Now before I get comments, this isn’t Rhode Island’s answer to the Boston Tea Party. As far as I know no tea is thrown overboard in the making of this unique trip.

But there is something very British about this event. Read on to discover what it is…

The Blackstone River runs the 46 miles from Worcester, Massachusetts, to Providence, Rhode Island. For a short time in the 19th century the canal boats that navigated the stretch carried commerce and passengers between the two cities. But the railroad soon overtook the canal traffic as the preferred transportation mechanism, and for many years the river and canal was neglected.

Today the Blackstone River Valley National Corridor is a thriving playground for those wishing to walk and bike, or just enjoy the wildlife and scenery. Some of the walks and bike paths take you along stretches of the old canal.

Canals in England with their unique boats have long been popular as vacation holidays. But now you don’t have to travel thousands of miles to experience an authentic British canal boat. The Samuel Slater 40’ canal boat built in Cambridge, England, cruises 2 ½ miles along the Blackstone River during its British Tea Tour on Sunday afternoons. The tour lasts for about 1 and ½ hours, and costs $19.95 per person.

The Samuel Slater can accommodate 12 people for its tour, so it’s a good idea to reserve.

If you’re looking for something more substantial than tea then the canal boat offers bed and breakfast overnight accommodation. The boat can also be chartered for parties and small groups.

The Samuel Slater is located in Central Falls, Rhode Island. From 295 N/S, take Exit 11 to 114S. Go right onto Dexter St., (Rt. 123), left on Broad St., right onto Madeira Ave.
For more information call (401) 724-2200 or visit their web site at http://www.bedandbreakfastblackstone.com/

The Blackstone River Valley is just one destination in Rhode Island and southern Massachusetts. For more ideas on Rhode Island vacation attractions click here.

I’ll have an idea for a summer mountain destination in a few days time, so make a point to check back soon.

Have a great week.

Cliff Calderwood
Executive Director
Destinations of New England