Treasures of Cape Cod & the Islands

Boston, often described as America's most European city, is a captivating blend of history, art, and culinary delights. Upon your arrival at the Hyatt Regency, nestled in the heart of downtown, you're just moments from sights such as the historic Faneuil Hall and the fashionable Newbury Street. Take a leisurely stroll through the charming South End or along the picturesque Charles River Esplanade.

This evening, meet your Travel Director and fellow guests for a delightful dinner, marking the beginning of your unforgettable journey. (D) Stay: Hyatt Regency, Boston

Trace the path of American independence along Boston's Freedom Trail. See the nation's oldest public park, Boston Common, the Old State House and the Granary Burying Ground, final resting place of revolutionaries.

Then travel to Plymouth and step aboard the Mayflower II, a full-scale replica of the 1620 ship. At Pilgrim Hall Museum, explore an extraordinary collection of 17th-century artefacts with a Mayflower descendant on a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience, gaining powerful insight into the founding stories of early Plymouth Colony. Finally, walk through recreated homesites at Plimoth Patuxet Museums, where you'll witness traditional practices and lifeways of both the Wampanoag and English communities. (B) Stay: Dan'l Webster Inn and Spa, Sandwich

The windswept shores and pristine landscapes of Cape Cod await as you embark on a journey through the heart of New England's maritime history. The Cape's rolling sand dunes, historic lighthouses, and timeless fishing villages set the stage for a day rich in cultural discovery. Experience the natural wonder and human history emphasizing the cultural themes represented on Cape Cod, including the First People--the Wampanoag; European settlement culture; fishing, life-saving, and lighthouses; communication technology of Cape Cod's National Seashore. (B/D)

Set sail from Hyannis to the island of Nantucket, where cobblestone streets and preserved historic homes tell the story of a bygone whaling era. Stroll through the charming downtown, learning how the rise and fall of the whaling industry shaped Nantucket's social fabric and economy. As you uncover tales of seafaring adventures, witness the island's transformation into a beloved destination for visitors from across the globe.

After a day steeped in maritime history, return to Hyannis by ferry for an evening at leisure. (B)

Board a morning ferry to Martha's Vineyard, an island known for its pristine beaches, charming harbour towns, and storied visitors, including U.S. presidents. Explore Oak Bluffs with its gingerbread cottages, visit the Flying Horses Carousel and see State Beach, made famous by the film Jaws. Discover the island's colourful past, from whaling to modern-day tourism, as you gain insights into the history of Edgartown harbor lighthouse.

Later, enjoy island hospitality with seasonal offerings from local farms, fishing boats and foragers during a dining experience at Bettini, located in your elegant hotel. (B/DW) Stay: Harbor View, Martha's Vineyard

Arrive in Newport, where over 95 years of hospitality and charm characterise the historic Hotel Viking. Set in the heart of this coastal city, your boutique accommodation offers luxurious rooms and stunning views.

Personalise your afternoon with Insight Choice. Opt to visit the Newport Car Museum, where over 100 vehicles highlight milestones in design and performance of cars throughout the 19th and 20th centuries. Or explore Green Animals Topiary Garden at the Brayton House, the oldest of its kind in the United States, where sculpted shrubs have been meticulously shaped since 1872.

This evening, take a leisurely stroll through Newport's vibrant streets, where every corner reveals another piece of its storied past. (B) Stay: Viking, Newport

Your day begins with Newport's famed Ten Mile Drive, a scenic route that hugs the coastline, showcasing public parks, historic landmarks and breathtaking ocean views.

Afterwards, explore the grandeur of Newport's "summer cottages" as you visit the Breakers, the grandest of them all. A symbol of the Vanderbilt family's wealth and prominence, this opulent mansion offers a glimpse into the lavish lifestyle of America's Gilded Age elite. Cap off the day with a sunset sail aboard the Adirondack II, gliding along Newport Harbour and Narragansett Bay. (B/D)

As your tour comes to a close, bid farewell to your fellow travellers and transfer to Logan International Airport for your onward journey. With memories of Boston's historic charm, the beauty of Cape Cod, and the elegance of Newport, you leave with a deeper appreciation for this unique corner of New England. (B)