Maritime Days are in Full Swing on Cape Cod -- Win Two-Night Stay Memorial Weekend -- Follow the Blog for More Details

Cape Cod Maritime Days are in full swing! Please see previous blogs for happenings across Cape Cod. Sunday May 24th , besides being chock full of activities, we will host our Memorial Day Picnic. Kevin and Brendan will be smokin' some great meats and the rest of the staff will be making salads for your dining pleasure. Also, this will be our first ever Scavenger Hunt -- first prize, a two-night stay at the Inn. Some restrictions will apply, but anytime at the Inn is a great time.

SUNDAY, MAY 24

Boat Tour of the Historic Lower Cape
Time: 11a.m.-12 p.m. and 2-3 p.m.
Location: The River, Orleans to Pleasant Bay
Join Blue Claw Boat Tours for a one-hour narrated boat tour through the Lower Cape’s most pristine rivers, bays and island passages to learn about their history. View working fishermen and bay men as they go through the centuries old traditon of harvesting the sea. Glimpse diverse wildlife, including seals, shorebirds and waterfowl. Dress warmly, non-slip footwear preferred.
Cost: $20 per passenger
Information: Reservations required. Call 508-240-5783

Eastern Mountain Sports Kayak Fishing Tour
Come fish on the kayak sponsored by Eastern Mountain Sports/Hyannis and Cape Cod Fly Fishing. $150 per person includes kayak rental and guide tour with professional Fly Fishing guide Michael Mullaney of www.capecodflyfishing.com Contact Michael at 508-208-2265. Anglers can spin fish or try their hand at fly fishing.
Cost: $150
Information: Contact Michael at 508-208-2265

Harbor Your Arts Artist Shanties
Location: Bismore Park, Ocean Street, Hyannis
Time: 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.
The Harbor Your Arts artist shanties are a unique harborfront location for artists to create and sell their work. All work is juried, and includes painting, photography, glass blowing, jewelry and more!
Cost: Free

Kayak the Waterways of the Lower Cape
Time: 10:30 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Location: Paddle to Nauset Beach
Investigate different coastal habitats during these exceptional kayak tours that include kayak instruction and environmental education. Certified kayak instructor and coastal educator, Dick Hilmer will lead you through sheltered creeks, into bays and marshes, and towards islands rich in cultural history. During the three-hour coastal exploration, the certified guides of Explore Cape Cod Tours will provide professional instruction in easy to paddle, comfortable and stable tandem kayaks. Perfect for novice or experienced paddlers. All equipment is provided including kayak, paddle, lifejacket and instruction – just bring a smile and a bottle of water, and $30 per person.
Information: Due to space limitations, reservations are required. Please call 508-240-1211. You will receive directions upon making your reservations.

Marine Rummage Sale
Location: Osterville Museum, 155 West Bay Road, Osterville
Held outside on museum grounds, this old-fashioned rummage sale will feature maritime items. Proceeds to benefit the Osterville Museums’ children’s programs.
Cost: Free to attend
Information: 508-428-5861

Tours at Nauset Lighthouse
Time: 1 to 4 p.m.
Location: Nauset Light, North Eastham
Guided tours of the lighthouse, open to the public. Please park in the Nauset Beach parking lot.
Cost: Donations are welcome
Information: 508-240-2612

Walking Tour of the Three Sisters Lighthouses
Time: 3 to 4 p.m.
Location: Meet at Nauset Light Beach parking lot in Eastham
These 19th century lighthouse once provided a beacon for sailors off the shore of nauset Light. Come and learn of their history and importance. Half-mile walk.
Cost: Free
Information: 508-255-3421

We look forward to hearing from you, and remember to book early for Memorial Day Weekend. It promises to be a great weekend.

Cape Cod Maritime Days--Enjoy Sea Tales, Sea Voyages, and Your Own Sea Escape

April showers are definitely out of the way, and Cape Cod is "busting out" with flowers and activities. May 21st is the last day for Cape Cod Maritime Days and it is chock full of activities. So make your reservations at The Whalewalk Inn & Spa for a Maritime Getaway.

Also, please read previous blogs for activities from May 13th on celebrating the Sea Heritage of Cape Cod.

SATURDAY, MAY 23

5th Annual Ocean to the Bay Road Race
Time: 9 a.m.
Location: Highland Light Road, North Truro
Five-mile run/walk from Highland Lighthouse to the bay and back, to benefit the lighthouse preservation. Awards, raffles and refreshments.
Cost: $15 registration fee
Information: 508-487-1121

Boat Tour of the Historic Lower Cape
Time: 10-11 a.m. and 1-2 p.m.
Location: The River, Orleans to Pleasant Bay
Join Blue Claw Boat Tours for a one-hour narrated boat tour through the Lower Cape’s most pristine rivers, bays and island passages to learn about their history. View working fishermen and bay men as they go through the centuries old traditon of harvesting the sea. Glimpse diverse wildlife, including seals, shorebirds and waterfowl. Dress warmly, non-slip footwear preferred.
Cost: $20 per passenger
Information: Reservations required. Call 508-240-5783

Boatbuilding Demonstration
Time: 9 a.m. to noon
Location: Boat shop behind Woods Hole Historical Museum, 579 Woods Hole Road, Woods Hole
Come visit the ongoing boatbuilding demonstration program, with participants on hand to answer questions.
Information: 508-548-7270


Eastern Mountain Sports Kayak Fishing Tour
Come fish on the kayak sponsored by Eastern Mountain Sports/Hyannis and Cape Cod Fly Fishing. $150 per person includes kayak rental and guide tour with professional Fly Fishing guide Michael Mullaney of www.capecodflyfishing.com Contact Michael at 508-208-2265. Anglers can spin fish or try their hand at fly fishing.
Cost: $150
Information: Contact Michael at 508-208-2265

Harbor Your Arts Artist Shanties
Location: Bismore Park, Ocean Street, Hyannis
Time: 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.
The Harbor Your Arts artist shanties are a unique harborfront location for artists to create and sell their work. All work is juried, and includes painting, photography, glass blowing, jewelry and more!
Cost: Free

Kayak the Waterways of the Lower Cape
Time: 6 to 8:30 a.m.
Location: Sampson’s Island, Pleasant Bay
Investigate different coastal habitats during these exceptional kayak tours that include kayak instruction and environmental education. Certified kayak instructor and coastal educator, Dick Hilmer will lead you through sheltered creeks, into bays and marshes, and towards islands rich in cultural history. During the three-hour coastal exploration, the certified guides of Explore Cape Cod Tours will provide professional instruction in easy to paddle, comfortable and stable tandem kayaks. Perfect for novice or experienced paddlers. All equipment is provided including kayak, paddle, lifejacket and instruction – just bring a smile and a bottle of water, and $30 per person.
Information: Due to space limitations, reservations are required. Please call 508-240-1211 or email dhilmer@explorecapecod.com. You will receive directions upon making your reservations.

Maritime Exhibit at Captain Bangs Hallet House
Time: 1 to 4 p.m.
Location: Captain Bangs Hallet House, 11 Strawberry Lane, Yarmouthport
The maritime collection of the Historical Society of Old Yarmouth will be open for display. Includes historical artifacts, paintings and ship models.
Cost: Free
Information: 508-362-3021

Maritime Matinee: “The City that Lit the World”
Time: 1 to 2:30 p.m.
Location: Province Lands Visitor Center, Race Point Road, Provincetown
Take an armchair journey to New Bedford during the height of the whaling industry. New Bedford was the mid 19th century’s preeminent whaling port and for a time “the richest city in the world.” This history is preserved today at New Bedford Whaling National Historical Park, where visitors can stroll its cobblestone streets, tour the world’s largest whaling museum, visit a whaling merchant’s home and whaleman's chapel, and walk a 19th century schooner’s decks. The 45-minute program includes the film and brief remarks by a park ranger.
Cost: Free
Information: 508-957-0738

A Whaling Family’s Story
Time: 11 a.m. to noon
Location: Meet at the Penniman House at Fort Hill in Eastham
Learn about the Penniman family through a tour of their home and stories of their travels. Examine some of the hardships, adventures and lifestyle of a whaling family.
Cost: Free
Information: Reservations required! Call 508-255-3421, ext. 0

Besides all the sea activities, take a leisurely drive around and enjoy the picturesque scenery bursting with wisteria, roses, cherry blossoms and roses. Make your reservations today to enjoy all the diverse activities that the Cape has to offer.

Brewster in Bloom Just Around the Corner Followed by Cape Cod Maritime Days

May is just around the corner, and the cherry blossoms are in bloom. To start May off take advantage of Brewster in Bloom Festival May 1st, 2nd, and 3rd. Click on the link below and it will take you to all the events for the weekend. If you are coming later in May all the Maritime Days' Events are here -- from tours, to museums, to artist receptions, boat exhibits and safety at sea talks. Remember those who book three nights mid-week (Sunday through Thursday, except the Sunday of Memorial Day Weekend) receive a 40% discount on the room rate. So plan your vacation and take part in all the great happenings on Cape Cod.

MONDAY, MAY 18

History and Restoration of the Hay Barge from Nauset Marsh
Time: 1 to 2 p.m.
Location: Salt Pond Visitor Center, Eastham
Perhaps the last barge of its kind, this vessel now sits on display at the Salt Pond Visitor Center. Learn about its history and restoration, and visit the vessel.
Cost: Free
Information: 508-255-3421

Lighthouse Inn Tours
Time: 11 a.m. and 1 p.m.
Location: The Lighthouse Inn, 1 Lighthouse Inn Road, West Dennis
Enjoy a tour of The Lighthouse Inn and West Dennis Light, built in 1855, the only privately owned and operated lighthouse in the US, sanctioned by the United States Coast Guard. Reservations required, space is limited.
Cost: Free
Information: 508-398-2244 for reservations

TUESDAY, MAY 19

Researching Cape Cod’s Civil War Years
Time: 3 to 4 p.m.
Location: Sturgis Library, Barnstable Village
Stauffer Miller, a long-time Cape Cod resident and avid historian, is author of the compelling new history of Cape Cod’s naval officers in the Civil War titled “Hoisting Their Colors: Cape Cod’s Civil War Navy Officers.” He utilized the collections of the Sturgis Library, as well as additional Cape Cod libraries, historical societies, and other resources. Mr. Miller will discuss his research strategies and answer questions from researchers and others on the rewards and challenges of documenting the Civil War era.
Cost: Free
Information: Space is limited. Call 508-362-6636 to register.

WEDNESDAY, MAY 20

Boat Tour of the Historic Lower Cape
Time: 10-11 a.m. and 1-2 p.m.
Location: Town Cove Orleans/Eastham
Join Blue Claw Boat Tours for a one-hour narrated boat tour through the Lower Cape’s most pristine rivers, bays and island passages to learn about their history. View working fishermen and bay men as they go through the centuries old traditon of harvesting the sea. Glimpse diverse wildlife, including seals, shorebirds and waterfowl. Dress warmly, non-slip footwear preferred.
Cost: $20 per passenger
Information: Reservations required. Call 508-240-5783

“Hoisting their Colors: Cape Cod’s Civil War Navy Officers”
Time: 2:30 p.m.
Location: South Yarmouth Library, Old Main Street, South Yarmouth
Author Stauffer Miller brings to light the story of 170 Cape Cod merchant captains and mates who served in the Civil War navy. Books available for purchase and signing.
Cost: Free
Information: 508-760-4820

Kayak the Upper Reaches of the Herring River
Time: 9:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Explore the narrow and sometimes winding reaches of the Upper Herring River on this 2-mile kayak trip. Bring your own kayak and gear.
Cost: Free
Information: By reservation only! Call 508-255-3421, ext. 0.

Songs of the Sea Concert
Time: 7 p.m.
Location: Falmouth Public Library, 300 Main Street, Falmouth
“Songs of the Sea” concert performed by folk singer and storyteller Mark Alan Lovewell of Martha’s Vineyard.
Cost: Free
Information: 508-457-2555, ext. 6

Truro's Naval Officers in the Civil War
Time: 7 p.m.
Location: Truro Public Library, 5 Library Lane, Truro
Talk by Stauffer Miller based on his recent book "Hoisting their Colors: Cape Cod 's Civil War Navy Officers." Sponsored by the Truro Public Library and the Truro Historical Society.
Cost: Free
Information: 508-487-1125

THURSDAY, MAY 21

Lighthouse Inn Tours
Time: 11 a.m. and 1 p.m.
Location: The Lighthouse Inn, 1 Lighthouse Inn Road, West Dennis
Enjoy a tour of The Lighthouse Inn and West Dennis Light, built in 1855, the only privately owned and operated lighthouse in the US, sanctioned by the United States Coast Guard. Reservations required, space is limited.
Cost: Free
Information: 508-398-2244 for reservations

“Thermometer-Mania Tour”
Time: 7 p.m.
Location: Porter Thermometer Museum, 49 Zarahemla Road, Onset
The curator will provide guided tours of the museum in Onset, the Thermometer Capital of the World. Emphasis will be placed on maritime thermometers. Tour includes the museum’s collection of over 1,000 devices, recognized by the Guinness Book of World Records and Ripley’s.
Cost: Free
Information: 508-295-5504

Talk and Book Signing – Stauffer Miller
Time: 11 a.m.
Location: Pilgrim Monument & Provincetown Museum, One High Pole Road, Provincetown
Stauffer Miller, a longtime Cape Cod resident and avid historian, will discuss his new book “Hoisting their Colors: Cape Cod’s Civil War Navy Officers.” He utilized the collections of the museum for part of his research. Discussion will include question and answer period and book signing.
Cost: Free with admission ($7 adults, $5 seniors, $3.50 students)
Information: 508-487-1310,

FRIDAY, MAY 22

“Hoisting their Colors: Cape Cod’s Civil War Navy Officers”
Time: 1:30 p.m.
Location: Falmouth Senior Center, Dillingham Avenue, Falmouth
Stauffer Miller will introduce his new book, “Hoisting their Colors,” and share stories about 10 officers from Falmouth, including a rare account by William Please of his service on the Tallahatchie from January-April 1865. Copies of his book will be available for purchase and signing.
Cost: Free
Information: 508-548-4857

Cape Cod Maritime Museum Lectures and Book signings
Time: 6 to 7 p.m.
Location: Cape Cod Maritime Museum, 135 South St., Hyannis
“Woodrow Wilson and the Sinking of the Lusitania”: Lecture by Historian and Curator Mark Wilkins.
Cost: Free
Information: 508-775-1723

See you soon! And, it is a proven fact, that people who take vacations live longer. So reduce the stress in your life and stay with us at the Whalewalk Inn & Spa.

Maritime Days on Cape Cod-- Kayak Trips, Museum, Boat Shop and Chatham Fish Pier Tours,

May is fast approaching and with May comes wisteria, cherry blossoms, daffodils and Maritime Days. Maritime Days begin May 14th through May 21st. Below is a list of Friday activities. To check other activities, read our other blogs below. You can print the whole schedule from the blog. Also, for your Sunday through Thursday stay of three nights or more you are eligible for the 40% discount. Weekends are our regular off-season rates. If you are planning an earlier May vacation, remember that May 1, 2, and 3 is the Brewster Daffodil Festival. The schedule of events can be found further down on the blog.

SUNDAY, MAY 17

Boat Tour of the Historic Lower Cape
Time: 10-11 a.m. and 3-4 p.m.
Location: The River, Orleans to Pleasant Bay
Join Blue Claw Boat Tours for a one-hour narrated boat tour through the Lower Cape’s most pristine rivers, bays and island passages to learn about their history. View working fishermen and bay men as they go through the centuries old traditon of harvesting the sea. Glimpse diverse wildlife, including seals, shorebirds and waterfowl. Dress warmly, non-slip footwear preferred.
Cost: $20 per passenger
Information: Reservations required. Call 508-240-5783om

Columbia: The 18th Century Maritime Adventures of Privateer and Explorer John Kendrick
Time: 4 p.m.
Location: Brooks Academy Museum, 80 Parallel Street, Harwich
Discover the maritime adventures of Harwich-born John Kendrick, whose circumnavigation of the globe helped establish the China trade.
Cost: $4
Information: 508-432-8089

Harbor Your Arts Artist Shanties
Location: Bismore Park, Ocean Street, Hyannis
Time: 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.
The Harbor Your Arts artist shanties are a unique harborfront location for artists to create and sell their work. All work is juried, and includes painting, photography, glass blowing, jewelry and more!
Cost: Free

Heritage Kayak Guided Fishing Tour
Come fish on the kayak sponored by Cape Cod Sea Sports/Hyannis and Cape Cod Fly Fishing. $150 per person includes kayak rental and guide tour with professional Fly Fishing guide Michael Mullaney of www.capecodflyfishing.com. Michael is the Loop Fly Rod Co. endorsed fly fishing guide for Cape Cod & Heritage Kayak Co. endorsed fishing guide. Anglers can spin fish or try their hand at fly fishing.
Cost: $150
Information: Contact Michael at 508-208-2265

Kayak the Waterways of the Lower Cape
Time: 1 to 4 p.m.
Location: Nauset Marsh, Eastham
Investigate different coastal habitats during these exceptional kayak tours that include kayak instruction and environmental education. Certified kayak instructor and coastal educator, Dick Hilmer will lead you through sheltered creeks, into bays and marshes, and towards islands rich in cultural history. During the three-hour coastal exploration, the certified guides of Explore Cape Cod Tours will provide professional instruction in easy to paddle, comfortable and stable tandem kayaks. Perfect for novice or experienced paddlers. All equipment is provided including kayak, paddle, lifejacket and instruction – just bring a smile and a bottle of water, and $30 per person.
Information: Due to space limitations, reservations are required. Please call 508-240-1211. You will receive directions upon making your reservations.

Memoirs of Old Truro
Time: 3 p.m.
Location: Truro Community Center, Truro
Kick-off event for Truro's 2009 "One Book, One Town" program. Richard Whalen will provide an overview of Truro's history to introduce a series of programs based on Anthony Marshall's book "Truro, Cape Cod, As I Knew It." Sponsored by the Truro Public Library and the Truro Historical Society.
Cost: Free
Information: 508-487-1125

Open House at Three Sisters Lighthouses
Time: 1 to 4 p.m.
Location: Park at Nauset Light Beach in Eastham, follow signs to the lighthouses
These 19th century lighthouses once provided a beacon for sailors off the shore of Nauset Light Beach. Come and learn their history and importance.
Cost: Free
Information: 508-255-3421

Tours of Race Point Lighthouse
Time: 10 a.m to 3 p.m.
Location: Race Point Lighthouse, Provincetown
Tour the historic structure at Race Point. The Keeper’s House has been meticulously restored to its 1950’s-era beauty. Climb the stairs to the top of the lighthouse for a breathtaking view. Free transportation from the Race Point Beach parking lot (lower level). Light refreshments will be served.
Cost: Free
Information: 508-487-9930

Tours at Nauset Lighthouse
Time: 1 to 4 p.m.
Location: Nauset Light, North Eastham
Guided tours of the lighthouse, open to the public. Please park in the Nauset Beach parking lot.
Cost: Donations are welcome
Information: 508-240-2612

Besides all these extra activities, take advantage of whale watching with the Dolphin Fleet, Lighthouse tours, fabulous restaurants and the beautiful Cape Cod National Seashore.

Book your reservation today -- and remember to book your massages at the same time.

Father's Day Fast Approaching

June 15th -- a day to celebrate all the wonderful things that our father's have done for us. Send your father to the Whalewalk Inn & Spa. We have two rooms with whirlpool tubs so Dad can really relax and tune out those everyday worries. Our Pent House is available for the ultimate in luxury.

Cape Cod is helping Dads have a great weekend. The 14th Annual Father's Day Car Show on Main Street, Hyannis on June 15th. There will be over 350 classic, antique and special interest cars on display. What fun! Maybe even dad's dream car will be there.

Also Cape Cod Life Boat and Recreation Expo on the Water Show will be held on June 14th and 15th in Hyannis Harbor. This expo will showcase vessels ranging from wooden skiffs to luxury cabin cruisers. Boating and water recreation vendors will be on hand featuring the latest in water toys, equipment and outdoor living accessories. Land and water demonstrations will be held along with workshops with the pros. There will be activities for all.

For any reservation made especially for dad, we will give you a $25 off coupon at Winslow's Tavern for your Saturday night dinner. Please ask for this coupon when booking the reservation. (Cannot be combined with any other offer. Cannot be used for existing reservations.)