While fall is a popular time to cruise Canada and New England, these picturesque destinations offer beauty and charm throughout the year. Discover why these ports should be on your travel radar.
Memorable Canada & New England Cruise Ports and Their Best Sights
With picturesque harbors, stunning fall foliage, and rich maritime traditions, this region promises unforgettable experiences at every port. From charming coastal towns to bustling cities, this guide highlights the must-see attractions that make each stop a unique adventure.
1. Boston, Massachusetts
You can find a number of points of interest in Boston. For example, visit the North Bridge where the shot “heard around the world” triggered the beginning of the American Revolution. Another place of note is Boston’s public garden where you can take a ride in a swan boat in the garden’s lagoon.
For cruise guests eager to explore more of Boston, a visit to the historic Freedom Trail is a must. This 2.5-mile-long path takes you through 16 significant sites, including Paul Revere’s House and the Old North Church, where lanterns signaled the start of Revere’s famous midnight ride. For a more modern experience, head to Faneuil Hall Marketplace, a lively spot with unique shops, street performances, and diverse dining options. Don’t miss the Boston Tea Party Ships & Museum, where you can relive a pivotal moment in American history by tossing tea crates overboard!
2. Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island
Charlottetown is the capital of Prince Edward Island, which is the smallest province in Canada. However, this does not mean that the city is not big on hospitality and sites. Sites to see include Prince Edward Island National Park and the beach and harbor of North Rustico, situated on the isle’s North Shore.
Passengers visiting Charlottetown will also enjoy exploring its rich history and vibrant culture. Begin with a stroll along Victoria Row, a charming street lined with shops, galleries, and restaurants. For history enthusiasts, the Confederation Centre of the Arts is a must-see, commemorating the 1864 Charlottetown Conference that led to Canadian Confederation. Fans of Anne of Green Gables can take a short trip to Cavendish to visit Green Gables Heritage Place, the inspiration behind the beloved novel. Round out your visit with a harbor tour to soak in the stunning coastal views of this picturesque island.
3. Bar Harbor, Maine
One of the things to do in Bar Harbor is eating lobster. Lobster bakes are a mainstay in this part of Maine in the U.S. The lobsters are harvested directly from the sea. Lighthouses are another unique feature of this part of the world. Bar Harbor will certainly be one of the more memorable Canada & New England cruise ports that you will see.
Bar Harbor is also the gateway to Acadia National Park, a breathtaking natural haven featuring rugged coastline, pristine lakes, and Cadillac Mountain, the tallest peak on the U.S. East Coast. Visitors can enjoy hiking, biking, or a scenic drive along the Park Loop Road. The town itself boasts a charming downtown area filled with unique shops, art galleries, and seafood restaurants. Don’t miss a stroll along the Shore Path, which offers stunning views of Frenchman Bay and the Porcupine Islands, making it a favorite spot for photographers and nature lovers alike.
4. Montreal, Quebec
Another one of the Canada & New England cruise ports of note is Montreal. While visiting this city, be sure to visit the historic old town area, which is located next to the St. Lawrence River. The city is especially known for its locally made maple syrup and bagels.
Montreal is also celebrated for its stunning architecture and cultural landmarks. Be sure to visit Notre-Dame Basilica, a masterpiece of Gothic Revival design with breathtaking stained glass windows. For panoramic views of the city, head to Mount Royal Park, a sprawling green space designed by the creator of New York’s Central Park. Art and history lovers will enjoy the Montreal Museum of Fine Arts and Pointe-à-Callière Museum, which showcases the city’s fascinating past. After exploring, wander through the bustling Jean-Talon Market for fresh produce, local cheeses, and, of course, more maple-infused treats.
5. Portland, Maine
Among the Canada & New England cruise ports that is of historic import, Portland, Maine now features chic shopping and entertainment in what was formerly the city’s warehouse district. While visiting the port city, you will want to stop by Victoria Mansion, a city landmark. It has been deemed one of the best Italian villa-style houses in the U.S.
Portland is also renowned for its vibrant food scene, making it a haven for seafood lovers. Be sure to visit the Old Port district, where cobblestone streets are lined with boutique shops, craft breweries, and cozy cafes. For history buffs, a trip to the Portland Head Light in nearby Cape Elizabeth is a must – it’s one of the most photographed lighthouses in the country and offers spectacular coastal views. Art enthusiasts will appreciate the Portland Museum of Art, home to an impressive collection of American and European works. Don’t forget to sample the city’s famous lobster rolls before heading back to your cruise ship!
6. Quebec City, Quebec
Located in the province of Quebec, this city is one of the Canada & New England cruise ports that provides walking tours that are worth taking. You will be able to see many highlights up close, including Upper Town and Lower Town, Old Quebec, Quebec fortifications, the Place Royal, and other hidden but interesting sites. If you wish to go exploring, this is the city to see.
Quebec City is also home to the iconic Château Frontenac, a grand hotel that dominates the skyline and offers stunning views of the St. Lawrence River. A visit to Montmorency Falls, just a short drive from the city, is a must for nature enthusiasts—the waterfall is even taller than Niagara Falls. Stroll along the Dufferin Terrace for panoramic vistas or explore Petit-Champlain, one of North America’s oldest commercial districts, known for its quaint boutiques and charming cafes. For history lovers, the Musée de la Civilisation provides fascinating insights into Quebec’s rich heritage and culture.
7. St. John’s, Newfoundland
The island of Newfoundland is Canada’s most easterly province and is located next to the North Atlantic. Some of the interesting must-see sites in St. John (the port city) include the Basilica of St. John the Baptist, Signal Hill, Cape Spear Lighthouse, and the Rooms Museum. You can also visit bird islands, which are refuges for hundreds of birds including Atlantic puffins, kittiwakes, and bald eagles.
St. John’s is also known for its colorful Jellybean Row Houses, a series of vibrantly painted homes that make for great photo opportunities as you stroll through the city. For breathtaking natural views, hike along the East Coast Trail, where dramatic cliffs meet the ocean. Water Street, one of the oldest streets in North America, offers a mix of unique shops, local crafts, and lively pubs where you can enjoy traditional Newfoundland music. Don’t forget to visit Quidi Vidi, a charming historic fishing village within the city, where you can tour a craft brewery and savor freshly caught seafood.
8. Halifax, Nova Scotia
This port excursion is filled with an array of historic properties to see. Visit the 19th-century district of the city, which leads visitors to another time where naval ships, privateers, and trading merchant ships were active in the harbor. You certainly will get your fill of history while you visit the variety of interesting Halifax shops located in the area.
Halifax boasts a rich array of attractions that blend history, culture, and natural beauty. Among its highlights is the Halifax Citadel National Historic Site, a star-shaped fortress offering sweeping views of the city and harbor, where visitors can immerse themselves in stories of its military past. History enthusiasts will also enjoy the Maritime Museum of the Atlantic, which delves into the region’s seafaring legacy, including connections to the Titanic and the Halifax Explosion.
For a leisurely experience, stroll along the Halifax Waterfront Boardwalk, lined with shops, restaurants, and lively street performers. Nature lovers will appreciate the serenity of the Halifax Public Gardens, one of North America’s best-preserved Victorian gardens. Additionally, a trip to nearby Peggy’s Cove reveals a charming fishing village and its iconic lighthouse, set against dramatic coastal landscapes.