Join New York Times bestselling author Martha Hall Kelly for an unforgettable literary journey through Boston and the picturesque island of Martha's Vineyard.
Best known for her beloved historical novels, including Lilac Girls, Lost Roses, Sunflower Sisters, and The Martha's Vineyard Beach and Book Club, Martha brings history vividly to life through stories of courage, friendship, and resilience.
Our journey begins in historic Boston before traveling to Martha's Vineyard, the enchanting New England island that inspired Martha's most recent novel. Together, we will explore charming harbor towns, colorful seaside cottages, dramatic coastal cliffs, and hidden corners of the island known primarily to locals.
Throughout the tour, guests will enjoy exclusive opportunities to spend time with Martha Hall Kelly as she shares stories from her writing life, discusses her research process, and offers insight into the people and places that inspired her work.
Highlights include exploring the picturesque villages of Edgartown and Oak Bluffs, visiting the breathtaking Aquinnah Cliffs and Gay Head Lighthouse, discovering the fishing village of Menemsha, and sailing aboard the historic Tall Ship Alabama at sunset.
Filled with beautiful scenery, fascinating history, wonderful meals, and meaningful conversations, this intimate journey offers a unique opportunity to experience Martha's Vineyard through the eyes of one of its most celebrated storytellers.
Please contact Dilya at dilya@johnshorstravel.com. We'd love to have you join this fabulous tour!
Fly into Boston Logan International Airport and take a taxi or rideshare (Uber/Lyft) to the hotel.
Nestled in the heart of Downtown Crossing, The Godfrey Hotel Boston seamlessly blends historic charm with modern luxury. Housed in early 20th-century buildings, this boutique hotel offers sleek, contemporary rooms equipped with high-tech amenities. Guests can indulge in Peruvian-Japanese cuisine at the on-site RUKA Restobar or enjoy artisanal coffee at George Howell Coffee. With its prime location, just steps from Boston Common and the Freedom Trail, The Godfrey provides an ideal base for exploring the city's rich history and vibrant culture.
Welcome Dinner at one of the Boston restaurants where guests will meet Martha Hall Kelly and receive an overview of the literary journey ahead.
After breakfast, depart Boston by private bus and travel south through coastal Massachusetts toward Cape Cod.
Upon arrival in Woods Hole, a charming seaside village known for its maritime history and oceanographic research institutions, we will enjoy lunch before boarding the ferry to Martha's Vineyard.
As we sail across Vineyard Sound, enjoy panoramic ocean views and your first glimpse of Martha's Vineyard—a charming island that has inspired generations of writers, artists, and storytellers.
Schedule is subject to change
Upon arrival in Vineyard Haven, take a short walk from the ferry terminal to our hotel and check in.
Relax and enjoy your stay at the Mansion House Hotel, a charming boutique-style hotel ideally located in the center of Vineyard Haven. Within walking distance of the ferry terminal, waterfront, shops, and restaurants, it provides the perfect base for experiencing island life while enjoying comfortable accommodations and modern amenities.
This evening, gather for a special literary event with Martha Hall Kelly. Depending on availability, this intimate conversation may take place in partnership with a local bookstore, radio station, or community venue, providing guests with a unique opportunity to hear Martha discuss her writing, research, and connection to Martha's Vineyard.
Following the event, enjoy dinner together at El Barco, a casual Mexican restaurant just a short walk away.
After breakfast, meet a local guide and depart the hotel on a private bus to begin exploring the western side of Martha's Vineyard. This area is renowned for its scenic landscapes, charming villages, and connections to Martha Hall Kelly's work.
Our first stop is West Tisbury, a peaceful rural community filled with farms, winding country roads, and classic New England charm. Here we will visit historic Alley's General Store, one of the oldest continuously operating general stores in the United States.
We then continue to Menemsha, a picturesque fishing village famous for its working harbor, lobster boats, and waterfront views. This beloved seaside community offers an authentic glimpse into Martha's Vineyard's maritime heritage and remains one of the island's most treasured destinations.
Enjoy your lunch at a local restaurant.
Next, travel to Aquinnah, located on the westernmost tip of Martha's Vineyard. Here we will admire the spectacular Aquinnah Cliffs, a National Natural Landmark renowned for its colorful clay formations overlooking the Atlantic Ocean. We will also visit the historic Gay Head Lighthouse, one of the island's most iconic landmarks.
Return back to the hotel and enjoy your free time.
Meet in the hotel lobby and depart for dinner. Tonight, enjoy dinner together at a local restaurant, The Black Dog Restaurant.
In the morning, meet your local guide in the hotel lobby and depart on a private bus. Today, we will explore two of Martha's Vineyard's most charming and distinctive communities.
Our morning begins in Oak Bluffs, a colorful seaside town best known for its whimsical Gingerbread Cottages. Originally established as a Methodist camp meeting community in the 19th century, the neighborhood remains one of the island's most recognizable landmarks. We will also visit the Flying Horses Carousel, the oldest continuously operating carousel in the United States.
Continue to Edgartown, a picturesque harbor town lined with elegant sea captain's homes and beautifully preserved historic architecture. Once the center of the island's whaling industry, Edgartown remains one of New England's most charming coastal communities.
Enjoy a guided walk through town followed by free time for shopping or exploring local galleries.
Enjoy a delightful lunch at the seafood restaurant, The Sea Shanty.
In the afternoon, return to the hotel for some relaxing free time.
This evening, we board the historic Tall Ship Alabama for a memorable sunset sail around Martha's Vineyard. As we cruise through Vineyard Sound, enjoy panoramic coastal views and the beauty of the island from the water.
Duration: 3 Hours
Following our voyage, gather for a special Farewell Dinner with Martha Hall Kelly as we celebrate our time together on Martha's Vineyard.
Meet in the lobby with your packed bags and check out of the hotel. We then make our way to the nearby ferry terminal for our return journey to the mainland.
After checking out of the hotel, take a short walk to the ferry terminal and board the ferry back to Woods Hole. Enjoy one final look at Martha's Vineyard as we cross Vineyard Sound and return to the mainland.
Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant in Woods Hole.
After lunch, head to Boston on a private bus.
We will return to the Godfrey Hotel for our last night in Boston. The hotel is just a 20-minute drive from the airport, making for a convenient departure the next day. Enjoy a free afternoon. If time permits, we guests may opt to do a walking tour of the nearby Freedom Trail.
Meet in the hotel lobby and depart for a farewell dinner at Magianno's restaurant.
Transportation is provided for all guests to Boston Logan International Airport.
(*This is an all-inclusive tour with the exception of alcoholic beverages and hotel incidentals such as laundry, room service, etc.)
Tour Price:
$4,995 USD per person, based on double occupancy
$6,495 USD per person, based on single occupancy
Price includes:
Hotel accommodations in Boston and Martha's Vineyard
All transportation
All meals and non-alcoholic drinks
Fees (tours, guides, etc.)
Excursions
All tips
A gift package containing a signed copy of Martha's new novel, The Martha's Vineyard Beach and Book Club, as well as a promotional tote bag
Price does not include:
Airfares
Alcoholic drinks
Activities during free times such as golf, spa, etc.
Hotel incidentals such as room service, mini bar, phone charges, laundry, etc.
Charges incurred if guests arrive a day early or decide to remain in Boston after the tour ends
Before booking your slot, please ensure that you are physically and mentally fit to travel fully unassisted. This includes being able to:
Walk two or more miles per day, including on uneven surfaces
Go up and down steps and inclines
Stand for periods of time
Carry personal bags and luggage independently
Have a look at our full “Traveler Expectations and Disclaimer” page here.
We strongly recommend purchasing travel insurance for your trip. For your convenience, you can explore options from our trusted travel insurance partner here.
