2016 - APT USA

60 Day 18. Providence, Embark New England Islands Cruise. Journey to the port of Providence, where you will board the boutique American Star and set off on your New England Islands Cruise. Settle in to your Stateroom before a special Welcome Dinner. Seven Night Cruise: American Star, stay in a spacious Picture Window Stateroom. BLD Day 19. New Bedford. This morning, you'll enjoy a visit to the New Bedford Whaling Museum, the largest museum dedicated to the history of whaling in North America. A knowledgeable guide will take you for a tour through the museum's many exhibits and provide an unrivalled insight into the industry that established and shaped the town in its early years. This afternoon, you'll embark on a cruise to the historic New Bedford/New Haven Harbor. Along the way, sail past the highlights of the region like historic Palmer's Island Lighthouse. You'll also see the largest hurricane barrier on the East Coast, Fort Phoenix, which was built during the American Revolution; and you will have the chance to watch a local fishing fleet at work. BLD Day 20. Nantucket Island. Continue on your journey and travel back in time to the 19th century with a visit to Nantucket Island. Once home to sea-faring captains, whalers, and their families, Nantucket's population swells during summer with an influx of seasonal residents. While here, learn about the history of this charming summer colony during a tour. Later, travel through the village of Siasconset, and admire its rose-covered cottages. BLD Day 21. Martha's Vineyard. Embark on a tour of the picturesque island of Martha's Vineyard. As you explore the landscape, you'll see the historic Edgartown; Oaks Bluff, with its cute gingerbread-like cottages; Vineyard Haven; and West Tisbury. In Edgartown, you might like to visit the Old Whaling Church which was built by whaling captains in 1843. This stunning building is considered to be one of the finest examples of Greek Revival architecture in New England. Or perhaps take in more of your surrounds during a stroll through the pretty village, which is the oldest English settlement on Martha's Vineyard. BLD Day 22. Block Island. Just off the coast of Rhode Island, unspoiled Block Island is maintained by the Nature Conservancy. With only one bus on the island, you'll enjoy an unconventional tour aboard a school bus with an enthusiastic local guide. Travel along the spectacular Mohegan Bluffs at 200 feet above sea level and enjoy stunning ocean views. Stop at the Southeast Lighthouse for a stroll in the fresh sea air, and visit the Old Harbor where you can sample Rhode Island's own Del's Lemonade for a truly authentic experience of this region. BLD Day 23. Newport. Discover the historic seaside city of Newport today. Journey along the spectacular Ocean View Drive and Bellevue Avenue and admire the stunning mansion homes which are a major attraction of the town. One of the highlights of today will be a visit to The Breakers. This seventy-room mansion is an Italian Renaissance-style palazzo and National Historic Landmark built for Cornelius Vanderbilt II in 1895. BLD Day 24. Bristol. Explore the Herreshoff Marine Museum, which is located at the site where the world's finest yachts were once built. It is also home to the America's Cup Hall of Fame. Later, you will partake in a New England tradition – a delicious Lobster Bake lunch in which lobsters and accompanying vegetables are authentically prepared. Afterwards, head off to the Blithewold Mansion overlooking the Narragansett Bay. You may also like to travel into downtown Bristol, known as the most patriotic city in America. Here, you will enjoy waterside views and browse the shops. Tonight, enjoy your final dinner on board with your fellow guests. BLD Day 25. Depart Boston. After breakfast, you will disembark the American Star for the final time at the port of Providence. From here, you'll transfer to Boston for your onward flight. B Take in stunning views of the New England Islands, like those at Southeast Lighthouse on Block Island www.aptouring.co.nz

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