet, while exploring the many indoor and outdoor exhibits. Feed a ray, see the only spotted seals in the continental United States, experience a California sea lion show, visit African penguin chicks, and more.

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• Mystic Seaport Exploration
  Mystic Seaport Exploration

  Visit Mystic Seaport Museum, the nation's leading maritime museum, with 19 acres situated along the Mystic River. Step aboard the 1841 whaleship Charles W. Morgan, a designated National Historic Landmark and the last wooden whaleship in the world. 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.

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Day 5 - Old Saybrook, CT

Travel to Old Saybrook, located where the Connecticut River meets Long Island Sound. Settled in 1635, it is one of Connecticut's oldest towns and was the longtime residence of actress Katherine Hepburn. Explore the nearby town of Essex and stroll along the scenic waterfront, ornamented with early colonial and federal architecture lining the storybook streets. Visit the Connecticut River Museum to gain an understanding of the town’s maritime history and venture to the Essex Stream Train & Riverboat, the only steam train and riverboat connection in the U.S.

Excursions & Entertainment

• Florence Griswold Museum
  Florence Griswold Museum

  Visit the home of Florence Griswold, where the Old Lyme Art Colony flourished in the early 1900s. Designated a National Historic Landmark in 1993, the museum brings to life the work of American Impressionist artists in the place where they once lived and painted. Explore this remarkable campus which encompasses 12-acres of historic buildings, grounds, gardens, and walking trails.

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• Essex Steam Train & Riverboat
  Essex Steam Train & Riverboat

  Travel to The Valley Railroad, a heritage railroad founded in 1868. Get onboard a vintage coach as a steam locomotive pulls you through the quintessential New England towns of Deep River and Chester. Next, board the Becky Thatcher riverboat for a cruise along the scenic Connecticut River. Travel by the historic Gillette Castle, Goodspeed Opera House, and the Haddam Swing Bridge. Upon Becky‘s return to Deep River Landing, the steam train will welcome you back on board for the return trip to Essex Station.

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Day 6 - Sag Harbor, NY

Described as one of the best-kept-secret small towns on Long Island, Sag Harbor is proud of its history and works hard to preserve, commemorate, and share their past. Settled in the early 1700s, Sag Harbor had the first commercial port in the United States, the first newspaper printed on Long Island, and the first volunteer fire company in New York. Take a leisurely stroll down Main Street, visiting the unique shops and basking in the artsy ambiance of the village.

Excursions & Entertainment

• Sag Harbor Whaling & Historical Museum
  Sag Harbor Whaling & Historical Museum

  Sag Harbor was once the 6th largest whaling fleet in the nation, and the largest in New York State. Discover this small, engaging museum, which featuries artifacts from the whaling days of Sag Harbor, including navigational tools, scrimshaw, model ships, and changing exhibits throughout the year.

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• Sag Harbor On Your Own – Complimentary Excursion
  Sag Harbor On Your Own – Complimentary Excursion

  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.

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Day 7 - Port Jefferson, NY

Discover this waterfront town which perfectly blends natural beauty with a rich maritime heritage. Settled in the 1600s as a rural town, Port Jefferson transitioned into a shipbuilding center in the 1800s, eventually becoming the largest shipbuilding industry in Suffolk County. Admire the magnificent historic buildings and homes that once belonged to prominent sailors and shipbuilders. Visit The Village Center which was formerly a shipyard, where builders worked tirelessly to create and immediately launch ships into the Long Island Sound. Well-known circus owner P.T. Barnum once owned land running through the Village.

Excursions & Entertainment

• New York Harbor Cruise - Premium
  New York Harbor Cruise - Premium

  Enjoy an evening cruise on the New York Harbor. Along the way cruise close to the iconic Statute of Liberty, lit up against the starry night sky. View the beautiful sparkling New York City Skyline and iconic landmarks such as the Brooklyn Bridge, Freedom Towers, Ellis Island, and more.

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• Mather House Museum
  Mather House Museum

  Port Jefferson was first settled in the 17th century and remained a rural community until its development as an active shipbuilding center in the mid-19th century. Explore the Mather House Museum Complex, which features the home of the Mather family, prominent 19th-century Port Jefferson shipbuilders, a Marine Barn & Sail Loft, the Thomas Jefferson Perennial Garden, and more.

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• Port Jefferson Brewing Company Exploration
  Port Jefferson Brewing Company Exploration

  Enjoy Port Jefferson's only hops brewery, located in the heart of the village, directly across from a bustling ferry landing. Sample their wide variety of beers in the nautical-themed tasting room which offers 12 taps pouring from a handsomely handcrafted wooden-boat bar.

   

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Day 8 - New York, NY

End your journey in the city the never sleeps. From the bright lights of Time Square to the grand elms of Central Park and luxurious boutiques and cobblestone streets of SoHo, Manhattan does not disappoint. As you approach the most recognizable skyline in the world, reflect on your incredible adventure and all the friends and memories made.

Excursions & Entertainment

• New York, New York & The World Trade Center Experience
  New York, New York & The World Trade Center Experience

  Board a motorcoach bound for some of the most interesting and important places in the founding of NYC, including views of the United Nations, Manhattan Municipal Building, Washington Square Park, and famous neighborhoods like The Village to name a few. Led by a native New Yorker, enjoy a one hour walking exploration of the World Trade Center Memorial to explore the Reflective Pools honoring the lives lost and the sacrifices made by the citizens of New York City.

  Note: This excursion will be offered on embarkation day for cruises on American Star and American Independence. This excursion will be offered the day before disembarkation for cruises on American Constitution.

  Activity Level: High | ADA Accessible: Yes

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• Crime & Cannoli
  Crime & Cannoli

  Join a local New Yorker for a food and crime tour of one of New York’s most famously nefarious neighborhoods, Little Italy, and get a behind the scenes look at its dark underbelly. Begin with a brief ride up to Little Italy, followed by a walking and eating tour, including at least four dedicated food stops to sample cannolis and true New York pizza, among other delicious dishes. Along the way, explore sites and figures related to La Cosa Nostra. 

  Note: This excursion will be offered on embarkation day for cruises on American Star and American Independence. This excursion will be offered the day before disembarkation for cruises on American Constitution.

  Activity Level: High | ADA Accessible: Yes

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• Continue the Journey
  Continue the Journey

  Why not stay an extra night or two to immerse yourself in the spirit of this vibrant city? Ask your onboard Hotel Manager for recommendations on area hotels, attractions, and more.

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