Our guide to New England and Canada cruises
Cruising New England and Canada is simply breathtaking. Calm waters reflect rugged, snow-tipped mountain peaks, lush forests bathed in deep green and golden hues, and cosmopolitan cities packed with fascinating sights and irresistible smells.
Whether you’re a seasoned traveller or considering your first holiday to the region, read on to discover more about what makes a New England and Canada cruise such a magical experience.
Why cruise to New England and Canada?
New England and Canada cruise highlights
Cruises to New England and Canada are full of unforgettable experiences, but there are some things you simply can’t miss. Make sure some of these top experiences are on your New England and Canada cruise itinerary.
New England and Canada cruise sights
Cultural and capital highlights
New England and Canada food highlights
New England and Canada Shore Experiences
New England & Canada festivals and events
New England and Canada cruise seasons
The cruise season in New England and Canada typically runs from May to October, with the most popular cruising period taking place in autumn. The trees begin to shift into their renowned fall colours, and the weather is crisp and cool – perfect for a leisurely afternoon watching the beautiful coastline drift by while cosily wrapped up on deck.
Summer – June, July, August
While summer in New England and Canada may enjoy fewer rainy days and more abundant sunshine, evenings are still cool. Daytime average highs reach around 20 degrees Celsius, with evenings dipping to around 12-15 degrees Celsius, making it a very comfortable time to travel.
Autumn – September, October, November
Autumn in New England and Canada ushers in the peak season for cruising, with cool, crisp days interspersed with more frequent showers and the first snowfalls arriving in November. Temperatures can change rapidly, with the daily average temperature dropping from a comfortable 19 degrees Celsius in September to a brisk -5 in November.
Winter – December, January, February
While not the traditional season for cruising, visiting New England and Canada in the winter months provides a perfect opportunity to take advantage of the plentiful snowfall and visit some of the numerous ski mountains close to Quebec City, such as Stoneham Mountain Resort or Mont-Tremblant. Temperatures often dip well below freezing, with an average daytime temperature of -5 to -15 degrees Celsius during the day.
Spring – March, April, May
While still a quiet period for cruising, the end of spring heralds the beginning of the tourism period, with temperatures slowly rising to reach around 15-19 degrees Celsius in May. Even though rain showers are still frequent, quick spells of sunshine signal the arrival of summer.
What to pack for a New England and Canada cruise
The weather in New England and Canada can be unpredictable, so it’s always best to be prepared for sporadic bursts of sunshine, showers or snowfall, depending on when you travel.
Shore Experiences
Days on board
Evening wear
Read our cruise packing guide for more helpful suggestions on the types of clothing to include in your luggage, Gala Evening theme ideas, and a list of must-haves for a Cunard cruise.
Explore New England and Canada
New England and Canada, with Cunard
Explore our current voyages to this stunning region, including local routes from New York or an unmissable combination with a Transatlantic Crossing.
New England and Canada Shore Experiences
Whether you seek adventure, local cuisine or cultural insight, Cunard's hand-picked selection of shore experiences are ripe with options for you to choose from.
