New England Cruises

New England, steeped in history and brimming with scenic beauty, offers an ideal cruise destination for those seeking a unique blend of coastal charm and vibrant culture. This northeastern region of the United States consists of six delightful states: Maine, New Hampshire, Vermont, Massachusetts, Rhode Island, and Connecticut. With picturesque harbours, stunning fall foliage, and rich maritime heritage, cruising through New England promises breathtaking views and memorable experiences. Fun fact: New England is known for its lobster rolls, which are a seafood lover’s must-try! Get ready to explore quaint sea towns, indulge in delectable local cuisine, and experience the warm hospitality that characterizes this charming region.

Major Cruise Lines Offering Exciting Trips to New England

• Holland America Line: With a fleet of 11 ships, Holland America has 2 vessels—Zuiderdam and Volendam—that service New England itineraries. The line is renowned for its sophisticated onboard experience, exceptional dining options, and interesting enrichment programs. Most of their cruises conveniently depart from Boston or Montreal, making it easy for cruisers to immerse themselves in the region’s charm.
• Norwegian Cruise Line: This popular cruise line showcases 20 ships, with 9 offering cruises to New England. Notable ships such as Norwegian Breakaway and Norwegian Jewel are known for their freestyle dining options and casual, fun atmosphere. Most itineraries depart from Boston or New York, providing flexible options for eager cruisers wanting to explore New England’s scenic coastline.
• Cunard: With a fleet size of 4, Cunard sails New England via its flagship, Queen Mary 2. This cruise line epitomizes luxury and sophistication, boasting ornate dining rooms and historical elegance throughout the ship. Departures are available from New York or Southampton, perfect for cruisers seeking a regal experience.
• Princess Cruises: This cruise line features 17 ships, 5 of which visit New England. Majestic Princess and Enchanted Princess offer an exceptional standard of service and amenities. With popular departure ports like New York and Québec City, cruisers can quickly embark on their enchanting adventure through New England.
• Royal Caribbean Cruises: Known for its innovative ships, Royal Caribbean has 28 vessels, with 4 dedicated to New England itineraries. Brilliance of the Seas and Liberty of the Seas offer thrilling onboard activities and vibrant entertainment options. Departures primarily occur from Boston or Cape Liberty (Bayonne), making it easy to immerse yourself in this captivating region.

Luxury Cruise Lines in New England

• Oceania Cruises: Boasting a fleet of 8, Oceania has 3 ships that cruise to New England, including Insignia and Allura. Known for their gourmet dining and distinctive onboard experiences, these ships offer an intimate voyage. Departures commonly occur from New York or Montreal, ensuring a comfortable boarding experience for elegant cruising enthusiasts.
• Seabourn: With 6 ships, Seabourn has 2 that offer itineraries visiting New England—Seabourn Sojourn and Seabourn Quest. These luxury vessels shine with exceptional service and an all-inclusive approach to onboard dining. Departures typically take place from Montreal or New York, providing an easy start to your upscale adventure.
• Silversea: Featuring a fleet of 12, Silversea offers 2 ships—Silver Shadow and Silver Dawn—to New England. Both ships are renowned for their opulent accommodations and highly regarded service. Most cruises depart from New York or Mingan, perfect for a stylish getaway in this beautiful region.
• Azamara Cruises: Azamara’s fleet consists of 4 ships, with Azamara Quest making stops in New England. This cruise line is known for extended stays at port and immersive destination experiences. Departures are typically from Montreal or New York, providing an elegant departure point for your explorations.

Top Harbours to Experience in New England

• Boston, Massachusetts: As the largest city in New England, Boston is where history and culture come alive. Visit the Boston Tea Party Ships and Museum for a fun and interactive history experience, stroll the Freedom Trail, or take a quick tour to Fenway Park, home of the Red Sox. Be sure to devour a bowl of clam chowder at a local eatery!
• Halifax, Nova Scotia: While technically in Canada, this charming city is often included in New England itineraries. Tour the historic waterfront and visit the impressive Canadian Museum of Immigration at Pier 21 for an educational experience. Enjoy fresh seafood at local restaurants, or take a leisurely stroll through the beautiful Public Gardens.
• Portland, Maine: Known for its vibrant arts district, Portland offers a delightful mix of culture, food, and scenic vistas. Check out the famous Portland Head Light lighthouse, wander through Old Port with its trendy shops and cafés, or take a ferry to nearby islands. Don’t miss tasting the local lobster rolls that are legendary in this area!
• Québec City, Canada: A stunning city that feels like a European getaway. Explore Old Québec, a UNESCO World Heritage site, with its cobblestone streets and charming architecture. Enjoy the views from the Château Frontenac or indulge in delicious local pastries at one of the many cafés. It’s a fantastic destination to appreciate the blend of North American and French cultures.
• Saint John, New Brunswick: This maritime city offers stunning natural beauty, particularly at the Bay of Fundy, where you can witness the highest tides in the world. Explore the historic Uptown area and visit the famous Reversing Falls where the tidal waters create fascinating whirlpools. Enjoy a leisurely walk along the waterfront to take in the fresh sea air!

When to Cruise to New England

New England offers a variety of experiences throughout the year, making it an appealing destination any time. From January to March, the temperatures can be quite chilly, averaging between -5°C to 2°C, although the region becomes festive with winter activities in ski resorts and cozy local experiences. During April to June, spring blossoms welcome warmer temperatures, ranging from 10°C to 20°C, making it perfect for outdoor activities and exploring charming coastal towns. July to September is peak season, with temperatures soaring between 15°C to 28°C—and you’ll enjoy the region’s busy summer festivals and the spectacular summer scenery. Finally, from October to December, experience stunning fall foliage and milder temperatures ranging from 5°C to 15°C making it perfect for scenic drives and harvest season celebrations.

Cost of a Cruise in New England

A trip to New England is not only captivating but also accessible. A standard one-week cruise often costs between $1,200 to $2,500 AUD, while luxury cruises can range from $3,500 to $6,500 AUD for similar itineraries, ensuring a range of options to suit different budgets.

Dining out in New England usually costs around $15 to $30 AUD per meal, with local specialties—like lobster rolls—at the higher end of that range. Drinks typically fall within $5 to $12 AUD for local beers or wines, making it easy to enjoy the regional flavours.

Alternative Regions to Consider for Your Next Cruise

If you’re considering a cruise to New England, here are some alternative regions worth exploring:

• Baltic Sea – Rich in history and culture, this region allows you to explore Viking heritage and stunning architecture in cities like St. Petersburg and Tallinn. Perfect for history buffs and culture enthusiasts!
• Caribbean – Known for its beautiful beaches and laid-back atmosphere, the Caribbean offers a fantastic contrast with vibrant island cultures and warm tropical climates.
• Bahamas – Just a skip from Florida, the Bahamas is a gorgeous island chain with stunning waters, vibrant marine life, and lush resorts that make for an idyllic getaway.
• Canada – Exploring Canada’s maritime provinces is a fantastic way to experience charming seaside towns, delicious seafood, and rich cultural heritage, making it a delightful alternative to New England.
• Australia – With unique wildlife, stunning coastal scenery, and vibrant cities, Australia provides a distinct and exciting destination with warm hospitality and fantastic adventures.

New England is waiting for you to discover its captivating landscapes, rich history, and picturesque towns. Book your next cruise adventure with Cruise1st, and explore the wonders that this enchanting region has to offer!