Learn about the maritime history of New England on this cruise from Providence and discover opulent coastal estates, popular art communities and breathtaking scenery.
Embark American Star in charming Providence, Rhode Island and cruise to Nantucket Island, a testament to New England's rich maritime history with its white sand beaches, lighthouses and quaint seaside cottages. Explore the scenic island of Martha's Vineyard, renowned as a popular summer destination and featuring magnificent Greek revival homes and the whimsical gingerbread cottages of Oak Bluffs.
Home to a thriving waterfront, spectacular coastal scenery and awe-inspiring architecture, Newport is best known for its connections with socialite families like the Vanderbilts and Astors and for its reputation as the yachting capital of the world.
AC834 Operated by American Cruise Lines
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New England Islands Itinerary
Day 1 - Providence (Rhode Island)
Join your ship in Providence, the state capital of Rhode Island. Enjoy a Welcome Reception on board.
Day 2 - New Bedford (Massachusetts)
In the mid-nineteenth century, New Bedford was the whaling capital of the world, and was the inspiration behind Herman Melville's 'Moby Dick' in 1841. Today, New Bedford is still known as 'The Whaling City', an authentic seaport village and a working waterfront. Visit the New Bedford Whaling Museum to learn about the history of North American whaling and how the industry shaped New Bedford.
Day 3 - Nantucket Island
Be transported back to the 18th century on the time-worn cobblestone streets of Nantucket. Discover how this delightful island evolved from a small farming community to be the centre of the American whaling industry and a popular resort community. Nantucket is a world unto itself, with towering church steeples and old-world architecture.
Day 4 - Martha's Vineyard
During the 18th and 19th centuries, Martha's Vineyard was a hub for whaling fleets and merchant ships, with exotic cargo from far corners of the world arriving on her shores. Today, the island is one of the most popular holiday spots in New England, comprising six distinct towns, including Chillmark and Vineyard Haven. The most genteel town on the island is historic Edgartown which can be visited on an optional island tour, or perhaps visit the Cottage Museum which reflects the history of Martha's Vineyard.
Day 5 - Block Island
Stroll along Mohegan Bluffs and admire the Southeast Lighthouse, located along the scenic southern shore of the island. The bluffs rise 200 feet above the ocean and stretch 3 miles along the shoreline. This small, pristine island off the coast of Rhode Island has quickly become a favourite summertime destination, adored for its laid back attitude, splendid nature trails and breathtaking bluffs. Tonight there is an on-board lecture detailing how Newport's earliest settlers protected the harbour, in preparation for a visit to Fort Adams the following morning.
Day 6 - Newport
Nestled within Narragansett Bay is Rhode Island's famous Newport - the Yachting Capital of the World and the summer retreat of the wealthy. Vast mansions, many now open to the public, are the legacy of families such as the Vanderbilts. The ship docks at Fort Adams, the fortress used to protect the harbour, for a guided tour accompanied by an expert park ranger.
Day 7 - Bristol (Rhode Island)
Explore the Herreshoff Marine Museum to see some of the finest yachts built during the Golden Age of Yachting, and America's Cup Hall of Fame which honours those who have competed in this prestigious event.
Day 8 - Providence
Disembark in Providence.
For navigational reasons the Captain of the ship reserves the right to modify the cruise itinerary.