Islands of New England

Discover the natural beauty that lies along the shores of New England. Come to know its coastal charm, friendly people, and fresh-from-the-sea cuisine. Your tour opens in Providence, the capital of Rhode Island. As arrival flights vary greatly, there are no included activities today. Dinner will be on your own.

This morning, enjoy a panoramic city tour with your Tour Manager on your coach and see highlights including the Brown University Campus and Waterplace Park. Later, get to know the self-proclaimed "Creative Capital" of Providence where <B>it’s your choice!</B> Learn all about Providence’s stunning architecture, iconic landmarks, and hidden gems on a walking tour through the city with a local guide <B>-OR-</B> spend part of your afternoon wandering through the RISD Museum* where more than 2,000 pieces of art and design are displayed. Tonight, celebrate the beginning of your journey with your fellow travellers at a lively, Colonial-themed welcome dinner.

Head to Newport, a colonial port city that later turned into a summer home to America’s wealthiest industrialists. On your way, look to the calm water and see why the city has earned the moniker of the “Sailing Capital of the World” and was home to the America’s Cup sailing competition for more than 50 years. In Newport, travel along Bellevue Avenue. Lined with extraordinary 19th-century summer "cottages," this road is home to 7 mansions designated National Historic Landmarks. These extravagant homes were used by affluent families like the Astors and Morgans, for fewer than two months each year. Step back in time and get a taste of the Gilded Age at The Breakers, the most opulent of the Newport Mansions and 70-room summer getaway of the Vanderbilt family.

This morning, venture to the home of the first permanent colonial settlement in the country: Plymouth. Here, board a boat and cruise Plymouth Harbour.** Your captain will share the importance of lobstering to New England culture and demonstrate how lobsters are pulled from the water. After returning to land, stop in the town of Plymouth to see where the Pilgrims disembarked the <I>Mayflower</I> in 1620: Plymouth Rock. Later, arrive at your beachfront hotel for a 4-night stay on the Cape.

Today, set off via ferry to explore the idyllic island of Nantucket. From its cobblestone Main Street to its beaches and lighthouses, this place lives up to its reputation. During time at leisure, meander the waterfront where sailboats and yachts sway in the harbour or shop for a famous Nantucket basket. Next, head to the Nantucket Whaling Museum and learn about this island’s history as the former whaling capital of the world. Peruse exhibits about the danger of this industry in the 18th century and even see the skeleton of a 46-foot-long whale. Return to the mainland and catch a glimpse of the Camelot era in Hyannis Port, home of the Kennedy compound, and visit the poignant Kennedy Memorial. Tonight, enjoy dinner at a popular local restaurant.

Take in Cape Cod your way because today,<B> it’s your choice!</B> Take advantage of the amenities at your waterfront hotel, perhaps sitting by the pool or visiting the private beach on the resort’s property <B>-OR-</B> join your Tour Manager for a trip to Sandwich where you’ll visit the Heritage Museums & Gardens*** with 100 beautiful acres to explore followed by a visit to the Sandwich Glass Museum for a glimpse into the delicate artform of glassblowing. No matter which choice you choose, your evening is at leisure.

A ferry ride transports you to beautiful Martha’s Vineyard. Known for visits by presidents and royalty, this summer home of many artists, writers and celebrities is full of surprises. You’ll see all the highlights of "the Vineyard" (as the locals call it), including quaint gingerbread-styled cottages and a once-famous whaling port resplendent with sea captains’ homes and widows’ walks. Later, depart the island and cruise back to Cape Cod. Tonight, enjoy a farewell dinner and traditional New England experience as you indulge in a lobster feast.