Treasures of Cape Cod & The Islands - 8 Days
8 Days
Boston
Boston
****
Insight
This 8-Day guided tour blends history with glamour as you travel from Massachusetts to Rhode Island. Follow the red-brick Freedom Trail in Boston to see where the U.S. took shape. On the shores of Cape Cod Bay, see Plymouth, a coastal town famous for its rich history as the landing site of the Pilgrims in 1620; visit the living history museum at Plimoth Patuxet. At Martha's Vineyard, a driver will take you past the former home of Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis and to Oak Bluffs, an idyllic town with gingerbread-like cottages. Indulge in a sea-to-table feast filled with fish caught from local fishermen, fresh produce from nearby farms and delicacies picked by foragers. In the seaside city of Newport, board an 80-foot schooner to cruise the coastline, taking in views of historical buildings and the homes of the rich and famous — and learn about the area’s past as a pirates’ haven.
Itinerary
Day 1: Boston
Your tour includes private door to door transfers from your home address to your departure Airport.
Welcome to Boston
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.
Join your Travel Director for dinner and an opportunity to mingle with fellow guests at your hotel at 18:00.
Day 2: Exploring Plymouth's Past
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.
Day 3: The Wonders of Cape Cod
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.
Day 4: Nautical History in Nantucket
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.
Day 5: The Charms of Martha’s Vineyard – An Island Escape
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.
Day 6: The Timeless Elegance of Newport
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.
Day 7: Newport, the Queen of Summer Resorts
Your day begins with Newport’s famed Ten Mile Drive, a scenic route that hugs the coastline, showcasing public parks, historic landmarks and breath-taking 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.
Day 8: Farewell to Boston
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.
Guests departing Boston will arrive at Boston Logan International Airport by approx 12:00, for those extending their stay will return to the Hyatt Regency Boston hotel.
Arrive UK
On arrival back to your UK airport our driver will meet you and escort you to your waiting vehicle for a private door to door transfer back to your home address.
Includes
- 7 nights in handpicked 4 & 5 star hotels in great locations
- ‘Business Class’ style coaches with extended legroom and bathroom facilities (w/c)
- 24/7 personal service – knowledgeable Travel Director & expert driver
- Porterage, plus tips and gratuities at hotels and restaurants are included
- Meals as stated in the itinerary
Excludes
- Flights - please call us on 0844 80 444 80 to obtain a quote and book flights
- Pre & post nights - please call us on 0844 80 444 80 to obtain a quote and book additional nights
- Driver & Tour Director gratuities - these can be pre-paid, please ask your reservations agent when booking your tour
Choose Your Departure Date
Prices shown above are per person based on 2 adults sharing. For single, triple, quad and child prices please call us for a quote.
Please call us on 0844 80 444 80 to check the latest up-to-date availability and to book your tour.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
What does the tour cost include?
The per person price listed covers all hotel accommodations, taxes, all applicable sightseeing and admissions as per the itinerary, motor coach, cruise or rail transportation, services of a professional Travel Director, all meals as shown in the itinerary and luggage handling. All tips have been included for services on trip by dining-room staff, chambermaids and porters at hotels, airports, docks and train stations.
Can i book flights through you?
Yes, we can offer competitive airfares with all the major airlines.
When booking a package with us that includes flights and a tour, your package is then fully ATOL bonded by the CAA for your full financial peace of mind.
Please call us on 0844 80 444 80 and our travel experts will be able to provide a quote for any flight requirements.
You are, of course, welcome to book flights independently but we are therefore not responsible should your flights be delayed and you miss any part of your tour or other arrangements booked with us.
Can i add additional hotel nights before or after my tour?
Many of our clients choose to add extra hotel nights to spend a little more time in their chosen destination. You can reserve additional hotel nights before or after your tour.
Please call us on 0844 80 444 80 and our travel experts will be able to provide a quote for your additional nights and assist with your requirements.
Can i book twin beds or triple/quad rooms?
Yes, we have options for twin (2 beds) and triple/quad room configurations.
If you a travelling in a party of three or four adult guests, please call us on 0844 80 444 80 and our travel experts will be able to provide a quote for your requirements.
For double rooms (2 guests), 1 Double/Queen or King bed is the normal, Twin beds can be requested at time of booking.
For triple rooms (3 guests) these will normally have 1 Queen/King bed and a fold out bed, or 2 Queen/King beds and a fold out bed.
For Quad rooms (4 Guests) these will normally have 2 Queen/King beds.
How much is the solo/single supplement?
Escorted tours are the perfect option if you're travelling solo, combining the camaraderie of a smaller group with the independence of a solo trip. Many tours offer solo room share options, or a competitive solo supplement.
Please call us on 0844 80 444 80 and our travel experts will be able to provide a quote for your requirements.
How many guests will be on this tour?
A personal experience is at the heart of what you can expect. Most of our tours will offer 2 group sizes, where you’ll always enjoy dedicated attention and access to unique experiences thanks to all groups being smaller than the mainstream tour companies.
With both group sizes you’ll travel on custom ‘Business Class’ style coaches that offer more leg room and larger window spans.
Our classic departures average a group size of just 33 travellers, capped at a maximum of 40 guests. Or, choose our small group departures which have an average of just 20 guests, capped at a maximum of just 24 guests, this choice is perfect if you prefer an even more individualised experience.
How much walking will be on this tour?
With your comfort in mind, Purely Escorted Tours assigns every tour an activity level. The activity level for your chosen tour is displayed in the tour introduction.
Leisurely: Tours will typically have 1-2 miles of walking per day on primarily flat surfaces and with some stairs.
Balanced: Tours typically have up to 1-3 miles of walking per day, which may include some uneven surfaces such as cobblestones and stairs.
Dynamic: These journeys can feature 4+ miles of walking on some days and may involve some steep hills.
Do your coaches have on-board wifi and bathroom faclilites?
With group sizes of a maximum of either 24 or 40 guests across all our tours, there’s always more space in our best-in-class coaches to stretch out and relax, no matter your destination.
Travel in premium style on our fleet include Mercedes and Volvo as our brand partners of choice. And, in Europe, Britain and on select North American tours we take extra space to the next level with our exclusive ‘Business Class’ style custom coaches - our best-in-class coaches that have been custom designed with 13 fewer seats, offering up to 55% more personal space.
Our coaches offer onboard Wi-Fi, bathroom facilities (w/c), charging unites, reclining seats, air conditioning, footrests, tray tables, drink holders and seat pockets
How much is the deposit to secure a tour and when is the balance due?
A deposit of 10% is required when making your booking.
The balance of the holiday cost must be received by us no less than 10 weeks prior to your date of departure. Bookings made within 10 weeks of departure require full payment at the time of booking.
For some tours or if there is a special "Early Booking offer", the balance maybe due sooner than 10 weeks before departure, in this case you will be advised at time of booking when the balance due date would be.
The balance payment date will be shown on your confirmation invoice.
Payments can be made by debit card, credit card or bank transfers.
YOUR PAYMENTS TO US ARE FULLY FINANCIALLY SECURE FOR YOUR PEACE OF MIND: Where your confirmed travel arrangements include a flight and you are resident in the UK (or EU) or the flight departs from, arrives in or transits the UK, this is financially protected through our Air Travel Organiser’s Licence (ATOL) number 6874 managed by the Civil Aviation Authority, Gatwick Airport South, West Sussex, RH6 0YR, UK, telephone 0333 103 6350, email claims@caa. co.uk.
CANCELLATIONS: Cancellations t&c's can differ from operator to operator, these will be confirmed to you with your booking confirmation. For our general Terms and conditions and general cancellation details please click here.
Are gratuities included for the driver, tour director and at restaurants etc?
Gratuities are included at hotels and restaurants. And, you have the option to pre-pay your Travel Director and driver gratuities before you travel if you wish.
Please call us on 0844 80 444 80 and our travel experts will be able to provide a quote for you to pre-pay driver and tour director gratuities.
Do you offer/include Travel Insurance?
Travel insurance is not included in your tour and we do not offer travel insurance.
Please procure Travel Insurance before travelling. This will protect you and will give you peace of mind before you travel and whilst on your tour.
We suggest that your insurance covers the following:
- Cancellation or curtailment of your vacation due to medical or other reasons
- Loss or damage to your property and baggage
- Loss of cash, credit cards etc
- Medical costs and personal accidents
Certain countries require visitors to have valid medical insurance on entry and in Europe, you may find that doctor's surgeries, dentists and hospitals often require payment in cash prior to providing services. Whilst rare, medical evacuation can be exceptionally expensive.
Do remember to bring a copy of your policy, contact phone numbers and details of how to claim when you travel.
Should you choose to travel on Purely Escorted Tour without the required travel insurance, you will have full responsibility for all expenses (trip interruption, trip delay, medical expenses, quarantine expenses and emergency evacuation/repatriation) that may arise while travelling with us.
What does a guaranteed departure mean?
A guaranteed departure means the tour will operate no matter how many people are booked to travel on that departure.
In the slim case that a guaranteed departure you are booked on has to be withdrawn due to unforeseen circumstances, you are entitled to a full refund on the funds already paid, or if flexible with your time, we can move you onto another departure that suits you.
What do I need to know about border crossings, visas, entry requirements and passports?
Depending on your nationality, you may need visas to enter certain countries included on your trip. Please note that obtaining visas can take up to six weeks and so it is strongly advised that you consult your local Consulate or Embassy of the country you are visiting to determine which visas they require and how to obtain them.
Note: Purely Escorted Tours is not responsible for obtaining any necessary visas required on your tour.
Information about border crossings and visas, entry requirements varies by destination. Please check the destination you're visiting below for more information:
Europe trips:
Each guest must ensure that their passport is valid for at least six months beyond the conclusion of their trip and that they have acquired all necessary visas and permits. Multiple-entry visas may be required if you are entering a country more than once on your holiday.
Guests are advised that only the countries you plan to visit can provide up-to-date information about their specific visa requirements. Guests should contact the nearest embassy or consulate of the countries they plan to visit well in advance of travel. Please check your itinerary carefully. Remember that requirements vary based on a passport's place of issue and that the process can take time.
Check that multi-entry visas have the correct entry dates and destinations before you travel. Please be aware that with some itineraries, you may travel through a country without making an overnight stop. If this happens on your itinerary, you will still need a visa to enter/exit the country for example an ETA when transiting through UK & Ireland.
Please ensure that you carry proper identification with you at all times, as border crossings will need to see your entry documents and passports. Usually crossing borders is a very straightforward process that is managed by your Travel Director. However, be advised that you may be required to open your luggage and answer simple questions about the length of your stay, purpose of travel, etc.
United Kingdom and Northern Ireland trips incl transiting travellers:
From January 8, 2025 UK law requires travelers both entering and transiting through the UK and Northern Ireland to obtain an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) which must be obtained in advance of travel.
UK eTA applications can be made at the UK Governments official website.
USA trips incl transiting travellers:
US law requires travellers both entering and transiting through the United States are required to obtain an Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) which must be obtained in advance of travel.
ESTA applications can be made at the U.S. Customs and Boarder Protection website.
Canada trips:
Canadian law requires travellers both entering and transiting through Canada to obtain an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) which must be obtained in advance of travel.
eTA applications can be made at the Government of Canada's website.
Rest of the World trips:
Each guest must ensure that their passport is valid for at least six months beyond the conclusion of their trip and that they have acquired all necessary visas and permits. You are responsible for obtaining all necessary visas before the departure of your guided holiday. Depending on your nationality, you may need visas to enter certain countries included on your trip. Please note that obtaining visas can take up to six weeks before your departure. It is strongly advised that you consult the local Consulate or Embassy of the country you are visiting well in advance to determine which visas they require and how to obtain them.
What if I have mobility issues?
Please notify us of any disability requiring special assistance prior to travelling. We will try our best to accommodate you throughout the tour and will inform the hotels.
What if I have food allergies?
Please advise us of any dietary requirements. We will make arrangements with our suppliers where possible.
You will also need to talk to your Travel Director at the beginning of your tour and they will do their utmost to arrange an alternative menu at the hotels and restaurants.
How much luggage can I bring?
Travelling on a Purely Escorted Tour entitles each guest to travel with one suitcase not exceeding 23kg (50lbs) in weight, with dimensions not exceeding 77.5cm (30.5in) x 56cm (22in) x 32cm (12.5in).
In addition guests may also bring one item of hand luggage that is small and light enough to be carried onto the coach and fit underneath the seat, or in the small overhead compartment above. (Luggage with adjustable handles and wheels will not fit).
Please test the weight of your baggage prior to travel. You should be able to lift and comfortably transport it for short distances.
Baggage allowances vary from airline to airline and you should check with your chosen carrier for details prior to travel.