New England Explorer Cruise

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.

As you embark upon your journey, enjoy a Welcome Aboard Reception with cocktails, hors d’oeuvres and entertainment. Meet the crew, your onboard experts, and fellow guests. Learn more about the wonderful adventure ahead of you.

There is no better way to experience Portland’s craft wines, beers, and spirits than aboard the Maine Brews Cruise Bus. Led by an engaging guide, get an inside look at a local distillery, winery, and brewery where you can partake in samples. Along the ride, enjoy fun beer trivia and history. Whether you are an amateur sipper or a full-on connoisseur, this is an experience you won’t want to miss.

Activity Level: Low | ADA ACCESSIBLE: No

Drink through Portland beer history on this leisurely walking excursion. Visit and learn about notable Portland landmarks, including numerous former brewery sites, the U.S. Custom House, the Workingmen’s Club, the Mariners’ Church, the Seamen’s Club, and the working waterfront that was essential for importing many goods and the exporting of alcohol, during times of prohibition. As part of this historical journey, we will stop at 3 legendary Portland breweries for a sample of craft beer, including Shipyard Brewing Company, Sebago Brewing Company, and Gritty McDuff’s.

Activity Level: Moderate | ADA ACCESSIBLE: Partial

Board the Elizabeth Grace for a cruise around scenic Portland Harbor and out into Casco Bay. While sipping local craft beer, keep your eyes open for potential seal sightings, as well as the multiple lighthouses, islands, and forts. Light refreshments, including non-alcoholic beverages are available throughout.

Activity Level: Low | ADA ACCESSIBLE: Partial

Portland is Maine’s largest city-by-the-sea. The Old Port waterfront features working fishing wharves and converted warehouses with restaurants and shops. The Western Promenade is a public park atop a bluff, offering river and mountain views. Its surrounding district, the West End, is full of Victorian-era homes

Meet your local guide for a narrated exploration. View Longfellow’s boyhood home, sea captains’ houses and the elegant Victorian Mansion. Travel through historic neighborhoods overlooking the islands of Casco Bay in Portland Harbor. Stop at Portland Head Lighthouse in Fort Williams Park, a historic landmark and the most photographed lighthouse in America.

Activity Level: Low | ADA ACCESSIBLE: Yes

Board the Elizabeth Grace for this exclusive, one-of-a-kind experience. The stone fortresses built in the early 19th century in Portland Harbor are imposing reminders of days in the not so distant past when the defense of our coastline required their presence. Despite their prominence, the forts are not easy to access for a variety of reasons, and most locals and visitors have never been to Fort Scammel, the only fort in the Portland Harbor to see active combat. On your way to the fort, enjoy some other great sights of the bay, including iconic lighthouses. Upon arrival, explore the grounds of this impressive historic structure. 

This is a Signature shore excursion and should be reserved in advance. Please call (800) 460-4518 for information.

Activity Level: High | ADA ACCESSIBLE: NO

Join a local guide for a walking exploration of Camden, the prettiest harbor on the Maine Coast.  As you weave through the streets, learn about the history of this quaint port from its industrial beginnings through its current status as the hub for yachting in Maine. View beautiful architecture and landscaping designs along the way. After the walk, explore Camden at your leisure.

Activity Level: Moderate | ADA ACCESSIBLE: No

Take a cruise from Camden Harbor with Captain Dominic aboard the Periwinkle. Watch a live lobster fishing demonstration and learn about these iconic Maine crustaceans-with the opportunity to hold a live lobster! Enjoy scenic views of Curtis Island Lighthouse, idyllic landscapes, and abundant wildlife that may include sea birds, eagles, seals and porpoise. Sit back, relax, and take it all in, or volunteer to help the crew for the true experience!  

Activity Level: Moderate | ADA ACCESSIBLE: No

Known as the Jewel of the Maine Coast, Camden is nestled between the Penobscot Bay and the rugged Mount Battie. Enjoy a narrated journey through Camden Hills State Park and a stop at the top of the mountain for stunning panoramic views of shining lakes, the busy harbor, and the islands of the Penobscot Bay. The exploration continues through the villages of Camden and Rockport, as well as the notable Rockport Belted Galloways. Next, stop at Rockport Harbor's Marine Park, featuring historic lime kilns, lobster boats, and the statue of Rockport's famous seal Andre.

Activity Level: Low | ADA ACCESSIBLE: Yes

Just before enjoying the Lobsterbake Luncheon at Sharp’s Point South, visit the Sail Power & Steam Museum, a working “hands on” museum with sail making and rigging rooms. Enjoy “make ‘n break” gas stationery and steam engines, old ship building tools, hand tools, and architectural builder’s half models.

The museum has a complete boat shop with caulking tools, a working sail maker’s bench, and a navigation room with two working radars. Also in the museum is a shipwreck room featuring wrecks of 1898, a real working lime kiln, and an extensive model display of schooners and steam boats of the Penobscot.

Activity Level: Low | ADA ACCESSIBLE: Yes

Explore the museums of Rockland with visits to Owls Head Transportation Museum and Farnsworth Museum. The Owls Head Transportation Museum has one of the finest collections of pioneer-era aircraft and automobiles in the world. More than 100 historic aircraft, automobiles, bicycles, carriages, and engines are on permanent display. Enjoy the museum’s outstanding collection, view late 19th-century automobiles, or even ride in a Model T.

The Farnsworth Museum features the permanent collection, “Maine in America,” which focuses on Maine artists and The Wyeth Center. The Farnsworth Art Museum is one of only two centers in the country dedicated to the three generations of Wyeths: N.C., Andrew, and James Wyeth.

Activity Level: Low | ADA ACCESSIBLE: Yes

Enjoy a narrated, scenic ride to Acadia National Park, a natural treasure offering stunning mountain vistas, boreal forests, and amazing wildlife. Take a ride to Cadillac Mountain, the highest point on the Eastern Seaboard offering magnificent ocean views.  Stop at Thunder Hole, a small inlet, naturally carved out of the rocks, that waves roll into. With the rush of the waves, air and water are forced out of the inlet, making a sound like a clap of distant thunder.

After, enjoy lunch at Jordan Pond House, which sits on a hill overlooking a beautiful lawn along this scenic pond. Led by our local guide, explore Bar Harbor, a charming downtown waterfront with wonderful artisan boutiques, restaurants, and small shops. After, take time to stroll through this quaint town at your leisure. 

Activity Level: Low | ADA ACCESSIBLE: Yes

Enjoy a guided excursion to Fort Knox, one of the best-preserved military fortifications on the New England seacoast. Named after Major General Henry Knox, America's first Secretary of War, the fort was established in 1844 to protect the Penobscot River Valley against a possible future British naval invasion.  Admire its many unique architectural features and learn about the rich history behind its walls. Travel to the Penobscot Narrows Bridge Observatory, the tallest bridge observatory open to the public in the world. Take a ride on Maine’s fastest elevator up 420’ where you can delight in spectacular 360-degree views of the Penobscot River and Bay, the Maine countryside, and the distant western mountains.

Come aboard the Miss Samantha, a 56’ vessel with ample bench seating, a touch tank for ocean critters, and an open bow for photography and viewing opportunities. Watch experienced fisherman haul in lobster traps from the ocean floor as a professional naturalist describes everything and answers all your questions about lobster fishing and marine wildlife. Once the traps are hauled in, you can touch lobsters, crabs, sea cucumbers, sea stars, and anything else comes up from the sea floor. About half way through the cruise, you will head off to a small island to view seals basking on the rocks or swimming in the nearby water. Don’t forget to bring your camera.

Activity Level: Low | ADA Accessible: Yes

Enjoy a nature-filled walking experience with a State of Maine Certified Wilderness Guide. Walk along Hunters Beach and through Hunters Brook Trail known and discover the amazing geologic and natural history of this unique ecosystem. Learn about the flora and fauna, watch for porcupines and owls, and observe seals in the waves. The naturalists are extremely knowledgeable and will bring a sense of adventure to your walk!

Activity Level: Moderate | ADA Accessible: No

Hidden on the Boothbay peninsula is New England's most extensive botanical garden. Immerse yourself in more than 300 acres of stunning gardens, walking trails, and educational resources. From the Native Butterfly and Moth House to the Rhododendron and Perennial Garden, there is something for everyone.  

Activity Level: Low | ADA ACCESSIBLE: Yes

History awaits on an immersive and interactive exploration of quaint downtown Bath, led by a local educator. Learn Bath's fascinating story by walking among the charming period buildings, hearing unique stories, and uncovering hidden gems. This excursion is designed for those who love history and offers something for everyone. You will leave with a new appreciation for Bath, Maine, and American history.

Activity Level: High | ADA ACCESSIBLE: 

Explore the Maine Maritime Museum at your leisure and experience Maine’s rich seafaring history on the banks of the Kennebec River. From watercraft and lobstering, to shipbuilding and sea trade, see how a shipbuilder’s family lived in the 1890s, smell the sawdust from historic ships, and discover the wonders and mysteries of Maine’s maritime culture.

Activity Level: Low | ADA ACCESSIBLE: Yes

Take this convenient shuttle to The Freeport Outlets, home to L.L. Bean Factory Store. Explore this laid-back shopping destination, featuring a variety of name-brand outlet stores, craft boutiques, and eateries.

Activity Level: Low | ADA ACCESSIBLE: Yes

Long known as the “City of Ships,” Bath’s shipyards line its river’s edge and Bath-built vessels sail the seas of the world. Hop aboard the town trolley, which picks up at the Maine Maritime Museum, and enjoy a ride around town with stops in the Downtown area.

Activity Level: Low | ADA ACCESSIBLE: Yes

Hop aboard the Rockin' Spartan for a private photography and sightseeing exploration by boat around the scenic Mid-coast Maine area captained by USCG Captain Dave Cleaveland, a longtime professional photographer in Maine. During the trip, you will have the opportunity to see eagles, osprey, seals and other wildlife, up to 10 lighthouses, several different rivers, working lobster boats, a Civil War fort, fishing villages, and Boothbay Harbor. Need a little help with your photography? Captain Dave will get you in the right spot for the best light for your photos and will help you with your photography skills.

Activity Level: Low / ADA Accessible: No

Visit the Gaffney family farm, Eros Oyster, a working oyster farm on Robinhood Cove, Georgetown Island. Be greeted by one of the farmers who will introduce you to the business, its history, and the technology used to grow oysters.  
 
Take a short walk to the waterfront to see the operation up-close. View the nursery where oyster babies are fed 24/7 in giant test tubes, as well as the shaker table and tumbler where the farmers shape and sort the oysters at every stage of growth. See the culling tables where market-ready oysters are selected for delivery or shipment overnight to customers around the country.  
 
At a scenic site overlooking the Cove, learn how to shuck (and eat) oysters on the half shell. Enjoy some just-harvested chilled oysters, which you can shuck yourself or with the help of a farmer. As you savor this delectable treat, you will have a chance to ask questions as well as purchase merchandise as well as additional oysters to bring back to the ship.

Activity Level: Low / ADA Accessible: Yes

Enjoy a wonderful city exploration of Gloucester including a visit to the Fisherman's Memorial. Follow the exploration with a stop at Hammond Castle, a true European castle located on the New England Shoreline constructed between 1926 and 1929. The home, which sits on a rocky cliff overlooking picturesque Gloucester Harbor, was the residence and laboratory of inventor John Hays Hammond, Jr. who was pioneered the study of remote control and held over four hundred patents. Led by our expert guide, explore this medieval castle, which incorporated elements from several architectural periods and styles. View the most famous feature in the home, a gigantic pipe organ, an instrument designed and built by a collection of world-famous organ builders over a period of ten years.

Activity Level: Low | ADA ACCESSIBLE: No

Sail on board the Schooner Lannon (65-foot boat) and get a taste for what it was like to sail on a fishing schooner 100 years ago. Along your journey, sit back and take in the sights and sounds of Gloucester's coastline. Breathe the refreshing air and feel the wind on your face as you witness lighthouses, castles, scenic beaches, and magnificent waterfront homes.  

Activity Level: Low | ADA ACCESSIBLE: No

Maritime Gloucester is a working waterfront, maritime museum, sea pocket aquarium, and so much more all rolled into one exciting destination. Combine your visit with a narrated city exploration and you will see why Gloucester is such a special port of call. Learn about the rich maritime heritage of Gloucester along with its unique marine environment through interactive exhibits, the visitor center and more. After visiting the Maritime Gloucester, board the motor coach for a narrated exploration of Gloucester and East Gloucester, also referred to as Rocky Neck. Highlights will include Stacy Boulevard, where passengers can view the famous statue “Man at the Wheel,” Downtown Gloucester, and Rocky Neck.

Activity Level: Low | ADA ACCESSIBLE: Yes

There are a variety of activities scheduled on board when the ship is underway, which vary depending on the itinerary and scheduled date. Enjoy destination-focused enrichment programs with special guest speakers who present topics related to the region and ports of call, including Art Classes, App-titude Classes (Tech Made Easy), Cooking Demonstrations, Mixology (practice of making great cocktails,) Trivia, Game Shows, and more.

Visit Fort Adams, the well-known fort used to protect the harbor, and puts us just a short ride away from Newport’s bustling riverfront. View the “Officer’s Quarters” and ascend to the scenic overlook for a breathtaking view of Newport Harbor. Learn about past and future plans for the restoration of the Fort and enter the restored casemates to visit the latest historical exhibit. The listening tunnels beneath the walls of the Fort are a marvel of architecture and engineering and represent 180 years of American military history and culture.

Activity Level: Low | ADA ACCESSIBLE: Yes

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

Watch the unveiling of a traditional, old-fashioned lobster bake, followed by a delicious buffet. Be treated to fresh lobster, steamed clams and mussels, warm corn on the cob, and baked rolls. A true New England experience!

Activity Level: Low / ADA Accessible: Yes

Enjoy a complimentary shuttle into the center of town to enjoy stops in Newport at your leisure.

Activity Level: Low | ADA ACCESSIBLE: Yes
 

• International Tennis Hall of Fame - Set in The Newport Casino, it’s a National Historic Landmark that was first opened on July 26, 1880, as a social club for Newport’s turn of the century summer elite. Its mission is to preserve and promote the history of tennis and celebrate its champions.
• Audrain Auto Museum - Founded in 2014 in Newport, Rhode Island with a mission of "Preserving, Celebrating & Sharing Automotive History," the Audrain Automobile Museum and historic Audrain Building was transformed into a captivating exhibition space, fit specifically for our cultural needs. The museum welcomes visitors with access to collections containing over 400 cars and motorcycles ranging from brass era Veteran cars to Supercars of today.
• The Red Parrot Restaurant - In the heart of downtown Newport where streets lined with shopping boutiques, visitor information, local favorites, and gift shops await.
• The Sailing Museum – This museum features National Sailing Hall of Fame and America’s Cup Hall of Fame exhibits. In the space once used as the Press Room for the America’s Cup the heritage of sailing is celebrated, the legends of the sport honored, and new sailors and innovators inspired. Interactive educational exhibits provide real-world applications of STEAM concepts that come alive through sailing; and visitors of all ages, non-sailors, and sailors alike, experience the magic that happens when wind and water meet.
• Transit Station - Access hub for the Newport City public transportation system with buses and trolleys taking visitors to all the highlight areas of interest such as the Cliff Walk and Bellevue Mansions.

Take a narrated exploration of historic and famous Newport. With the brilliant Atlantic Ocean on one side and some of the country’s most impressive properties on the other, this celebrated trail is an unforgettable one. Drive along the 10-mile, spectacular Ocean View Drive and Bellevue Ave— “Avenue of the Mansions.” The highlight of the excursion is a stop at the Breakers, a seventy-room mansion and National Historic Landmark built for Cornelius Vanderbilt II in 1895. A short stop will be made for picture opportunities at a beautiful waterfront lookout at Brenton Point State Park.

Activity Level: Low | ADA ACCESSIBLE: Yes
Featured Excursion  
 

Enjoy a narrated exploration of Martha’s Vineyard. Begin at 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. As you return to the ship, you will visit the town of Oak Bluffs and see the lovely Gingerbread Houses of this unique Victorian-Era seaside town.

Activity Level: Low | ADA ACCESSIBLE: No

Enjoy the sights and history of Provincetown on a narrated trolley exploration, including seeing the Cape Cod National Seashore. Learn about America's first destination, see where the Mayflower first landed and hear the amazing stories of Provincetown.

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 Jaws.

Activity Level: Moderate | ADA Accessible: Yes
  
Premium Excursion

Why not stay a day or two more to visit Boston’s many fine museums, as well as the New England Aquarium? You may also choose to walk the popular Freedom Trail which includes historic landmarks such as the Bunker Hill Monument, the Old North Church, and Paul Revere’s house.