Top cruise excursions in Canada and New England

Although the cruise season in Canada and New England is short—running from July to October—there are numerous tour options available, from historical explorations to outdoor adventures. The top Canada and New England cruise excursions reflect the diversity of the states and provinces you'll explore.

You can visit Revolutionary War sites in Boston, embark on whale watching tours in New Brunswick's Bay of Fundy, explore the stories of "Anne of Green Gables" on Prince Edward Island, and stroll through the historic towns of French-speaking Quebec. Plus, enjoy scenic drives, walks, and boat rides to take in the stunning fall foliage from late September through late October.

Whether you're drawn to lively cities, quaint coastal villages, or pristine natural landscapes, cruises to New England and Canada provide access to all these experiences. If your tour doesn't include snacks, be sure to set aside time to savor regional delicacies like lobster rolls, clam chowder, and maple treats. Whatever tour you opt for, dress for unpredictable weather and wear comfortable yet durable footwear.

Discover the finest cruise excursions in Canada and New England, showcasing the best of what this region has to offer.

• $ Budget-friendly (under $70)
• $$ Reasonable ($70-$140)
• $$$ High-end ($140-$200)
• $$$$ Luxury (over $200)

Newport, Rhode Island

Tour of Newport's grand mansions and highlights

Cost: $$

The grandeur of the Gilded Age is still evident in Newport's stunning landmark mansions, once referred to as "summer cottages" by the likes of the Astors, Vanderbilts, Morgans, and other powerful figures from the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Join a tour to explore one of these magnificent homes.

Most tours feature a scenic bus ride along Ocean Drive, showcasing historic sites such as the Tennis Hall of Fame and Trinity Church. As you continue along Bellevue Avenue, you'll see exquisite mansions and the Gothic-style St. Mary's Church, where John and Jacqueline Kennedy exchanged vows in 1953.

Your tour will conclude with a visit to a historic mansion. Notable examples include The Elms, inspired by an 18th-century French chateau and built in 1901, as well as Rosecliff, crafted by architect Stanford White and completed in 1902.

Key information: Most mansion tours last around 2 1/2 hours and combine convenient bus sightseeing with a walking tour of a mansion. Many of these tours are self-guided, requiring you to download the Newport Mansions app to your smartphone and use earbuds to listen to the audio tour.

Cliff Walk and The Breakers in Newport

Cost: $$

For those who enjoy walking and breathtaking ocean views, the Newport Cliff Walk and The Breakers tour offers a perfect experience. You can take in the stunning Narragansett Bay on one side and the iconic mansions of Newport on the other.

The entire Cliff Walk stretches 3 1/2 miles along the picturesque coastline, but this guided tour usually covers just 1 1/4 miles, allowing you to glimpse the backyards of some of Bellevue Avenue's most famous mansions. The tour concludes with a visit to The Breakers, an Italian Renaissance palace built in 1895 by Cornelius Vanderbilt II, boasting 70 rooms, 27 fireplaces, and a grand hall with a soaring 50-foot ceiling.

Key details: Most Cliff Walk and The Breakers tours last around three hours. This section of the Cliff Walk is flat and paved, but it's essential to wear comfortable shoes since the tour involves over two hours of walking and standing.

Boston

Walking tour of the Freedom Trail

Cost: $$

Are you passionate about American history? Traveling with school-age children? A stop in Boston provides an opportunity to explore significant historical events, including the colonies' fight for independence from England nearly 250 years ago.

Join a guided walking tour along Boston's iconic Freedom Trail to explore 16 historical landmarks. Highlights include Boston Common, the Massachusetts State House, the Old South Meeting House (where the Boston Tea Party was ignited in 1773), and the Old North Church, where Paul Revere famously hung two lanterns to warn of the British approach by sea during his midnight ride on April 18, 1775.

Key information: Freedom Trail walking tours typically last about 3 1/2 hours, covering a distance of 2 to 2 1/2 miles at a moderate pace. The tour usually concludes near Faneuil Hall and Quincy Market, giving you some time to explore on your own before heading back to your ship.

Tour of Fenway Park and Boston highlights

Cost: $$$

Whether you're a fan or not, the Boston Red Sox play in one of the most iconic stadiums in baseball history: Fenway Park. Sign up for this popular New England cruise excursion and join the ranks of some of the sport's most passionate fans as you step inside the oldest stadium in the major leagues, established in 1912.

Explore the dugouts, press box, manually operated scoreboard, Pesky's Pole in right field, and the towering 37-foot Green Monster left-field wall. During your journey to and from Fenway, you'll also enjoy guided commentary highlighting some of Boston's most historic sites from the comfort of your bus.

Key details: Family-friendly tours of Fenway Park and Boston highlights typically last around 3 1/2 hours and include some walking inside the stadium. Note that these tours do not coincide with actual games, and certain areas may be restricted due to stadium activities.

Portland, Maine

Tour of Portland's highlights and lighthouses

Cost: $$

Beyond its famous lobster, Maine is renowned for its lighthouses that line the rugged coastline. This sightseeing tour highlights a stunning landmark that has historically safeguarded sailors from peril, along with several vibrant neighborhoods in Portland.

After a bus tour through downtown Portland, where you can see Victorian homes and a contemporary Arts District, you'll continue to the scenic Portland Head Light, Maine's oldest lighthouse. Located within the historic grounds of Fort Williams, this Instagram-worthy site dates back to 1791 and boasts lovely gardens; a museum is also situated in the former lighthouse keeper's quarters.

Key details: These scenic tours typically last around two hours, with a significant portion of that time spent on the bus. Note that the museum entrance fee ($2) may not always be included in the tour price.

Kennebunkport

Cost: $$-$$$

Kennebunkport is a favored day trip destination from Portland. Cruise lines offer various shore excursions to this delightful seaside town, renowned as the summer retreat of former President George H.W. Bush and first lady Barbara Bush.

Shorter excursions highlight the town's 18th- and 19th-century sea captain mansions and provide free time for independent exploration. These may also feature a scenic sailing, offering the perfect view of the Bush estate at Walker's Point.

Longer tours merge bus sightseeing with a scenic cruise, a lunch of clam chowder and lobster rolls, and free time to explore Kennebunkport's shops and galleries.

Key information: Kennebunkport is about a 45-minute drive from Portland, with excursions lasting between three to seven hours. If you plan to shop, check with the shore excursion desk regarding the amount of free time available.

Bar Harbor, Maine

Acadia National Park

Cost: $$-$$$

Your cruise line will likely provide a range of excursions that delve into Acadia National Park, a coastal haven celebrated for its segment of Maine's 3,478 miles of shoreline and the breathtaking 360-degree views from Cadillac Mountain, rising 1,530 feet above sea level.

The most straightforward excursions allow for sightseeing via bus (or a small-group executive minicoach) and typically encompass the 27-mile Loop Road and/or scenic coastal points of interest. More challenging options include hiking or biking adventures. Alternatively, you can enjoy an excursion that combines a Loop tour in Acadia with a traditional lobster bake lunch.

Key information: Tours of Acadia National Park last between two to four hours, and visibility from Cadillac Mountain can vary with weather conditions. Moreover, the park restricts the number of buses permitted to stop at the mountain summit, so during September and October (foliage season), tour buses may not always have access.

Kayaking in Frenchman Bay

Cost: $$

Adventurous cruisers can choose to kayak in the waters around Mount Desert Island, renowned as one of the premier sea kayaking locations on the East Coast.

Local guides offer stable tandem (two-person) kayaks, teaching you how to master a smooth stroke as you navigate the beautiful coastline of Bar Harbor and Acadia National Park. Be on the lookout for local wildlife, including harbor seals, porpoises, and bald eagles.

Key information: Kayaking excursions usually last between 2 1/2 to three hours and are considered physically demanding. Those in good physical shape (especially with upper body strength) can join, and beginners are encouraged to participate. You'll receive guidance from a professional instructor and a dry bag for your essentials.

Saint John, New Brunswick

Zodiac whale watching on the Bay of Fundy

Cost: $$$

From June through October, the Bay of Fundy attracts hundreds of finback and minke whales, with humpbacks making their appearance in late summer. Visiting during this time provides a fantastic opportunity to see these majestic creatures as they feed and frolic.

Zodiac boats (and some tours using larger vessels or catamarans) set sail from St. Andrews, located about 75 minutes from Saint John. You can expect over a 90% chance of whale sightings during the two-hour adventure. Along the way, you might also spot seals, porpoises, and eagles. Most tours include free time to explore the charming seaside town of St. Andrews, with many offering a snack or lunch, often featuring seafood chowder.

Key points: Whale watching tours by Zodiac usually last six to seven hours, and the boats are equipped with fixed seats (some designed for shock absorption). This makes them suitable for most adults without significant back or mobility issues, as well as older children (typically ages 9 and up).

Reversing Falls, St. Martins sea caves, and the Bay of Fundy

Cost: $$

When in Saint John, don’t miss the dynamic reversing rapids at Fallsview Park. Your cruise line is likely to offer various Bay of Fundy excursions, so look for one that includes a visit to the park along with a trip to the quaint town of St. Martins.

The Reversing Rapids occur where the Saint John River meets the powerful tides of the Bay of Fundy. The interaction of water flowing into the bay at low tide and back out at high tide creates fascinating rapids and whirlpools.

In St. Martins, the main attraction is the sea caves—stunning formations carved into the red cliffs by tidal action. You’ll stroll along the pebbly beach and may even enter the caves if you visit at low tide, followed by a delicious bowl of seafood chowder. St. Martins also features several covered bridges and charming gift shops. Before heading back to your ship, you'll stop at the historic Old City Market, established in 1876, in Saint John.

Key points: St. Martins is approximately 70 minutes from Saint John, with tours typically lasting five to six hours. The sights you’ll experience depend on daily tide schedules and weather conditions (fog can occur). While the activity level is moderate, some walking is necessary, especially to reach the sea caves from the rocky beach.

Halifax, Nova Scotia

Peggy's Cove

Cost: $$-$$$

Peggy's Cove, a charming coastal village established in 1811, has been a muse for countless painters and photographers. It’s also a favored stop for Canadian cruise excursions.

Your cruise ship is likely to offer a variety of excursions, including a picturesque coastal drive and a longer option that allows you to enjoy a delightful lobster lunch and explore the town's shops and galleries at your leisure. A standout feature is the historic lighthouse from 1914 perched on a striking rocky promontory. In Halifax, some tours also include a pass by Province House, the meeting place of the Nova Scotia House of Assembly since 1819.

Key Information: Tours to Peggy's Cove last between three to seven hours. The journey from Halifax takes about an hour each way, so shorter tours provide limited time for town exploration.

Halifax hop-on, hop-off bus tour

Cost: $$

If you prefer to explore at your own pace, consider booking a tour that allows you to use Halifax's vintage double-decker buses on a 90-minute hop-on, hop-off route to see the sights.

The bus will take you to the Public Gardens, the Art Gallery of Nova Scotia, the trendy North End shopping area, and the Fairview Lawn Cemetery, the final resting place of 121 Titanic passengers who lost their lives in April 1912. Some cruise lines also offer additional perks, such as expedited entry to the Maritime Museum of the Atlantic, which features Titanic artifacts, and Citadel Hill National Historic Site, a star-shaped fortress built in 1856.

Key Information: Buses operate every 30 minutes, so make sure to plan your time at each attraction wisely to make the most of your port visit.

Sydney, Nova Scotia

Cape Breton Island

Price: $$$

Cape Breton Island showcases Nova Scotia's vibrant Scottish-Gaelic heritage and culture. This region, located in eastern Nova Scotia, is surrounded by the scenic Cabot Trail.

Cruise line tours from Sydney, the largest city on the island, offer varied experiences. Highlights often include the Bras d'Or Lakes area, home to Highland Village—a cultural center and living history museum focused on early Gaelic settlers in Nova Scotia. You'll also explore Baddeck village, the birthplace of Alexander Graham Bell, where a museum celebrates his life and inventions.

Stroll through the shops and cafes of Baddeck, then conclude your tour with a stop at Seal Island for a picturesque photo opportunity atop Kelly's Mountain, overlooking St. Ann's Bay.

Key Information: Excursions to Cape Breton typically last between four and seven hours, including a one-hour drive each way from the Sydney port. Expect a fair amount of walking, especially at Highland Village. Longer tours generally include lunch.

Fortress of Louisbourg

Price: $$

For history enthusiasts who love live reenactments, a guided tour to the Fortress of Louisbourg is a must. This site is North America's largest reconstructed 18th-century French fortified town.

Originally constructed between 1720 and 1740, the fortress was once the most significant military and trade hub for France on the continent. Spanning 12 acres, this Canadian National Historic Site features over 50 period buildings. Characters in mid-18th-century attire provide historical context as they reenact daily life from nearly 300 years ago.

Key Information: The Fortress of Louisbourg is located about 45 minutes from Sydney. Tours lasting less than four hours may leave insufficient time (only 30 to 45 minutes) for independent exploration after the guided portion. Expect considerable walking during this excursion.

Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island

Anne of Green Gables

Price: $$

Prince Edward Island offers numerous attractions, from its beautiful beach-lined national parks to its delicious seafood. However, the main allure, particularly for fans of literature, is Anne of Green Gables — the beloved character brought to life by PEI's own Lucy Maud Montgomery in her cherished series for young readers.

The spirited Anne, known for her red pigtails and straw bonnet, continues to capture hearts long after her first appearance over a century ago. Most cruise lines provide a range of excursions to Green Gables Heritage Place, the farm estate that inspired Montgomery. This Canadian National Historic Site features a museum dedicated to her life and works, along with the farm and the enchanting woodlands that fueled her imagination.

Important to know: Tours typically last between four to seven hours. For dedicated Anne enthusiasts, it's essential to select a tour that allows sufficient time to explore both the museum and the grounds at Green Gables Heritage Place, located about 40 minutes from Charlottetown. If your port stay is extended, you may also have the chance to purchase separate tickets for "Anne & Gilbert, The Musical," which is performed in Charlottetown from late May to early October.

Charlottetown culinary tour

Price: $$

Charlottetown offers a delightful setting for a culinary walking tour, where you can taste a variety of local delicacies. Enjoy a menu featuring oysters, mussels, lobster rolls, french fries made from local PEI potatoes, craft beer, and much more.

Tip: If you still have room, make a stop at Cows to try their local ice cream and grab a bag of Cow Chips (chocolate-covered potato chips) to enjoy later.

Important to know: Food tours typically last around three hours and involve walking approximately 2 miles.

Quebec City

A leisurely walk through Old Town

Price: $$

As you wander through the picturesque streets of Quebec City's Old Town with your guide, you'll feel as if you've traveled back in time and across the Atlantic to France.

Established in 1608 by French explorer Samuel de Champlain, this UNESCO World Heritage Site captivates visitors. Key attractions include Place Royale in Lower Town (the city's first settlement) and Le Quartier Petit-Champlain (its inaugural shopping street).

In Upper Town, you'll visit landmarks such as Place d'Armes, Dufferin Terrace, and Place de l'Hôtel de Ville, all while admiring the iconic Fairmont Le Château Frontenac. Some tours may even take you inside this historic hotel, built in 1893 and inspired by French castles, for afternoon tea and pastries. Other walks may end with a delightful wine tasting.

Important to know: These walking tours typically last about three hours and traverse hilly, cobblestone streets.

Montmorency Falls and Île d'Orléans

Price: $$-$$$

Located just 20 minutes from Quebec City, the breathtaking Montmorency Falls plunge 270 feet down a rocky cliff into the St. Lawrence River, making it one and a half times taller than Niagara Falls.

Some tours offer the chance to capture photos from the base of the falls, while others include a tram ride to the summit for stunning views from a suspension bridge. Many excursions also feature a visit to the late-19th-century Sainte-Anne-de-Beaupré Basilica, one of North America's premier Catholic shrines. Additional stops may include the picturesque Île d'Orléans, known for its charming villages and historic buildings, with some tours also visiting a sugar shack to sample maple candy and other delights.

Important to know: Tours to Montmorency Falls usually last between three to four hours.

Montreal

Old Montreal walking tour

Price: $$-$$$

Montreal, the world's second-largest French-speaking city after Paris, features a charming cobblestone Old Town known as Vieux-Montreal, which dates back to the city's establishment in 1642.

In this area, you'll discover the iconic Place d'Armes and the neo-Gothic Notre-Dame Basilica, known for its stunning blue interior. Nearby, Place Jacques-Cartier is lined with charming cafes. The adjacent Old Port runs along the St. Lawrence River, showcasing a lively blend of historical and contemporary architecture.

Some walking tours in Old Montreal pair top attractions with culinary experiences, offering tastings that range from French pâté and cheese to smoked meats and Portuguese custard tarts.

Important to know: Old Montreal walking tours typically last between 2.5 to 3 hours, with most of the time spent on your feet.

Montreal highlights city tour

Price: $$

If walking tours aren't your preference, consider a bus tour for a comprehensive overview of Montreal, covering many of the city's architecturally vibrant neighborhoods.

Key highlights include Old Montreal, the stunning Notre-Dame Basilica, the bustling downtown business district, the expansive 500-acre Mount Royal Park, the historic Golden Square Mile with its Victorian and Renaissance architecture, and the iconic Olympic Park.

Important to know: Bus city tours usually last about three hours and are primarily panoramic, with up to two-thirds of the time spent on the bus. There will typically be three or four stops for photographs and a brief visit to Notre-Dame Basilica of Montreal.