New England Islands (Providence Round-trip)

The state capital of Rhode Island is known as the “Renaissance City," with a host of attractions for visitors to enjoy including acclaimed theaters, fine arts, and Philharmonic performances. Over three centuries of fascinating history are preserved in Providence, from Street’s “Mile of History” to the immaculate examples of Colonial and Victorian architecture.

In the mid 19th-century, New Bedford was the whaling capital of the world and became the inspiration behind Herman Melville's classic American novel, Moby Dick, published in 1841.

Be transported back to the 18th century as you step off your ship onto the timeworn cobblestone streets of Nantucket. Discover how this delightful island evolved from a small farming community to become the center of the American whaling industry and later a popular resort community. Nantucket is a world unto itself, with towering church steeples and old-world architecture.

Martha's Vineyard was once a hub for whaling fleets and merchant ships, with exotic cargo from the far corners of the world arriving on her shores. Today, the island is one of the most popular vacation spots in New England, comprised of six distinct towns, including Chilmark and Vineyard Haven. The most genteel town on the island is historic Edgartown, prim and proper with its freshly painted Colonial homes and manicured gardens.

Stroll along Mohegan Bluffs and admire the Southeast Lighthouse, located along the southern shore of the island. The bluffs rise 200 feet above the ocean and stretch 3 miles along the shoreline. This small island off the coast of Rhode Island has become a popular summertime destination, adored for its easy-going attitude, splendid nature trails, and breathtaking views.

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."

Established in 1639 by a small band of religious dissenters led by William Coddington and Nicholas Easton, the city by the sea became a haven for those who believed in religious freedom. Newport’s deepwater harbor at the mouth of Narragansett Bay ensured its success as a leading Colonial port, and a building boom produced hundreds of houses and many landmarks that still survive today. These include the Wanton-Lyman-Hazard House and the White Horse Tavern, both built during the 17th century, plus Trinity Church, Touro Synagogue, the Colony House, and the Redwood Library, all built in the 18th century.British troops occupied Newport from 1776–1779, causing half the city’s population to flee and ending a golden age of prosperity. The economic downturn that followed may not have been so great for its citizens but it certainly was for preserving Newport’s architectural heritage, as few had the capital to raze buildings and replace them with bigger and better ones. By the mid-19th century the city had gained a reputation as the summer playground for the very wealthy, who built enormous mansions overlooking the Atlantic. These so-called "summer cottages," occupied for only six to eight weeks a year by the Vanderbilts, Berwinds, Astors, and Belmonts, helped establish the best young American architects. The presence of these wealthy families also brought the New York Yacht Club, which made Newport the venue for the America’s Cup races beginning in 1930 until the 1983 loss to the Australians.The Gilded Age mansions of Bellevue Avenue are what many people associate most with Newport. These late-19th-century homes are almost obscenely grand, laden with ornate rococo detail and designed with a determined one-upmanship.Pedestrian-friendly Newport has so much else to offer in a relatively small geographical area— beaches, seafood restaurants, galleries, shopping, and cultural life. Summer can be crowded, but fall and spring are increasingly popular times of the year to visit.

Visit Battleship Cove, a unique "floating" museum recognized as the world's largest collection of 20th-century U.S. naval fighting ships. Relive childhood memories on the magnificent, fully-restored carousel at Battleship Cove, the oldest functioning carousel in America. Explore the collection of intricate model ships and other nautical keepsakes at Fall River's Marine Museum.

Providence offers a number of shore excursions that will delight any member of your travel group. Simply take a walk through Waterplace Park to the River Walk or admire the architecture of the Cathedral of Saints Paul and Peter. No matter what type of activity you are looking for, you will find it in Providence.