What Is a Canada and New England Cruise?
A Canada and New England cruise follows the northeastern coastline between May and October, with fall foliage sailings in September and October being the most popular. Most voyages last 7 to 12 nights, departing from Boston, New York, or Montreal, visiting ports known for maritime history, fresh seafood, and dramatic autumn scenery.
Canada and New England are home to rich historical treasures, natural wonders, and unique, delicious foods. The capes are dotted with pristine islands and charming fishing villages and bustling harbor towns with an ever-changing panorama of colors. The journey takes you back in time while keeping you close to home. Quaint seaside towns, fabulous mansions and Revolutionary landmarks intermingle to create a luxurious resort-style character and romance to this historical region. Book your Canada & New England cruise now.
Canada and New England Cruise Quick Facts
| Best Time to Cruise | September through mid-October for peak fall foliage. June through August for warmest weather. September has the most sailings (98-106/month). |
| Typical Duration | 4 to 86 nights. Most popular are 7-12 night itineraries. |
| Popular Ports | Boston, Bar Harbor (Maine), Halifax (Nova Scotia), Saint John (New Brunswick), Quebec City, Montreal, Portland (Maine) |
| Departure Cities | Boston, New York, Montreal, Toronto |
| Cruise Lines | Holland America, Norwegian, Royal Caribbean, Celebrity, Viking, Carnival, American Cruise Lines, Victory |
| Ideal For | Fall foliage seekers, history enthusiasts, foodies, couples on romantic getaways |
What Does a Canada and New England Cruise Cost?
| Season | Months | From Price (per person) | Sailings/Month |
|---|---|---|---|
| Early Season | May-June | From $473 | ~33-41 sailings/month |
| Summer | July-August | From $473 | ~41-53 sailings/month |
| Fall Foliage (Peak) | September-October | From $499 | ~64-106 sailings/month |
When do you want to cruise?
| Month | Number of Cruises | From Price |
|---|---|---|
| Jun 2026 | 27 cruises | $544 |
| Jul 2026 | 37 cruises | $799 |
| Aug 2026 | 47 cruises | $799 |
| Sep 2026 | 94 cruises | $769 |
| Oct 2026 | 66 cruises | $789 |
| Nov 2026 | 2 cruises | $849 |
| Feb 2027 | 3 cruises | $12,010 |
| Mar 2027 | 3 cruises | $9,899 |
| Apr 2027 | 9 cruises | $1,039 |
| May 2027 | 27 cruises | $713 |
| Jun 2027 | 28 cruises | $544 |
| Jul 2027 | 22 cruises | $610 |
| Aug 2027 | 44 cruises | $637 |
| Sep 2027 | 101 cruises | $812 |
| Oct 2027 | 62 cruises | $453 |
| Mar 2028 | 2 cruises | $50,995 |
| Apr 2028 | 2 cruises | $7,995 |
| May 2028 | 14 cruises | $6,745 |
| Jun 2028 | 12 cruises | $2,149 |
| Jul 2028 | 10 cruises | $3,184 |
| Aug 2028 | 13 cruises | $7,995 |
| Sep 2028 | 45 cruises | $1,749 |
| Oct 2028 | 20 cruises | $5,669 |
| Mar 2029 | 1 cruise | $52,999 |
| Apr 2029 | 1 cruise | $7,999 |
| May 2029 | 11 cruises | $7,499 |
| Jun 2029 | 8 cruises | $7,499 |
| Jul 2029 | 8 cruises | $7,999 |
| Aug 2029 | 3 cruises | $7,999 |
| Sep 2029 | 8 cruises | $7,999 |
Canada / New England Cruise Highlights
North America's northeastern seaboard might not immediately spring to mind when one thinks of cruising, but it is an ideal place to visit by ship. With a number of inlets, islands and seaside towns to explore, the region is brimming with activities and bucket-list experiences. Sail around the Statue of Liberty in New York, hike through Acadia National Park in Maine, and whale watch in St. John's Newfoundland. Be sure to try poutine, a Canadian favorite, and clam chowder from New England.
Popular Canada / New England Cruise Ports
Ports of call on cruises to this region cover a number of states - Rhode Island, Massachusetts, Maine - and Canadian provinces, like Nova Scotia and Cape Breton Island. Here are three of the most visited ports: :
- Saint John, New Brunswick: The oldest incorporated city in Canada is full of natural wonders; most famously, its twice-daily tide turns at the Bay of Fundy. Watch the water level rise an astounding four stories, a phenomenon known as the Reversing Rapids. In the evening, take a stroll through charming Uptown Saint John, a mix of historical architecture and incredible, modern dining.
- Newport, Rhode Island: Once a summer playground for America's rich and famous, Newport is home to many well-preserved mansions, sailboats and lighthouses. Feel the elegance of the old-world Atlantic on a tour of the Newport Mansions, at a sailing regatta, or while visiting colonial-era marvels like Trinity Church. Family-friendly fun can be had at the Newport Aquarium and Brenton Point State Park.
- Quebec City, Quebec: Get a taste of the French-Canadian identity in this historical, glimmering town. Spend time in Old Town, a perfectly preserved maze of cobblestone streets, sidewalk cafes, and towering churches, and visit the beautiful Basilica of Saint Anne-de-Beaupre. Don't leave without seeing the stunning Montmorency Falls.
When is the Best Time to Go to Canada / New England?
The most popular time to travel to these seaside towns is in the summer. Take a break from the heat and head to one of these breezy locations dotting the eastern seaboard, or head out during early fall to catch a glimpse of the fabulous fall foliage. Most cruises are five nights, though some lines offer longer voyages of seven to 14 nights. Depart from New York; Bayonne, New Jersey; Montreal; Boston or Baltimore.
What Cruise Lines Go to Canada / New England?
Consider these cruise lines when planning a cruise to Canada and New England, each with frequent sailings to the region during the summer and early fall months:
- Norwegian Cruise Line: Depart from Boston, New York or Quebec City on a Norwegian cruise through New England and Canada. The line makes stops in over a dozen cities along the coast, including Bar Harbor, Portland, La Baie and Sydney.
- Carnival Cruise Line: Carnival cruises in this region depart from New York, and go to Halifax, Boston, Saint John and Portland. In port, try a Carnival excursion and go kayaking, attend a lobster bake, or take a boat ride through the Reversing Rapids.
- Royal Caribbean: With itineraries ranging from five to 13 nights, Royal Caribbean has an option for everyone looking to sail to this region. Stop in Rockland, Maine; Halifax, Nova Scotia; and many other cities along the coast while enjoying the many amenities Royal Caribbean has to offer.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the best time to see fall foliage on a Canada and New England cruise?
Peak foliage typically occurs mid-September through mid-October. Northern ports like Halifax and Quebec City peak slightly earlier than southern ports like Boston. September has the highest sailing volume with 98-106 cruises available per month.
Do I need a passport for a Canada and New England cruise?
Yes. Virtually all itineraries include Canadian port stops, and Canadian entry requires a valid passport for U.S. citizens.
What ports do Canada and New England cruises visit?
Popular ports include Boston, Portland (Maine), Bar Harbor (Maine) for Acadia National Park, Halifax (Nova Scotia), Saint John (New Brunswick) near the Bay of Fundy, Quebec City, and Montreal.
What is there to do in Bar Harbor?
Bar Harbor is the gateway to Acadia National Park. Cruise passengers can hike scenic trails, go whale watching, explore the historic downtown, and sample fresh Maine lobster.
What is the food like on a Canada and New England cruise?
Ports are known for exceptional regional cuisine. Montreal offers Jean Talon Market, Chinatown, Little Italy, and afternoon tea at the Ritz-Carlton (a tradition since 1913). Throughout New England, lobster, clam chowder, and fresh seafood are staples.
Explore More Canada and New England Cruise Options
- Canada & New England Cruises Calendar
- Cruises from Boston | Cruises from New York
- Bermuda Cruises (similar East Coast departures)