AUTUMN ON CAPE COD SEPTEMBER 22-30, 2018 TRIP SUMMARY HIGHLIGHTS Visiting this supremely interesting area after the summer tourists have departed Exploring beaches, salt marshes, dunes, and freshwater ponds by foot and kayak Biking on the extensive array of bike trails on both islands and the Cape Learning about the human and natural history of this fascinating area Visiting the small towns for which Cape Cod and the Islands are known Phone: 877-439-4042 Outside the US: 410-435-1965 Fax: 410-435-3084 Email: info@goodadventure.com
TRIP AT A GLANCE Dates: Sep 22-30, 2018 Location: Cape Cod, Martha's Vineyard and Nantucket Cost: $2,795.00 Activities: Multisport Arrive: anytime on Saturday, September 22 at our Hyannis Hotel Depart: on Sunday, September 30 at 12pm in Hyannis, MA TRIP OVERVIEW Autumn on Cape Cod is spectacular! The whales and birds are migrating, the air is crisp and clear, and the hordes of summer tourists have left. In addition to offering endless opportunities for outdoor adventure - we'll be hiking, kayaking, and biking - both the human and natural history of this remarkable area is fascinating. We start our adventure with two days each on Martha's Vineyard and Nantucket, two well-known islands that couldn't be more different in their feel. We then travel up the Cape to Provincetown, the town at the tip of Cape Cod that has been drawing writers, artists, and outdoor enthusiast for years. In addition to all our planned activities, we'll make sure you have enough free time to explore the variety of enchanting small towns the area is known for. Maximum group size: 12 RATING This trip is appropriate for any active woman who walks regularly for exercise and wants a vacation that mixes being active in the outdoors with historical and cultural exploration. No previous experience in any of the activities is needed. Although, if it has been awhile since you have been on a bicycle we would recommend you do some bike riding or attend a spin class to get used to a bicycle again. Rating 1 [2] 3 4 5 WHAT'S INCLUDED Two experienced AGC guides All activities on the itinerary, including the kayak tours, whalewatching, and bicycle rental Three ferry rides: Hyannis to Martha's Vineyard, Martha's Vineyard to Nantucket, and Nantucket to Hyannis All meals from Saturday dinner through breakfast the next Sunday except for one dinner and two lunches Eight nights lodging in a combination of single and double occupancy rooms Transportation during the trip including round trip transfer from Hyannis, MA Not included: Transportation to and from Hyannis, alcoholic beverages, two lunches and one dinner, guide gratuities and trip insurance.
OUR ITINERARY Below is the proposed itinerary for the trip. As is true on any adventure travel trip, plans for any specific day may be modified due to weather considerations, unforeseen circumstances, new opportunities, and group interests. DAY 1 SEPTEMBER 22, SATURDAY Our trip starts at 5pm at the DoubleTree hotel in Hyannis. We'll start getting to know each other and review our plans for the trip before sharing our first dinner. If you're driving, you'll be able to leave your car there during the trip. If you're flying into Boston, we'll send information about the shuttle that leaves every hour from Logan Airport and takes approximately 2 hours from the airport to Hyannis. We will also send everyone's travel plan approximately 4 weeks before the trip and you may want to coordinate with others about sharing a taxi. Overnight Hyannis D DAY 2 SEPTEMBER 23, SUNDAY We start our day with a 55-minute ferry ride to Martha's Vineyard. Aggressive land conservation has kept much of it unspoiled and the opportunities for outdoor recreation are endless. Our ferry arrives in Oak Bluffs, one of the 6 towns dotted around the island and our home base for the next couple of days. We'll rent bikes for the day and cycle to Edgartown, 7 miles away. From here we can take the 10-minute ferry across to Chappaquiddick Island and either leave our bikes at the ferry landing or continue our cycle to the Japanese garden (Mytoi Gardens). We will walk thought the gardens before getting back on our bikes. We will walk our bikes through Edgartown, known for its stately white Greek Revival houses that were built by whaling captains, before riding back to Oak Bluffs. Biking between 14-20 miles. Option to not bike and ride in the van to MyToi and back. Overnight Martha s Vineyard B, L, D DAY 3 SEPTEMBER 24, MONDAY This morning we'll go to the Felix Neck Wildlife Sanctuary, owned and run by Massachusetts Audubon Sanctuary. We'll explore the area from the vantage point of a kayak with a local naturalist and learn about the three ecosystems here: ocean, saltmarsh, and freshwater. We walk through the sanctuary and and learn about the forest and shore. In the afternoon we'll travel out to Gay Head Cliffs, steep ocean side cliffs known for their colorful striations and for a lighthouse that has been moved several times to prevent it from toppling into the water. We'll stay long enough to watch the sunset and enjoy a picnic at the cliffs: when the weather is good, the dark sea is offset by skies full of vivid pink and orange. Hiking approximately 2-3 miles and kayaking 2 hours. Overnight Martha's Vineyard B, L, D
DAY 4 SEPTEMBER 25, TUESDAY Depending on the schedule of the inter-island ferry, we have the morning free for one more adventure. Our hike at Cedar Tree Neck Sanctuary has it all: woods, beach, salt marsh, and kettle ponds and is a wonderful wrap-up to our time at Martha's Vineyard. In early afternoon we bid a fond farewell to Martha's Vineyard and take the ferry across to Nantucket. Although sharing a similar history and only an hour away, Nantucket has a completely different feel to it. Smaller and more compact, there is only one town - and that town is charming. There are cobblestone streets, historic homes, interesting stores, and an historic whaling museum all worth visiting. We will stop by and get measured for our bikes that will be delivered to our hotel and ready for us tomorrow. We will meet our local guide downtown and have a walking tour of Nantucket Town, learning its history while exploring its nooks and crannies. We'll take the shuttle to the hotel where our luggage is waiting and have some time to settle in before heading out to dinner. Walking and hiking a total of approximately 4.5 miles Overnight Nantucket B, D DAY 5 SEPTEMBER 26, WEDNESDAY After a hearty breakfast, we hop on our bikes and head out on of the many bike trails in Nantucket. We'll cycle on bike paths and bike-friendly roads out to the eastern part of the island. On our way we will stop to overlook the Nantucket Moors and then the picturesque town of Siasconset (pronounced Sconset). We continue around the island past the red and white stripped Sankaty Head Lighthouse and stop for a break to explore an organic cranberry bog. You'll then have the rest of the afternoon free to pursue what interests you most: Nantucket is known for its museums, shops, scenic location, and street life. We'll meet up for dinner before returning to the Inn. Biking approximately 15 miles. Nantucket B, D DAY 6 SEPTEMBER 27, THURSDAY We leave Nantucket this morning and return to Hyannis where our van awaits. Our destination today is Provincetown, our home base for the next three nights. On the way we'll stop at the Wellfleet Bay Wildlife Sanctuary, located on Wellfleet Bay and encompassing a salt marsh, barrier beach, and pine woodlands. Our visit here will be the perfect introduction to the ecology of Cape Cod, which shares some similarities but is also quite different from either island. Depending on the weather we will either spend time walking on one or more of the several nature trails or join a local naturalist for exploration of the area by kayak. We continue our drive to Provincetown where we will check into our hotel, our home for the next three nights. Hiking or kayaking for approximately 3 hours. Overnight Provincetown B, L, D
DAY 7 SEPTEMBER 28, FRIDAY Our plan for the day is to combine a hike out to Race Point with some time for you to explore the always interesting town of Provincetown on your own. Which we do first will depend on the tides since our hike is best done around low tide. Our destination is the Race Point lighthouse, on the westernmost tip of Provincetown where the Atlantic Ocean meets the Cape Cod Bay. The 6.6 mile trail is a combination of bike path, sandy beach, and a dirt road that crosses a dike on a salt marsh. When we're not walking, you'll have time to visit this delightful town. Whether your interest is history, art, or shopping, Provincetown has something for everyone. And if you need more exercise, then consider climbing the 252- foot Pilgrim Monument, the tallest all granite structure in the US. Provincetown is also known for its many excellent restaurants and dinner is on your own tonight so you can sample what appeals to you. Hike approximately 5 miles Overnight Provincetown B, L DAY 8 SEPTEMBER 29, SATURDAY Cape Cod's history is tightly bound with whaling, so it's fitting that we will go whale-watching on our final full day here. Not all whale watch companies are alike and we've chosen Dolphin Fleet for our trip. Their whale-watching boat is a scientific ship, and our fees support ongoing programs to help us understand and protect the wildlife. We hope to see Humpback, Right, and Minke whales during our tour, as well as pelagic birds that can only be seen in the ocean. The Cape is listed as one of the top ten whale-watching spots in the world, and the whale-watchers are 99.8 percent successful in spotting whales here. We'll also have time for that final walk on the beach, stroll through the streets, or explore the dunes or salt marshes. Tonight we'll share a final farewell dinner, celebrating all we've learned about the Cape and the camaraderie we've shared over the past week. Overnight Provincetown B, L, D DAY 9 SEPTEMBER 30, SUNDAY Is it really time to leave? Sadly yes. We will share one last breakfast before we pack up and head back to Hyannis. We will hop in the van for the ride back to Hyannis arriving by 11am. You can then catch the bus back to Boston for a flight home. The bus ride from Hyannis to Logan airport will take approximately 2 hours, although it could be longer in heavy traffic. There is also an option to return to Boston via the Provincetown fast-ferry. The ferry leaves from the dock in Provincetown and takes approximately 1.5 hours. As per the current schedule you would arrive in Boston at noon. Once in Boston you will need to take a cab or public transportation to Logan airport. If you elect to take the bus back to Boston you can book a flight after 5pm if you elect to take the ferry you can book a flight after 4pm.
ADDITIONAL TRIP INFORMATION GETTING THERE Logan Airport (BOS) in Boston is the closest major airport that has an easy shuttle to get to Hyannis. There is regular bus service between Logan airport and the bus station in Hyannis. Travel time is approximately 2 hours. On weekends buses depart Logan at 6:15am and 8:15am and then every hour at 45 minutes after the hour from 9:45am until 7:45pm. Busses depart from each airline terminal on the lower level outside the baggage claim areas. You can get details and the latest schedule at: Plymouth & Brockton The current fare is $26.00 one-way and $47.00 round trip. The bus terminal in Hyannis is located at: 215 Iyannough Rd., 0.4 of a mile from the hotel. Cabs are available and there is a sidewalk between the terminal and the hotel. A list of everyone s travel plans will be sent out 4 weeks before the trip and you may want to coordinate with others about sharing a taxi. Another option is flying into Hyannis it has a small airport, Barnstable Airport. Cape Air, Island Airlines, JetBlue, Nantucket Airlines fly into it. At the end of the trip we will return to Hyannis. If you plan to take the bus back to Logan it departs from the Hyannis bus terminal every 30 minutes after the hour from 6:30am to 4:30pm, with the last two buses at 6:30pm and 8:30pm. We will return to Hyannis in time for the 11:30 bus. It will take approximately 2-3 hours on the bus to return to Logan airport. The trip could be longer in heavy traffic. Alternatively at the end of the trip you can leave from Providencetown by ferry to Boston. Check Bay State Cruise Company for schedule and rates. Once in Boston you will need to take a taxi, water taxi or mass transit (Silver Line) to the airport. If you would like help with any travel plans we recommend our travel agent Barbara Nelson, Scan East West Travel, at bnelson@scaneastwest.com or call 206-395-7836. ACCOMMODATIONS After our first night will be in Hyannis, at the DoubleTree we'll spend two nights at the Madison Inn in Oak Bluff on Martha's Vineyard; two nights at the Nantucket Inn on Nantucket; and three nights at in Provincetown. We can accommodate a variety of dietary preferences and restrictions but, depending on your specific circumstances, we may ask you to bring supplemental food. Please contact the office if this is a potential concern for you. WEATHER Fall is the best season to visit the Cape and the Islands. The crowds are less and the temperatures will range from upper 60s and lows in the 50s. While you always want to be prepared for rain, autumn is typically dry. TRAVEL INSURANCE WE STRONGLY RECOMMEND TRIP CANCELLATION/TRIP INTERRUPTION INSURANCE, WHICH COVERS YOUR COST IF YOU NEED TO CANCEL OR INTERRUPT YOUR TRIP for medical reasons, trip delay, lost baggage, and other unforeseen emergencies. Adventures in Good Company will send you information about travel insurance with your registration information, or you may purchase coverage through your own insurance company. In order to avoid disappointment and expense in the event that you must cancel your trip we strongly urge you to purchase some type of insurance coverage. You can also sign up for it online at Travelex Insurance. To get the best rates, use 20-0016 as your location number on the Get A Quote page.
PACKING LIST FOOTWEAR 1 pair of lightweight hiking shoes/low boots: boots need to be well broken in and comfortable - to be used for hiking & biking. Sturdy running shoes can also work. 1 pair of comfortable water shoes (or Teva/Chaco/Keen sandal) 1 pair of shoes for walking around town (either your watershoes or hiking shoes can be used) 3 pairs of socks (1 should be wool or synthetic blend hiking socks) CLOTHING 1 pair lightweight nylon/supplex hiking pants. Zip-offs are a good option. 1-2 pairs of shorts/3/4 pants: one could be a quick-drying nylon for kayaking/hiking/biking 1 lightweight, long-sleeved shirt for sun protection while hiking/kayaking/biking button up front works well. 3 T-shirts or short-sleeved shirts (synthetic or lightweight wool is recommended for wicking and faster drying; one could be cotton) 1 lightweight fleece jacket 1 rain jacket/parka and pants Underwear/nightwear Swimsuit (for kayaking, or swimming there is a pool at the Doubletree and you will have free time to take a dip in the ocean if desired, nylon shorts can substitute for this) 1 wide-brimmed hat for sun 1 2 changes of comfortable clothes to wear around the hotels and out to dinner (e.g. pants and/or skirt, with a couple of tops) 1 lightweight pair of gloves and hat just in case TOILETRIES (small everything) Toothbrush, toothpaste, dental floss, shampoo, contact lens paraphernalia, and sanitary supplies Sunscreen and lip protection with sunblock of at least SPF 15 Personal patch kit : Band-Aids, moleskin, ibuprofen, personal medications, if any. NOTE: Individuals allergic to insect bites must bring an anaphylactic kit. Please consult your doctor. ESSENTIALS Sunglasses (100% UV protection) 1 2 Bandanna(s) 1 daypack large enough to hold your supplies for the day (water, snacks, raingear, etc.) 1 one-quart water bottle or hydration system Ear plugs (for a good night s sleep!) Your favorite snack- snacks will be provide but if you have items you prefer Capability to waterproof your backpack. Either a rain cover or a heavy-duty plastic bag to line your pack. Plastic container for sandwich OPTIONAL Book, notebook, journal, pencil/pen Binoculars Wrist watch with an alarm or travel clock Hiking poles Waterproof bag for holding small gear while kayaking Camera (extra battery/charger) and film/memory card
NOTES ON PACKING Adventures in Good Company's packing list covers everything you need to assure your safety and comfort. Because we stay indoors every night, you may be tempted to skimp on the warm clothes. Don't. Weather in the mountains can be quite variable. It may be warm and sunny, cool and drizzly, or both. It is essential that you have the rain gear and clothes to stay warm during the day when you are out on the trail. You may not use everything you bring; however, you need to come prepared for all possible weather conditions. Packing in a duffel bag or soft-sided suitcase, rather than a hard-sided suitcase, will make packing our van easier. Please do not bring more than one duffel or suitcase. Daypacks: We recommend a daypack with a capacity of between 1800 and 2400 cubic inches as you will need large enough for all your items for the day. Please line your daypack with a durable plastic bag to keep your belongings dry. Before you leave home check to be sure that your daypack is comfortable to wear all day and that there is space for all of your items. Having a daypack with padded shoulder straps and a hip belt will provide for much more comfortable hiking. Footwear: Well-fitting, trail shoes are very important to your safety and enjoyment. If you plan to buy new hiking shoes, break them in by wearing them around town and taking some short hikes before your trip. For general walking and hiking, lightweight cordura work well. Personal First Aid Kit: Small first aid kit with familiar medicine you might need for personal use, ESPECIALLY blister or foot remedies like moleskin (not molefoam), gelskin, blister bandages or similar. The amount and kind you bring will depend on your tendency to blister but many people get blisters on hiking tours. Other suggestions: remedies for respiratory ailments? Stomach ailments? Sore muscles or joints? We will have a first aid kit too, but if you already know what works for you it s better to have it. Clothing: Layering is the most practical and efficient method of insulating the body. Several layers of varied weight materials provide better insulation than one thick layer of clothing. Also, adding or subtracting layers allows you to adjust to the temperature at your particular level of activity. You can use long underwear as your base layer, your mid-weight top or vest as your second layer, and your fleece jacket as a third layer. You use your rain gear as your outer layer, and warm hat and/or gloves as needed. Rain Gear: You will need a parka or jacket made of a coated nylon or a waterproof/breathable fabric like Gore-tex, HellyTech, Membrane, H2No, or Ultrex. Be sure it keeps water out. Before making this important purchase, be sure that it fits you properly. It should be large enough to fit over all your layers. In particular, the hood needs to be effective. It should shield your face from the rain and turn with your head. Movement of your arms must not interfere with the hood. Put on your daypack; can you still raise your arms? Lastly, the wind/rain pants. They should be comfortable, allow enough room for your layers, and permit free movement of your legs (for example, can you crouch comfortably?). Partial or fulllength leg zippers are useful for easily putting your pants on over your boots. Hydration: It is very important to your safety and enjoyment to have an independent ability for accessing your water. As you are hiking you will need water to be accessible in order to drink frequently. One method is to have a water bottle attached to your waist strap. Another option is to use a HYDRATION SYSTEM such as CamelBak, Platypus, and MSR bladder bags, which are simply a collapsible water bag with a hose attachment that you drink from. These fit inside your pack with the hose positioned over your shoulder where you can access your water without the use of your hands. Some models are designed to attach to the outside of your pack. Bladder bags can hold 40-100oz. of water. Trekking Poles: Trekking poles are optional for this trip. Trekking poles contribute to your safety by improving your balance and stability, and to your health by saving stress on your hips and knees. In addition, they help conserve your energy by transferring some of the work to your arms and chest. If you are not familiar with trekking poles we have written a blog spot that addresses the most commonly asked questions You can find that at: http://blog.adventuresingoodcompany.com/blog-women-travel/bid/154714/trekking-poles-for-hiking-trips-the-4-mostcommon-questions.