Begin your New England cruise in Portland, where cobblestone streets lead to a working waterfront filled with converted warehouses, local restaurants, and independent shops. Explore the Old Port district, known for its preserved 19th-century architecture and active fishing piers. Your journey includes a hotel stay, giving you time to walk the city and get familiar with the area before boarding.

On the morning of embarkation, meet in the hotel lobby for a direct transfer to the ship. Your luggage goes straight to your stateroom, so you can board without handling bags. Settle in quickly and step into the rhythm of your New England coastal cruise.

Step onto the ship and launch into your cruise with a Welcome Reception featuring cocktails, appetizers, and live music. Connect with the crew, onboard guides, and other guests. Head to the sun deck to take in coastal views. Watch for marine life and spot Cape Elizabeth as you leave Portland Harbor. Its rugged cliffs and historic lighthouses mark the start of your journey.

 

As you make your way around Maine, you’ll stop in a city that stands as a testament to seafaring grace and architectural dignity, framed by the sprawling waters of the Kennebec River. The city's streets, lined with stately homes and historic buildings, invite leisurely exploration, hinting at its storied past as a shipbuilding hub. High above the riverbanks, the Maine Maritime Museum offers a gateway to the maritime traditions that have shaped this community, showcasing artifacts and exhibits that weave a narrative of oceanic adventures. In the city center, local cafes, and shops bustle with activity, providing a warm welcome to visitors and residents alike. As the day wanes, the river reflects the sunset hues, casting Bath in a soft, enchanting light, marking the end of another day on this dynamic itinerary.

Portsmouth shares its autumn glory as historic Market Square becomes a canvas of fiery maple and oak leaves. Along the scenic Prescott Park, views of the Piscataqua River are framed by golden foliage, providing a picturesque setting for afternoon walks. The city's maritime history is proudly displayed at the bustling seaport, where tugboats and fishing vessels remind visitors of Portsmouth's deep roots in New England's fishing industry. During the fall, the town's numerous cafes spill onto sidewalks beneath awnings, inviting you to enjoy a warm drink surrounded by the vibrant palette of New England's autumn.

One day is not enough in this historic coastal town, where 18th-century brick buildings stand as a testament to its role in the American Revolution and early shipbuilding industry. Stroll through Strawbery Banke Museum, an outdoor living history museum where centuries-old buildings and costumed interpreters tell the town’s colonial story. With its well-preserved colonial homes and historic sites like the Portsmouth Naval Shipyard, the town offers a deep connection to America's early history while embracing modern-day culture.

Portsmouth Local Loop - Complimentary Excursion
This convenient option will transport you to one of these local favorites:
Portsmouth Historical Society Museum - View the exhibition, "The Matter of Memory," which explores the role museums play in preserving and creating individual and community memory.  This exhibition is complemented by contemporary works that explore themes of memory and remembrance.
Jimmy Jazz & Blues Club - Discover this architecturally breathtaking space which dates back to 1905 when it was first constructed as a YMCA. Now serving as a center for arts and culture, this club is considered a world-class “listening room,” built for music lovers and the inspiring artists who perform here.   
Albacore Park - Visit the USS Albacore submarine which stands as a testament to naval innovation. Delve into Albacore's interior; look through the periscope, and explore the control room, engineering spaces, and bunkrooms. Listen to recorded narration about the submarine's unique features, the daily life of its crew, and firsthand accounts from former crew members.  Peruse the Visitors Center and gift store, where you can purchase submarine-themed books and gifts. Adjacent is the Memorial Garden, which pays tribute to all crew and officers who have been lost in the Submarine Service.  Activity Level: Low | ADA ACCESSIBLE: Partial

Gloucester, Massachusetts, stands as a proud testament to maritime history on the North Shore, where art and historical narratives blend seamlessly against the Atlantic's expanse. The town's streets are lined with galleries and seafood restaurants that reflect the ongoing vitality of its fishing community. As autumn arrives, the landscape subtly shifts; the ocean's perpetual breeze carries a slightly sharper, cooler whisper, harmonizing with the soft rustle of changing leaves. Trails through Ravenswood Park become corridors of muted yellows and deep reds, offering peaceful walks under a seasonal canopy. Whether strolling along its historic harbor or exploring cultural sites, Gloucester merges natural beauty with its deep-rooted seafaring legacy.

Maritime Gloucester - Complimentary Excursion
Maritime Gloucester is a working waterfront, maritime museum, sea pocket aquarium, and so much more all rolled into one exciting destination. Learn about the rich maritime heritage of Gloucester along with its unique marine environment through interactive exhibits, the visitor center, and more. The museum is a nonprofit educational organization built within a collection of historic buildings and on America's oldest marine railway. Galleries, exhibits, a wooden pier with unique views of Gloucester's harbor, and the home of two local working schooners are complimented by a sea pocket aquarium and science education center that includes touch tanks and interactive experiences. You will have the opportunity to enjoy a presentation inside the upper gallery and a guided walk around the docks outdoors. There will be time to self-explore the aquarium and gift shop before returning to ship. 
Activity Level: Low | ADA ACCESSIBLE: Yes

Deeply woven into the fabric of American history, this major city hosts iconic sites pivotal to the nation's early challenges and triumphs. The Freedom Trail links critical landmarks such as the Old North Church and Paul Revere’s House, places central to the American Revolution. As autumn unfolds, Boston’s public spaces, like the Boston Common and the Public Garden, don an array of amber and crimson leaves, presenting a contrast between historic sites and contemporary architecture. Pathways along the Charles River invite peaceful strolls to watch the leaves fall gently, offering striking views that marry the city's natural beauty with its urban energy. Boston continuously celebrates its historical significance through its monuments and museums while engaging in a vibrant cultural dialogue, maintaining a dynamic balance between honoring its past and embracing its future.

Old Town Trolley – Complimentary Excursion
Enjoy a fully narrated hop-on, hop-off Old Town Trolley on board Boston's only fleet of "stadium" style trolleys, offering great sightseeing opportunities. Visit some of the highlights of Boston, including Quincy Market, Faneuil Hall, the Old North Church, USS Constitution, Bunker Hill Monument, Boston Common, Public Garden, Cheers Bar, Prudential Center, Trinity Church, Beacon Hill, and the Boston Tea Party Ships & Museum. The trolleys return every 20 to 30 minutes, allowing you to re-board and continue your exploration. 
Activity Level: Moderate | ADA Accessible: Partial

With the summer crowds thinning, now is the perfect time to visit this island off the coast of Cape Cod, MA. Made up of only six towns and no bridges connecting to the mainland, Martha’s Vineyard is a secluded paradise. The once-thriving whaling industry can be seen in the still-standing historic buildings and an array of captain’s mansions. Known for its famous Gingerbread Cottages, get ready for a true rainbow of color as the leaves turn bright against the ornate details of these Victorian-style homes. While the waters seem to go on forever as you stand on the sandy shores, know you’re standing on cinema history as the 1975 masterpiece Jaws was filmed right here.

Martha’s Vineyard Museum – Complimentary Excursion
Explore Martha's Vineyard Museum, dedicated to preserving and showcasing the history, art, and culture of Martha's Vineyard and its residents. The museum's vast collections feature artifacts, documents, photographs, and artworks that chronicle the island's diverse heritage, from its Native American roots to its maritime history and contemporary life. With a diverse array of exhibits, the museum invites visitors to immerse themselves in the rich tapestry of Martha's Vineyard's past and present.
Activity Level: Low | ADA Accessible: Yes

Martha’s Vineyard Transit Authority Day Pass – Complimentary Excursion
Take this convenient island transportation around Martha’s Vineyard at your leisure. With your one-day pass, you can explore Oak Bluffs, Edgartown, or any other towns of interest. Step on and off the Vineyard Transit Bus as many times as you would like throughout the day as you stroll the cute shops and restaurants on the island. Maps, schedules, and tips for riding the local bus are available on the ship’s port information table. A Vineyard Transit app is also available to assist with tracking the buses throughout the island.
Activity Level: Low | ADA Accessible: Yes

Nantucket Island, a jewel off the coast of Cape Cod, Massachusetts, enchants visitors with its pristine beaches and a historic charm that feels timeless. Spanning a modest 105 square miles, the island’s flat terrain is adorned with expansive heathlands and golden sandy stretches that invite leisurely strolls. Once the heart of a bustling 19th-century whaling industry, Nantucket’s downtown area is a living museum, with beautifully preserved buildings whispering tales of yesteryear. Wander through the captivating Whaling Museum, marvel at the iconic Brant Point Light standing as a sentinel since 1746, and embark on a guided tour of the island, choosing from either half-day or full-day adventures. Every summer, Nantucket transforms as the population soars to nearly 50,000, drawing visitors eager to explore its serene shores and enchanting, cobblestoned streets, where every corner holds a piece of history and beauty.

Ferry Transportation to Nantucket – Complimentary Excursion
Enjoy a scenic ferry ride from Martha's Vineyard to Nantucket. Upon arrival, travel back to the 18th century as you step onto its timeworn cobblestone streets. Spend a half or full day exploring this charming island at your leisure. Admire the delightful rose-covered cottages, steeped churches, and manicured gardens. Peruse the many high-end boutiques and local restaurants. Stop in at the Whaling Museum, which recounts the island’s role as a whaling hub.
Activity Level: Low | ADA Accessible: Yes

The Whaling Museum & Historic Buildings of Nantucket– Complimentary Excursion
The Whaling Museum includes two stories of exhibitions, guided spotlight explorations about Nantucket History-led Museum docents, live lecture presentations under a sperm whale skeleton, and an audio tour in English and Spanish. Guests can visit the third-floor Roof Walk to get a bird's eye view of Historic Downtown Nantucket. The Whaling Museum ticket includes entry to the Hadwen House, an 1846 Whale Oil Merchant mansion, a fifteen-minute walk up Main Street. Please show your lanyard for complimentary access. 
Activity Level: Low | ADA Accessible: Yes

Within Narragansett Bay lies Newport, Rhode Island, renowned as the yachting capital of the world. As you stroll along the shores of its beautiful beaches, historic neighborhoods like The Point and Historic Hill offer a glimpse into Newport's storied past with their cobblestone streets and preserved Colonial-era architecture.

Visit one of America’s oldest fortifications at Fort Adams, a now state park, that was active from the War of 1812 through World War II. Constructed between 1824 and 1857, it's one of the largest coastal fortifications in the United States, designed to house over 2,400 troops and equipped with powerful defensive features for coastal defense. Today, Fort Adams is a public historic site, hosting various events including the famous Newport Jazz Festival and offering guided tours that showcase its extensive military history and architectural significance.

Fort Adams Exploration - Complimentary Excursion
Visit Fort Adams, the well-known fort used to protect the harbor, and put you 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

Lobsterbake Luncheon – Complimentary Excursion
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

Newport Local Loop - Complimentary Excursion
Enjoy a complimentary shuttle into the center of town to enjoy stops in Newport at your leisure. Stops include:
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 the 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 the 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 are honored, and new sailors and innovators are 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.
Activity Level: Low | ADA ACCESSIBLE: Yes

Spend a second day in this city known for its Gilded Age mansions that once served as summer "cottages" for America’s wealthiest families. Explore Newport's fabled history with a visit to the iconic "Avenue of the Mansions," where extravagant seaside estates like The Breakers, Marble House, and Rosecliff allow you to relive the lives of the elite of the Gilded Age.

 

Sag Harbor holds a vibrant maritime history as a bustling whaling port in the 18th and 19th centuries, with its harbor once filled with ships hunting whales in the Atlantic. Historic landmarks like the Old Whalers' Church and the Custom House stand as testaments to its past, now housing museums that preserve and share Sag Harbor's history. Literary luminaries like John Steinbeck found inspiration in its quaint streets, penning masterpieces like "The Winter of Our Discontent" amidst its coastal charm. Sag Harbor's picturesque landscapes, with sprawling harbor views and historic architecture among tree-lined streets, evoke a timeless appeal that continues to captivate no matter the season.

The Bay Street Theater – A Behind the Scenes Experience & Wine Tasting - Complimentary Excursion
Experience the magic "behind the scenes" at Bay Street Theater and hear amazing stories and the lure of the venue over the past 32 years. Peruse photos of Broadway greats and celebrities who have graced the stage. Learn about the Theater's history with performances by Broadway greats and celebrities including Bruce Springsteen, Julie Benko, Billy Joel, Jerry Seinfeld, Paul Reiser, Sarah Paulson, Cherry Jones, Richard Kind, Colin Quinn, Alan Alda, Alec Baldwin, Sutton Foster and so many more. You may even learn who resides in Sag Harbor today. This is a guided experience with restrooms onthe  property. Guests will enjoy a tasting of local wines at the conclusion of the experience. 
Activity Level: Low | ADA ACCESSIBLE: Yes

Kidd Squid Brewing Company - Complimentary Excursion
Enjoy an intimate beer tasting at Kidd Squid Brewing Company with beer named after many local icons. This unique brewery is located in the Historic Sag Harbor Train Depot. During your visit, the owner will provide interesting details about the history of the building, the creation of Kidd Squid, and the reason behind the name. The tasting will consist of four beers.
Activity Level: Low | ADA ACCESSIBLE: Yes

Sag Harbor Cinema – From Acts to Ashes and Back - Complimentary Excursion
Experience a one-of-a-kind piece of history in the heart of Sag Harbor. After a devastating fire took the iconic cinema in 2016, a plan was set into motion to raise the beloved landmark from its ashes. Reopened to the public in 2021, the new state-of-the-art facility that exists today honors the memory of the original cinema while providing new services and amenities. This unique institution celebrates a century of filmmaking excellence, as well as the rich history of Sag Harbor Village. This experience includes a guided exploration by the cinema docent, a short screening in the flagship auditorium, an exhibition of rare photos by film photographer James Hamilton, a swag bag of Sag Harbor Cinema merchandise, a Sag Harbor Cinema signature cocktail provided in the rooftop bar, as well as a tasting of local foods such as exquisite cheeses crafted on Long Island at Mecox Dairy Farm and Catapano Goat Farm. 
Activity Level: Low | ADA ACCESSIBLE: Yes

Sag Harbor at Your Leisure – Complimentary Excursion
Sag Harbor is truly one of Long Island’s hidden gems. Stroll down Main Street and discover the many unique boutiques and mouthwatering restaurants. Art enthusiasts will enjoy perusing the variety of galleries around the village. Wine connoisseurs can sip away happily at one of the local wine bars.

New London, CT boasts a significant naval presence with the United States Coast Guard Academy training future officers and the Naval Submarine Base New London serving as a key East Coast submarine base. The city's maritime roots run deep, once thriving as a whaling port during the 19th century, contributing to its economic prosperity. Its vibrant arts and cultural scene enrich the community year-round.

In contrast, Mystic, CT, offers a tranquil escape with its renowned maritime attractions, including the Mystic Seaport Museum, an outdoor museum providing insight into the growth of this small town. The village exudes charm with its quaint downtown area featuring cobblestone streets, historic buildings, unique shops, and famous eateries. Don’t miss a chance to stop in for a slice at the famed Mystic Pizza from the titular movie that gave America’s sweetheart, Julia Roberts, her start in 1988. Together, these coastal towns showcase Connecticut's eclectic and profound influence on maritime history and offer diverse experiences.

Submarine Force Library & Museum - Complimentary Excursion
Enjoy a self-guided exploration of the 33,000 artifacts found at the Submarine Force Library and Museum. Discover various exhibits featuring photographs and models that illustrate the history of submarine development. There will be docents available on site. Note – The submarine is undergoing renovations and may not be available for viewing.  
 Activity Level: Low | ADA ACCESSIBLE: Partial 

Fall is the best time to visit this iconic port. In the heart of Westchester County, New York, lies Sleepy Hollow, a village shrouded in American folklore. Immortalized by Washington Irving's "The Legend of Sleepy Hollow," this historic hamlet beckons visitors to explore its haunted past. Wander through Sleepy Hollow Cemetery, where the graves of Washington Irving and other notable figures share their secrets. Against the backdrop of the Old Dutch Church, where the Headless Horseman is said to roam, Sleepy Hollow invites intrepid travelers to uncover its secrets and embrace the enduring legacy of Irving's timeless tale. Some say you can still hear the hooves of the Headless Horseman echoing through the misty night.

 

The city that never sleeps. The Big Apple. The Concrete Jungle. While New York City goes by many names, this is a place that needs no introduction. As you approach and the iconic skyline comes into view you can trace the outline of the art deco inspired Chrysler Building and the Empire State Building. Let Lady Liberty welcome you with her ever-burning torch. Explore on your own or let the team take you through the grid system on a guided excursion filled with fun and history at every cross street. 

Best of Midtown Manhattan - Complimentary Excursion
Be greeted by your guide at the ship as you board your motorcoach for your exploration of Midtown.  You'll make a stop at Rockefeller Center to visit St. Patrick's and walk outside of Rockefeller Center. Continue your drive down to Bryant Park for views of the Empire State Building.  Next, you will visit Grand Central Station, a globally recognized landmark. End your exploration with a drive past the world-famous Central Park.
Activity Level: Moderate | ADA Accessible: No

Have one last breakfast on board and begin to say goodbye to this fall foliage adventure. As you make your way home—or extend your stay here in NYC—American Cruise Lines thank you for choosing to see the nation.