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Day 1
Providence, RI
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Known as the “Renaissance City," Providence features a host of attractions for visitors to enjoy including acclaimed theaters, fine arts and Philharmonic performances. There are plenty of historic landmarks to discover, such as the Rhode Island State House, the John Brown House and the Meeting House of the First Baptist Church in America. Take the time to explore this glorious New England harbor at your leisure.
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Other Providence Attractions
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This is a listing of alternative activities that are available within this port.
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John Brown House Museum
Considered to be “magnificent and elegant” by John Quincy Adams, this house-turned-museum was the first mansion built in Providence. After being donated by the Brown family in the early 1940s, the home was restored and preserved by the Rhode Island Historical Society. Tour the Brown House to learn about Rhode Island’s cultural and social climate in the 18th century. Website
State House
Featuring the fourth-largest self-supported marble dome in the world, the Rhode Island State House is the workplace of many state and local government officials. The State House features a number of interesting items, including a replica of the Liberty Bell and a portrait of George Washington painted by Gilbert Stuart. Website Governor Henry Lippitt House
Take a tour of this well-preserved home, built for textile merchant Henry Lippitt in the late 19th century. Guide tours will illuminate the history of this building, showcasing the elaborate woodwork and Victorian-era furnishings. Website Cathedral of Saints Paul and Peter
This Romanesque cathedral was designed in the late 19th century by Patrick Keely. On a tour, you will see a number of amazing features, including a 36-foot-tall organ, a tabernacle created by hand and a testa weighing 3000 pounds. Website The Roger Williams Park & Botanical Center
This center, which is the largest public indoor display garden in New England, features two greenhouses and 150 species and cultivars of plants. This is the perfect excursion for anyone who loves escaping into natural settings within urban areas. Website Waterplace Park and River Walk
Romantic Venetian-style footbridges, cobblestone walkways, and an amphitheater encircling a tidal pond set the tone at this 4-acre tract, which has won national and international design awards. The Riverwalk passes the junction of three rivers -- the Woonasquatucket, Providence, and Moshassuck -- a nexus of the shipping trade during Providence's early years. However, the area had been covered over by highways and parking lots in the middle of the 20th century. An urban-renewal project uncovered the buried rivers, rerouted them, and surrounded them with amenities for pedestrians rather than cars. Waterplace Park is now a gathering for the city. Website Roger Williams Park Zoo
Featuring a host of interactive exhibits, this zoo’s mission is focused on the conservation of wildlife and providing a wide range of education to its visitors. See more than 100 species of wide-ranging animals, including harbor seals, red pandas and carpet pythons. Website
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Day 2
Nantucket Island, MA
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 Be transported back into the 18th century as you step off of your small cruise ship onto the cobblestone streets of Nantucket. Although it is just a short cruise from the mainland, Nantucket is a world unto itself, with towering church steeples and old-world architecture. Take a tour that offers glimpses of the island's historical landmarks, modern art galleries and its famous whaling museum. Stroll down streets lined with charming shops, ice cream parlors, and rose-covered cottages, before watching the sun set from Nantucket's pristine beaches.
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Nantucket Island Tour
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Join a narrated bus tour of this enchanting island.
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1.5 Hours
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Beaches are aplenty on this gorgeous 14-mile island, settled in the mid 17th century. Gaze out at the Atlantic coastline or admire the stunning homes spread out all over the island. An island tour will expose some of Nantucket’s storied history. Afterwards, make sure to visit the village shops to really experience the true hospitality of this New England treasure.
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Other Nantucket Island Attractions
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This is a listing of alternative activities that are available within this port.
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Capricorn Gallery
Capricorn Gallery is located in one of the most beautiful spots on Nantucket. Old South Wharf has become a center for art studios and galleries since the 1950's. There are currently about twenty galleries occupying restored fishermen's shanties on this wharf in Nantucket Harbor. They have brought a unique European background to the beauty of Nantucket, creating a spectacular blend of contemporary glass art, ceramics, and jewelry.
Maria Mitchell Association
The Maria Mitchell Association is a scientific research and education institution that offers a museum, aquarium and observatory. The marine organisms of Nantucket's salt marshes, harbors, and near-shore waters await your acquaintance on Washington Street. There are friendly science interns to answer all your questions about the mollusks, crustaceans, and finfish. Bird-watching and wildflower walks are available when in season. Website
Jethro Coffin House
History and architecture buffs should definitely visit this hilltop house, built in 1686 as a wedding gift for Jethro and Mary Gardner Coffin. The most striking feature of the saltbox is its massive central brick chimney designed with a brick horseshoe adornment said to ward away witches. Website
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Day 3
Martha's Vineyard, MA
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 During the 18th and 19th centuries, Martha's Vineyard was a hub for merchant ships carrying exotic cargo from far corners of the world. Today, the island is one of the most popular vacation spots in New England, comprised of six distinct towns. Historic Edgartown is the most genteel town on the island, featuring freshly painted, white clapboard colonial homes and manicured gardens.
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Island Tour
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Discover the best of Martha's Vineyard during a guided tour of the island.
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3 Hours
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On a narrated bus tour of the island, you will experience a 19th century seaport village when you visit historic Edgartown, featuring magnificent examples of Greek Revival homes built by whaling captains. Delight in Oak Bluffs' gingerbread style cottages, discover West Tisbury, and gaze out at Vineyard Haven's beautiful harbor. This excursion includes a one-hour stop in Edgartown, where you can stroll through the village and enjoy its famous rose-covered cottages.
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Other Martha's Vineyard Attraction
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This is a listing of alternative activities that are available within this port.
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Cottage Museum
The Cottage Museum is a reflection of historic Martha’s Vineyard, offering visitors a look inside of a pre-20 century Campgrounds cottage, complete with furnishings from that era. Stop by the Museum gift shop to pick up souvenirs, the proceeds of which go directly to support the Martha’s Vineyard Campmeeting Association. Website
Cape Poge Wildlife Refuge
Explore 1,000 acres of preserved land on 14 miles of walking trails and discover a myriad of native wildlife like great blue herons, sandpipers and piping plovers. Make sure to reach the northernmost point of the sand barrier, where the Cape Poge Lighthouse is located. Website
MVM Historical Society / Museum
Learn about the storied history of Martha’s Vineyard at this museum, which offers a number of rotating exhibits and events, all of which illuminate the past, present and future of this great region. Stroll around the grounds to see various pieces of history, including a lightning rod from the early 1900s. Website
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Day 4
Gloucester, MA
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 Known as America's oldest seaport, explorers and fishermen alike have been visiting Gloucester since 1606. Located on Cape Ann, this beautiful landscape has been attracting sailors for centuries because of its safe harbors. Cape Ann's natural beauty has also attracted great American painters including Fitz Hugh Lane, Winslow Homer, Milton Avery, John Sloan and many others.
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Schooner Lannon Cruise
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Relax on the deck of a schooner with the wind blowing through your hair while you cruise the coastline of Gloucester.
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2 Hours
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Relax on the deck of this beautiful 65-foot schooner as she sails out of Gloucester harbor. Join us for a 2-hour sail and experience sailing on a fishing schooner. Help raise the sails, or just sit back and take in the sights and sounds of Gloucester's coastline.
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Maritime Heritage Center Guided Tour
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From sanctuaries to replicas, join us on a tour that will explore the maritime heritage of Gloucester.
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45 Minutes
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During a 45-minute group tour, you will have the opportunity to explore the many features of the Gloucester Maritime Heritage Center. On this tour, you will visit the Stellwagen Bank National Marine Sanctuary, New England's only marine sanctuary. Other features include the Sea Pocket Lab, Burnham Brothers Marine Railway, and a reproduction of one of the three Boston Tea Party Ships.
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Narrated Sightseeing Tour
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See all the highlights of Gloucseter on a sightseeing tour.
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1.5 Hours
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Enjoy a narrated tour of Gloucester, Rocky Neck and Rockport. Tour highlights will include Stacy Boulevard, where passengers can view the famous statue, “Man at the Wheel”; Downtown Gloucester; East Gloucester, also referred to as Rocky Neck; the Back Shore and the quaint seaside town of Rockport.
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Other Gloucester Attractions
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This is a listing of alternative activities that are available within this port.
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Sleeper-McCann House
Explore this 40-room house once owned by renowned interior designer Henry Davis Sleeper. Throughout the years, most of Sleeper’s personal effects remain as they were when he resided in Gloucester. After perusing the unique rooms, collections and architecture, take in a spectacular view of Gloucester Harbor. Website
The Hammond Castle Museum
Upon completion of a self-guided tour through a Renaissance dining room, servants’ quarters and more, explore the grounds around this beautiful early 20th century castle. The glorious gardens and views of the Atlantic shore line are well worth the trip. Website State of the Art Gallery and Sculpture Garden
View the work of more than 30 artists and sculptors in two unique settings – an antique gothic home and a multi-tiered garden, respectively. You may tour this collection, which is located at Rocky Neck Art Colony, the oldest in the country. Website
Eastern Point Wildlife Sanctuary
This sanctuary may not have a traditional trail system, but take a short walk along the coastline and you might see butterflies, loons, sea ducks and more, depending on the season. Website
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Day 5
Bath, ME
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 Beautiful Downtown Bath has a unique mix of services, shops, and restaurants, all of which cater to locals and visitors alike. Walk down Front and Centre Streets, and experience the comfortable pace and friendly pedestrian atmosphere. Rest in the lovely Library and Waterfront Parks or walk the city streets to admire the tree-lined avenues, graced by both humble and grand examples of classic American architecture.
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Maine Maritime Museum
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Discover Maine's seafaring history at this nationally acclaimed museum.
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Long known as the "City of Ships," Bath has a centuries-old shipbuilding tradition. Shipyards line its river's edge and Bath-built vessels sail the seas of the world. Bath is home to the nationally acclaimed Maine Martime Museum, which offers a variety of exhibits on Maine's nautical history. Take a guided or self-guided tour of the museum and experience Maine's rich seafaring history. From watercraft and lobstering to shipbuilding and sea trade, hear stories about dangerous voyages to distant lands, see how a shipbuilder's family lived during the 1890s, and discover the fascinating lore surrounding Maine's maritime culture.
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Day 6
Boothbay Harbor, ME
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 This lovely, historic town is lined with shops, boutiques, and picture-perfect harbors dotted with lobster boats, pleasure craft, and windjammers. Boothbay is the largest boating harbor north of Boston, earning the moniker of "Boating Capital of New England."
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Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens Tour
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Explore one of the most distinguished botanical destinations in the country on a one hour guided tour.
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1 Hour
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The Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens is one of the most distinguished botanical destinations in the country, and one of Maine's top attractions. Its exquisite gardens, dramatic and compelling natural landscape, stunning Visitor Center, and waterfront make it unique, charming and totally captivating. A guided tour will introduce you to the history, horticultural details, and colorful explanations of these gardens. Included will be the visitor favorite, the Lerner Garden of Five Senses, a garden designed to appeal to each sense. After the tour, visit the gift shop or stroll the gardens on your own.
Photo by Barbara Freeman, Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens.
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Day 7
Bar Harbor, ME
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Nestled on the east side of Mt. Desert Island and surrounded by Acadia National Park, Bar Harbor's breathtaking vistas and abundant wildlife have welcomed visitors for over one hundred years. Some cruises may go to Bar Harbor via coach from Bucksport. Please call for details.
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Day 8
Belfast, ME
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 The 1800s were a time of great prosperity in Belfast. Residents were building beautiful Greek Revival mansions and adorning them with treasures brought home from the China Trade. Spend the day exploring historic Belfast with some of the best examples of nineteenth-century architecture in Maine. Shore excursions offer glimpses of stunning military architecture and master granite craftsmanship in Fort Knox State Park and seafaring legacies at Penobscot Marine Museum.
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Belfast Guided Walking Tour
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Join a local Belfast historian on a walking tour through the city's Historic Districts.
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1 Hour
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Located on a hill overlooking the tidal waters of Penobscot Bay, Belfast's creativity, innovation and tradition are witnessed throughout the city. The 1800s were a time of great prosperity in Belfast, mostly due to the town's shipbuilding and commerce. This town proudly showcases sea captains' mansions in Greek revival and Italianate architecture that have been included on the National Register of Historic Places. This walking tour ends at the Belfast Museum, which features exhibits about the city's fascinating story.
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Day 9
Camden, ME
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 Full of classic schooners, this charming village is considered the "tall ship capital of Maine," and is admired for scenic beauty and a host of historic and cultural attractions. Enjoy the warm summer sunshine and refreshing sea breeze as you relax on a park bench and watch beautiful ships sail into the harbor, or browse the shops and interesting galleries. Bring your camera to capture sweeping ocean vistas, placid coastlines and panoramic views of Camden, Penobscot Bay and surrounding islands from atop Mount Battie.
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Narrated Bus Tour
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A narrated bus tour through Camden Hills State Park.
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1.5 Hours
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Camden is proud to call itself the "Jewel of the Coast." A quaint seaport town, Camden features 19th century architecture, a harbor full of classic schooners and a beautiful backdrop provided by the Camden Hills. A 90-minute narrated bus tour takes you through Camden Hills State Park, with a stop at the top of Mt. Battie, where you'll have panoramic views of glistening lakes, Camden Harbor, and the islands of Penobscot Bay.
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Other Camden Attractions
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This is a listing of alternative activities that are available within this port.
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Old Conway House and Museum
The Old Conway House was built in the 1770s. The antique furniture and farm equipment on display reflect the time period.
Camden Hills State Park
If recreation is on your list, you've come to the right place. Camden Hills State Park offers unlimited hiking opportunities with incredible views of Penobscot Bay and Megunticook Lake atop Mt. Battie and Mt. Megunticook. If you are not into hiking, then consider the auto road to the top of Mt. Battie. Website
Maine Sport Outfitters Sea Kayaking Adventures
Just across the street in Camden Harbor, Maine Sport Outfitters offers professional sea kayaking tours of Camden Harbor and beyond, led by registered guides. Enjoy two- and four-hour tours that take you out around Curtis Island where you'll see a working lighthouse and great views of the Bay and Camden Hills. Website
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Day 10
Rockland, ME
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 Before arriving in Rockland, you'll have the pleasure of experiencing Maine's most beautiful cruising areas. Your ship will pass through the gorgeous 6-mile passage lined with beautiful evergreens known as Merchants Row. In Rockland, passengers can follow the Rockland Harbor Walk, visit the Shore Village Museum or take an interesting narrated tour of the area. The town's Maine Street Historic District has been recorded in the National Register of Historic Places for its many fine examples of Italianate, Mansard, Greek Revival and Colonial Revival architecture.
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Owls Head Transportation Museum
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Take a step back in time and enjoy pioneer-era aircrafts and automobiles.
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Take a step back in time at the Owls Head Transportation Museum, where pioneer-era aircraft and automobiles from the late 19th century and early 20th century are on permanent display. Enjoy a guided tour of the museum's outstanding collection. Also, don't miss out on your chance to ride in a Model T.
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City Tour / Farnsworth Museum
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Enjoy a narrated tour of Rockland, which will make frequent stops around town, including the famous Farnsworth Art Museum.
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Famous for its mountainous and rugged shore, Rockland is one of Maine's unique treasures. Enjoy a narrated tour of Rockland, which will make frequent stops around town, including the famous Farnsworth Art Museum where you will enjoy a one-hour tour. The Farnsworth Art Museum pays homage to Maine artists throughout its permanent collection, "Maine in America." Moreover, it is one of only two centers in the country dedicated to the three generations of Wyeths.
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Day 11
Portland, ME
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 Maine's most historic seaport overlooks beautiful Casco Bay. Spend your visit exploring its gallant 360-year history or check out its amazing cultural scene. Big-city excitement blends delightfully with small-town charm here, as fishing vessels bustle in the harbor and Victorian-era buildings still line cobblestone streets.
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Other Portland Attractions
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This is a listing of alternative activities that are available within this port.
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Old Port
Portland's Old Port is one of the most successful revitalized warehouse districts in the country. Seamlessly connected to the waterfront, the Old Port is a working waterfront and a chic shopping, dining, and entertainment district. Taking a walk at the water's edge along Commercial Street provides a window into the latter. Just steps from the water, one can stroll down the cobblestone streets and experience the quaint charm of this district. The boutique shopping, one-of-a-kind stores,lobster-serving restaurants, and a vibrant nightlife are all unparallel by any other New England city. Website
The Wadsworth-Longfellow House
The Wadsworth-Longfellow House has both historical and literary importance. It is both the oldest standing structure on the Portland peninsula and the childhood home of famous American poet Henry Wadsworth Longfellow (1807–1882). Within this home's walls lived four generations of one remarkable family that made significant contributions to the political, literary, and cultural life of New England and the United States. After growing up here, Henry Wadsworth Longfellow went on to become one of the most famous men of his time. Website
Maine Narrow Gauge Railroad Company and Museum
Take a trip back in time at the Maine Narrow Gauge Railroad Co. & Museum. Enjoy magnificent views of Portland's waterfront aboard antique rail cars pulled by hard-working steam and diesel locomotives. Don't miss the unique two-foot gauge trains that linked rural Maine to the rest of the world. Website
Portland Harbor Museum
Founded in 1987, the Portland Harbor Museum is an exciting place to explore and celebrate the rich maritime history of Portland Harbor. Located on the South Portland waterfront, the museum lies within the granite walls of Fort Preble, adjacent to Spring Point Ledge Light. Other points of interest like Bug Light and the Liberty Ship Memorial are less than a mile away. Website
Portland Museum of Art
As the largest and oldest art museum in the state of Maine, the Portland Museum of Art serves as a vital cultural resource for all who visit. The Museum's collection of more than 17,000 objects is housed in three historic and remarkable buildings showcasing three centuries of art and architecture. Website
The Portland Observatory
The Portland Observatory, built in 1807, is the last surviving maritime signal tower in the United States. Using both a telescope and lantern, two-way communication between ship and shore was possible several hours before an incoming vessel reached the docks. Greater Portland Landmarks, a non-profit organization, maintains the building. Guided tours with discussion about the history of the building and the neighborhood are provided by volunteers. Website
Victoria Mansion
Victoria Mansion is one of the finest examples of residential design from the pre-Civil War era in America. With superb architecture and well-preserved original interiors among the most lavish and sophisticated during this era, this mansion is an unparalleled document of America’s highest aspirations in architecture, interior design, and the decorative arts. Our history, a quick tour, and present-day efforts aimed at restoring the Mansion convey the significance of this unique site. Website
Downeast Duck Adventures
Splash into history on this fun and fully-narrated 65-minute adventure through Portland. As you twist and turn through the Old Port, we'll tell you about the legends and lore that have shaped Portland into one of the most historical cities in the nation. Learn about places of interest to visit and many little known facts about the city that is nicknamed 'The Phoenix.' Then, hold onto your tail feathers as you drive into the waters of Casco Bay to view Portland's working waterfront, Calendar Islands and marine wildlife. Website
Eagle Island Tours
Casco Bay, one of the most beautiful waterways in the United States, lies just beyond Old Port. Eagle Island Tours offers you the opportunity to see all of the beautiful sights the area has to offer on our seasonal daily sightseeing cruises and trolley tours. Whether you are looking to relax and unwind on a sunset lighthouse cruise, see Portland's landmarks by trolley or embark on an adventure to Eagle Island, you've come to the right place! Website
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