Top Cruise Ports in the US East Coast
Cruise lovers and first-time cruisers alike are drawn to the
United States East Coast for its coastal topography, historical charm, and cosmopolitan cities. Each unique port offers an array of culinary temptations and vibrant local experiences as you explore cosmopolitan cities, charming fishing villages, and beautiful beaches.
Here are our top ports for cruise ships along the
Atlantic coast:
- Boston, Massachusetts is home to some of the most popular attractions and historical sites in New England. Visit the Freedom Trail, which illustrates all of Boston's major historical points. Fans of American history will enjoy seeing Faneuil Hall, one of the best-preserved colonial structures, Old North Church (where lanterns signaled Paul Revere's famous ride), and Bunker Hill Monument, which commemorates an important battle that took place during the Revolutionary War. And if you're a baseball enthusiast, there's no better place to begin than Fenway Park!
- New Port, Rhode Island. Tour the East Coast with its best port in Port Rhode Island. This city on Aquidneck Island is locally referred to as the Sailing Capital of the World, hosting America’s Cup yacht races for over fifty years. Explore Newport mansions and the prestigious Naval base. History and culture enthusiasts should visit Touro Synagogue, Fort Adams, and the National Museum of American Illustration.
- Martha’s Vineyard, Massachusetts. Located off the coast of Massachusetts, Martha's Vineyard is a charming island community of Edgartown, Vineyard Haven, and Oak Bluffs, filled with beautiful beaches, romantic hideaways, and family fun. It is home to some of the most stunning coastline in New England, with cobblestone beaches and calming waters for a host of water sports. The island has more than 80 miles of biking paths, which wind through both villages and through the forested Outer Cape. Golfing, tennis, and horseback riding also abound.
- Bar Harbor, Maine. In the southernmost state in the United States, Maine offers a dramatic landscape like no other: rocky coastlines, vast pine forests, and cool lakes provide the perfect habitat for the moose and deer that roam the rural areas, while rocky outcrops plunge into cold waters of the Atlantic. This is home to Acadia National Park, a landscape so unusual that it seems to have come straight from a Stephen King novel. It is here you can find Bar Harbor, a seaside resort described as chic and refined with over time has become the ideal destination for romantics and lovers of open spaces.
- Montauk, New York. Montauk is considered by many to be the most eastern point on the East Coast. It’s located on Long Island, New York and offers a glimpse of some of the most pristine views in the state. The 1796 Montauk Point Lighthouse greets us at our launching point for a cruise that will take us through peaceful waterways and rugged coastline.
- Charleston, South Carolina. When it comes to vacationing near the East Coast, there are countless options to choose from. You can explore the Atlantic Ocean with a visit to the Outer Banks or kayak and canoe through a lush swamp forest at Congaree National Park. Charleston, South Carolina has been called one of the most beautiful cities in the world, with cobblestone streets gliding past historic buildings that have earned this place distinction as both a UNESCO World Heritage Site and National Historic Landmark.
- Savannah, Georgia. Located in the heart of Georgia's famed Lowcountry, Savannah is a city steeped in history. Established by the British as early as 1733, Savannah played an important role in the American Revolution and Civil War. The city's historical district, located on a bluff overlooking the Savannah River, is home to most of Savannah's attractions, including its vibrant downtown area, which is the site of countless festivals and events year-round. This coastal town has earned its moniker as "The Hostess City of the South."
- Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island. Located just off the southeastern coast of Canada, Charlottetown is the capital city of Prince Edward Island. Perched on the banks of the Hillsborough River, this quaint little city has great small-town charm and a thriving cultural scene. Despite its status as the capital, there’s something very easy-going about this place; with a population of fewer than 40,000 residents here, Charlottetown has a refreshingly calm atmosphere.
- Portland, Maine. The East Coast port of Portland, Maine, provides easy access to the Atlantic Ocean and Casco Bay. Tourists love this charming city with its cobblestone streets, historic waterfronts, and award-winning restaurants. Cape Elizabeth is just south of Portland. From there, you can see Casco Bay, the Portland Head Light lighthouse, rocky beaches, and more.
Undoubtedly, the East Coast is home to some of the nation's finest cruising spots. With rich history and culture on land, sun-kissed beaches, and vibrant nightlife at sea.
Contact one of Adventure Life's US East Coast trip planner experts to begin organizing your next cruise.
