Nantucket Island Resorts has launched a brand new weddings website (www.nantucketislandresortsweddings.com)!

Featuring The Wauwinet and the White Elephant, the new site includes tips from on-property and local area wedding planners, a list of preferred vendors, suggested activities for weddings guests, catering options, bridal package details, and more. The fully updated site is the perfect resource for any bride planning a wedding on Nantucket.

It’s true. Most people think of Nantucket as a summer destination, but the spring and fall seasons – or “secret seasons” as we like to say – are an amazing time of year to visit, and ideal for weddings. The weather is fine, the stores and restaurants are all open, and there is nary a crowd in sight. Not to mention, prices are low and the hotels aren’t completely sold out!

Here are just a couple of island-chic wedding ideas to whet your appetite:

For windswept romance…
With the magnificent view of the bay and Nantucket’s coastline as a backdrop, a Wauwinet wedding is an intimate and elegant affair. Say ‘I do’ on the private beach or on the raised Zen deck and enjoy Butter Poached Lobster and Parmesan Crusted Atlantic Halibut from TOPPER’S post-ceremony.

For preppy elegance…
The White Elephant offers equally stunning views of Nantucket Harbor. Opt for a ceremony on the lawn or get married downtown in one of the island’s quaint historic churches. Stroll along the cobblestone streets back to the hotel for a reception catered by Brant Point Grill and dance into the night with the glimmering lights of the harbor in the background.

Nantucket Town is about as traditional New England as it gets – grey shingled buildings line the cobblestone streets, ice cream parlors and general stores flourish and there is not a traffic light in sight.  Add Victorian-appareled carolers, hot cider and cornbread, and Santa Claus parading down Main Street and it reads just like the pages out of a storybook.

Nantucket Island fetes the entire holiday season with Nantucket Noel, a month-long celebration organized by the Nantucket Island Chamber of Commerce. The highlight event is the Annual Christmas Stroll Weekend that takes place December 2-4, 2011.  Stores, shops, and restaurants open their doors for holidays shoppers, carolers sing favorite holiday tunes, and Santa Claus arrives via a Coast Guard Vessel.  This is an authentic experience not to be missed! (Especially for shoppers looking for the perfect present – almost everything on the island is on sale at this time to make way for new merchandise coming in for the following season.)

Several Nantucket Island Resorts properties are open for the Stroll Weekend, including the historic and centrally located Jared Coffin House, the iconic White Elephant, The Cottages and Lofts at the Boat Basin, and the luxurious White Elephant Hotel Residences.   These properties offer a variety of cozy accommodations for visitors to the island.

Enjoy the holidays stateside…

Nantucket, Massachusetts

Where: White Elephant and Jared Coffin House

What: A New England holiday

Why: Nantucket Island celebrates the season with Nantucket Noël, a month-long celebration that runs November 25–December 31. The highlight event is the Annual Christmas Stroll Weekend, December 2–4.  Stores, shops, and restaurants open their doors for shoppers (almost everything on the island is on sale!), carolers sing favorite holiday tunes, and Santa Claus arrives aboard a Coast Guard vessel. Steps from historic downtown, White Elephant is the perfect place to spend the weekend. For a longer stay, the Jared Coffin House is ideal. Open all season long and built in 1845, this historic hotel will have you feeling the spirit of the holidays.

When: White Elephant rates start at $195 per night from December 1–5. Jared Coffin House rates start at $155 per night during this special season.

Jump the pond…

Provence, France

Where: Hotel Crillon le Brave

What: A traditional French holiday experience

Why: Hidden in a tranquil town in France, Hotel Crillon le Brave is the perfect place to go for a peaceful escape. Festivities start on December 23 with a classical music concert in the local village church. On Christmas Eve, the hotel hosts an elaborate dinner that is sure to get guests into the Christmas spirit, who are also invited to celebrate the New Year with champagne in La Grange, the cozy bar, followed by a decadent dinner in the restaurant by a roaring log fire.

When: Holiday rates start at $329 dollars per night from December 23–January 2.

Salisbury and Canterbury, U.K.

Where: Onboard Orient-Express British Pullman

What: Festive seasonal journeys that rival the magical Polar Express (and you don’t have to go as far as the North Pole!)

Why: Hop on the British Pullman and enjoy the caroling in Canterbury or Salisbury’s world famous cathedrals. Following the concerts, guests are welcome to roam freely through the festive cities. With each excursion, they can look forward to a delectable brunch served with a Bellini on the outward journey and a four-course meal with wine and champagne on the way home. To make the trip even more unforgettable, upon return to London, guests visiting Salisbury may choose to stay overnight at The Goring, a luxurious hotel adjacent to Buckingham Palace, where Kate Middleton spent her last night as a commoner.

When: Rates begin at £350 ($550) per person and include brunch and a four-course dinner with champagne and wine. Dates for the Canterbury journey are December 6 and 13, 2011, and for the Salisbury journey, on December 15, 2011.

Paris, France

Where: Le Pavillon des Lettres

What: A cozy Parisian getaway

Why: The new Le Pavillon des Lettres is housed in a classic Haussman townhouse in the 8^th arrondissement. The hotel features 26 rooms – each devoted to a letter of the alphabet and an international writer corresponding to that letter. Shakespeare, Baudelaire and Rousseau are among the authors whose quotes are elegantly scrawled on the walls en Français. Settle down in the hotel’s library, next to the fireplace, and spend the holidays relaxing and reading while sipping a sumptuous cocktail from the honesty bar.

When: Rates start at £250 ($345) per night.

Farther still…

Marrakech, Morocco

Where: Royal Mansour Marrakech

What: A Rockin’ Moroccan New Years

Why: Spend the advent of a new year in utmost relaxation unwinding in a private riad, a Moroccan style house decorated with luxurious hand-done tile work and mosaic-covered courtyard floors. Visit Royal Mansour’s own traditional-style hammam, while the children are entertained at the exciting Kids Club, before a luxurious meal with menus created by three Michelin-starred chef Yannick Alléno, or escape into the city of Marrakech for a bite while soaking in the unique rhythms of the centuries-old city.

When: Holiday rates start at $2,228 for a one-bedroom riad from December 15 to January 7.

As far as you can get…

Paro Valley, Bhutan

Where: Uma Paro

What: Ten days of exploration in this culture-rich Himalayan Kingdom

Why: With sweeping mountain views, there is no shortage of adventure at Uma Paro. Bring the whole family during Uma Paro’s 10-day holiday program and attend lectures on Buddhism, go for hikes in the Himalayas, watch an archery contest, or participate in candlelit yoga sessions. There will also be a special mask performance, a Bhutanese film night, and an evening of traditional music and dance. Children 12 and under who are sharing a villa with their parents stay free.

When: rates start at $330 until December 31, 2011.

Koh Samui and Koh Phangan, Thailand

Where: Anantara Lawana Resort & Spa and Rasananda Phangan Island Resort & Spa

What: Two island experiences for the price of one

Why: For anyone wanting to get away for a week of relaxation and exploration before the holiday season kicks into high gear, the “Two Island Experience” package from Anantara is a perfect fit. The six-night island hopping adventure begins with a three-night stay at Anantara Lawana Resort & Spa on beautiful Koh Samui in the Gulf of Thailand, to be whisked away by speedboat to the more remote yet infamous island of the full moon parties, Koh Phangan, for an additional three-night stay at Rasananda Phangan Island Resort & Spa.

When: rates start at $578 through December 20 and include accommodations, daily breakfast, speedboat transfer, and roundtrip airport transfers.

Bali, Indonesia

Where: Uma Ubud and COMO Shambhala Estate

What: A Balinese escape for the mind, body, and soul

Why: The holidays can be exhausting, so treat the family to a well deserved break at Uma Ubud. This exotic retreat overlooking a valley is the perfect place to unwind and explore with its lush forests, sweeping rice paddies, and COMO Shambhala Retreat spa. Nearby in the town of Ubud is COMO Shambhala Estate, a secluded, residential health retreat with a focus on wellness and relaxation. The Discover COMO Shambhala program allows guests to design their own wellness experiences at the retreat and is the perfect way to decompress during this stressful season.

When: Holiday season rates start at $290 per night from December 20–January 6 at Uma Ubud, and the Discover COMO Shambhala program at COMO Shambhala Estate starts at $1,400 for three nights.

Uttarakhand, India

Where: Shakti Kumaon Village Experience and Shakti 360° Leti

What: A unique getaway that’s far off the beaten path

Why: Experience the culture and beauty of India this fall with Shakti’s Kumaon village walking experience followed by a stay at 360° Leti, the boutique hotel set at 8,000 feet elevation.

When: Season is from October 1 until April 30, 2012.

A four-day, three-night Shakti Kumaon village experience is $1,307 per person, based on two or three adults, and includes accommodations, food and beverage, activities, English-speaking guide and porters, car at disposal, and roundtrip transfer between Kathgodam train station or Pantnagar airport and village houses, and taxes. Rates for a three-night, four-day package at 360˚ Leti start at $1,916 per adult, based on two traveling on a twin/double share basis. Rates include accommodation in a private cottage, all food and beverage, activities, English-speaking guide and porters, car at disposal, roundtrip transfer between Shakti Kumaon village experience and Shakti 360˚ Leti, and all taxes.

Chiang Rai, Thailand

Where: Anantara Golden Triangle Resort & Spa

What: An elephant adventure in Northern Thailand

Why: For anyone seeking an unforgettable holiday adventure with the whole family, Anantara Golden Triangle Resort & Spa’s Mahout Discovery package is just the ticket! Learn how to feed, bathe, and ride these gentle giants through the forest during a 3-day mahout training course. Perched on a lush hillside near the borders of Burma and Laos, the resort, so rich in culture, is a blissful escape for adults and children alike.

When: rates start at $342 per night based on double occupancy through December 31.

United Kingdom
Where: Orient-Express’s British Pullman
What: A murder mystery filled with tricks and treats at every turn!
Why: Halloween can be awfully spooky with ghosts out to play and witchcraft in the air. But when you add murder to the mix, all bets are off! Leave the trick-or-treaters at home for this thrilling and chilling journey aboard the Orient-Express’s day train, the British Pullman. Inspired by Agatha Christie’s famous novel Murder on the Orient Express, the Murder Mystery Lunch will keep you on the edge of your seat. Hop aboard and travel back to 1933 where love and intrigue set the mood. Piece together the clues during an exquisite five-course lunch, accompanied by a glass of champagne and a half-bottle of wine, as you watch the mystery unfold.
(This journey departs November 11, 2011, rates start at $460 per person)

Nantucket
Where: Jared Coffin House and the White Elephant
What: A supernatural encounter
Why: Nantucket is the perfect place to take the family for a Halloween escape! Every year kids can dress up and go trick-or-treating at the shops and stores lining Main Street. Stay at the White Elephant, a family-friendly hotel located just a few blocks from the action. For a super spooky stay on Nantucket, the Jared Coffin House, built in 1845, is said to be haunted by the ghost of the whaling captain after whom the house is named. The ghost of Jared Coffin is rumored to appear in room 223, and guests of room 609 have claimed to see an apparition of a little girl. Other ghosts are also believed to roam the halls and rooms of this historic property, including the ghost of an old man who sometimes sits near fireplaces when a fire is roaring. Come see for yourself if the stories are true!

Paris
Where: La Reserve, Le Pavillon des Lettres, Pavillon de la Reine and Park Hyatt Paris Vendôme
What: A haunting visit to the Catacombs of Paris
Why: For a chilling and historical Halloween experience, work up your courage and climb down into the Catacombs of Paris, where the bones of millions of people rest. Transferred from Parisian cemeteries in the late 18^th century, the remains line the walls of the underground labyrinth. Wander through at your own pace for an eerie peek into the past. After your tour, unwind at La Réserve, located in the ultra-chic 16^th arrondissment. If you love literature, stay at Le Pavillon des Lettres, the Didier Benderli-designed hotel located just steps from the Champs-Élysées. Its sister hotel, Pavillon de la Reine, is located on the beautiful Places des Vosges in the Marais, Paris’s Jewish quarter. Head over to the quintessential Park Hyatt Paris Vendôme and sip mulled wine at Le Bar. No matter which hotel you choose, this is sure to be a Halloween you’ll never forget!

Guinot and ESPA
Where: at home!
What: A special Halloween face mask
Why: Even if you’re not planning on dressing up for Halloween and knocking on neighbors’ doors, you can still wear a mask! Try Guinot’s NEW Hydra Sensitive Face Mask to soothe and strengthen the skin after a week of munching on candy at every meal! Or, try ESPA’s NEW Skin Radiance Mask, made with pumpkin to enliven dull and tired skin. So, carve a pumpkin to make a spooky jack-o’-lantern for your front door and continue the pumpkin party with this radiant mask!

Santa Fe, New Mexico
Where: Inn on the Alameda
What: Diá de los Muertos and a few ghost sightings
Why: There’s nothing like a dark autumn night, a huge harvest moon, and a few ghouls to get your heart pounding. In Santa Fe, All Hallow’s Eve coincides with a Mexican celebration, Diá de los Muertos, or the Day of the Dead, when souls return to Earth and are greeted with feasts, music, and dancing. The spirits here are in full gear when Halloween comes around. Take advantage of the Inn on the Alameda’s 26^th Birthday rate that begins on October 30 and be on watch for La Llorona, the weeping woman who appears mysteriously, crying for her lost children, according to an old New Mexico legend. Perhaps you’ll bump into Julie Shuster Staab, the former lady of the manor who haunts La Posada, or Geronimo Lopez, who’s still hanging around his 18^th century home.

Is your dream wedding set with the beautiful Nantucket Bay or Harbor as a backdrop, surrounded by fluffy hydrangeas and followed by a local seafood feast? It is entirely possible – and friends and family can now easily make the trip without breaking the bank. The Wauwinet and White Elephant have put together two seasonal wedding packages that provide major savings for those hosting a wedding on the island. These spring and fall wedding packages will make preppy wedding dreams come true without bankrupting the father of the bride.

The Wauwinet
Imagine having The Wauwinet Inn in its entirety as your private wedding venue, with welcome cocktails and rehearsal dinner, ceremony and reception, and a farewell brunch. All 32 beautifully appointed rooms are reserved for your family and friends for the entire weekend. Meet for a casual clambake with a bonfire to welcome your guests on island and set the tone for this classic New England destination wedding. The following morning, after a leisurely breakfast, your friends can enjoy everything the island has to offer while you prepare for your special day. Ceremony and wedding reception will take place on the lawn with the bay view as your stunning surrounding. The package includes 32 round trip Hy-Line Ferry tickets provided to the couple upon booking and booking of the entire inn for a minimum or 2 nights at a special discounted group rate.

Dates available in 2012: May 5, May 12, June 2, October 13, October 20, October 27
Facilities and ceremony fees: $7,500 facility fee (discounted from $10,000) for exclusive use of TOPPER’S restaurant, harborside terrace, and lawn. Food and beverage minimum will apply.
Guests: Minimum of 70 guests, maximum of 150

White Elephant
Ceremonies at this harborside hotel can take place on the beautiful lawn with the expanse of the harbor and its bobbing boats as background. Couples can also opt to get married downtown in one of the island’s quaint and historic churches and guests can stroll along the cobblestones back to the White Elephant. Cocktails including a signature White Elephant cranberry cocktail can be served on the lawn accompanied by a sampling of hors d’oeuvres and a local seafood raw bar. Guests will then adjourn to dine al fresco under the awning-covered Terrace with its magnificent views of the harbor.  The wedding menus reflect the style and quality of the cuisine of Brant Point Grill – the freshest of local ingredients and seafood and quality steaks.  The wedding party might then dance into the night with the lights of the harbor as the ambient lighting. The package includes 25 round trip Hy-Line Ferry tickets provided to the couple upon booking and discounted rates for weddings guests throughout Nantucket Island Resorts properties.

Dates available in 2012: April 21, April 28, May 5, June 2, October 13, October 20, October 27, all of November
Facility and ceremony fees: $6,500 facility fee, $1,500 ceremony fee (discounted from $9,000 and $2,000 respectively), $15,000 food and beverage minimum will apply
Guests: Minimum of 70 guests, maximum of 150 guests

ESPA
Where: The Peninsula Spa by ESPA, New York, NY
What: During the month of October, The Peninsula Spa by ESPA is offering pink-themed treatments to raise funds for the American Cancer Society as part of Breast Cancer Awareness Month. The Pink Power Package combines a soothing massage with an optional personal training session for a day of pampering and fitness. For the ultimate indulgence, the spa is offering the Peninsula Pink Ceremony, a two-hour treatment that includes a rejuvenating body scrub, cleansing facial, and full-body massage. Support a great cause while indulging in a mini spa-cation!

Guinot
Where: Advanced Beauty Care, Burlingame, California 
What: Every October, Advanced Beauty Care hosts a fundraiser featuring Guinot products to benefit Mills Peninsula Hospital Foundation – Women’s Center Breast Health Services, a local organization focused on breast health. At the fundraiser, guests discover two essential Guinot skin care products: Guinot Longue Vie Cellulaire and the NEW Guinot Red Logic, both of which have helped clients preserve their skin while undergoing radiation therapy for breast cancer.

Nantucket Island Resorts
Where: Nantucket Island Resorts, Nantucket
What: For the month of October, all Nantucket Island Resorts properties are donating $1 from every room night bought to the Marla Ceely Lamb Fund, a local charity that helps Nantucket residents suffering from cancer defray the costs of transportation and lodging for patients who must travel off-island for cancer treatment.  In addition, guests booking a stay during the weekend of October 14-16 will have the opportunity to participate on the Nantucket Island Resorts-sponsored team during Nantucket’s Making Strides against Breast Cancer Walk on Sunday, October 16, 2011. Nantucket Island Resorts has committed to a $1,000 donation for the Breast Cancer Walk. Those who join the team will receive a complimentary team tee-shirt. The White Elephant is also participating by offering a special pink White Elephant tee-shirt in their gift shop and a Think Pink cocktail at Brant Point Grill.  At The Wauwinet, TOPPER’S restaurant is offering pink cocktails and cupcakes.

Park Hyatt
Where: Park Hyatt Toronto
What: During the month of October, spend the night in Park Hyatt Toronto’s Pink Room – a perfectly pink suite designed by Sarah Richardson – and the hotel will donate ten percent of the room rate to the Canadian Breast Cancer Foundation. Toronto natives and other guests can also participate by giving their nails a pink treat at the Stillwater Spa. The spa will also donate ten percent of all pink-hued manicures and pedicures to the Canadian Breast Cancer Foundation.

JetBlue is offering roundtrip flights New York (JFK)/Nantucket (ACK) for just $98 from now until October 10. Take advantage of this great deal and enjoy everything Nantucket has to offer in the fall – beautiful autumn weather, dwindling crowds, and amazingly low hotel rates at Nantucket Island Resorts! Schedule your trip around the Nantucket’s Cranberry Festival, October 7-9, for a chance to see the island’s famous Windswept Cranberry Bog, one of the few certified organic bogs in the county and open for just a short time in October when berries are harvested.  Indulge in delicious cranberry creations and enjoy the seasonal bog tours, hay rides, and sheep-shearing. Burn off those extra calories with a bike ride down the recently resurfaced 6.4 miles of bike paths, tee off on Nantucket’s top-notch Sankaty Head golf course, or simply wander the cobblestone streets lined with pre-Civil War architecture.  Not only is the airfare low, the rates at some of Nantucket’s most popular hotels are also reduced throughout the fall, making a Nantucket trip a no-brainer.

• The Cottages & Lofts at the Boat Basin from $175 | Enjoy the views of the harbor from the docks, where The Cottages are located on three wharves jutting out into Nantucket Harbor.
• White Elephant from $195 | Sip on delicious cocktails on the lawn overlooking the harbor (Lobster Bloody Mary, anyone?)
• The Wauwinet from $225 | Play a game of tennis, or engage in a cooking class with Chef Kyle Zachary in the kitchen of TOPPER’S restaurant.
• White Elephant Hotel Residences from $350 | Enjoy all of the complimentary extras that the Residences offers, including access to the hotel’s private swimming pool (in season) with daily fruit and ice cream service.
• Jared Coffin House from  $125 | Relax just steps away from Nantucket’s Main Street in this historic inn’s newly decorated guest rooms.  Additionally, guests of the Jared Coffin House receive 10 percent discount on brunch at the Brick Bistro, part of the Jared Coffin House.

The Nantucket Project is a new ‘ideas conference’ that has a refreshing take on the inspirational concept. The inaugural Nantucket Project conference will take place at the White Elephant hotel on Nantucket Island Friday, September 30 through Sunday, October 2^nd, and will feature a unique format designed to promote heightened engagement.

The Nantucket Project’s inaugural theme is Re-Think. Over the course of the weekend 350 participants will be encouraged to re-think the status quo and explore change through talks led by eminent and accomplished visionaries, thinkers, business leaders and innovators. Topics will span from economics and medical science to sustainability and globalism.

A distinguishing hallmark of the Nantucket Project is the program’s dedication to creating an intimate participant experience. All participants will experience the exact same program, with scheduling designed to eliminate competing presentations in favor of fostering a cohesive collective conversation. Innovative hospitality, entertainment and creative performances will keep participants engaged and leave them inspired. Weekend passes start at $3200 per person, and include access to all Nantucket Project sessions and event meals. Special nightly rates at the White Elephant start at $365 per night for Nantucket Project ticket holders.

Created in partnership with Big Think, a global knowledge forum that creates significant, relevant and actionable content from its over 3000 leading experts, the Nantucket Project intends to become an annual event on Nantucket with the goal of expanding into a permanent Institute based on Nantucket.

Presenters

Over 20 presenters will explore and expand on a range of topics during the first Nantucket Project program weekend. Presenters speaking include:

Rebecca Costa           Socio-biologist

Ed Crane                       Founder & President, Cato Institute

Stephen DeBerry      Founder Bronze Investments, Partner at Kapor Capital

Thomas DeLong        Professor, Harvard University Business School

Peter Diamandis        Chairman & CEO, X Prize

Rahm Emanuel          Mayor, Chicago, Illinois

Deborah Fallows       Author

James Fallows            Journalist

Henry Louis Gates    Professor, Harvard University

Mellody Hobson        President, Ariel Investments

Dean Kamen                Inventor

Sarah Kay                     Performance Poet

Eddie Lampert           Founder, ESL Investments

Jim Lasko                   Artistic Director, Redmoon

Richard Marcinko     Former Navy SEAL, Author

William McDonough           Architect, Author

Casey Neistat                         Filmmaker

Jay Parkinson MD     Founder, Hello Health & The Future Well

Kenneth Roman        Former Chairman & CEO of Ogilvy & Mather

Deb Roy                     Co-Founder, Bluefin Labs

Eric Schmidt               Executive Chairman, Google

Larry Summers         Professor, Harvard University

Julie Taymor              Director

Krista Tippett            Author, Broadcaster & Journalist

Craig Venter              Founder, Celera Genomics & the Institute for Genomic Research and the J. Craig Venter Institute

Bob Wright                Former Chairman & CEO NBC Universal, Founder, Autism Speaks

Location

Nantucket Island, one of the most storied destinations in the United States, is the home of the Nantucket Project.  The White Elephant hotel, set on Nantucket’s Brant Point and steps from historic downtown, will serve as the epicenter of programming and hospitality for the Nantucket Project during the event weekend.  Special nightly rates at the White Elephant Hotel range from $365 per night for a guestroom to $990 per night for a three-bedroom cottage. The rate is valid for stays from September 30 – October 2 and a two-night minimum stay is required.

Founders & Founding Circle

Several individuals concerned about diversifying and sustaining Nantucket’s economy and offerings year-round came together to create the Nantucket Project. The project is co-founded by Tom Scott, founder of Nantucket Nectars, Plum Television, and Kate Brosnan, General Manager & Host of Plum Television, Nantucket. Prominent business and civic leaders on local, national and international levels have joined the Nantucket Project’s Founding Circle including: Bob Diamond (Chief Executive, Barclays), Jennifer Diamond, Steve Karp (Chief Executive Officer, New England Development), Jill Karp, Tim Mullen, Alicia Cannon Mullen, Wendy Schmidt, Emily Scott and Tom Bresette. These founding circle members have provided seed capital, direction and/or advisory guidance. Bob Wright, Suzanne Wright, Judy Seinfeld, Jim Broder, Maureen Hackett, Bob Nolan, Getty Rothenberg, Sean Moran, Gregg Renfrew, Tyler Wolfram, Brian O’Callahan, Bob Lord, Jim Lasko, Iain Shovlin are members of the advisory board to the Nantucket Project.

Participants

Limited to just 350 participants, individuals attending the Nantucket Project will bring a variety of perspectives to bear on the issues raised as the group’s make up ranges from entrepreneurs to corporate executives to educators to leaders of companies and of non-profit organizations. Individuals who have registered during the Project’s advance registration period are designated Founding Participants, which affords them priority participation status for future Nantucket Project events. The Nantucket Project Fellows program has been created to help subsidize attendance and participation in the event for individuals who could not otherwise financially afford to participate.  Several organizations and individuals have endowed fellowship positions including the Inquirer & Mirror, Judy Seinfeld, Bob & Jennifer Diamond, Tim & Alicia Cannon Mullen and Tom & Emily Scott.

Partners

Event partners and sponsors for the inaugural year include Bing, Bloomberg media, Inquirer & Mirror, Nantucket Today, Plum media and the White Elephant Hotel/Nantucket Island Resorts.

Detailed information on the event, including registration and program schedules is available at www.nantucketproject.com.

About the Nantucket Project

Based on Nantucket, Massachusetts, the Nantucket Project is the Island’s first ideas conference. Several years in the making, the event is co-founded by Tom Scott & Kate Brosnan. Launching in September is the Nantucket Project’s first program weekend at the White Elephant Hotel from Friday September 30 to Sunday October 2^nd.  For more information about the Nantucket Project, visit www.nantucketproject.com.

In the summer heat, what’s better than hitting the open waters for a high-speed adventure or a relaxing day cruise accompanied by a cool cocktail? Don’t be left high and dry. Instead, take part in a few fabulous boating adventures from some of our favorite getaways!

Wauwinet Lady at The Wauwinet, Nantucket
Ahoy, matey: For an unexpected and stylish ride to and from Nantucket Town, guests can board this launch from The Wauwinet’s 254-foot dock. Twice a day during lunch and dinner hours, the 26-passenger water taxi crosses Nantucket Bay and docks at the White Elephant in town, allowing guests staying at either hotels the opportunity to taste the other’s restaurant (award-winning TOPPER’S at The Wauwinet and Brant Point Grill at White Elephant).   Board right around sunset for a particularly memorable ride and receive a cocktail en route!

Venetian taxi at La Réserve Genève, Geneva
Ahoy, matey: This chic Venetian motoscafo offers complimentary transfers to and from Geneva’s City Center during the summer months. Businessmen crossing the lake get a taste of vacation, while those on vacation can get a bit of sun and take in the scenery while cruising across the water.

Catcher, Ocean Whisperer and Freebird at Anantara Kihavah Villas, Maldives
Ahoy, matey: Guests can rent Whisperer, the 82-foot yacht, for a private journey to explore deserted islands, hidden reefs and secret lagoons, soar behind the full-rigged parasail boat, Freebird, or snag some dinner on Catcher, the resort’s big game fishing boat. Let the experienced instructors take you out on traditional Maldivian dhonis to scuba dive or snorkel and hang with the crustaceans and sponges that call the coral reef home.

The Minor Affair at Anantara Phuket Villas, Thailand
Ahoy, matey: Cruise between Sia Kao and Phuket, or wherever the waters take you on this Anantara Phuket’s Sunseeker Manhattan 60, a luxurious motoryacht ready to take you to the horizon and beyond. The Minor Affair is the Maserati of yachts, so grab seven ladies and gents to join you, and don’t worry about a designated driver.

White Water Rafting at Shakti Ladakh’s Shayok River Journey, North India
Ahoy, matey: These rafts are too cool for names. Visit India’s north and raft down the Shayok and Upper Indus Rivers along the traditional Silk Route through the Karakoram and Ladakh mountain ranges. Along the way, stop for picnic lunches in scenic valleys and take in the natural beauty of India’s Himalayas, deserts, and plateaus.  

Sunset cruise at Cocoa Island, Maldives
Ahoy, matey: Embark on an unforgettable cruise around the Maldives as the setting sun reflects rays of orange and pink off the crystal clear water. Cocoa Island’s sunset cruise is the perfect opportunity to explore the open waters via speedboat and even make a few friends along the way – be on the look-out for dolphins playfully racing alongside the boat and flying fish skirting along the water’s surface.

Anantara Song and Dream – Anantara Cruises, Thailand
Ahoy, matey: Float along the Chao Phraya River aboard luxuriously renovated, hundred-year-old teak rice barges Anantara Song and Anantara Dream. The overnight excursions blend quintessential old-world charm and modern comforts, and the wonders of Bangkok that line the river will transport you back in time to the old Kingdom of Siam. Travelers can choose between set itineraries or privately charter the Anantara Dream.

After Labor Day we’ll be putting away all our summer whites but not so fast with those Nantucket Reds, they’re alright! While Nantucket conjures images of quintessential New England summers and those famed weathered-looking pants, we recommend donning the slacks this autumn and heading to the Grey Lady. Forget high season crowds, in the fall the masses have dispersed and the rates have dropped. If that alone is not reason enough, here are another 14 Reasons to visit Nantucket in the fall.

1.       Value

Fall rates at hotels on the island are greatly reduced in September, October, and November. For example, at the iconic White Elephant the lowest midweek July rate available is $550, while in September guests can stay overnight for as little as $375 with the Hot Dates, Cool Rates promotion.

2.       Nantucket Restaurant Week , September 26-October 2, 2011

For a small island, Nantucket has a wide variety of renowned culinary establishments that include the new Brick Bistro, award-winning TOPPER’S, and the harborside Brant Point Grill, home to the Lobster Bloody. During restaurant week, three course dinners will be offered at these and other top Nantucket eateries from $25 – $45.

3.       Nantucket Historical Association’s Harvest Fair, October 2011

Celebrate fall harvest at the Old Mill and learn about Nantucket’s agricultural heritage, play lively colonial games, and make traditional crafts such as cornhusk dolls or beeswax candles.

4.       The Nantucket Project, September 30-October 2, 2011

Unlike crowded, impersonal meetings-of-the-minds like TED and the Aspen Institute, the first Nantucket Project will gather amazing speakers including Ed Crane, founder and President of the CATO Institute, a libertarian think tank, and Craig Ventor, biologist and entrepreneur best known for being among the first to sequence the human genome, for an intimate weekend of stimulating lectures and conversation held at the White Elephant.

5.       Nantucket Conservation Foundation’s Cranberry Festival, October 8, 2011

Visit Nantucket’s famous cranberry bogs, generally closed to the public but open for a short time in October just when the berries are harvested. Partake in bog tours, hay rides, sheep-shearing, and, of course, fresh berries and delicious cranberry confections.

6.       Golf

Nantucket’s top-notch Sankaty Head Golf Club’s coveted ocean views and links-style holes are usually only available to members. In the off season (October-May), for a fee, anyone can tee off.

7.       Nantucket Slam, Cystic Fibrosis Benefit, September 11-13, 2011

This all-inclusive, two-day, competitive catch and release tournament is two days of competitive fishing for Bluefish, Bonito, Striped Bass, and Atlantic Bonito/False Albacore. To get a “Slam,” one must catch three of a designated species in the same day. All proceeds benefit the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation.

8.       Scenic Hiking and Biking

Rent a bike and roll down the recently resurfaced 6.4 miles of bike paths of Nantucket and check out the beautiful fall foliage. Bike rentals typically cost around $30/day; complimentary bikes are available for guests of White Elephant Hotel Residences, The Cottages & Lofts at the Boat Basin, and The Wauwinet.

9.   Spooky Halloween at haunted Jared Coffin House

Every year kids can dress up and go trick-or-treating at the shops and stores lining Main Street. Enjoy a super spooky stay on Nantucket at the Jared Coffin House, said to be haunted by the ghost of the successful 19th century ship-owner after whom the house was named. Other ghosts are rumored to roam the halls and rooms of this historic property – room rates start at $125 October 23-31.

10.   ACK Pink with Nantucket Island Resorts for Breast Cancer Awareness Month, October 2011

For the month of October, Nantucket Island Resorts will be donating $1 from every room night bought to the American Cancer Society’s Making Strides against Breast Cancer charity.  In addition, guests booking a stay during the weekend of October 14-16 will have the opportunity to participate on the Nantucket Island Resorts-sponsored team during Nantucket’s Making Strides against Breast Cancer Walk on Sunday, October 16. Nantucket Island Resorts has committed to a $1000 donation for the Breast Cancer Walk. Those who join the team will receive a complimentary team tee-shirt. Additionally, proceeds from themed cocktails and treats on offer at The Wauwinet, the White Elephant, the White Elephant Hotel Residences, and Jared Coffin House will be donated to the cause.

11.   Inexpensive Airfare

Think getting to Nantucket is difficult and pricey?  Phooey!  Fly Jet Blue direct from New York City to Nantucket starting at $69 this September.

12.   Romance

If you took the kids to Nantucket this summer, come back in the fall without the little ones and stay at the romantic Wauwinet (open until October 29).  The 32-room inn doesn’t allow children under 12, so there’s no chance of having a screaming baby just down the hall.  Rates at this luxury inn start at just $225 in October.

13.   Traditional New England Thanksgiving

Visit the state where the original Thanksgiving took place.  The White Elephant’s Brant Point Grill hosts a special Thanksgiving buffet with all the comfort foods you’d expect at your grandmother’s house without all the cooking and dirty dishes. Brave souls can participate in the 10^th Annual Turkey Plunge on Children’s Beach, where hundreds jump into cold Nantucket Harbor on Thanksgiving morning.

14.   Fall isn’t all… Come in December for Christmas Stroll! December 2-5, 2011

Nantucket Island celebrates the entire holiday season with Nantucket Noel, a month-long celebration organized by the Nantucket Island Chamber of Commerce that runs November 25-December 31. The highlight event is the Annual Christmas Stroll Weekend.  Stores, shops, and restaurants open their doors for holidays shoppers, carolers sing favorite holiday tunes, and Santa Claus arrives via a Coast Guard Vessel.  This is an authentic experience not to be missed! Several Nantucket Island Resorts properties are open for the Stroll Weekend, including the historic and centrally located Jared Coffin House, the iconic White Elephant, and the luxurious White Elephant Hotel Residences.   These properties offer a variety of cozy accommodations for visitors to the island.