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.

Spring Break on Cape Cod--Travel on the Hy-Line Cruises to the Kennedy Compound and Nantucket--40% Discount at the Whalewalk Inn & Spa

Hy-Line Cruises are gearing up for the season. So when planning your vacation at the Whalewalk Inn (Take advantage of our 40% discount from Sunday through Thursday), add the Cruise as one of your outings. See our Special's Page for details. During school vacation week, April 20th through 26th, climb aboard a Harbor Cruise for 1/2 PRICE! Book your Hy-Line Cruise now. Learn about the history of Hyannis and local area landmarks on your way to view the historic Kennedy Compound. Cruises leave at 10:00, 11:15, 12:30, 1:45, and 3:00. Call 508-790-0696 for reservations. Cost is $8.00 for adults.

If you are planning a day trip to Nantucket from the Inn, book out of Hyannis and you will be on Nantucket in no time flat. It is a 30 minute drive to Hyannis and 40 minutes by boat. The ferry drops you right in town and then let the fun begin as you stroll down the cobble stoned streets. Here are two events that are coming up on the Island.

DAFFODIL FESTIVAL WEEKEND
April 24 - 26, 2009

From early-April to mid-May, over three million daffodils of every color, shape and size will bloom on Nantucket Island. This blossoming, and the advent of spring itself, is the focal point of the Nantucket Island Chamber of Commerce’s Annual Daffodil Festival.Originated by the late Jean MacAusland, a summer resident of Nantucket and former publisher of Gourmet magazine, the weekend has grown into a full-scale celebration of winter’s thaw, joyous for both islanders and visitors alike. Daffodils adorn the island’s roadsides, gardens and shop windows with blossoms of yellow, orange, white and even pale pink. The Daffodil Festival’s grand event, held on Saturday (Rain or Shine) is the Annual Antique Car Parade, featuring over 100 daffodil-bedecked antique cars (pre-registration necessary for participation.) After winding through town and across the island to the charming village of Siasconset, participants join residents and visitors for the Annual Daffodil Tailgate Picnic. Held on the lush lawns leading into the village the picnic boasts fare ranging from elaborate gourmet cuisine served on fine china to box lunches and burgers. Other highlights include the Nantucket Garden Club’s Annual Daffodil Show, Daffy Dog Parade, Children’s Daffodil Parade and The Daffy Hat Pageant.

NANTUCKET WINE FESTIVAL
May 13 - 17, 2009

A multi-faceted exploration of food and wine emphasizing Nantucket's historic celebration of all things gastronomic. For over twelve years, Nantucket Island becomes host to over 100 wineries of international acclaim with special events including celebrity chef cooking demonstrations, seminars, auction and new Lunch Symposia. Come sip wine in grand homes and dine in Nantucket's world-class restaurants! For a wine festival program or reservations, call 508-228-1128 to see what is appealing and available.

Maritme Days on Cape Cod--More Events for a Fantastic Vacation

We have had so many wonderful guests who are helping us celebrate our 40th Anniversary. Also, have received many messages and cards via the mails and email. Thank you to all our friends!

Check our website for availability and specials, especially our 40th Anniversary special. Also, if you would like to send us your email address, we would be happy to put you on our Constant Contact list, and then you will see monthly events on the Cape and at the Inn.

Remember, Sunday of Memorial Day Weekend is our smokin' picnic.

SATURDAY, MAY 16

Boat Tour of the Historic Lower Cape
Time: 9-10 a.m. and 2-3 p.m.
Location: Wellfleet Harbor to Great Island
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

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: 11 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.
Location: Strong Island, Chatham
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.

Opening of the Dennis Lifesavers Exhibit
Time: Open Tuesdays 10 a.m. to noon and Thursdays 2 to 4 p.m.
Location: 1736 Josiah Dennis Manse, 77 Nobcusset Road, Dennis
Telling the story Dennis men who served at the Cape Cod stations of the US Life Saving Service saving survivors, and sometimes vessels, on the Outer Cape shores. This extremely hazardous duty is little known today.
Cost: Free
Information: 508-385-2232

Hyannis Waterfront History Walk
Time: 10 a.m.
Location: Meet at the flagpole at Aselton Park, Hyannis
Barnstable historian Professor James Gould will lead a historical walk along the Lewis Bay waterfront, featuring ships & shipwrecks, Native American leaders, Naval skirmish of the War of 1812, Figawi race and more.
Information: 508-428-8267

Maritime Matinee: “Around Cape Horn”
Time: 1 to 2:30 p.m.
Location: Province Lands Visitor Center, Race Point Road, Provincetown
Take an armchair journey to Cape Horn during the last great days of commercial sail. “Around Cape Horn” was photographed in 1929 and depicts Captain Irving Johnson sailing aboard the massive bark, Peking. Footage includes spectacular scenes filmed during a wild storm as the ship rounds the feared Cape Horn. The one-hour program includes the film and brief remarks by a park ranger.
Cost: Free
Information: 508-957-0738

Open house at Nobska Lighthouse
Time: 9:30 to 11:30 a.m.
Location: Nobska Light, Nobska and Church Road in Woods Hole
Tours of the lighthouse. Children must be 45” tall and over age 6. Only six people can go up at a time on tour.

Spring Tour of Bourne’s Historic Boatyards
Time: 9:45 a.m.
Location: Briggs-McDermott House, 22 Sandwich Road, Bourne
Visit Ballentine Boatshop and Parker’s Boatyard, and enjoy a viewing and commentary about some of the most handsome sailing yachts. Sponsored by Bourne Society for Historic Preservation.
Cost: $15 ($10 for BSHP members)
Information: 508-563-2503


Please check our past blogs for more information on Maritime Days and for April Events. So book today and for the perfectly relaxing getaway, book your massages also. Check our Spa Menu for what we have available for your best massage ever.

More Cape Cod Maritime Days Events -- May 15th-- Kayak, Lighthouse, and History Tours

The Whalewalk Inn & Spa is open for the season. We had a wonderful vacation and are all rested so now we can make sure that your trip to Cape Cod will give you a much needed rest. Thank you to everyone for the wonderful anniversary wishes. There is still time to take advantage of the 40% anniversary discount on any three weekday nights starting Sunday through Thursday. The Sunday of Memorial Day Weekend is not included in the discount. Also, the picnic is that Sunday, May 24th along with the weekend Scavenger Hunt--Grand Prize is a two-night stay at the Inn.

FRIDAY, MAY 15

Boat Tour of the Historic Lower Cape
Time: 1-2 p.m. and 3-4 p.m.
Location: Wellfleet Harbor to Great Island
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, www.blueclawboattours.com

Kayak the Waterways of the Lower Cape
Time: 5:30 to 7:30 p.m.
Location: Salt Pond, Cape Cod National Seashore
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.

Be sure to check other blogs for events for April and early May. April brings Playhouse openings and the Clay Potters exhibition. Don't forget Brewster in Bloom the first weekend in May. See you at the Inn!