Itinerary for: Cruise the Bays and Railways of New England (CWWCBR)

Departs
from your home address in the UK - 'tour only' option available without flights
on request.

Travel by yacht and riverboat, steam train and cog railway, past mountains, mansions, seacoasts, and farms on this journey through all six New England states. Begin your New England experience with a fabulous welcome lobster dinner. Ride up Mt. Washington aboard the world’s first mountain-climbing cog railway. Take the Conway Scenic Railroad past sheer bluffs and across the famed Frankenstein Trestle. Savour a dinner cruise aboard a yacht in Newport. Visit Foxwoods Resort Casino, the largest casino in North America!

Mount Washington Cog Railway

In 1869, the Cog Railway was an engineering marvel, a new technology of toothed cog gears, rack rails and tilted boilers. When you ride the train today, it feels like you are riding back in time to a bygone era, when coal fired dreams and steel rails mapped the course of civilization.

The Cog Railway lies in the heart of the White Mountain National Forest, surrounded by natural and man-made attractions. To ride up Mount Washington aboard the world’s first mountain-climbing cog railway proves to be a rare and truly special experience. As you get lost in nostalgic sounds of steam locomotives in action, ascend the steepest railway tracks in existence, while an ever-changing panorama outside your window enchants you. So, sit back, relax and climb above the clouds for an unforgettable journey. Upon your return, visit the Mount Washington Cog Railway’s fascinating museum and gift shop!

Itinerary

Day 1: Boston, Massachusetts - Tour Begins 

Behold the beautiful bays and travel the historic railways of spectacular New England! From mouth-watering seafood to breathtaking views and charming towns, this Collette Holiday showcases the very best of this coastal region.

Day 2: Boston - Portland, Maine 

Discover the history and charm that abound in Boston during a sightseeing tour featuring the Old South Meeting House, the Public Gardens, Old North Church, historic Beacon Hill and the U.S.S. Constitution. Later, take a stroll around the famed Faneuil Hall marketplace, sampling its eclectic and tempting assortment of food and visiting its many boutiques and shops. Then, depart for the enchanting rockbound coast of Maine. Tonight, join your fellow travellers for a very special welcome dinner of fresh native lobster for which coastal Maine is renowned. (B,D)

Day 3: Portland

A tour through the city of Portland features a visit to the Portland Harbor Museum. Next, climb aboard a ferry for a cruise of Casco Bay. This scenic cruise of the inner bay takes you past gorgeous Victorian cottages dotted along the shorelines of Little and Great Diamond islands. The remainder of your afternoon is at leisure. (B)

Day 4: Portland - North Conway, New Hampshire 

Stop at Portland Head Light, a stately lighthouse located in Cape Elizabeth, for photos before journeying through the lovely New England countryside to New Hampshire. This afternoon you'll have time at leisure in the quaint village of North Conway before arriving at your hotel, nestled in the heart of the Mount Washington Valley. (B)

Day 5: North Conway - Mount Washington - Stratton, Vermont 

Drive along scenic Crawford Notch - the steep and narrow gorge of the Saco River - through the White Mountains of New Hampshire. Arrive at the iconic Omni Mount Washington Hotel for a tour of this historic building. Ride up Mount Washington aboard the world's first mountain-climbing cog railway - a truly exciting and unforgettable experience. Return to the Omni Mount Washington Hotel for a sumptuous feast - the grand buffet luncheon served in the hotel's dining room. Later, depart for Stratton, Vermont. (B)

Day 6: Vermont 

Discover the beauty of southern Vermont during a full day sightseeing tour. Begin by boarding Vermont's Green Mountain Flyer Train. Built in the 1850's, this remarkable train takes you on a journey through Vermont's lush countryside and alongside two historic covered bridges. Stop at a local farm where you will enjoy lunch and leisure time to explore the grounds, including the pastures, gardens and terraces. Before returning to your hotel, witness the elegance and beauty of the Friesian breed of horses when you attend a captivating Majestic Friesian performance at a working horse farm. (B,L)

Day 7: Vermont - Ledyard, Connecticut 

This morning, visit Hildene, the stunning summer home of Abraham Lincoln's son, Robert Todd Lincoln. Tour the historic home, vintage Pullman train car, gardens, and farm which are set on over 412 picturesque acres. Then, travel to Connecticut for a visit to Foxwoods Resort Casino, the largest casino in North America, for a chance to try your luck! Explore the six casinos, many speciality shops and plentiful entertainment options. (B,D)

Day 8: Ledyard - Essex - Newport, Rhode Island 

Explore Connecticut's beautiful countryside, where lush forests, running streams, beautiful vistas and nostalgic towns create a natural wonderland. Behold incredible views of the Connecticut River as you take a ride aboard the Essex Steam Train. Next, board the Becky Thatcher River Boat where you will view several man-made wonders such as the bridges, ferries and riverfront homes New England is known for, along with the historic Goodspeed Opera House and Gillette Castle. Later, depart Connecticut and travel along New England's pristine coast to the seaside town of Newport, Rhode Island. (B)

Day 9: Newport

Your day is at leisure to explore this bustling coastal town. Perhaps you will choose to partake in an optional tour of the Marble House mansion, followed by lunch and a sail through Newport Harbor aboard the schooner Adirondack II. This evening, join your fellow travellers for a farewell dinner at a local restaurant. (B,D)

Day 10: Newport - Boston - Depart for home

Enjoy a morning at leisure before your transfer to the airport for your flight home.

Day 11: Arrive U.K.

Included Meal Basis: B=Breakfast, D=Dinner and L=Lunch