New England Cruises

Explore the Enchantment of New England with Cruise1st

New England, a region rich with history, stunning landscapes, and delectable seafood, is a fantastic cruise destination that offers a unique blend of cultural experiences and breathtaking natural beauty. Did you know that New England is home to some of the oldest towns in the United States, such as Boston and Plymouth, where the Pilgrims first landed? Think quaint coastal towns, beautiful fall foliage, and charming lighthouses. A cruise to New England is a beautiful way to experience the best that this region has to offer, all while enjoying the comforts of your ship. Get ready to explore the picturesque harbours, sample fresh lobster, and take in scenery that looks straight out of a postcard!

Major Cruise Lines Offering New England Itineraries

• Holland America Line: With a fleet of 11 ships, Holland America has 2 vessels, Volendam and Zuiderdam, that cruise to New England. Renowned for their focus on cultural immersion and gourmet dining experiences, these ships create a unique atmosphere onboard. Most cruises depart from international ports such as Boston or Montreal, providing cruisers with excellent options to start their adventure.
• Cunard: Cunard, with its fleet of 4 luxury ships, offers itineraries to New England on the famed Queen Mary 2. This ship is celebrated for its elegant atmosphere, offering travelers the quintessential luxury cruise experience complete with afternoon tea and classic entertainment. Most journeys set sail from New York or Southampton, making it a convenient departure point.
• Princess Cruises: With 17 ships in their fleet, Princess offers 5 vessels sailing to New England, including the Majestic Princess and Sapphire Princess. What makes Princess special is their commitment to delivering exceptional service and diverse dining options. Cruises typically depart from major ports such as New York or Québec City, allowing for easy access to classic New England attractions.
• Norwegian Cruise Line: Featuring a fleet of 20, Norwegian has 7 ships calling at New England, including Norwegian Breakaway and Norwegian Jewel. These ships are well-loved for their lively onboard atmosphere and relaxation options, making them perfect for families and young travelers. Departures often take place from Boston or New York, giving great connections to the region.
• Royal Caribbean Cruises: With a robust fleet of 29 ships, Royal Caribbean sails with 4 to New England, including Brilliance of the Seas and Liberty of the Seas. Known for their innovative ship designs and fun onboard activities, these vessels promise a memorable cruise experience. Typically, cruises depart from Boston or Cape Liberty (Bayonne), making it easy for cruisers to explore before hitting the seas.

Luxury and Small Ship Cruises to New England

• Oceania Cruises: With a fleet of 8 ships, Oceania has 3 vessels, including Insignia and Allura, offering itineraries to New England. Known for their fine dining and intimate onboard experience, Oceania guarantees an enriching journey through this beautiful region. Departures often occur from New York or Montreal, making it a great start for an unforgettable exploration of New England.
• Azamara Cruises: This line features a fleet of 4 and offers 2 ships—the Azamara Journey and Azamara Quest—traveling to New England. Azamara is focused on immersive experiences, making it perfect for travelers looking to dive deeper into local cultures. Most cruises start from either Montreal or New York, seamlessly combining city exploration with coastal charm.
• Seabourn: With a fleet of 6 luxury ships, Seabourn has 1 ship—Seabourn Sojourn—journeying to New England. This cruise line is recognized for its exceptional service and luxurious amenities onboard, ensuring a high-end experience. Departures take place from ports such as New York or Montreal, perfectly positioned for exploring the region's offerings.
• Silversea: With a fleet of 12 ships, Silversea offers 2 sailing options to New England on the Silver Shadow and Silver Dawn. Known for their all-inclusive experience and exquisite service, Silversea provides an intimate atmosphere that appeals to discerning travelers. Departures primarily occur from New York or Mingan, ensuring a luxurious start to your cruise.

Top New England Harbours to Explore

• Boston, Massachusetts: The vibrant capital of Massachusetts is rich in history. Cruise visitors can explore the Freedom Trail, a 2.5-mile red brick path that leads to 16 historic sites. Don't miss the chance to indulge in some famous clam chowder or take a stroll along the picturesque waterfront at Boston Harbor!
• Portland, Maine: This charming coastal town is known for its historic Old Port district, full of cobblestone streets and fantastic restaurants. Enjoy a walking food tour to sample the city's famous lobster rolls, or visit the Portland Head Light, one of the most photographed lighthouses in America!
• Newport, Rhode Island: Home to stunning mansions and breathtaking coastal views, Newport is a must-visit. Cruise passengers can take a scenic drive along Ocean Drive, explore the famous Breakers Mansion, or enjoy a sailing tour of Narragansett Bay for a real taste of New England's nautical history.
• Bar Harbor, Maine: Nestled near Acadia National Park, Bar Harbor is the perfect spot for outdoor lovers. Offerings include hiking through tranquil trails and soaking in gorgeous views from Cadillac Mountain. Don't forget to sample local delicacies from the seafood shacks that line the streets!
• Eastport, Maine: As the easternmost city in the US, Eastport has a charming small-town appeal. Visit the Eastport Breakwater, enjoy whale watching tours, or delight in local arts at the Eastport Arts Center. For something unique, tour the local lobster traps and learn about the region’s fishing industry firsthand!

When to Cruise to New England

New England is a spectacular destination all year round! From May to June, you can expect mild temperatures between 10-20°C, perfect for outdoor activities and festivals. Summer (July to August) sees warmer weather, ranging from 20-30°C, ideal for beach lovers seeking sun and surf. Autumn (September to October) allows you to witness stunning fall foliage, with temperatures ranging from 5-20°C. Winter (November to April) showcases a chilly climate, but the charm of snow-covered towns offers a distinctive allure for those seeking a winter wonderland experience.

Cost Overview for Cruises to New England

A typical week-long cruise to New England can range from $1,700 to $2,700 AUD, while two-week cruises may vary from $3,500 to $5,500 AUD. For those leaning towards a luxury experience, expect to pay a starting price of around $5,500 AUD for a week-long trip and potentially reach $11,000 AUD for two weeks. While meals on board are generally included, dining ashore can cost between $20-50 AUD, and drinks typically run around $10-15 AUD each.

Alternative Regions to Consider

If you’re contemplating a cruise to New England, consider these captivating alternatives:

• Eastern Caribbean: Known for its stunning beaches and clear waters, the Eastern Caribbean offers tropical getaways with rich cultural experiences, water sports, and laid-back island vibes, making it perfect for relaxation.
• Alaska: For adventure seekers, Alaska presents breathtaking glaciers, abundant wildlife, and majestic landscapes. Whether hiking, kayaking, or simply soaking in the stunning scenery, Alaska is a thrilling choice.
• Canada: A cruise to Canada could lead you to charming coastal towns, cultural experiences, and stunning natural beauty. Perfect for those looking to explore opulent cities like Quebec City or scenic areas like Banff National Park!
• Bermuda: For those after a tropical vibe, Bermuda’s pink-sand beaches and crystal-clear waters are enticing. This region's historical charm blended with contemporary culture creates an interesting travel experience.
• Nova Scotia: This picturesque region offers stunning coastal drives, appealing seafood, and rich maritime history. Perfect for cruisers who want to explore charming towns and quaint fishing villages.

Ready to experience the timeless charm of New England? Book your cruise with Cruise1st, and let us assist you in creating the adventure of a lifetime!