Sun, Aug 9: Fly to Portland, Maine, one of America’s “happiest seaside towns,” according to Coastal Living magazine. Transfer to Kennebunkport for a narrated walking tour with a local guide before returning to Portland’s waterfront to check in to the hotel for one night. Enjoy a free evening on your own to explore Portland.

Mon, Aug 10: After breakfast at the hotel, take a self-guided tour at the Portland Head Light & Museum. Depart for the popular waterfront in Boothbay Harbor where you can enjoy lunch and sightseeing. Head to Rockland for a visit to the Farnsworth Art Museum, which celebrates Maine’s role in American art and offers a nationally recognized collection of works from many of America’s greatest artists. Its Wyeth Center features works of N.C., Andrew and Jamie Wyeth. Check into the Rockland Harbor Hotel, overlooking Penobscot Bay and within walking distance of shops, restaurants and galleries, as well as the Maine Lighthouse Museum and Gateway Visitor Center. From here you may take photos of the Rockland Harbor Breakwater Light or choose to take the mile walk for a closer look. The balance of the day is at leisure in Rockland to stroll in the heart of town and do as you please. (Meal: Breakfast)

Tue, Aug 11: Today’s adventure begins with a visit to the Maine Lighthouse Museum before setting a course for Camden. On arrival there is free time for lunch on your own and for perusing this picturesque, quaint town. Next, head for Mount Battie in Camden Hills State Park, where Edna St. Vincent Millay penned her poem “Three Mountains.” This is also the background for movie and TV shots of quintessential New England. Make a stop at Cellardoor Winery, located on a private estate in nearby Lincolnville, for a tasting and tour of the winery and vineyard. Arrive in Bar Harbor and check in to your hotel overlooking picturesque Frenchman’s Bay. The balance of the day is free for exploring before an included group dinner at the hotel. (B,D)

Wed, Aug 12: This morning, tour Bar Harbor and Acadia National Park with a local guide. Bar Harbor has been celebrated for its breathtaking beauty ever since it was discovered in 1604 by Samuel de Champlain, who named it “Isle de Monts Desert,” (aka Mount Desert Island). See tremendous coastline views, hear stories of Victorian “rusticators” and hear tales of lavish lifestyles as you pass the centuries-old “cottages” of the most famous residents. Continue to traverse the stunning parkland scenery on the drop-dead-gorgeous section of the loop road, the summit of Cadillac Mountain, and the crashing waves of Thunder Hole. Enjoy an included lunch with the group before time on your own to take a walk on nearby nature trails or explore town for the remainder of the day. (B,L)

Thu, Aug 13: Today an exhilarating Windjammer Cruise awaits as you climb aboard a majestic 151-foot, 4-masted schooner. Then the day is free to further explore Bar Harbor. Tonight, enjoy a Farewell Lobsterbake Dinner. (B,D) 

Fri, Aug 14: After a leisurely morning, depart Bar Harbor for Portland. Stop in Freeport for great outlet shopping and lunch on your own (don’t miss the Wicked Whoopies) before arriving at Portland airport for your flight home. (B)