American Cruise Lines has announced an exciting summer season of New England cruises, the only coastal itineraries in the region that visit only US ports, taking in picturesque coastlines, islands, historic ports and seaside villages.
American’s 2024 New England season features six small ships, including three new Coastal Cats, sailing a selection of eight- to 15-day itineraries. There will be brand new Yankee Seaports cruises between Boston and New York City, and new Hudson River Summer Classic cruises roundtrip from New York City.
Itineraries and Offerings
American’s coastal itineraries throughout New England are the only overnight cruise explorations that remain fully in the USA throughout the entire journey.
Calling on over 20 New England Ports from May through September, American’s small ships operate like river cruises, docking in the heart of each destination along every itinerary.
The line’s itineraries highlight the historic towns and quaint villages that have made New England a famous maritime destination for centuries. The small ships visit ports in Plymouth, Bar Harbor, Bangor, Nantucket, Martha’s Vineyard, Block Island, Newport, Gloucester and many more. Guests can unpack just once while discovering storied harbours with ease and, in many cases, arriving in each one just as they could on a private yacht.
The sailings include the Yankee Seaport from Boston, MA to New York City, the Cape Codder cruise roundtrip from Boston, MA, and the New England Islands cruise roundtrip from Providence, RI. There is also the Maine Coast cruise, and several other roundtrip cruises from Boston, MA.
These offerings range from summer excursions to fall adventures, with a chance to see fall foliage around New England. With the New England Explorer cruise as an example, the trip begins and ends in Boston, a city which reverberates with the history of the American Revolution. Guests will cruise past the famous Portland Head Light, the most photographed lighthouse in America. They’ll be guided by a local historian, and be able to explore Camden, the prettiest harbour on the Maine Coast.
During the Cape Codder cruise, a quintessential New England experience, guests get the chance to Visit Provincetown, a bohemian seaport with unique art galleries and excellent whale-watching opportunities. They’ll get to enjoy the charming villages and gingerbread cottages of Martha’s Vineyard, led by engaging island guides, and explore the opulent seaside mansions of Newport.
Improvements Onboard
This summer, the company is also offering brand-new eight-day Hudson River Summer Classic cruises sailing roundtrip from NYC. For many years, American has offered autumn sailings on the Hudson River and, due to their enormous popularity, the line has decided to expand their 2024 offering with new June sailings discovering the Hudson Valley. Exploring coastal New England in summertime, especially from the water, is an unforgettable experience, as these smaller ships are able to sail protected waters and accessing local harbours inaccessible to big ships.
American’s small ship fleet and an array of New England itineraries has grown tremendously in 2024, with six ships operating throughout the North East all summer and 19 ships sailing around the country through December. The company’s curated itineraries are highlighted by onboard experts, historians, authors and evening entertainment that brings to life each region’s history and charm.
Cruising aboard new, spacious small ships, guests will enjoy gourmet cuisine, daily cocktails, and the finest amenities available in small ship cruising. Cruises from Boston also offer a Four Seasons pre-cruise package.
Cuisine and Excursions
Coastal cuisine on New England cruises is one of a kind, featuring fresh authentic seafood iconic to the area.
The Lobsterbake Luncheon is a complimentary excursion on several of the cruise lines. On the New England Explorer cruise, there’s a chance to explore Fort Adams and watch the unveiling of a traditional, old-fashioned lobster bake, followed by a delicious buffet overlooking the Fort and Newport. Guests will be treated to fresh lobster, steamed clams and mussels, warm corn on the cob, and baked rolls. After lunch, guests can feel free to take a guided exploration of Fort Adams or explore Newport at their leisure.
Other excursions include museum trips, such as the Whaling Museum on the New England Islands cruise. On this line, there are also chances to explore what the islands have to offer, such as the iconic Gingerbread Cottages on Martha’s Vineyard.
In terms of cuisine and cocktails, wine and beer are complimentary with lunch and dinner meals onboard. Sample menu items include Littleneck Clams Ceviche, Seared Maine Diver Scallop served with Shaker Village Style Tomato Pudding, a classic New England Boiled Seafood Dinner, and “Surf and Turf” Shrimp and Crab stuffed Baked Maine Lobster Tail. Dessert would include Wild Maine Blueberry Pie, to finish off an authentic menu with ingredients local to the area.
To find out more, visit: americancruiselines.com
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All imagery courtesy of American Cruise Lines.