Coastal New England Gems: Islands, Mansions & Maritime Heritage

All routes and excursions are subject to change – weather sea conditions may affect the itinerary. Sea conditions affect the progress of the ship, making it run late and sometimes miss ports because it is not safe to dock. Because of this, the cruise itinerary should always be regarded as provisional. The operators reserve the right to change the content of excursions without prior notice. The time available in each port is set by the cruise line. Whenever possible, the Road Scholar daily schedule indicates port arrival and departure times (subject to change by the cruise line). This may mean that free time in port is limited. Regardless of the time in port, Road Scholar delivers a robust educational program. Program Registration & Orientation: 4:30 p.m. After you have your room assignment, check in with the Road Scholar program staff. You will get any updated information. If you arrive late, please locate your Group Leader and let them know you have arrived. Orientation: The Group Leader will greet everyone and lead introductions. We will review the up-to-date program schedule, discuss roles and responsibilities, logistics, safety guidelines, emergency procedures, and answer questions you have about the program. Ground travel and transfers will be via private motorcoach unless noted otherwise. Periods in the daily schedule designated as “Free time” and “At leisure” offer opportunities to do what you like and make your experience even more meaningful and memorable according to your personal preferences. The Group Leader will be happy to offer suggestions.

Dinner will be served at hotel this evening

Continue getting to know your fellow Road Scholars, settle in, and get a good night’s rest for the day ahead.

Breakfast will be served at the hotel.

This morning we will board a motorcoach for a captivating exploration of Providence that takes you through the city’s rich maritime history, its pivotal role in the Industrial Revolution, and the diverse immigrant experiences that shaped its culture. With a local expert learn how Providence transformed from a bustling port city into an industrial powerhouse. You'll explore the historic waterfront, once a hub for shipbuilding and trade, and learn about the impact of the maritime industry on Rhode Island’s economy. We'll explore highlights of the rise of manufacturing during the Industrial Revolution, with stops at iconic landmarks that reflect the city’s growth in textiles, metalworking, and other industries.

At a local restaurant

Continue our exploration of Providence. As you move through the city, you'll also delve into the immigrant experience, discovering how waves of immigrants, particularly from Europe, contributed to Providence's labor force, culture, and community life. Our local expert will weave together stories of hardship, resilience, and show how the vibrant cultural tapestry continues to define the city today.

We'll walk to dinner at a local downtown restaurant.

At leisure. Return to the hotel, prepare for check-out and transfer tomorrow. Have luggage ready for pick-up and transport to the boat in the morning.

Breakfast will be served at the hotel.

Have luggage ready for pick-up and transport to the American Cruise Line - Liberty before leaving for our morning activity. This morning we will board the motorcoach for the waterfront to explore Providence’s waterways and Green Jacket Shoal at Bold Point. Discover the history of the Providence Dry Dock & Marine Railway Company, which once repaired vessels here in the late 1800s and early 1900s. Learn about the abandoned ships left at Green Jacket Shoal, stripped of their valuable parts before being laid to rest in these waters.

At a local Restaurant

After lunch at restaurant, we will reboard the motorcoach, ride to the port, and board the Liberty. After completing boarding procedures and getting your cabin, take some time to freshen up and relax. Kick off your journey with a Welcome Aboard Reception featuring cocktails, hors d’oeuvres, and lively entertainment. Meet the crew and your onboard experts and connect with fellow Road Scholars. We will participate in the mandatory safety briefing with everyone on board when announced. Please note: In addition to Road Scholar exclusive lectures, you are welcome to enjoy activities and events separate from the Road Scholar program during free time aboard the Liberty.

Enjoy first dinner aboard. Meals will feature cuisine that blends local flavors and fine culinary traditions. Dinners aboard will include complimentary house wines, house-select beers, coffees, teas, soft drinks.

Breakfast will be served aboard.

Embark on a historic harbor cruise through New Bedford and Fairhaven, exploring waters once sailed by literary legend Herman Melville and famed mariner Joshua Slocum. As you cruise, the captain shares rich stories of the area’s whaling legacy, its modern scallop industry, and current local events. Take in views of historic landmarks including Palmer’s Island Lighthouse, Fort Phoenix, a bustling working fishing fleet, and the East Coast’s largest hurricane barrier—each a testament to the region’s enduring maritime spirit.

Lunch will be served aboard.

We’ll gather for a Road Scholar exclusive lecture.

Dinner will be served aboard.

At Leisure on ship.

Breakfast will be served aboard.

This morning, we'll take a scenic ferry ride from Martha’s Vineyard to the storied island of Nantucket, where history and culture come alive. As you arrive, step onto centuries-old cobblestone streets that echo the island’s 18th-century past. The group will have time to admire rose-covered cottages, historic churches, and beautifully tended gardens that reflect Nantucket’s New England charm.

Lunch on your own

Continue exploring Nantucket with a visit to the Nantucket Whaling Museum, which offers a fascinating look into the island’s maritime past. Located in a restored 1847 candle factory, it features captivating exhibits including a 46-foot sperm whale skeleton, historic whaling artifacts, and the dramatic story of the whaleship Essex, which inspired Moby-Dick.

Dinner will be served aboard.

At Leisure on ship.

Breakfast will be served aboard.

This morning visit the Martha’s Vineyard Museum, where the island’s history, art, and culture come to life. Through a wide-ranging collection of artifacts, photographs, and artworks, the museum tells the story of the Vineyard’s diverse heritage—from its Native American origins and maritime traditions to its modern-day community. Engaging exhibits offer visitors a deeper connection to the island’s unique past and evolving identity.

Lunch will be served at a local restaurant, off a select menu.

Free time to explore Vineyard Haven which offers a perfect slice of island life with its mix of culture, coastal beauty, and great dining. This period of time has been set aside for your personal independent exploration to see and do what interests you most. Please refer to the list of Free Time Opportunities. The Group Leader will be happy to offer suggestions. Please note that the period scheduled for free time is subject to change depending on local circumstances and opportunities for independent exploration.

Dinner will be served aboard.

At Leisure on ship.

Breakfast will be served aboard.

We’ll gather for a Road Scholar exclusive lecture. The rest of the morning is free for you to relax or engage in activities of your choice.

Lunch will be served aboard.

This afternoon we'll visit Block Island, located 13 miles off the Rhode Island coast, is a beautifully preserved gem known for its natural charm and scenic vistas. Thanks to the efforts of The Nature Conservancy, over 40% of the island remains protected from development. We will experience the island with a local guide. The journey takes you along the dramatic Mohegan Bluffs—towering 200 feet above sea level—offering breathtaking views of the Atlantic, the historic Southeast Lighthouse, and the quaint village of Old Harbor.

Dinner will be served aboard.

Breakfast will be served aboard.

This morning, we will visit the iconic Breakers mansion, a stunning symbol of the Vanderbilt family’s social and financial prominence at the turn of the century. This seventy-room Italian Renaissance-style palazzo showcases remarkable architecture and opulent design. Enjoy a leisurely audio guided exploration of the Vanderbilt family’s history and the inspiration behind their grand summer “cottage.” Afterwards, take time to explore the vibrant Newport waterfront at your own pace.

Experience a traditional old-fashioned lobster bake. Enjoy fresh lobster, steamed clams and mussels, buttery corn on the cob, and warm baked rolls—a true taste of New England!

Free time to explore Newport. Enjoy the Newport Local Loop, a complimentary shuttle service offering convenient stops throughout downtown Newport. Explore highlights at your own pace, including the historic International Tennis Hall of Fame, the impressive Audrain Auto Museum with its vast car collection, and the vibrant Red Parrot Restaurant area filled with shops and local favorites. Visit the Sailing Museum to learn about sailing legends and interactive exhibits. The shuttle also stops at the Transit Station, providing access to buses and trolleys that connect to popular sites like the Cliff Walk and Bellevue Mansions.

Dinner will be served aboard.

Breakfast will be served aboard.

This morning, discover Herreshoff Marine Museum & America's Cup Hall of Fame. Situated just across from the ship’s dock, this museum is a designated maritime historic site and the birthplace of some of the world’s finest yachts during “The Golden Age of Yachting.” It also houses the America’s Cup Hall of Fame, celebrating the legends of this prestigious 150-year-old sailing competition—one of the most distinguished trophies in international sports.

Lunch will be served aboard.

Free time to discover historic downtown Bristol at your own pace, known for hosting the nation’s oldest 4th of July parade. Don’t miss the waterfront, where you can enjoy beautiful views and a tranquil spot to unwind before continuing your exploration.

Dinner will be served aboard.

Aboard in the dining room

After disembarking, we’ll board a motorcoach and transfer to a T. F. Green International Airport. This concludes our program. If you are returning home, safe travels. If you are staying on independently, have a wonderful time. We hope you enjoy Road Scholar learning adventures and look forward to having you on rewarding programs in the future. Don’t forget to join our Facebook page and follow us on Instagram. Best wishes for all your journeys back home!