Where will your New England cruise take you? With our menu of hand-crafted itineraries from the best cruise lines, we promise that you will enjoy the most exciting and iconic activities as you visit historic ports like Boston, Newport, Bar Harbor, Rockland, Martha’s Vineyard, and Provincetown.
Portland, Maine
Did you know that before Augusta was the capital of Maine, that title was held by Portland? From the time Maine was established in 1820 until 1832, Portland was the capital of the Pine Tree State and still invites visitors to enjoy its craggy coastlines, cobblestone streets, and the 19th-century warehouses of the Old Port, which now house restaurants. The crisp ocean scent fills the air, while the fishermen fill the wharves, hard at work to bring in the day’s catch. Keep an eye out for the identifiable Portland Head Light on nearby Cape Elizabeth.
Rockland, Maine
Although it might not be the most famous stop on a cruise of New England, the port town of Rockland is undoubtedly unforgettable, with shorelines speckled with puffins, tall ships, and lobsters illuminated at night by lighthouses that cast their lights out to sea. As far as New York and Boston, you can see the limestone that was quarried from these very lands.
Bar Harbor, Maine
Stroll down famous Main Street to visit quaint shops, cafes, and pubs while you relax after a day of exploration in the famous and beautiful Acadia National Park, where forested mountains tumble into rocky shores and rocky cliffs. Biking is a great way to see the highlights of this expansive national park - the first one established east of the Mississippi.
Boston, Massachusetts
Perhaps the most iconic and well-known destination on any New England cruise is the historic city of Boston, which has been a prominent city for close to 400 years since long before the American Revolution. Follow in the cobblestone footsteps of the revolutionaries as you journey down the Freedom Trail, following the path of Paul Revere’s momentous ride. Tour the buildings where the foundations of the United States were envisioned. Explore the perfectly maintained ships that fought in the defining battles of U.S. wars. Witness the bridge at Concord, where the first shots of the Revolutionary War were fired. And relax in the gardens, parks, and museums that add tranquility to the modern metropolitan area.
Martha’s Vineyard, Massachusetts
The jewel of Cape Cod, Martha’s Vineyard, is a relaxing destination featuring the tranquil towns of Edgartown, Vineyard Haven, and Oak Bluffs, among several other small villages. Pass by and tour the restored colonial cottages and stunning Greek Revival mansions. While you’re here, be sure to savor some of the freshest lobster you’ll ever taste at the seaside eateries. You’ll also have chances to bike along the beaches of the coast, shop, and visit the postcard-perfect lighthouses.
Provincetown, Massachusetts
Not far from Martha’s Vineyard is Provincetown on the northernmost tip of Cape Cod. See where the first pilgrims made landfall on the Mayflower in 1620, marked by the Pilgrim Monument that overlooks the scenic bay. This is another fantastic place to enjoy the deliciously fresh seafood for which Massachusetts is notorious. The host of shops and colorful murals on Commercial Street invite you to commemorate your visit with unique souvenirs.
Newport, Rhode Island
Luxury comes to life in the elegant mansions that define Newport. Witness their regal majesty from the picturesque Cliff Walk along the rocky coast, and take some time to tour the mansions themselves to see the impressive and excessive wealth that drove industry through the Gilded Age at the turn of the 19th century. Among the most opulent estates are The Breakers, Rosecliff, Marble House, and The Elms. You can also visit Aquidneck Island, which hosted the America’s Cup yacht race for 50 years, earning Newport the moniker the Sailing Capital of the World.
Where else will your East Coast cruise take you?
As your cruise makes its way along Canada’s east coast, you may stop in Montreal, Charlottetown, Halifax, and the Strait of Canso. You might also enjoy an excursion down the mighty St. Lawrence River towards Niagara Falls and the Great Lakes.
After exploring the magnificent destinations of New England, your cruise may continue south along the Atlantic Coast of the United States, visiting top destinations like New York City, Sag Harbor, Baltimore, Norfolk, Wilmington, Charleston, Savannah, Amelia Island, Florida, West Palm Beach, and even the Bahamas.
