Canada

Eastcoast USA hosts the warm seas of Bermuda, the Autumn colours of New England and Canada and the battlefields of Colonial USA. Bermuda offers warm summer weather, great beaches and British ambience on these self governing islands. New England is popular in the Autumn (Fall) with its spectacular colours and cruises will often be combined with visits to Nova Scotia and Newfoundland. Some cruises will also explore the St Lawrence River as far as Quebec or Montreal. Then there are cruises southward along the Eastern seaboard that will explore the colonial heritage and Civil War battlefields of the USA. 

Bermuda
Cruises to Bermuda can be taken from New York or Miami but are increasingly available from some other eastern seaboard cities. Bermuda is a collection of 150 islands (only 20 are inhabited) lying 600 miles southeast of New York in The Atlantic Ocean. Most ships will head for the largest island Great Bermuda where there is a choice of interesting ports - King's Wharf, home to the historic Royal Dockyard - Hamilton, great for shopping - St George's, picturesque, colonial architecture, churches and museums. Here you will find a more refined atmosphere than in the Caribbean.

New England and Canada
New England and Canada cruises depart from New York, Boston, Montreal and Quebec. Travelling north you will be able to enjoy the spectacular autumn colours in the Arcadia National Park from ports like Bar Harbour. Halifax in Nova Scotia will provide a rich nautical history in its museums and from Sydney you can explore Cape Breton Island. Charlottetown on Prince Edward Island is small and rustic, typical of old-fashioned Canada. Turning into the St Lawrence Gulf cruises may call at Corner Brook in Newfoundland before sailing up the St Lawrence River to the walled city of Quebec or French Montreal.

Colonial USA
Colonial USA cruises will sail southward from New York or other north-eastern cities, or in combination with Canada and New England cruises from Montreal. They will call at Norfolk for Colonial Williamsburg, Charleston where the Civil War started and Savannah offering a wealth of history and architecture, Port Canaveral for the Space Centre or Orlando before arriving in Miami.

WHEN TO CRUISE?

Cruising in Canada typically focuses on the Atlantic coast (Eastern Canada) or Pacific coast (Western Canada, including Alaska). Each season offers unique highlights, depending on your preferred activities and destinations.

Spring (May to June):

• Why Go?
• Mild temperatures and blooming flowers make for picturesque scenery.
• Perfect time to explore cities like Halifax, Quebec City, and Vancouver.
• Whale-watching opportunities begin as marine life becomes more active.
• Fewer crowds compared to the peak summer season.

Summer (July to August):

• Why Go?
• Warm and sunny weather, ideal for outdoor activities like hiking, kayaking, and exploring coastal towns.
• Vibrant festivals and events, such as Canada Day celebrations in July.
• Best time for cruises to Newfoundland, Prince Edward Island, and Nova Scotia for their lush landscapes and warm waters.
• Popular for combining Alaskan cruises with stops in Western Canada, like Vancouver or Victoria.

Autumn (September to October):

• Why Go?
• Stunning fall foliage makes Eastern Canada a must-visit, with vibrant reds, oranges, and yellows.
• Cooler weather enhances the charm of coastal towns and national parks.
• A prime season for exploring the Maritimes, Quebec, and New England on a Canada-New England cruise.
• Excellent whale-watching opportunities as migrations peak.

Winter (November to March):

• Why Go?
• Limited cruising options but a fantastic time for scenic winter landscapes in Eastern Canada.
• Festive holiday cruises may include Christmas markets and celebrations in cities like Quebec and Montreal.
• Pacific coast cruises may include stops in Vancouver en route to warmer destinations.

Recommendations:

• Best Overall: May to October for warm weather and diverse experiences like whale watching, fall foliage, and outdoor activities.
• For Fall Colors: Late September to mid-October in Eastern Canada.
• For Wildlife Enthusiasts: May to August for whale watching and exploring nature.