Cape Codder Cruise

Pre-Cruise: Boston Four Seasons Package

American Cruise Lines’ Pre-Cruise Package offers a complete Boston experience. Stay in a centrally located hotel in the heart of downtown, providing easy access to the city and allowing you to arrive at your leisure the day before your cruise.

The package includes a satisfying breakfast on the day of your departure, followed by a guided exploration of Boston. American Cruise Lines takes care of every detail, including transporting your luggage directly to your cabin on the ship. Your Boston adventure wraps up smoothly, bringing you to the ship just in time for a relaxing afternoon departure from Boston Harbor on our Cape Codder cruise.

Pre-Cruise Packages must be booked at least 30 days prior to your cruise date.

Day 1: Boston, MA

Known for its smooth lagers, Fenway Park, and the iconic Boston Marathon, Boston sets the stage for an exciting start to your Cape Codder cruise. The city effortlessly blends rich history with modern progress. Walk the Freedom Trail, a 2.5-mile route that takes you to 16 historic sites, offering a glimpse into the American Revolution. Visit Boston Common, the oldest public park in the U.S., established in 1634. Boston also boasts a significant literary legacy, having been home to authors like Emerson and Thoreau, who were key figures in the transcendentalist movement.

Day 2: Provincetown, MA

Originally founded as a haven for creative minds, Provincetown has grown into a vibrant summer destination on Cape Cod. Known for its eclectic shops, brightly painted buildings, and serene beaches, Provincetown offers a chance to immerse yourself in the lively culture of historic Cape Cod. The town’s energetic street performances and thriving art galleries showcase its artistic heritage, providing a wealth of entertainment and cultural experiences.

Day 3: Plymouth, MA

Plymouth, a historic coastal town, is the site of the first Pilgrim settlement, founded in 1620. The iconic Plymouth Rock, located within Pilgrim Memorial State Park, marks the believed landing place of these early settlers. Nearby, the Mayflower II, a painstakingly crafted full-scale replica of the ship that carried the Pilgrims across the Atlantic, is often docked at the park, providing a tangible connection to this defining moment in history. The surrounding landscape boasts expansive Atlantic views and miles of shoreline, showcasing the natural beauty that greeted the Pilgrims. Lush green forests and scenic trails around the town offer ample opportunities for outdoor exploration and peaceful moments in nature.

Day 4: Mass Maritime Academy, MA

Founded in 1891 in Boston, MA, Massachusetts Maritime Academy (MMA) is the oldest and largest operational maritime academy in the United States. Explore this distinctive “special mission” campus, featuring advanced simulators and labs, while engaging with MMA cadets and staff. Experience cutting-edge technologies such as the 360-degree Full Bridge Simulator, the Emergency Operations Training Center, and the Marine Engineering Labs. Throughout the tour, learn about the Academy’s rich history and the surrounding area from expert insiders. Located on the picturesque shores of Cape Cod, the Academy offers breathtaking views of the Cape Cod Canal and Buzzards Bay.

Day 5: Newport, RI

Nestled in the heart of Narragansett Bay, Newport is celebrated as the world’s yachting capital. Stroll along its scenic coastlines, discovering its charming historic districts, lively docks, and stunning waterfront views. Newport offers a rich variety of experiences for every traveler. Immerse yourself in its maritime heritage at the Herreshoff Marine Museum and America’s Cup Hall of Fame. Explore Newport’s illustrious past as you admire the grand coastal estates along the famous “Avenue of the Mansions.” Walk marble staircases, explore elegant ballrooms, and step back in time to when these magnificent homes were the summer retreats of America’s wealthiest families.

Day 6: Martha's Vineyard, MA

Martha’s Vineyard, once a thriving hub for whaling and trade, welcomed ships carrying goods from around the world. Today, the island has become a cherished New England getaway, home to six distinctive towns, from the tranquil Chilmark to the lively Vineyard Haven. Edgartown, with its refined charm, stands as the island’s most elegant town, boasting well-preserved colonial architecture and meticulously landscaped gardens. Throughout the island, rolling hills and lush oak forests frame serene sandy beaches. If you’re fortunate, you may even spot ospreys soaring above as the waves crash along the shore.

Day 7: New Bedford, MA

In the mid-19th century, New Bedford was the undisputed center of the global whaling industry, captivating the imagination of Herman Melville and inspiring his iconic novel, Moby Dick, published in 1841.

Today, New Bedford continues to embrace its legacy as “The Whaling City,” with a picturesque waterfront bordered by historic cobblestone streets, alongside modern ships in its bustling harbor. Vibrant public art and colorful murals bring energy to this historic city, while green spaces offer tranquil havens within the urban landscape.

Day 8: Boston, MA

As we return to Boston, we bid farewell to this unforgettable Massachusetts journey. While your Cape Cod adventure may be coming to a close, the historic streets of Boston are still yours to explore. Our crew is happy to assist you with directions to local landmarks, attractions, or your travel accommodations.