“One of the last 12
great places in the
Western Hemisphere.” 
The Nature Conservancy

Kathy and I spent the day of our 40th wedding anniversary on scenic Block Island. The island is located just one hour by ferry boat from Newport, Rhode Island. It seems to be one of the best-kept secrets in America.

I had never heard of Block Island until we signed up for the New England Islander cruise. Since that time, many people, upon hearing our plans to celebrate our anniversary on a cruise, have raved about the small island. After spending a day there yesterday, I understand why.

The original plan for our cruise ship, the American Star, was to make a stop yesterday at Block Island. Unfortunately, due to the high volume of boats of various sizes visiting Block Island for the week of the 4th of July, there was no place for our ship to dock, so we docked in Newport, Rhode Island instead. From there, we took a one-hour ferry ride to Block Island, which is located 12 miles south Newport.

We landed in the small town of New Shoreham on the east side of Block Island. We spent a few hours exploring the sites and shops in the area. Then we boarded a bus for a tour of the island. My favorite stop was at the Block Island Southeast Lighthouse, situated on Mohegan Bluffs in the southeast corner of the island. The 52’ granite tower was constructed in 1875. It was the first of several lighthouses I expect to see this week. There are 28 miles of walking trails on the island which offer views of open spaces, rolling hills, stunning lookout points, and an amazing assortment of wildlife. 

After enjoying a refreshing shave ice from one of the local shops, we boarded the ferry for the ride back to Newport. When we arrived in our stateroom on the ship, Kathy and I were pleasantly surprised to find a bottle of chilled champagne, along with four large chocolate-dipped strawberries — a gift from the crew of the American Star. On the plate with the strawberries was a message written in chocolate: Happy Anniversary! 

After a delicious lobster dinner in the American Star dining room, Kathy and I joined other passengers in the Chesapeake Lounge to listen to an excellent performer who entertained us with a variety of popular songs from the 1970’s and ’80’s. In all, we could not have asked for a better day.

We’ll head out this morning to explore the town of Newport, Rhode Island. From what I’ve heard, there’s plenty to see here.