East Coast

East Coast Cruise Guide

East Coast Cruise Guide

An East Coast cruise along the US coastline is a journey that embraces the charm and history of America's Atlantic shores. Beginning in the bustling city of New York, you'll trace a path northward, stopping at ports like Boston and Portland, where colonial heritage and coastal beauty collide. These cruises offer a delightful blend of history, culture, and scenic landscapes, providing a unique taste of the northeastern United States along the captivating East Coast.

Quebec City
Sydney

Key East Coast Cruise Information

Ships & Cruise Lines

Cruises along the East Coast feature a diverse fleet, from intimate, destination-focused vessels to large, resort-style ships. Luxury and boutique lines like Azamara, with ships such as the Azamara Journey and Azamara Quest, are small enough to dock in smaller, quainter ports, offering a more immersive experience. Meanwhile, major lines like Carnival, with ships including the Carnival Sunshine and Carnival Venezia, and Celebrity Cruises bring mega-ship amenities like extensive dining options, Broadway-style shows, and elaborate spas. Lines such as Holland America Line and Cunard offer a more classic, refined ambiance that aligns perfectly with the historic and scenic nature of the ports, attracting passengers who appreciate tradition and enrichment.

Given the region's variable weather and the emphasis on scenery, ships best suited for East Coast cruising often feature specific amenities. An indoor pool or a solarium with a retractable roof is a significant plus, allowing for comfortable swimming regardless of the outside temperature. Observation lounges with floor-to-ceiling windows are essential for enjoying the stunning coastal views and vibrant fall foliage in comfort. Many ships also offer enrichment programs, such as lectures on local history, wildlife, and culture, which enhance the journey. With an average cruise length of 10 nights, having a balcony is highly recommended to privately soak in the dramatic landscapes of the New England and Canadian coastlines.

Last updated on June 20, 2025

Best Time to Cruise

The East Coast cruise season runs from spring through fall, with the most popular and vibrant period being September and October. This is when the famous fall foliage season peaks, painting the landscapes of New England and Canada in brilliant shades of red, orange, and yellow. The air is crisp and cool, and ports are bustling with leaf-peepers. Prices are at their highest during these months, and booking well in advance is crucial. The summer months of June, July, and August offer the warmest weather, perfect for outdoor activities like kayaking and hiking. This is a popular time for families, with long daylight hours to explore, though it's also a peak travel season with higher crowd levels.

For those seeking lower prices and fewer crowds, the shoulder seasons of spring (April and May) are an excellent choice. The weather is milder but can be unpredictable, so packing layers is essential. You'll be rewarded with blooming flowers and the reawakening of coastal towns after winter. No matter the season, preparation is key. A waterproof jacket and comfortable walking shoes are non-negotiable. For fall cruises, add a warm hat, gloves, and a scarf. Summer cruisers should pack sunscreen and bug spray. Whale watching is a common activity, with sightings most frequent during the summer months when whales migrate to the nutrient-rich waters off Maine and the Canadian Maritimes.

Last updated on June 20, 2025

Who Should Go

East Coast cruises hold strong appeal for history buffs, nature lovers, and travelers seeking a relaxing, scenic getaway. The itineraries are rich with American and Canadian history, from the colonial streets of Portland, Maine, to the maritime heritage of Halifax and St. John. The typical median price of around $148 per person per day makes it a great value for those who appreciate culture and scenery. This type of cruise is particularly popular with mature travelers (50+) and multi-generational families who enjoy the comfortable pace and the blend of onboard relaxation with accessible shore excursions like city trolley tours and scenic drives. The focus on history and natural beauty caters to those with an intellectual curiosity and an appreciation for landscapes.

However, this destination may not be the right fit for everyone. Travelers seeking high-octane adventure, tropical sun, and a vibrant nightlife scene might prefer a Caribbean itinerary. The weather, even in summer, can be cool and unpredictable, and the vibe is more educational and tranquil than celebratory. While many ports are walkable, the historic nature means some areas have cobblestone streets, which could be a challenge for those with mobility issues, though most popular tours offer accessible options. Ultimately, travelers who love cozy sweaters, a great lobster roll, stunning foliage, and a deep dive into maritime history will find an East Coast cruise to be an unforgettable experience.

Last updated on June 20, 2025

Best East Coast Cruise Deals

10 Night Boston to Boston cruise
August 28, 2025
10 Night Canada & Boston Cruise
CruiseScore™ (4.56/5)
Celebrity Silhouette
S M L XL
Boston Charlottetown Quebec City Sydney Boston
$1,037
$104 per day
Balcony
13 Night Quebec City to Miami cruise
October 3, 2025
Virgin Voyages Brilliant Lady
S M L XL
Quebec City Halifax St. John Eastport Boston Charleston Miami
$1,027
$79 per day
Inside
10 Night Quebec City to Boston cruise
September 9, 2025
Majestic Princess
S M L XL
Quebec City Quebec City Saguenay Charlottetown Sydney Halifax St. John Portland Boston
$899
$90 per day
Balcony
14 Night New York to New York cruise
October 3, 2025
Cunard Queen Mary 2
S M L XL
New York Newport Halifax Sept-Iles Saguenay Quebec City Corner Brook Sydney New York
$1,929
$138 per day
Balcony
7 Night New York to New York cruise
August 31, 2025
Norwegian Getaway
S M L XL
New York Boston Bar Harbor St. John Halifax New York
$687
$98 per day
Inside
9 Night Bayonne to Bayonne cruise
September 3, 2026
Royal Caribbean Independence of the Seas
S M L XL
Bayonne Boston Portland St. John Sydney Bayonne
$923
$103 per day
Inside
11 Night Boston to Boston cruise
September 29, 2025
Celebrity Silhouette
S M L XL
Boston Rockland Halifax Sydney Quebec City Charlottetown Portland Boston
$1,197
$109 per day
Inside
7 Night New York to New York cruise
September 14, 2025
Norwegian Getaway
S M L XL
New York Newport Bar Harbor St. John Halifax New York
$737
$105 per day
Inside
9 Night Baltimore to Baltimore cruise
October 23, 2025
Royal Caribbean Vision of the Seas
S M L XL
Baltimore Boston St. John Sydney Halifax Baltimore
$988
$110 per day
Inside
7 Night New York to New York cruise
September 7, 2025
Norwegian Getaway
S M L XL
New York Newport Boston Bar Harbor St. John Halifax New York
$767
$110 per day
Inside

Last Minute East Coast Cruises

10 Night Boston to Boston cruise
August 28, 2025
10 Night Canada & Boston Cruise
CruiseScore™ (4.56/5)
Celebrity Silhouette
S M L XL
Boston Charlottetown Quebec City Sydney Boston
$1,037
$104 per day
Balcony
10 Night Quebec City to Boston cruise
September 9, 2025
Majestic Princess
S M L XL
Quebec City Quebec City Saguenay Charlottetown Sydney Halifax St. John Portland Boston
$899
$90 per day
Balcony
7 Night New York to New York cruise
August 31, 2025
Norwegian Getaway
S M L XL
New York Boston Bar Harbor St. John Halifax New York
$687
$98 per day
Inside
11 Night Boston to Boston cruise
September 29, 2025
Celebrity Silhouette
S M L XL
Boston Rockland Halifax Sydney Quebec City Charlottetown Portland Boston
$1,197
$109 per day
Inside
7 Night New York to New York cruise
September 14, 2025
Norwegian Getaway
S M L XL
New York Newport Bar Harbor St. John Halifax New York
$737
$105 per day
Inside
7 Night New York to New York cruise
September 7, 2025
Norwegian Getaway
S M L XL
New York Newport Boston Bar Harbor St. John Halifax New York
$767
$110 per day
Inside
10 Night New York to New York cruise
September 8, 2025
Island Princess
S M L XL
New York Halifax Sydney Charlottetown St. John Portland Boston New York
$1,189
$119 per day
Outside
7 Night New York to New York cruise
August 24, 2025
Norwegian Getaway
S M L XL
New York Boston Bar Harbor St. John Halifax New York
$779
$111 per day
Inside
7 Night Boston to Quebec City cruise
August 22, 2025
Norwegian Jewel
S M L XL
Boston Portland Halifax Sydney Charlottetown La Baie Quebec City
$710
$101 per day
Inside
7 Night New York to New York cruise
August 23, 2025
Enchanted Princess
S M L XL
New York Boston Portland St. John Halifax New York
$929
$133 per day
Balcony

Monthly East Coast Cruise Prices

Prices are around steady throughout the year. Overall East Coast Cruises are fairly affordable compared to other types. The diagram below shows the monthly average cost per day for East Coast Cruises.

Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec

Monthly East Coast Cruise Prices

Prices are around steady throughout the year. Overall East Coast Cruises are fairly affordable compared to other types. The diagram below shows the monthly average cost per day for East Coast Cruises.

Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec

Monthly East Coast Cruise Prices

Prices are around steady throughout the year. Overall East Coast Cruises are fairly affordable compared to other types. The diagram below shows the monthly average cost per day for East Coast Cruises.

Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec

Monthly East Coast Cruise Prices

Prices are around steady throughout the year. Overall East Coast Cruises are fairly affordable compared to other types. The diagram below shows the monthly average cost per day for East Coast Cruises.

Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
$115
May
$148
Jun
$182
Jul
$209
Aug
$163
Sep
$192
Oct
$199
Nov
Dec

Monthly East Coast Cruise Prices

Prices are around steady throughout the year. Overall East Coast Cruises are fairly affordable compared to other types. The diagram below shows the monthly average cost per day for East Coast Cruises.

Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
$115
May
$148
Jun
$182
Jul
$209
Aug
$163
Sep
$192
Oct
$199
Nov
Dec

Monthly East Coast Cruise Prices

Prices are around steady throughout the year. Overall East Coast Cruises are fairly affordable compared to other types. The diagram below shows the monthly average cost per day for East Coast Cruises.

Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
$115
May
$148
Jun
$182
Jul
$209
Aug
$163
Sep
$192
Oct
$199
Nov
Dec

Monthly East Coast Cruise Prices

Prices are around steady throughout the year. Overall East Coast Cruises are fairly affordable compared to other types. The diagram below shows the monthly average cost per day for East Coast Cruises.

Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
$115
May
$148
Jun
$182
Jul
$209
Aug
$163
Sep
$192
Oct
$199
Nov
Dec

Monthly East Coast Cruise Prices

Prices are around steady throughout the year. Overall East Coast Cruises are fairly affordable compared to other types. The diagram below shows the monthly average cost per day for East Coast Cruises.

Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
$115
May
$148
Jun
$182
Jul
$209
Aug
$163
Sep
$192
Oct
$199
Nov
Dec

Monthly East Coast Cruise Prices

Prices are around steady throughout the year. Overall East Coast Cruises are fairly affordable compared to other types. The diagram below shows the monthly average cost per day for East Coast Cruises.

Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
$115
May
$148
Jun
$182
Jul
$209
Aug
$163
Sep
$192
Oct
$199
Nov
Dec

Monthly East Coast Cruise Prices

Prices are around steady throughout the year. Overall East Coast Cruises are fairly affordable compared to other types. The diagram below shows the monthly average cost per day for East Coast Cruises.

Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
$115
May
$148
Jun
$182
Jul
$209
Aug
$163
Sep
$192
Oct
$199
Nov
Dec

Monthly East Coast Cruise Prices

Prices are around steady throughout the year. Overall East Coast Cruises are fairly affordable compared to other types. The diagram below shows the monthly average cost per day for East Coast Cruises.

Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec

Monthly East Coast Cruise Prices

Prices are around steady throughout the year. Overall East Coast Cruises are fairly affordable compared to other types. The diagram below shows the monthly average cost per day for East Coast Cruises.

Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec

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