CANADA & NEW ENGLAND CRUISES

From small-town charm and friendly locals, to whale watching and glacial-fed lakes, discover the wonders of the magnificent regions of Canada & New England

Canada and New England are not just regions of breathtaking beauty; they are also oases of history. Many colonial historic sites have been preserved as national parks, giving you the chance to delve into the region’s past. Get lost in the vibrant culture of cities like Boston and New York, Montreal and Quebec City, where a rich tapestry of traditions will captivate your senses. And as you visit more intimate ports like Bar Harbor in Maine and Saint John in New Brunswick, you’ll discover hidden gems that will leave an indelible mark on your heart.

In Canada, explore the windswept coastlines of Nova Scotia, New Brunswick and Prince Edward Island. Mountain-bike up Bear Mountain in Victoria, British Columbia, or head to Nanaimo, British Columbia, and sight orcas and humpbacks off Vancouver Island. Cruise to New England and wind your way through cobblestoned streets dotted with antique lamp posts and colonial homes. Witness the colors of autumn come alive in a spectacle that is nothing short of magical. Walk the Freedom Trail in Boston to learn about the American Revolution in the very places where it began, and catch a baseball game at Boston’s famed Fenway Park, home of the Red Sox since 1912. 

Cruises to Canada and New England range from 2 to 18 days with departures out of Baltimore, New York, Bayonne, Boston, Montreal and Quebec. Discover the wonders of North America, where history and nature intertwine to create an experience like no other. Book your voyage now and immerse yourself in the beauty of this region.

Many people assume that Canada and New England cruises are only available in the autumn. However, this couldn’t be further from the truth. Although the period from late September to mid-October is indeed the best time to witness the breathtaking array of colors of the leaves transitioning from vibrant greens to captivating hues of orange, gold, and ruby red, there are other fantastic seasons for a Canada and New England cruise.

The sailing season officially kicks off in the spring (March to May), when the snow begins to melt and the weather gets warmer. This is blooming season, when the wildlife and nature comes back to life after a cold winter. Summer (June to August/September) in Canada and New England is blessed with stunning blue skies and delightful weather. The days get longer and the weather warmer, and its perfect for exploring the great outdoors. No matter the season you choose for your East Coast cruise, each one holds its own appeal.

Despite the Canada and New England cruise season only lasting half the year, there are numerous cruise lines that offer exciting itineraries in this region. Popular mainstream cruise lines such as Holland America, Royal Caribbean, Norwegian Cruise Line, and Princess Cruises offer a range of voyages spanning from 4 to 14 nights. Luxury cruise lines like Seabourn, Silversea, Oceania and Regent Seven Seas Cruises offer all-inclusive itineraries in the region, while premium lines such as Cunard and Celebrity Cruises find the perfect balance between luxury and mainstream. With so many cruise lines covering the East Coast of North America, choosing the style of cruising that suits your preferences and budget is all that’s really left for you to do.

When it comes to exceptional whale-watching opportunities, Canada’s east and west shores both deliver world-class experiences. Venture to Nanaimo, British Columbia, where sighting majestic orcas and awe-inspiring humpbacks is a guarantee. If you’re on the eastern side, head to Saguenay-St. Lawrence Marine Park in Saguenay, Quebec, where beluga whales gracefully reside throughout the year. Additionally, various magnificent species visit the park’s vast expanse from May to October, in search of abundant feeding grounds.

And in New England, experiencing the awe-inspiring beauty of Acadia National Park in Maine is an absolute must during your holiday. Renowned as the Crown Jewel of the North Atlantic Coast, it attracts a staggering 3.3 million people annually. You can set off on an invigorating hike to the summit of Cadillac Mountain , the very first spot in the United States where you can witness the sunrise from October through March. Afterwards, feel the rush of ocean waves at Thunder Hole, a small inlet where the waves create a captivating spectacle. At the end of the inlet, there is a small cavern, which, when hit by the rush of a wave, emits a sound akin to a distant thunderclap as air and water are forced out. Water can spout as high as 40 feet, accompanies by a thunderous roar, earning this spot the name “Thunder Hole”.

Vancouver, British Columbia

Discover Vancouver’s hidden wonders before your cruise departure! From captivating views atop Grouse Mountain to thrilling wildlife encounters in Horseshoe Bay, this vibrant city seamlessly merges outdoor adventures and metropolitan delights. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, adventure seeker, or simply looking for remarkable vacation memories, Vancouver has it all.

Halifax, Nova Scotia

Although Halifax was originally established as a naval base in 1749, its vibrant atmosphere today tells a completely different story. Explore the star-shaped Citadel, indulge in delicious cuisine, and browse unique boutique shops. Experience the thrill of whale-watching, sailing, and trapping lobsters on a Nova Scotia cruise. Immerse yourself in the wonders of this captivating Canadian city.

Montreal, Quebec

Where French delicacies and European architecture meet Canadian warmth. Discover the historic beauty of Old Montreal, savor the legendary smoked meats and irresistible poutine, and immerse yourself in the breathtaking views from Mount Royal. Experience a city that effortlessly blends elegance, charm, and culinary delights. Get ready to fall in love with Montreal’s irresistible fusion of cultures.

Boston, Massachusetts

With over 400 years of rich history, Boston stands as one of the oldest cities in America. Immerse yourself in the rich history, explore iconic landmarks, indulge in delicious New England cuisine, and embrace the charm of this extraordinary city. From Revolutionary relics to mouthwatering lobster rolls, Boston is waiting to enchant you.

New York, New York

Experience the endless excitement and vibrant energy of the Big Apple – New York City! From jaw-dropping shows on Broadway to savoring world-class culinary delights in Williamsburg and Flushing, this city has it all. Immerse yourself in iconic landmarks like the Statue of Liberty and the Empire State Building, and let the New York Pass unlock countless adventures. Indulge in authentic Chinese street food, relish in a slice of classic New York pizza, and explore the unique boroughs that make this city truly unforgettable.

Portland, Maine

Immerse yourself in the charming seaside city of Portland, filled with cobblestone streets, vibrant art, and tantalising culinary delights. Discover picturesque lighthouses, indulge in the freshest seafood, and embark on outdoor escapades that will leave you yearning for more.

Experience the beauty of New England and Canada throughout the seasons. Summer (June, July, and August) brings bright and sunny days, with less rain and more sunshine. Although the evenings can be cool, it still offers a very comfortable time to travel. Autumn (September, October, and November) is the peak season for cruising. The days are cool and crisp, occasionally punctuated by showers and the first snowfalls in November. The temperature can change rapidly during this season.  Although not the traditional season for cruising, visiting New England and Canada in winter (December, January, and February) presents a unique opportunity. The region experiences abundant snowfall, perfect for a skiing holiday. Spring (March, April, and May) gradually marks the beginning of the tourism season. Temperatures slowly rise, and while rain showers are still frequent, you will see quick spells of sunshine, indicating the imminent arrival of summer.

Did you know that New England and Canada are hidden gems in the wine-producing world? You can find charming vineyards nestled in Massachusetts, Maine, Quebec, and Nova Scotia. Canada has even carved out its place in the world ice wine, with Ontario leading the way as one of the world’s top ice-wine producing regions. More recently, New England has also emerged as a legitimate contender in the market. On a Canada & New England cruise, you can make a day-trip out of visiting local wineries, and, some sailings offer wine tours in their shore excursions.