2012 Coastal Discoveries Road Scholar Programs

May 7—10

Snapshot of Troy: The Sweet Surprise at the Gateway to the Erie Canal

Burial site of Uncle Sam, birthplace of the American Industrial Revolution and site of a vibrant cultural renaissance, Troy lays claim to a fascinating portion of American history. Join local experts and learn how the city influenced American industry; enjoy its historic downtown adorned with locally cast wrought–iron ornaments and Tiffany windows; learn why movie directors repeatedly film here; and discover Troy’s leading role in abolition and women’s suffrage. View a short video of the Troy program and read more» | Program #15922

June 10—19

Skylines and Islands: New York City to Toronto

The opening of the Erie Canal in the 19th century spurred the westward expansion of the United States and made New York City one of the world’s busiest ports. On this unique voyage from Manhattan to Toronto, travel the historic Erie Canal and its sister waterway to the north, the bustling St. Lawrence Seaway. Admire the lush beauty of the Hudson River, delight in the charms of the Thousand Islands, experience the awesome wonders of Niagara Falls, and marvel at the diversity and energy of Toronto. Program #20283

July 10—15

New England's Historic Islands and Seaports

New England’s islands have endured countless transitions and transformations over the centuries. Embark on a voyage of discovery into the mystique of summer on the water in historic captains’ homes, lighthouses, beaches and dunes, and the warm salt air breezes in timeless harbors. Delve into the history, art, literature and natural resources of Block Island, Cuttyhunk, Martha's Vineyard, Nantucket, New Bedford and Newport. Read more and view a short video of this program. Program #6018RJ

July 15–20; August 12–15; September 9–14 & September 30–October 5

Exploring Historic New England Seacoast Towns

Portsmouth has been hailed by the New York Times as "an historic gem hiding in plain sight." From a lovely, historic Inn located in the heart of downtown Portsmouth, discover coastal New England's art, architecture, and maritime and literary heritage. No visit to Portsmouth is complete without an afternoon at Strawbery Banke, a living outdoor museum that traces the fascinating founding and history of… read more and view a short video of this program. Program #14011

September 24 – October 6

One Lock at a Time: A Living History of the Erie Canal and St. Lawrence Seaway

Discover the water routes that pioneers and explorers used over the last four centuries to reach interior North America. With your on–board historian, who intimately knows the waters you'll be traveling, learn how a young country with no engineers built more than 400 miles of canal through virgin wilderness. Marvel at the raw beauty of the 1,000 Islands area of the St. Lawrence Seaway as you travel in leisure to two of the most fascinating and historic cities in North America: Montreal and Quebec City. Program #13384RJ

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Key: Small Ship Cruising;
Road Scholar Adventure Afloat Program