Massachusetts

New England Maritime Sampler

Program No. 11077RJ
Voyage along Cape Ann’s beautifully rugged coast, exploring unique wildlife, classic New England charm, traditional cuisine and the region’s famed history of shipbuilding.

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At a Glance

On an adventure by land and sea on Boston’s North Shore, discover the stunning beauty of Cape Ann as you explore its quaint harbors, artistic charm and picturesque villages. Aboard a lobster boat, see a lobsterman hoist his catch from chilly seawaters. Learn about the famous Gloucester fishing fleet. Experience the Rocky Neck art colony and view seascapes created by Winslow Homer and Fitz Henry Lane, who called Cape Ann home. At the Essex Shipbuilding Museum, let craftsmen lead you through the history of master shipbuilding. Bite into a mouthwatering fried clam. Experience a whale watch, learn about the witch trials in historic Salem and pass by gilded mansions on the shores of Marblehead and Manchester-by-the-Sea.
Activity Level
On Your Feet
Walking 3-5 blocks over smooth surfaces; some stairs; embark/disembark boats & coach bus.

What You'll Learn

  • Voyage on Cape Ann's vibrant shoreline and a tidal river on five distinctive boats as you inhale salt air, marvel at lighthouses and view the unique wildlife attracted to the rugged coast.
  • Experience a whale watch, boating three miles to Stellwagen Bank National Marine Sanctuary in hopes of spotting a finback, minke or humpback breaching the waters.
  • Sail on one of Essex’s iconic schooners, learning from the captain about the construction of this magnificent wooden vessel.
Featured Expert
All trip experts
Profile Image
Jim McAllister
Jim McAllister is a Salem historian, photographer, author and teacher, and serves as a historic consultant to the City of Salem and the Hawthorne Hotel. A graduate of Stonehill College, his photographs of Salem have appeared in numerous publications, and he is the author of “Salem: From Naumkeag to Witch City” and co-author of “Salem: Cornerstones of a Historic City.” Jim has appeared on both the “History Channel” and “Home and Garden TV.”

Please note: This expert may not be available for every date of this program.

Profile Image of Jim McAllister
Jim McAllister View biography
Jim McAllister is a Salem historian, photographer, author and teacher, and serves as a historic consultant to the City of Salem and the Hawthorne Hotel. A graduate of Stonehill College, his photographs of Salem have appeared in numerous publications, and he is the author of “Salem: From Naumkeag to Witch City” and co-author of “Salem: Cornerstones of a Historic City.” Jim has appeared on both the “History Channel” and “Home and Garden TV.”
Profile Image of Debra Levin
Debra Levin View biography
Debra Levin is an honors graduate of Penn State and a former teacher. Debra has led groups of seniors, students, nurses, veterinarians, and retired fire chiefs to name but a few. Back home in Boston, she spends time volunteering with the symphony, theaters, and an art museum, when not speed walking and playing Wordle.
Profile Image of Ruth Bennett
Ruth Bennett View biography
Ruth Bennett grew up in the Boston area and now lives in Hingham, Massachusetts. She earned her BA and MA from Emerson College and taught there for several years before becoming a freelance trainer and consultant in communications in the workplace. She now leads groups for Road Scholar internationally, in New England and other areas in the U.S. In her spare time, she can be found walking on the beach, reading, traveling, painting, taking OLLI classes and attending cultural events in her area.
Profile Image of Nancy Field
Nancy Field View biography
Nancy’s passion for travel and learning is a direct result of her childhood, having spent winters in Florida and summers with her grandparents up north. After graduating nursing school, Nancy relocated to Massachusetts, where she married and became a full-time mom of three adventurous children. Nancy has been a group leader in Alaska for several years. During the fall/winter months, Nancy calls St. Augustine, Florida home. She loves to share the beautiful Spanish colonial architecture the city has to offer.
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