Inviting you to explore the Northeastern Coast of the United States, New England Cruises are the greatest way to see America’s most historic destinations. Aboard luxury small ship cruise lines, visit the likes of Boston, Massachusetts and Portland, Maine with unprecedented access. Travel to the states of Maine, Massachusetts, Rhode Island, and even New York, where each and every port of call is an adventure.
Although you’ll sail the Atlantic Ocean with New England cruises, small ships are the most popular method of cruising. This is largely due to nearby access to Canada’s East Coast – where the St. Lawrence Seaway gives convenient access all the way to even the furthest of the Great Lakes.
Larger, ocean-going cruise ships aren’t able to fit through the winding river and locks that make their way into North America’s interior. You’ll find that many of our New England itineraries make their way north into Canada, building on the rich history and natural beauty you’ll encounter.
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Great Lakes LibraryTo explore more of the Great Lakes, from their histories to their myths and mysteries, visit our hand-curated Great Lakes Cruise Library.
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Discover America’s History in New England
Once known as the “New World” to incoming English immigrants, New England has an extensive history that goes back much further than the early pilgrims. Prior to the first arrival of the Mayflower in Provincetown, Massachusetts on November 11, 1620, New England was settled by Native Americans like the Iroquois Confederacy, a compendium of nations that brokered peace for an extensive trade network between themselves. The Iroquois Confederacy is one of the earliest establishments of participatory democracy on Planet Earth, first formed in 1142. This governmental structure would become a fundamental part of the United States’ own founding principles, referenced by Benjamin Franklin and officially acknowledged in 1988 with the US House of Congress’ Resolution 331.
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Today, cruises to New England and Canada highlight history just like this with incredible destinations and excursion tours, even going so far as to bring on local experts and historians for engaging lectures. Destinations like Boston – where Paul Revere began his midnight ride – and Provincetown – where the first English settlers landed – allow you to see history firsthand.
New England’s Passion for Nature and the Environment
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When on a New England cruise, you’ll also visit a plethora of destinations famous for natural beauty. The region is known for its coastal vistas, its scenic lighthouses, and colorful foliage. With nearly every New England port of call, you’ll find something for nature lovers. Ports of call like Bar Harbor, Maine are literal gateways into national parks – in this case, the rocky-shored, tree-covered Acadia National Park.
Other popular destinations in New England are tied to the environment in a different sort of way. The town of Rockland, Maine is one of those. Known for its industries more than anything else – Rockland is the self-titled “Lobster Capital of the World.” It’s also deeply tied to limestone and granite, using the industries to plant itself as a fixture in the state of Maine.
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Big City Life in New England
New England cruises from New York are easily one of the genre’s most popular offerings. Sailing right into the Manhattan Cruise Terminal, cruisers enjoy instant access to the “Big Apple” from their doorstep. Alas, the true reason that many prefer to cruise to New York as opposed to drive or fly is the VIP-level access that comes with each visit. Behind-the-scenes tours of top attractions and educational lectures from local experts let you immerse yourself in the city’s history, culture, and creativity.
Similarly, New England cruises from Boston are highly regarded for their showcasing of the Massachusetts capital. When you arrive at Flynn Cruiseport Boston, you’ll arrive in a similar fashion to an airport, then have the chance to tour the city – from its top sights to its delicious cuisine.
Visit New England Aboard the Top Small Ship Cruise Lines
Whether your cruise sticks solely to New England destinations while offering views of vibrant fall foliage, moves to the Great White North of Canada, or South to balmy Florida, our New England cruise lines deliver the best in small ship cruising. On board, you’ll find a far more personal experience than larger cruise ships. Staff will greet you by name as you all cruise together in something more akin to a yacht than the Titanic.
The compact size of these cruises doesn’t mean cramped spaces though. It means fewer guests, more attention to detail, and a personal experience where your thoughts, preferences, and questions truly matter. This unique feature of small ship sailing is what makes those who’ve cruised with us before want to come back for more. And the best part? It’s commonplace among each and every one of our New England cruises.
To learn more about these historic, adventure-filled cruises or any of our other offerings, contact our North American cruise experts today!
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Our New England Cruise Lines
Updated 3-18-22 BB