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Canada & New England Cruises

Discover american history & natural beauty.

Best Canada & New England Itineraries

Porthole Magazine

The pages of history and stunning natural beauty blend seamlessly as you cruise to Canada & New England to see the color-drenched shores with Princess. Visit the iconic lighthouse at Peggy's Cove in Halifax, return to the Gilded Age in Newport and stroll down Boston's historic Freedom Trail. On board New England cruises, you'll dine like a New Englander on succulent crab cakes and lobster as the allure of the northern seaboard embraces you.

Canada & New England

Discover the beauty of Canada and New England with a variety of itineraries to choose from in both summer and fall. See New England's most scenic coastlines, taste Maine’s famous lobster, and visit some of the most iconic lighthouses. Explore Cape Breton Island (Sydney) or enjoy an overnight in Quebec City. The options are endless on cruises to Canada & New England with Princess. 

American Heritage

Calling all history buffs - follow the Founding Fathers' footsteps around the historic Virginia triangle and visit Jamestown and Colonial Williamsburg on excursions through Norfolk. This unique itinerary sails from New York in the summer and visits popular ports where history was made. Explore the Freedom Trail in Boston, Fort Sumter in Charleston and more to gain a deeper understanding of what shaped America.

Remote, vibrant and rich, Greenland is unlike anywhere else. Cruises to Greenland — the world's largest island — offer views of scenic fjords in Qaqortoq, storybook cottage sightings in Nuuk and strolls through the colorful fields of Nanortalik. Explore Greenland's quaint and unique beauty, and experience its indigenous culture with Princess, the cruise line that visits the most ports in Greenland. 

Canada & New England cruisetours

Explore more of Canada & New England, before or after your cruise, with a cruisetour vacation. Stay overnight in historic towns such as Williamsburg and Gettysburg, or spend time enjoying the stunning Niagara Falls and Montreal, to savor all of Canada & New England’s beauty.

Why Cruise Canada & New England?

See the charm & history of Canada & New England

Cruise from New York, New York

Discover the City of New York

A leading global metropolitan city, New York City influences the world’s commerce, finance, culture, fashion and entertainment. Sail roundtrip from the city that never sleeps and discover world-famous landmarks like the New York Stock Exchange or Statue of Liberty. Explore iconic neighborhoods, and see the city through the eyes of the locals.

Cruise from Québec City, Québec

Enjoy Quebec City

Feel like you’ve traveled to France without leaving North America. Duck into a café for wine and brie, and explore the architecture of Old Québec, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Enjoy the beautiful Quebéc City before you set sail on a 10-14 day Canada & New England cruise . 

Cruise from Boston, Massachusetts

Explore the charms of New England

Discover the historic and cultural treasures and the quaint New England charm Boston has to offer. A city known for attracting history buffs, academics, sports fanatics and beer drinkers is now also calling foodies, outdoor enthusiasts, music lovers and cultural travelers to experience its beauty before embarking on a Canada & New England cruise.

Cruise to iconic rocky coastlines

Cruise Eastern Canada and discover a decidedly French influence, from the idyllic coastal villages of Nova Scotia to the Rue St. Louis in Québec City. See the best-known sights, such as the lighthouse at Peggy's Cove in Halifax or the churches of Saint John.

Revisit history from Colonial times

Cruise New England and discover America's roots along its rocky coastline. Visit historic cities like Philadelphia, home of the Liberty Bell, the house where Thomas Jefferson wrote the Declaration of Independence, as well as the great melting pot of New York City.

Savor fresh regional seafood

The quaint New England of earlier times is alive and well in charming port cities, like Portland and Newport. Grab a bowl of clam chowder or a lobster roll, or enjoy fresh Maine blueberries.

Abundant adventures ashore

Step back in time to the Gilded Age in Newport. For Anne of Green Gables fans, Charlottetown is a reader’s paradise. Make a day of it in Québec City, as you roam the narrow cobbled lanes and venture into Chateau Frontenac - a National Historical Site. And on itineraries with More Ashore Late Night calls, we stay until at least 9 p.m. in port so you can also experience some of the fabulous nightlife.

Canada & New England Cruisetour Vacations

5 to 7-day land tour for Canada & New England

Historic America cruisetour

Immerse yourself in America’s roots as you tour the nation’s capital, interact with early settlers at a living history museum, visit Independence Hall in Philadelphia, and stand on the same soil as Thomas Jefferson at his Monticello estate, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Maple Explorer cruisetour

Enjoy a Canadian cruise into the thunderous mist of Niagara Falls then visit Canada’s historic UNESCO World Heritage Sites: Old Québec, the only walled city in North America, and Rideau Canal, built after the War of 1812 to help protect Canada from U.S. military attack.

Canada & New England Cruise Travel Articles

Read about Celtic influences in Sydney, the French in Quebec, colonial history in Charleston and more.

Visit Canada & New England

Experience all Princess Cruises has to offer. Watch this video showing what you can expect when you take a Canada & New England cruise.

Boston Shore Excursions: History and Baseball

Book a Canada and New England cruise from Princess Cruises and explore Boston, Massachusetts. Boston shore excursions feature Fenway Park tours and more.

Halifax Shore Excursions: Explore the History of Nova Scotia

Explore one of Canada's most historical cities during Halifax shore excursions from Princess Cruises. There's so much to see on Nova Scotia shore excursions.

Newport Shore Excursions: A Day In Port

Consider these Newport shore excursions on your New England cruise with Princess. Enjoy your day in Newport to the fullest with these shore excursions.

Nova Scotia Cuisine: 5 Local Foods to Savor

Take advantage of your time in port by sampling delicious Nova Scotia cuisine. See our recommendations for Nova Scotia local food and top restaurants today.

Travel, Airfare, & Hotels: Let Princess Get You There

Princess EZair® Flights

Stress-free airfare

Remove the hassle from air travel and give yourself the gift of flexibility, time and a thicker wallet with Princess EZair flights. We negotiate lower rates with the airlines, allow you to modify your flight up to 45 days prior with no penalty and protect you if your flight is late or canceled.

EZair flight quotes are available on our cruise search result details pages.

Airplane to Ship Transfer

We get you where you need to go

Let Princess pick you up from the airport and take you directly to your ship or hotel when you arrive, even if you didn't book your airfare through us. A uniformed Princess representative meets you at the airport after you've retrieved your luggage and transports you directly to your ship or hotel without you having to worry about the logistics of navigating a new city.

Cruise Plus Hotel Packages

Stay longer and relax

Extend your cruise vacation, and simplify your travel plans with a hotel stay at the beginning or end of your cruise. With a Cruise Plus Hotel Package, a Princess representative meets you at the airport and pier, transporting you to and from your hotel. The package includes the cost of your hotel stay, transportation, luggage handling and the services of the representative.

Need help planning?

Princess Cruise Vacation Planners are a dedicated resource to help you every step of the way through the planning process of your cruise vacation. And the best part is, they are absolutely FREE!

Cruise deals & promotions

Find our top sales, deals, partnerships and promotions for our destinations all in one place. We run promotions throughout the year and sometimes run sweepstakes where you could win prizes!

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Canada & New England Cruises

Our New England and Canada cruises glide past incredible scenery (hello fall foliage) and stop into historic ports and cities, some well-traveled, some hidden jewels. Enjoy quick 6- to-8-day getaways with convenient Boston departures to the culturally rich Montréal or Québec City. Or make it a longer voyage on cruises to Greenland to see a truly pristine landscape dotted with primary-colored cottages. You can also circumnavigate Iceland on some of these fantastic new cruises. Whatever New England cruise or Canada cruise you choose, amazing is on the itinerary. Explore the early days of the “New World” by walking the grounds of significant battles and touring fascinating sites you’ll remember from history books. On our popular Nova Scotia cruises from Boston, munch on fresh seafood and tap your toe along to a fiddler. Or roam the rolling hills, sandy beaches, and Victorian houses of Prince Edward Island. From lighthouses set against the golden summer sun to the most vibrant fall foliage imaginable, a vacation in New England and Canada packs in a lifetime of memories.   

CRUISES FROM BOSTON

• Cruises From Montreal, Quebec

• Cruises From Quebec City, Quebec
• Cruises From Boston

Featured Canada & New England Cruise Ports

Bar Harbor, Maine, US

Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island, Canada

Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada

Sydney, Nova Scotia, Canada

Featured shore excursions.

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Enjoy 75% off your second guest’s cruise fare and get bonus savings of up to $150. Plus, additional guests in your stateroom sail free on select sailings.

Canada & New England Cruises

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Cruises to Canada & New England 

Rugged coastlines, dramatic lighthouses, and quaint fishing villages under vast skies are all part of the charm of cruises to Canada and New England. The joy of exploring these beautiful shores is the sheer variety you’ll experience on our itineraries, from culture-packed cities like Boston and Quebec City to sweeping landscapes, rocky shorelines, and forests that flaunt their blazing fall colors in one of nature’s most spectacular shows.

Hike the Rockland Harbor Trail. Wander the historic cobblestone alleys and sample French cuisine in Quebec City. Learn about maritime history in Portland, Maine, and Halifax, Nova Scotia. Wherever you visit on your Canada and New England cruise, you’ll return enriched and refreshed.

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Discover Canada & New England with us

Enjoy luxurious staterooms, cuisine, and service as you discover Boston, Bar Harbor, Saint John, Halifax, Charlottetown, Sydney and Portland, Maine.  Hike beautiful national parks, boasting extraordinary views and wildlife. Explore historic landmarks and American monuments. Eat delicious seafood, like Maine lobster, steamed claws, and oysters. Savor exquisite French cuisine

Featured Highlights

Historic towns.

Explore some of the oldest ports in North America along the wild coastlines of Canada and New England. Charlottetown is the birthplace of the Canadian Federation, while Halifax is packed with seafaring history; the Maritime Museum of the Atlantic is one of the best to visit. Quebec’s old center dates back to the 17th century, while in Boston, the Freedom Trail is a deep dive into American history. Pretty Portland is packed with colonial architecture and dates back to 1632.

Wild Coastlines

Rugged rock formations, dense forest, and scenic waterfront trails define the majestic coastlines of Canada and New England. Cycle or hike Portland’s Eastern Promenade Trail and visit the Portland Head Light. From Sydney, Nova Scotia, go whale watching or follow the dramatic Cabot Trail. Join a tour from Halifax to quaint Peggy’s Cove, guarded by a lighthouse perched on wave-lashed rocks. In the Fall, admire the blazing ochre, scarlet, and orange trees as you sail along uninhabited shores.

Delicious Cuisine

Lobster is king in New England. No visit is complete without indulging in a juicy lobster roll or claws drenched in melted butter while in Maine. All along the coast, you’ll find fresh oysters, fish and chips, rich, creamy chowders, craft beers, and locally produced wines. Feast on fine French cuisine in Quebec, as well as local cheeses from Ile d’Orleans, sweet and savory crêpes, poutine rich with gravy and cheese, and crusty baguettes filled with local ham.

View Popular Canada & New England Cruise Destinations

Charlottetown

Quebec City

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Canada & New England Ships

Canada & New England Shore Excursions

Why Cruise to Canada & New England with Celebrity Cruises

Explore Canada & New England on Celebrity Eclipse and the refurbished Celebrity Silhouette and you’ll enjoy a delightful combination of exciting days ashore and on board, a haven of cozy relaxation on these sleek, contemporary ships. Unwind in The Spa after a long hike. Relax in the balmy warmth of The Solarium. On summer nights, enjoy cocktails al fresco at the stylish Sunset Bar as you set sail from another historic port. All our cruises include an overnight stay in Quebec, giving you extra time to get acquainted with this enchanting city.

On any of Celebrity’s ships, you can enjoy an impressive range of restaurants, with menus designed by a Michelin-starred chef. Try anything from mouth-watering seafood to classic Italian and gourmet French cuisine. Elevate your experience at The Retreat® , with suite accommodation, access to an exclusive lounge, and dining at the stylish Luminae.

Featured Articles

Best East Coast Cruises

Explore beautiful coastal towns, hike around breathtaking national parks, and stroll through historic districts by taking a cruise along the East Coast of the United States and Canada.

9 Incredible Things Canada Is Known For

Canada is a country filled with famous landmarks, historical wonders, delicious food, incredible culture, and all the outdoor exploration you could want.

16 of the Best Places to Visit in New England

From the historic enclaves of Boston to the coastal towns of Maine, or the Gilded Age mansions of Newport, Rhode Island, the best places to visit in New England have much to offer all year long.

What Is Quebec Known For?

The capital city of Canada’s Quebec province has enough charm and culture to entertain any type of traveler.

Fall in Maine: 12 Unforgettable Experiences

Maine in the fall is nothing short of magical. While the northern New England state is picturesque all year long, when the leaves begin to turn in late September, the effect is enchanting.

14 Best Things to Do in Halifax, Nova Scotia

The 12 Best Day Trips from Boston

What Is Maine Known For?

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Top Canada & New England FAQs

What is the best time to go on a New England cruise?

Late summer and early fall is a wonderful time to go on a New England cruise. The weather is still warm and the trees are beginning to assume their brilliant fall foliage. As September progresses, the colors become more vibrant, and the evenings are cooler.

What are the main ports of call?

Ports of call on our Canada & New England cruises include Portland and Rockland in Maine; Quebec City; pretty Charlottetown on Prince Edward Island; Sydney and Halifax, Nova Scotia; and Boston, Massachusetts, from where our cruises depart.

All of our itineraries include an overnight stay in Quebec City, giving you plenty of time to explore the historic center, the exciting cuisine, and the lush surrounding countryside.

Do I need a passport if my cruise stops in Canada?

Round-trip cruises from Boston to Canada are technically known as closed-loop cruises, which means U.S. citizens can join one without a passport.

This is one of the reasons why these itineraries are so popular. You can, of course, use your passport or passport card as an ID if you have one. But in the case of closed-loop cruises, U.S. citizens are allowed to enter or depart the country with proof of citizenship.

According to U.S. Customs & Border Protection, this includes an Enhanced Driver’s License, which is a state-issued driver’s license that provides proof of identity and U.S. citizenship; a government-issued birth certificate (issued by the Vital Records Department in the state where the person was born) or passport; and if 16 or older, a government-issued driver’s license or picture ID denoting photo, name, and date of birth.

The Enhanced Driver’s License allows you to re-enter the U.S. from Canada, Mexico, and the Caribbean and is valid at land and sea border crossings, but not airports.

Different documentation is acceptable for minors under 16, including an original, notarized, or certified copy of their birth certificate, a Consular Report of Birth Abroad, or a Certificate of Naturalization. Voter registration cards and Social Security cards are not considered proof of citizenship.

If you are not a U.S. citizen, you will need a passport to enter Canada. It’s your responsibility to check the requirements, so consult your government’s website before traveling.

What should I pack?

Depending on the time of year you’ve chosen, pack for a maritime climate, which means warm, but not hot summers and mild, but not bitter winters. A light waterproof jacket is handy for the occasional rain showers. You’ll need comfortable walking shoes if you enjoy hiking—and there are some spectacular hikes in Canada and New England. Pack suitable footwear for wandering around towns, too; many in this part of the world have cobblestone streets.

Throughout the ship, casual resort wear, sundresses, shorts, polos, or button-downs are appropriate, paired with sandals, low heels, and loafers. In main and specialty dining, we ask guests to refrain from wearing swimsuits, see-through coverups or robes, bare feet, tank tops, T-shirts, and baseball caps. 

Smart Casual attire is required for entry to main dining, specialty dining, and the Celebrity Theatre. Smart Casual means you look comfortable yet tasteful in a dress, skirt, long pants, or jeans with a stylish top or button-down. Shorts and flip-flops are not considered Smart Casual. 

Each itinerary features one to two more “formal” nights that we call Evening Chic. Evening Chic means you dress to impress, glamorous and sophisticated in your own way, with a cocktail dress, skirt, slacks, or designer jeans, an elegant dress top, or blazer—some guests even pack a tuxedo or gown for onboard photos. 

The daily program, delivered to your stateroom and available at the Guest Relations Desk, will be your guide to the correct attire each evening. If you do not wish to participate in Evening Chic, Smart Casual attire is acceptable for dining and attending the theater.

What kinds of excursions are available?

We offer a wide range of excursions to suit every taste, whether your interest is history, the great outdoors, food, art, or all of these. From Halifax, visit quaint Peggy’s Cove and learn about the tragedy of the Titanic. Sydney, Nova Scotia is where you’ll see magnificent scenery along the spectacular Cabot Trail. In Charlottetown, take a tour in a horse-drawn carriage.

Foodie Portland is the place to join a culinary stroll and then walk it off on the Eastern Promenade Trail. In Quebec, meanwhile, you could join a guided walking tour, visit dramatic Montmorency Falls, and spend an evening at the Sugar Shack to enjoy folklore and local cuisine.

How long are these itineraries?

Our Canada and New England itineraries are either 10 or 11 nights long, and all sail round trip from Boston, Massachusetts.

What kind of weather should I expect?

Late summer in Canada and New England brings still-warm temperatures and sunny days. September is, for example, a wonderful month to visit Maine and Quebec City, with fewer visitors, low rainfall, and bright days. 

October is the time to visit to see the fall colors in their full glory, the trees decked out in dazzling crimson, ochre, burnt orange, and yellow. Evenings are cooler by now, but part of the fun is wrapping up warm and enjoying the crisp air.

What is there to do on the ship?

There’s no shortage of entertainment on our stylish, contemporary ships. Relax by the pool, or in the balmy Solarium on cooler days. Join a fitness class or unwind in the spa. Enjoy dining al fresco at the Mast Grill, and elegant evenings in the beautiful Main Restaurant, where you’ll find regionally inspired and international menus designed by a Michelin-starred chef. Evenings are packed with entertainment, from glittering shows to comedy, quizzes, dancing, and live music.

Elevate your experience to The Retreat® and you’ll dine in the exclusive Luminae at The Retreat, as well as enjoy access to a private lounge and accommodation in a beautiful suite.

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• Expeditions
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• Toronto, Ontario to Ft. Lauderdale, Florida
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Canada & the Atlantic Coastline

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• 2 Countries
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• Toronto, Ontario to Ft. Lauderdale, Florida Ft. Lauderdale, Florida to Toronto, Ontario

Canada & the Atlantic Coastline Map

Untamed wilderness & historic ports

Sail along the legendary St. Lawrence Seaway and the Atlantic coast of the US on a memorable voyage that combines scenic landscapes and storied cities. Led by a team of experts, explore the unspoiled wilderness near Trois-Rivières, Louisbourg and Lunenburg by land and water. Experience New York City’s expansive Central Park, an oasis in the middle of a bustling metropolis, and immerse yourself in the rich histories of Quebec City, Norfolk and Charleston.

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Viking Inclusive Value

We include more features & services than others

To learn more about each port of call and our included as well as optional excursions, click on the individual days below.

Itinerary and shore excursions are subject to change and may vary by departure.

More features, services and excursions included

One complimentary landing or shore excursion in every port of call

Free Wi-Fi (connection speed may vary)

Beer, wine & soft drinks with onboard lunch & dinner

24-hour specialty coffees, teas  & bottled water

Port taxes & fees

Ground transfers with Viking Air purchase

Visits to UNESCO Sites

Enrichment lectures & Destination Performances

Complimentary access to The Nordic Spa & Fitness Center.

Self-service launderettes

Alternative restaurant dining at no extra charge

24-hour room service

Kayaks, Zodiacs & Special Operations Boats — A Viking Expedition Kit with a variety of equipment to explore at no extra charge

Keepsake Viking expedition jacket (on polar itineraries)

All Viking excursion gear needed for any relevant excursions

Your Stateroom Includes:

King-size bed (optional twin-bed configuration) with luxury linens & pillows

55" OLED flat-screen TV featuring CNN, CBC, MBC2, beIN Sports

Interactive TV with complimentary movies and documentaries, as well as Viking.TV proprietary content, lectures and expert interviews

Personal coffee machine with premium coffee & tea selections

Floor-to-ceiling heated drying closets for expeditions gear

Spacious glass-enclosed shower

Heated bathroom floor

Anti-fog mirrors

Premium Freyja® toiletries

110/220 volt outlets & USB ports

Meopta Optika MeoPro 8x42 binoculars

Pre & Post Cruise Extensions

Explore more before or after your expedition. Ask your Viking Expert for more information. Pre & Post Cruise Extensions vary by itinerary and are subject to change.

Pre: Georgian Bay

From $2,799 | 3 Nights

Pre: Toronto

From $999 | 2 Nights

Post: Ft. Lauderdale

From $899 | 2 Nights

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Uniquely Tauck

EXPERIENCE WITH TAUCK

Indulge in a true Prince Edward Island tradition when you experience a lobster bake  Ceilidh  (pronounced kaylee) in a private garden setting with river views and with local musical entertainment

Explore the "Cradle of Liberty" in Boston, your way, on a choice of sightseeing: go on a guided walk along the historic Freedom Trail with a local expert; alternatively, take a docent-led tour of the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum, now a museum where the most famous art heist in history remains unsolved today; or explore Cape Ann and Boston's North Shore, home to fishing villages and seaside charm

TAUCK VALUE INCLUDES

All-included – Tauck's private shore excursions and distinctive inclusions valued at $4,116

  In Newport, drive along illustrious Ocean Drive where famous mansions line the waterfront, choosing to stop for a tour of The Breakers, built by Cornelius Vanderbilt, or a visit to Green Animals Topiary Garden, home to 80 "bush" animals and geometric greenery

SEE WHAT YOUR JOURNEY INCLUDES

Guests should be able to easily walk one to two miles, which may include climbing one or two flights of stairs and walking over uneven pavement, groomed hiking trails or cobblestones. Standing up to one hour or more may be required.

Often robust – may include long days, active sightseeing, early starts, evening activities, significant travel times.

Cultural journeys and expeditions

Bookended by overnight hotel stays in Manhattan and Quebec City, this long-awaited 10-night cruise sails along coastal New England and Canada's stunning eastern seaboard, promising a new perspective of the maritime traditions, history and cultures that shaped the destinations you'll explore. Cruise aboard a Silversea yacht between the glamorous isle of Manhattan and French-inspired Quebec City, indulging in luxurious onboard amenities and spacious accommodations at sea.

Enjoy a tour, an exclusive reception and dinner in New York City during an overnight stay at the New York Marriott Marquis, centrally located in the heart of Times Square in the Theater District. Ashore, immerse in the gilded lifestyles of Newport, Boston's historic landmark sites, and maritime stories in Maine. Discover Canada's ocean-faring roots, from Nova Scotia's seaside villages and the capital city of Halifax to Prince Edward Island's storied landscapes and seafood specialties. View the natural beauty of the Gulf of St. Lawrence and the river Saguenay, stopping to see the fjord up close and personally. A choice of guided shore excursions in every picturesque port caters to your interests and includes fascinating insights not available on your own.  Experience the culturally rich sights of Quebec City from the regal Chateau Frontenac, where a one-night stay includes guided city sightseeing and an informative tasting visit to a maple sugar shack. From the relaxing cadence of your small ship cruise to well-paced exploration of port cities uniquely distinctive and welcoming with regional charms, this is the North America cruise you've been waiting for.

Go Lobster Fishing

Walk the freedom trail, excursion choices most days.

Sea kayaking, Saguenay Fjord

Enjoy a choice of sightseeing excursions most days such as...

The only inhabited fjord in North America, Saguenay Fjord entices with natural treasures and some of the most beautiful villages in Québec. 146 miles long and surrounded by rugged mountains, towering cliffs, and dense forest, the glacier-cut fjord is also navigable, offering travelers the unique opportunity to view it up close by land and boat in Parc National du Fjord-du-Saguenay. You'll have an opportunity to take a gentle sea kayaking excursion (beginners are welcome) that's enjoyable for boaters of all abilities.

A traditional lobster bake on Prince Edward Island

For more than 150 years lobstering has been an important mainstay of rural Prince Edward Island where life ebbs and flows with the lobster season. Traditionally the first day of the season is an island-wide event when the community comes out to cheer the lobstermen as they head out to sea with their traps. When traps are pulled with lobsters inside, the celebration continues at traditional lobster bakes known as Ceilidh and pronounced kaylee, a delectable feast of locally grown culinary fare. Enjoy this special feast during a picnic lunch in a riverside setting when you are exploring the island's many storied charms.

I was in my element planning this new cruise program. To experience these places, all of which share a common sea-faring thread but which each have their very own personality has been a delight to organize.

David Lewey

Product Manager

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Shores of Canada & New England begins in New York City, U.S.A. and ends in Quebec, Canada for Northbound departures and begins in Quebec, Canada and ends in New York City, U.S.A for Southbound departures.

If you are a U.S. citizen traveling internationally,  you will need a passport valid for six months beyond the completion of your Tauck journey to enter Canada. Click  here  for more information on the U.S. Department of Customs and Border Patrol website.

If you are a U.S. citizen,  you do not require a visa for the short duration of this tour. Please note that longer stays abroad for any purpose may require additional travel documentation. If you are a frequent traveler to Canada from the U.S., you may benefit from the NEXUS program which is a joint initiative between the U.S. Customs and Border Protection Agency and the Canada Border Services Agency that allows pre-screened and approved travelers faster processing at designated highway lanes in high-volume border crossing locations, at certain airports, and at certain marine reporting locations in the Great Lakes and Seattle regions. For further information, you may log on to the Nexus Internet site by clicking  here.

If you are a citizen of another country traveling internationally,  please contact an embassy or consulate of Canada and of the U.S. to determine what travel documentation will be required.

If you are a citizen of a visa-waiver country, you may need an ESTA from the USA and/or a Canadian eTa visa for this tour.

https://esta.cbp.dhs.gov/esta/

https://www.etacanadavisa.org/visa-information

Anyone with a criminal record (including some misdemeanors such as Driving While Impaired (DWI) charges) may be excluded or removed from Canada, and should contact a Canadian embassy or consulate well in advance of any planned travel to ensure proper travel documentation.

Every guest will be issued a boarding card that must be presented before embarking the ship in each port.

International maritime security guidelines require that your passport information be provided to us prior to your embarkation. You need to provide this information to us as soon as you book your cruise or boarding may be denied. Once you board the cruise ship, your passport will be held by the purser until you disembark.

We recommend that you make at least two photocopies of all the travel documents that you bring with you. Include copies of the photo page of your passport that contains the date of issuance, the date of expiration and your citizenship. Secure one set of copies in the safe in your room while traveling and leave one set behind with someone at home who will assist you in the event your documents are misplaced, lost or stolen.

To facilitate Travel Requirements, destinations are increasingly utilizing online forms that require digital proof that you've successfully completed your submission (via an email, QR code, etc.) To ensure smooth travels and peace of mind, we strongly recommend all guests carry a personal smart phone and sign up for international data plans before traveling overseas.

TRAVELING WITH CHILDREN AS A GUARDIAN:  If you are traveling as the guardian of a child/children, we strongly suggest that you carry a letter from both parents of the child authorizing emergency treatment in the event of illness or accident. For travel abroad, many foreign countries have specific entry requirements for children under 21 who are traveling internationally without BOTH parents. (These requirements are in response to the increased incidence of children being abducted and taken abroad.) PLEASE NOTE THAT TAUCK IS NOT RESPONSIBLE for the disruption of travel caused by improper documentation for children traveling without both parents.

How to Book a Tour

See your travel advisor, or call Tauck at 800-468-2825 to make a reservation.

At the time of booking, please have the following information ready for all members of your party:

• Tour Name and Departure Date
• Traveler's Name: First and last names as they appear on your passport or driver's license
• Traveler's Address(es)
• Email Address*
• Traveler's Phone Number(s)*
• Emergency Contact Information: Please provide the name and phone number  of a relative or friend (not travelling with you) whom we could contact during the tour in the unlikely event of an emergency
• Interest in purchasing a travel protection plan (US and Canada)
• Interest in extending your trip by staying in a Tauck recommended hotel before your trip begins or after it ends
• Interest in our specially negotiated airfares

* Required Fields

Deposits & Final Payment

The deposit and the fees for the optional Protection Plan or Cancel Fee Waiver [CFW] coverage are due at time of booking.

The deposit amount is $1,500 per person

Final Payment is due to Tauck  60  days before departure for lands trips, and  120  days before departure for cruises and rail journeys. If your deposit was made by credit card, final payment will be automatic unless you opted out at time of booking. Bookings without full payment at this time may be subject to cancellation without notice. Failure to make payment will be a considered a cancellation by the guest and all applicable cancellation fees will apply.

Cruise Protection Product

Effective for plans purchased as of July 1, 2021:

Tauck's Cruise & Event Protection

Tauck's Cruise & Event Protection provides you with cancellation protection before your journey begins as well as insurance benefits while you are traveling. Guest Protection includes the following:

Cancellation Waiver – Provided by Tauck:

Under Tauck's Cancellation Fee Waiver you can cancel your tour for ANY REASON and Tauck will  reduce the regular cancellation fees outlined herein, provided we are notified of cancellation before your cruise departs. Certain terms and restrictions apply (see below*).

*Extreme Circumstances:  In the event of an act of God, war (whether declared or undeclared), terrorism, accident, natural disaster, outbreak of disease, or other event or circumstance beyond our control that contributes to or results in cancellation rates above our historical cancellation rates in the absence of such event or occurrence, Tauck reserves the right to issue a credit to you in lieu of a money-back refund, applicable to a future Tauck journey. Travel Insurance Benefits – Underwritten by United States Fire Insurance Company.

• Trip Cancellation –  Should you cancel for covered reasons, the plan reimburses cancellation fees imposed, up to your total trip cost. 
• Trip Interruption –  If you have to interrupt your tour for covered reasons, the plan provides reimbursement to catch up to your tour or return home.
• Travel Delay –  Provides reimbursement for missed, prepaid travel arrangements if you are delayed by a common carrier, natural disaster, unannounced strike, or other reasons as cited in the plan.
• Medical Expense –  Reimburses covered medical expenses incurred in the event you become injured or sick during your trip. 
• Baggage / Personal Effects Protection –  Provides reimbursement in the event your luggage or personal effects are, lost, stolen, damaged or delayed during your trip.

Worldwide Emergency Assistance Services –  Provided by Carefree Travel Assistance; 24-hour emergency telephone assistance hotline for medical and travel related problems.

The cost of Tauck's Cruise Protection is  $699  per person.

This plan provides cancellation coverage for your trip and other insurance coverages that apply only during the covered trip. You may have coverage from other sources that provides you with similar benefits but may be subject to different restrictions depending upon your other coverages. You may wish to compare the terms of this policy with your existing life, health, home and automobile policies. If you have any questions about your current coverage, call your insurer, insurance agent or broker.

This optional Cruise & Event Protection must be requested at time of booking and fee must be included in initial payment. Details will be provided with written confirmation of your reservation. Cruise & Event Protection does not protect travel agent commissions. Reimbursements will be made according to original method of payment. The amount of any refund shall be reduced by any recoveries obtained by you from any third parties.

To obtain your state-specific Certificate of Insurance that contains the complete terms, conditions, limitations and exclusions of the certificate, visit   affinitytravelcert.com/docs/TACCREDOM

If You Have To Cancel

If you cancel within 10 days of initial deposit

Within the first 10 days after you place your initial deposit, you may cancel your reservation for any reason with no cancellation fees.

If you cancel more than 10 days after initial deposit

Regardless of reason, cancellations result in costly charges from our travel and hotel providers covering penalties and fees incurred by canceling confirmed bookings. These fees vary from tour to tour. Therefore, the following fees apply for this tour.

Cancellation Fees with Tauck's Cruise Protection Plan:

120 days or more before departure: Loss of cost of Tauck's Cruise and Event Protection fee per person 119 – 60 days before departure: Loss of 25% of the cost of the cruise, not including air (if applicable), plus loss of Cruise and Event Protection fee, per person 59 – 1 days before departure: Loss of 50% of the cost of the cruise, not including air (if applicable), plus loss of Cruise and Event Protection fee, per person Cancellation Fees without Tauck's Cruise Protection Plan: 120 days or more before departure: $1500 per person 119 – 60 days before departure: Loss of 50% of the cost of cruise, not including air (if applicable), per person 59 - 1 days before departure: Loss of 100% of the cost of cruise, not including air (if applicable), per person Time of cancellation will be when notice is received in our Wilton Woods, CT office.

Tour Interruption Fees

If you have to interrupt your tour en route, you may be entitled to a refund for the unused land portion if it exceeds 24 hours; certain restrictions apply. Such refunds are based upon the number of overnights missed less a fee of $40 per person per day for unused transportation and other fixed expenses.

Partial Room Cancellation

A person who cancels or leaves a tour while a roommate remains constitutes a cancellation of one type of accommodation and rebooking of another type of accommodation. The price charged to the remaining person is the new, higher price for the new accommodation.

In the event of an unforeseen circumstance beyond our control, Tauck reserves the right to amend the cancellation and transfer terms outlined herein. Note: All Guests, regardless of residency, who book a Tauck journey have the option of purchasing the Cancellation Waiver provided by Tauck in the event they need to cancel their trip after making their reservations. Tauck's Cruise & Event Protection, which includes both the Cancellation Fee Waiver and the Travel Insurance Benefits and Assistance Services described above, is not available to residents of Puerto Rico.

Travel Requirements For This Tour

Health, Safety and Mobility

HEALTH CONSIDERATIONS  

Please check with your health insurance provider to determine whether you are covered while traveling. If you will not be covered under your current policy, we strongly suggest that you arrange for adequate coverage while on tour.

If you have a medical condition that might limit your participation in activities, please consult your physician for pre-departure health advice and notify us as soon as possible, if you have not already done so. We will advise your Tauck Director accordingly.

Your Silversea vessel  is equipped with a medical center and a doctor is on call 24 hours. If you avail yourself of his/her services, a charge will be posted to your personal shipboard account. 

The ship's small infirmary is designed to provide medical care for certain temporary illnesses and accidents, and is not intended to or capable of providing on-going treatment of pre-existing medical conditions.

VACCINATIONS  

Some of the countries visited on this itinerary may require travelers to provide proof of vaccination against certain diseases in order to enter the country.  These requirements are subject to frequent change as outbreaks occur and subside in different areas, and it is therefore crucial that you obtain the very latest information on entry requirements as you prepare for your journey.

For the most current information, please consult the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) by clicking here and the World Health Organization (WHO) by clicking here. You may also wish to visit the web sites for the embassies of the countries you will be visiting. Besides providing details on vaccination requirements, these sites can also provide information on vaccinations that may be recommended (but aren't required) and other potential health issues for which no vaccines are available.

Any decisions relating to your health, of course, should not be based solely on information provided by a web site.  It is critically important that you consult with your personal physician prior to your journey to obtain any required vaccinations and to review any optional recommendations offered by the CDC or other sources.

Please be sure to discuss your journey with your physician at least four to six weeks in advance of your departure, as certain vaccinations take time to become fully effective.  Also, be certain to ask your physician for proof of any vaccinations you receive, and to pack this proof along with your other travel documents in your carry-on luggage (not in your checked luggage).

Researching and complying with vaccination entry requirements for the countries visited on this itinerary is the responsibility of the traveler and not Tauck. Tauck is therefore not responsible for any expenses incurred or disruptions to travel caused by improper or incomplete vaccinations, or by the failure to provide proof of required vaccinations. If you do not obtain the necessary vaccinations and proper documentation, you may be denied entry into one or more countries, or temporarily quarantined until the necessary vaccinations are administered, or until proper documentation is provided. 

SPECIAL DIETARY REQUESTS

The restaurants, hotels, caterers and numerous other partners we work with all do their best to accommodate special dietary requests from Tauck guests. However, given the diverse nature of those food providers (from small wineries to grand hotels to world-famous restaurants in more than 70 countries worldwide), some of our partners are better able than others to accommodate such requests. We therefore cannot guarantee that all dietary requests can be accommodated at every meal. Also, please note that where dietary requests can be accommodated, choices will frequently be limited.

Smoking is not permitted in any interior space on board Silver Shadow. Smoke and open fire will activate the smoke detectors. Smoking is permitted in designated areas for cigarette, cigar and pipe smoking. Please do not throw your cigarettes overboard, as it is a violation of international maritime pollution laws and they can easily be blown back onto the ship. Please refrain from smoking on shore and in shore excursion vehicles and ship tenders. Smoking is also not permitted on the motor coaches. These regulations pertain to e-cigarettes as well.

Local legislation in Canada varies greatly with respect to smoking. Generally, the areas we visit in Canada ban smoking in public places. There is a costly fine in Nova Scotia per offense. Hotel guest rooms are generally exempt from these regulations. 

Shores of Eastern Canada & New England  is very relaxing and the pace leisurely. To enjoy this cruise, you should be in good health and able to walk reasonable distances, often over unpaved and uneven surfaces. Some of the most memorable sightseeing can only be accomplished on foot. There is a moderate to heavy amount of walking during our onshore excursions. However, for the most part, the amount of walking you do at the various sites and towns is at your discretion.

Onboard ship, health and fitness devotees will find a spa and fitness center on Deck 10, as well as a jogging track on Deck 9.

Please Note : We regret that we're unable to provide individual assistance to guests with walking difficulties or other personal needs.  The responsibility of the Tauck Director who accompanies your trip is to ensure that the larger group enjoys a relaxing and informative journey, and he or she cannot be relied upon to provide ongoing individual assistance to any one guest. Guests requiring such individualized assistance must be accompanied by an able-bodied companion who can provide it.

Reading List

We have compiled a reading list of recommended books to give you more information about the destinations you will be traveling to on your upcoming journey!

You can view the reading list  here.

The climate in Eastern Canada is continental, with four distinct seasons. From June through early September, average high temperatures range from 65 to 85˚F (18 to 29˚C); average low temperatures range from 45 to 65˚F (7 to 18˚C). Prince Edward Island has warm summers with low humidity. Rainfall is spread evenly throughout the year at a moderate 4 in (102 mm) per month. 

New England has four distinct seasons and with each some rain or snow does fall. In autumn, from September through November, daytime temperatures range from 50 to 75 ˚F (10 to 24 ˚C), but temperatures above 80 ˚F (27 ˚C) as well as freezing temperatures are not uncommon. "Indian summer" is a name given to a period of sunny, warm weather in autumn not long before winter. The most widely accepted criterion for determining whether an Indian summer is occurring is that the weather must be above 70 °F (21 °C) for seven days after the autumnal equinox. In the mountains, late nights and early mornings may be chilly. By the shore, a short jaunt out onto the water or even relaxing seaside with an onshore breeze may require a jacket or sweater. To enjoy the changing color of the leaves be prepared for early morning frosts and even a day or two of summer-like weather.

To read about current weather conditions, we suggest you log on to the Internet website by clicking here.

What To Pack

When joining a Tauck journey, every guest is responsible for their own health and, in turn, the protection of their fellow travelers, the Tauck staff, our suppliers and the places we visit. As such, you are expected to follow local and supplier guidelines regarding face coverings, as explained by your Tauck Director. Our partners may have a limited supply of face coverings, gloves, and hand sanitizer, so please bring such personal items for your own comfort.

Bringing the right clothing for your trip is important – we've partnered with Necessary Gear who provide an "easy-to-use, one-stop shop" for your Tauck travel needs, specifically selected for this trip.  Click here to visit their site .

Fall in eastern Canada and New England is a changeable time of year.  Some days may still be quite warm and other days quite chilly. Dress for comfort and convenience with a wardrobe that is flexible and allows for layering. Casual, cotton clothing is recommended. A sweater or jacket will provide warmth on a chilly early morning walk or a late night stroll.

For the welcome and farewell receptions you may want to dress up a bit – a jacket for men and a casually-elegant outfit for ladies – but by all means be comfortable and note that this level of dress is not required, merely suggested. Silversea operates an on board dress code after 6:00 PM, while during the day casual wear is appropriate for daytime and consists of standard sports outfits as worn at five-star resorts. Shoes should be flat or low heeled for deck activities. Evening wear falls into three categories: casual, informal and formal. On casual evenings, pants, blouses or casual dresses for women; open-neck shirts and slacks for men are appropriate. On informal evenings, women wear dresses or pant suits; men wear jackets (tie optional). Appropriate formal wear for women is an evening gown or cocktail dress; men wear tuxedos, dinner jackets or dark suits. Tie is required.  Consider packing a number of garments you can wear in different combinations over four or five days.  Aboard ship, valet laundry services are available. Additionally, a complimentary self-service launderette offers washing machines, dryers, irons and laundry supplies. Complimentary shoe shine is available aboard ship.

Hairdryers are available at the hotels and aboard the ship.

We recommend that you pack an adequate supply of your prescription medication in its original container to last through your entire journey, together with a copy of your doctor's prescription (or a letter from your health-care provider on office stationery explaining that the medication has been prescribed for you), a list of the generic names of your medication, your travel documents and a change of clothing in your carry-on bag to avoid any inconvenience in the event that your flight or luggage is delayed. No medications are sold on board the cruise ship other than those prescribed and stocked by the ship's physician.

We recommend that you pack any prescription medicines (an adequate supply for your entire journey) along with your travel documents and a change of clothing in your carry-on bag, in order to minimize any inconvenience should your luggage be lost or delayed. 

We also recommend, for your peace of mind and personal security, that all expensive jewelry and other valuables be left at home. Following is a list of recommended items to pack for your trip to Eastern Canada and New England:

• Comfortable walking shoes (VERY IMPORTANT)
• Hiking boots for those who choose to hike
• Rainwear, such as a raincoat and rain hat, plus a collapsible umbrellas
• Short and long-sleeved shirts/tee shirts
• Shorts and pants for casual daytime wear
• Lightweight and medium-weight sweaters/jackets
• A light sweater or jacket for higher elevations or a breezy night
• Warm hat, gloves and socks for evenings on deck
• Jackets for men (with tie suggested for more formal dinners aboard ship) and dresses/pant suits for women for evening wear
• Swimwear and gym wear
• Binoculars (7x50 preferably)
• Insect repellent containing DEET
• Sunscreen and hat
• Small flashlight
• Daypack for your photographic equipment or other belongings
• Travel alarm clock
• Prescription medicines (an adequate supply to last your entire journey), and written copies of your prescriptions from your doctor. While it may be possible to refill prescriptions during your journey, the availability of refills cannot be guaranteed. What's more, refilling prescriptions in foreign countries can be difficult and time-consuming.
• Copies of your travel documents that should be secured in the safe in your ship suite while traveling

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11 best cruises to Canada and New England

Canada and New England cruises are best known for taking mature travelers to experience vibrant autumnal foliage in multiple destinations.

However, the region's photogenic landscapes, charming ports and fresh local seafood make time ashore uniquely enjoyable for couples and families. Plus, late summer and early fall getaways can be convenient and affordable, especially if you already live on the East Coast.

New England and Canada cruises are mainly offered from late August through mid-October (although limited June and July dates are also available). They sail round trip from New York or Boston, or one-way between either city and Montreal or Quebec City.

Itinerary lengths for Canada and New England cruises range from seven to 11 nights. Ships typically call on ports in Nova Scotia, New Brunswick and Prince Edward Island, as well as Portland or Bar Harbor, Maine, or even Newport, Rhode Island. High-end, smaller-ship cruise lines may offer more in-depth itineraries of 11 to 15 nights, with more inclusions and higher price tags.

For cruise news, reviews and tips, sign up for TPG's cruise newsletter .

It's important to book well in advance if you want to cruise during peak foliage weeks, generally late September to mid-October. Also, Newport, Bar Harbor and some lesser-visited ports on these itineraries do not have cruise piers; transferring to shore via tender boat can be time-consuming, if not difficult or impossible for passengers with mobility challenges.

Here are 11 of the best cruises to Canada and New England to consider.

Celebrity: 11-night Boston, Maine & Canada

Celebrity Cruises is offering its 11-night Boston, Maine & Canada itinerary on four late August and September dates in 2024 and another four in 2025. The round-trip sailings from Boston — in 2024 aboard the 2,852-passenger Celebrity Eclipse, and in 2025 aboard the 2,902-passenger Celebrity Silhouette — call on ports in Maine (Portland and Rockland), Nova Scotia (Halifax and Sydney), Prince Edward Island (Charlottetown) and Quebec (Quebec City, where the ship overnights).

The overnight in Quebec City also offers an opportunity to enjoy one of Canada's most charming cities after dark. Don't miss the narrow cobblestone streets of historic Old Quebec, with its inviting cafes.

Who should go : This round-trip itinerary is a convenient option for couples or friends seeking to experience the highlights of New England and Canada during the prime late-summer and early autumn foliage season. Celebrity's ships are designed with adults in mind. They offer multiple onboard bars and lounges for socializing — and the indoor, adults-only Solarium pool is perfect for relaxation as fall temperatures dip.

Related: Best Canada and New England cruise excursions

Holland America: 11-night Newfoundland & New England Discovery

Not all Canada and New England cruises are timed for leaf peeping. Holland America's 11-night Newfoundland & New England Discovery itinerary in August 2024 on the 1,438-passenger Volendam aims to make the most of the region's late-summer weather.

The cruise embarks in Boston and disembarks in Montreal. In between, Volendam visits seven additional ports (Portland, Maine; Saint John, New Brunswick; Halifax, Nova Scotia; Corner Brook, Newfoundland; Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island; and Saguenay and Quebec City, Quebec). It offers a comprehensive tour of Canada's Atlantic Provinces and Quebec.

Volendam will sail nine- to 11-night Canada cruises in August and September 2025 as well but with slightly different routings.

Who should go : Holland America attracts retirees and other passengers in the 60-plus age range. The compact Volendam offers a traditional onboard atmosphere, but foodies should know it offers a limited selection of dining venues and lounges. On the plus side, Volendam's pool features a retractable roof in case of cool or rainy weather. This particular itinerary has no ports requiring tender transfers, making all destinations accessible to most passengers with disabilities.

Norwegian: 7-night Canada & New England

Norwegian Cruise Line has multiple ships cruising a dozen Canada and New England itineraries from Boston, New York and Quebec City in 2024 and 2025. For value, convenience and a megaship experience, check out the seven-night Canada & New England: Bar Harbor & Newport sailings aboard the 3,963-passenger Norwegian Breakaway.

The 2025 seven-night Canada & New England: Bar Harbor and Halifax itineraries aboard the 3,963-passenger Norwegian Getaway are almost identical. Both call on five ports: Newport, Rhode Island; Portland and Bar Harbor, Maine; Saint John, New Brunswick; and Halifax, Nova Scotia.

Who should go : Norwegian's Breakaway-class ships offer a resort-meets-theme-park experience with a lively onboard vibe appealing to couples, families and groups of friends. That said, the ships lack an indoor pool.

Cruises during the cooler fall months are best suited for those who enjoy the outdoors. Bar Harbor is the gateway to Acadia National Park, and Saint John offers access to the Bay of Fundy's legendary tides. They're also ideal for travelers who appreciate historic architecture. Newport is known for its Gilded Age mansions, and Halifax offers access to the picturesque village of Peggy's Cove.

Related: Norwegian Cruise Line vs. Carnival Cruise Line: Battle of the big-ship brands

Oceania: 11-night Canada and New England

Several Oceania Cruises visit New England and Canada in 2024 and 2025, but the 670-passenger Insignia is dedicated to 11-night sailings in September and October of both years. It offers a smaller-ship experience with an emphasis on fine dining.

Insignia sails between New York and Montreal this fall and Boston and Montreal next fall. The port-intensive itineraries include eight or nine ports along the Eastern Seaboard. Cruisers might visit Quebec City and Saguenay in Quebec; Sydney and Halifax, Nova Scotia; Corner Brook, Newfoundland; Saint John, New Brunswick; Portland, Maine; Boston; and Newport, Rhode Island.

Who should go : Oceania's premium cruise experience appeals to couples seeking an onboard ambience that combines culinary excellence with elegant decor and elevated service.

The ship might be small, but it still features two intimate specialty restaurants, a gorgeous grand dining room, a high-end buffet and pool grill, and one of the most decadent afternoon tea services at sea. Standard cabins are on the smaller side, but their modern look and sumptuous beds are appealing. For a splurge, the larger suites will not disappoint discerning travelers.

Princess Cruises: 7-night Canada & New England

Princess Cruises offers multiple seven- to 14-night round-trip and one-way sailings to Canada and New England from New York, Quebec City and Boston in 2024 and 2025.

However, our pick is the seven-night Canada & New England itinerary, which combines visits to four or five ports with a cruise aboard one of Princess' newer Royal-class ships, the 3,360-passenger Enchanted Princess.

Passengers will sail round trip from New York and visit Newport, Rhode Island; Boston; Bar Harbor and Portland, Maine; Saint John, New Brunswick; and Halifax, Nova Scotia. On certain weeks, substitute ports might include Halifax, Nova Scotia, or Rockland, Maine. Weekly sailings take place from late August to mid-October.

Who should go : Princess ships, even the newer vessels, offer a more traditional take on cruising that's popular with couples and groups of friends who enjoy a quieter experience — although the after-dinner sing-a-longs in Crooners piano bar can get lively. Enchanted Princess does lack waterslides, thrill-oriented activities and an indoor pool if those amenities are important to you.

Travelers who enjoy dining at different venues each night will appreciate the ship's five specialty restaurants (for an additional cost) and more than half-dozen complimentary dining venues. Don't miss the excellent Gigi's Pizzeria, a sit-down restaurant.

Related: Best Canada and New England cruise tips to help you enjoy your coastal vacation

Regent Seven Seas Cruises: 11-night Fall Season Colors

Regent Seven Seas Cruises ' newest ship, the 750-passenger Seven Seas Grandeur , debuted in late 2023. In fall 2024, it will sail a series of Canada and New England itineraries from New York and Boston, as well as Montreal.

The 11-night Fall Season Colors sailing on Oct. 1, 2024, is timed to allow passengers to enjoy regional foliage at its peak as the ship sails from Boston to Montreal. Grandeur calls on Portland, Maine; Saint John, New Brunswick; Sydney, Nova Scotia; Corner Brook, Newfoundland; and Havre-Saint-Pierre, Sept-Iles, Saguenay and Quebec City in Quebec.

Who should go : Regent's all-inclusive luxury cruises — which include airfare, transfers, onboard beverages and dining, gratuities, Wi-Fi and unlimited shore excursions — have correspondingly luxurious prices. So, passengers are mostly affluent professionals and retirees who enjoy the seamless ease of an all-inclusive sailing offering five-star service.

Connoisseurs of fine dining will be in their element with eight onboard restaurants, which include Chartreuse for fine French cuisine and Pacific Rim for flavorful pan-Asian menus. Plus, passengers can indulge their foodie passions with chef-led classes in the onboard Culinary Arts Kitchen.

Seven Seas Grandeur does not offer an indoor pool for cool-weather swims.

Royal Caribbean: 9-night Canada & New England

Royal Caribbean offers Canada and New England cruises from three cities (Boston, Baltimore and Bayonne, New Jersey) in late summer and fall 2024. To truly experience the Eastern Seaboard, try the nine-night Canada & New England Cruise sailing round trip from the Cape Liberty cruise port in Bayonne aboard the 3,798-passenger Liberty of the Seas. The itinerary visits Boston; Portland, Maine; Sydney and Halifax, Nova Scotia; and Saint John, New Brunswick.

Who should go : Liberty of the Seas is designed to appeal to all ages. A late-August sailing with affordable pricing means a late-summer family getaway is possible, while September and October dates attract more couples and retirees.

Liberty of the Seas doesn't have all the bells and whistles of Royal Caribbean's newer, larger ships. However, it does feature waterslides, a kids aqua park, a FlowRider surf simulator, an ice skating rink, a mini-golf course, an arcade, 11 dining venues, 10 bars and lounges, Broadway-style entertainment and more. It also boasts an adults-only, indoor Solarium pool and several outdoor pools and hot tubs.

Related: 35 Royal Caribbean cruise tips and tricks that will make your voyage better

Seabourn: 12-night Canada & New England Fall Foliage

Enjoying the region's colorful autumnal landscapes is the primary agenda on Seabourn's 12-night Canada & New England Fall Foliage cruises, scheduled from August to early October 2024 aboard the 458-passenger Seabourn Quest and in September and October 2025 aboard the 458-passenger Seabourn Sojourn.

These sailings between New York and Montreal visit Newport, Rhode Island; Boston; Halifax, Nova Scotia; Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island; and Saguenay, Quebec City and Trois-Rivieres in Quebec. (The 2025 sailings substitute a few different Canadian ports.)

Who should go : Seabourn 's all-inclusive small-luxury-cruise experience is reflected in its fares, so these itineraries require a generous travel budget. As a result, passengers are typically financially well-off couples, including international travelers, who appreciate the fleet's private-club-style ambience and personalized service.

All cabins are spacious ocean-facing suites, and 90% of the ships' accommodations feature a veranda. The ships might be small, but they still offer four onboard restaurants, including the line's new Mediterranean restaurant, Solis.

Silversea: 12-night New York to Quebec City

For upscale, door-to-door, all-inclusive cruising to New England and Canada, Silversea Cruises offers itineraries on a wide selection of summer and fall dates. The most comprehensive trip is a 12-night New York-to-Quebec City itinerary in summer 2024 aboard the 388-passenger Silver Shadow.

The itinerary includes calls on Newport, Rhode Island; Boston; Portland, Maine; Halifax, Nova Scotia; Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island; and Iles-de-la-Madeleine, Saguenay and Quebec City in Quebec.

Related: Canada and New England cruise packing list: What to pack for every season

Who should go : Silversea passengers are generally wealthy retired couples passionate about cruising on small luxury ships. They appreciate fine wines and elevated dining, such as the French cuisine offered in La Dame, one of four onboard restaurants. Nightlife on Silver Shadow is generally low-key, though there is a small casino.

Silversea's all-inclusive pricing includes airfare, transfers, gratuities (and butler service), complimentary beverages and at least one included shore excursion per port.

Viking: 12-night Eastern Seaboard Explorer

Viking's 12-night Eastern Seaboard Explorer itinerary aboard its identical 930-guest ocean ships, Viking Neptune and Viking Mars, is offered on two dates in September 2024 and four dates in May and September 2025.

The one-way sailing travels from New York to Montreal (or vice versa, with overnights in each city), and the ships visit Quebec City, Saguenay and Gaspe in Quebec; Halifax, Nova Scotia; and Boston.

Who should go : Adults-only Viking appeals to cruisers who appreciate a subdued onboard experience centered around learning about a destination via guest lectures and shore excursions. The cruise line's passengers tend to be retirement age or older.

Viking's fans love the ships' serene Scandinavian-inspired decor, complimentary spa thermal area and pricing that includes wine and beer with lunch and dinner, gratuities and one free shore excursion per port. The ships do not have an onboard casino, but two pools (one with a retractable roof) offer relaxation during sea days.

Windstar: 11-night Southeast Canadian Explorations

The 11-night Southeast Canadian Explorations itinerary aboard Windstar Cruises ' 312-guest Star Pride cruises between Montreal and Boston in September and October 2024 and 2025. Sailings call on Quebec City, Gaspe and Cap-aux-Meules in Quebec; Louisbourg and Halifax in Nova Scotia; and Portland in Maine.

Overnights in Quebec City and Portland give passengers more time to explore on land and enjoy regional cuisine in local restaurants for dinner. Some itineraries will swap the extra day in Portland for one in Bar Harbor or add a stop in Lunenburg, Nova Scotia.

Who should go : Star Pride is one of the smallest ships offering Canada and New England itineraries, so these sailings are ideal for travelers seeking an intimate cruise experience with more casual camaraderie than most other small-luxury-ship cruises. The ship features five onboard restaurants, and cabins are generously sized (the smallest is 277 square feet).

While cruise fares are not all-inclusive, passengers can pay a daily fee for a package that includes unlimited beer, wine and cocktails, as well as Wi-Fi and crew gratuities.

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THE GREAT WHITE NORTH

Canada cruises.

Charming cities, mesmerizing mountains and lucid lakes await in Canada.

Canada is the land of glacial-fed lakes, incredible coastlines, French-speaking cities and friendly locals. Nicknamed the Great White North, the world's second-largest country is full of colonial and indigenous history. Cruise to Canada to step into 17th-century Notre Dame Cathedral in Montreal, and wander the European-styled Old Town in Quebec City. Venture out of the urban centers and explore the country's wild terrain: Traverse 80 miles of trails in St. John's, Newfoundland. Mountain-bike up Bear Mountain in Victoria, British Columbia. Or go zip-lining in the Coast Mountains outside Vancouver.

The Trails Are Waiting For You

Charming cities, mesmerizing mountains and lucid lakes await in Canada

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The Call of the Wild

Only 10 percent of Canada is urbanized, which means there are endless rural and remote escapes and travel adventures to experience across the country. Whether you're a winter sports enthusiast, an avid hiker or admirer of nature's beauty, you're sure to find an adventure fit for you.  

Hit the Powder

Vancouver is also home to several ski mountains, including Cypress and Grouse Mountain, both of which make for a doable day trip. In the country's east, Quebec City is not far from Stoneham Mountain Resort and Mont Tremblant.

A Whale of a Good Time

On both Canada's east and west shores, the whale watching is world-class. Head to Nanaimo, British Columbia, and sight orcas and humpbacks off Vancouver Island. Or check out the Saguenay-St. Lawrence Marine Park is Saguenay, Quebec, where belugas live year-round and other whales travel to come feed each season from May to October.

Play in the Parks

Canada is home to 40 national parks, as well as over 1,000 provincial and territorial parks. Head to La Mauricie National Park outside Quebec City to go kayaking on its forest-surrounded lakes, and hike past dunes and marshes in Prince Edward Island National Park. The fall foliage is especially spectacular in these places.

Connect With the Culture

Besides being a haven for outdoor adventures and activities, there are many urban epicenters in Canada that will immediately captivate you. Transport yourself to French colonial times in Quebec's Old City, and feel the pulse of life in modern metropolises like Montreal and Vancouver during your vacation.  

Feel French

Test your high school French in Quebec, where you'll find European-inspired architecture and French treats galore. Visit Canada and soak in the fairytale vibe of Chateau Frontenac, or pick up a buttery, flaky almond croissant for fuel as you stroll past the Parliament Building and other sights on the oldest streets in North America.

Press Play on the Past

Learn more about Canada's natural and anthropological history at places like the Museum of Anthropology in Vancouver, the Maritime Museum of British Columbia and Montreal's Maison Saint-Gabriel Museum, a humble farmhouse that recreates daily life circa 1658.

Quirky and Cultural

Canada's West Coast urban center, Vancouver is full of unusual to-do's. Walk above the treetops on the thrilling Capilano Suspension Bridge. Marvel at the brightly painted totem poles in Stanley Park. See the Gastown Steam Clock, which puts on a show of steam and whistles chimes every quarter-hour.

CHART YOUR COURSE TO AUTUMN ADVENTURE AND GRAND GLACIERS

EBe charmed by Canada's cities, where you can spend a day brunching and skiing in Vancouver or marveling at the French-inspired cities of Montreal and Quebec on the East Coast.s.

Westward Winds

Start in Seattle and visit Victoria , British Columbia's historic capital city. Alternatively, cruise from Vancouver up the Inside Passage to Alaska and extend your week-long cruise to see more of Vancouver.

Canada & New England

Northeast cruises in Canada usually include New England adventures as well. See the quiet maritime provinces of Nova Scotia , New Brunswick and Prince Edward Island , and explore their windswept coastlines. Cruise from New York to explore the Northeast landscape.

WHAT TO KNOW BEFORE YOU GO Can't Miss Canada

There's never a bad time to cruise to Canada. Autumn is highly regarded as one of the best times to visit Canada's eastern coastline, when fall foliage transforms the maritimes and New England. Summertime in Canada also brings the best weather to the Pacific Northwest, where the temperatures stay much cooler than they do further south. Although both French and English are the official languages of Canada, French is the dominant language in Quebec Province. However, most Quebec locals know English and are happy to communicate in the language, especially in tourist areas.

8 Amazing Destinations You Can Cruise To From New York

10 Best Fall Foliage Getaways in The Northeast

Like its southern neighbor, tipping is customary in Canada, and a 15 to 20 percent tip is expected at restaurants.

Canada uses both metric and imperial systems, but the weather is in Celsius, and speed limit signs are in kilometers per hour.

You'll find that some establishments across the country accept the United States dollar as well.

FOR FOODIE'S Bon Appetit

With both British and French influences, Canadian cuisine is known for its heartiness and generous portions. You'll also find an emphasis on top-notch ingredients, from the cold-water salmon of Vancouver to the wild berries and oysters of the East Coast.

Pile on the Poutine

Known as Canada's national dish, poutine is a delightfully indulgent French-Canadian dish found from coast-to-coast that includes three ingredients: fries, cheese curds and gravy. What more do you need, really?

Royal Delicacies

Montreal cuisine isn't just about recreating French classics, of course. The city has its own specialties, including Montreal-style bagels — thinner and crunchier than their American counterparts — and smoked meats and fish, such as bacon or salmon.

Sweet Treats

Canadians love their sweets. Try the no-bake Nanaimo Bar, which originated in Vancouver Island's Nanaimo. Don't miss the butter tarts, small pie-shaped pastries topped with raisins and walnuts or pecans. Or go in for a BeaverTail, a deep-fried, hand-stretched dough often topped with sugar and cinnamon or lemon.

Related Ports

Experience the world's highest tides in Saint John. Learn more about Canada's maritime and colonial history in Halifax. Savor both the sand and snow in Vancouver. And visit Victoria, Canada's prettiest provincial capital.

Vancouver, British Columbia

Victoria, British Columbia

Bar Harbor, Maine

Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island

Corner Brook, Newfoundland

Halifax, Nova Scotia

Quebec City, Quebec

Saint John (Bay of Fundy), New Brunswick

St. John's, Newfoundland

Sydney, Nova Scotia

Nanaimo, British Columbia

Montreal, Quebec

Saguenay, Quebec

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Watch the leaves turn on our New England cruises. No raking required.

Along the coastline of Canada & New England is where the deep-blue sea meets rich autumn hues. Witness the changing autumn foliage, one of nature's amazing spectacles. It’s also where you’ll travel back to the Gilded Age and explore Bar Harbor, an opulent summer retreat built for the 19th-century elite. Québec City’s iconic Chateau Frontenac is where you’ll find the best views of the Saint Lawrence River. And be sure to save an afternoon for a true "downeast" lobster bake. Experience it all with North America's Leading Cruise Line (World Travel Awards).

^Buy an air ticket and the 2nd guest flies for free. *View for full terms and conditions.

Canada & New England Cruises on Norwegian Escape

Explore Canada and New England on board Norwegian Escape this fall. One of the most exciting ships on the seas, Norwegian Escape offers cruisers the chance to chase sunsets on The Waterfront, dine like nowhere else at sea with over 25 dining experiences, and toast to your vacation with more than 21 bars and lounges.

Award-Winning Canada & New England Cruises

If there is one season when Mother Nature loves to flaunt, it's fall. And there's no better view of this amazing spectacle than on our Canada & New England cruises. Add our award-winning restaurants, casinos, and entertainment and you'll have the holiday of a lifetime.

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• Portland, Maine
• Saguenay National Park
• Nova Scotia
• Charlottetown
• Boston Public Gardens
• Quebec City
• Newport, RI

Explore Canada & New England Cruise Ports

Best Canada & New England EXCURSIONS

We know the destinations you'll be visiting and what there is to see, do and experience. We offer you a variety of excursions to choose from, in every port you'll visit.

Acadia National Park & Lobster Bake

This terrific tour combines the highlights of the Acadia National Park tour with a true "Downeast" lobster bake. ...

Best Of Portland & Kennebunkport

To make the most of your day in Portland, this tour combines the city highlights with a visit to historic Portland Head Light and the charming seaside town of Kennebunkport. ...

Ultimate Anne of Green Gables Experience

View rolling farmlands, stunning seascapes, tiny villages and bustling harbors as you get ready to meet Anne of Green Gables. Highlighting some of the finest attractions on Prince ...

Coastal Drive to Peggy's Cove

Experience a narrated excursion of Halifax, including a drive by historic properties, a restored section of the waterfront, Citadel Hill and the beautiful public gardens before hea...

Canada & New England HOTELS

• QUÉBEC CITY

New York Marriott Marquis

There is no city quite like New York City, and no hotel quite like New York Marriott Marquis. Set in the heart of Times Square on West 46th Street and Broadway, our iconic hotel lets you experience all the magic of New York from the moment you arrive. Feel the energy all around you, both within the hotel and as soon as you step outside. Inside our towering hotel, you'll find some of New York City's largest hotel rooms and suites, multiple restaurants - including the only revolving restaurant in the city and our new outdoor lounge -100,000 square feet of meeting and event space and a knowledgeable staff to help you navigate this expansive and ever-changing city.

There is no city quite like New York City, and no hotel quite like New York Marriott Marquis. Set in the heart of Times Square on West 46th Street and Broadway, our iconic hotel lets you experience all the magic of New York from the moment you arrive. Feel the energy all around you, both within the hotel and as soon as you step outside. Inside our towering hotel, you'll find some of New York City's largest hotel rooms and suites, multiple restaurants - including the only revolving restaurant in the city and our new outdoor lounge -100,000 square feet of meeting and event space and a knowledgeable staff to help you navigate this expansive and ever-changing city. Whether visiting for a family holiday, romantic getaway or attending a conference, the New York Marriott Marquis is truly the perfect hotel for your stay in New York City.

• Distance/Airport: 20 miles (JFK) / 12 miles (LGA) / 20 miles Distance/Pier: 1.5 miles
• Room and room tax Bellman gratuities Transfers between Hotel and Pier

Important Note: Accommodations are based on double occupancy per room. Some accommodation will allow triple and quad guests in a room and are subject to availability and surcharge will apply. Additional hotel rooms to accommodate triple and quads may be required, and surcharge will apply.

Four Points by Sheraton Boston Logan Airport Revere

A 6-mile drive from Boston International Airport, this modern hotel is 7 miles from the historic attractions of downtown Boston. Bright, warmly decorated rooms include desks and flat-screen TVs with in-room movies, plus free Wi-Fi and bottled water. Upgraded rooms add minifridges and seating areas. Room service is available.

The hotel offers complimentary airport shuttle service. The same shuttle can also drop off the passengers at the Subway station. Other amenities include an indoor pool and a Japanese-themed steakhouse, plus a 24-hour business centre and meeting rooms.

• Distance/Airport: 6 miles Distance/Pier: 8 miles
• Room and room tax Bellman gratuities Transfers between Airport and Hotel (via Hotel shuttle) Transfers between Hotel and Pier

Important Note: Maximum quad occupancy per room. Triples and quads will be accommodated in a room with 2 queen sized beds. Rollaway are subject to availability and must be requested. Surcharges will apply.

Baltimore Marriot Waterfront

This Baltimore hotel is located directly next to the Baltimore Harbour, in the Harbour East neighbourhood. Free WiFi is available in public areas. Guest rooms at the Baltimore Marriott Waterfront include cable TV with movie channels and pay-per-view movies. A work desk is also included.

The on-site American restaurant, Apropoe's, serves seasonal, local comfort food. A fitness centre with cardio equipment and a full-service business centre are available at the Marriott Waterfront Baltimore. Over 80,000 square feet of event space is also available at the property. The hotel offers concierge services.

The National Aquarium is 10 minutes' walk away, whilst the Maryland Zoo is 11 minutes' drive away. Guests can explore the waterfront area by foot or water taxi.

Phone: (410) 385-3000

Distance/Airport: 13 miles

Distance/Pier: 4.7 miles

Package includes: Room and room tax Bellman gratuities Transfers between Hotel and Pier

Hotel Pur Quebec

Dare to discover authenticity! Local, modern, and always stylish - Hotel PUR is situated in the heart of the Saint Roch District which celebrates the eclectic and colourful side of Quebec City. Everything that takes place inside or outside our walls is influenced by our Quebec roots and vibrates to the rhythm of our culture, history, and entertainment. Explore Hotel PUR where new urban design emerges following a multi-million dollar refresh to our sleek downtown Hotel.

Unwind at our on-site restaurant and bar Table, featuring inspired, authentic local ingredients, or retreat in our indoor heated pool or dry sauna for an afternoon of relaxation. Experience luxury without pretension at Hotel PUR.

Distance/Airport: 11.8 miles Distance/Pier: 4 miles

Le Westin Montreal

Located in Old Montreal neighbourhood, Le Westin Montréal is connected to a rail/subway station. Place d'Armes and Notre Dame Basilica are notable landmarks, and the area's natural beauty can be seen at Parc Jean-Drapeau. See what's going on at Bell Centre or Circuit Gilles Villeneuve. Take in the nearby slopes with a ski area and skiing or check out other outdoor activities such as ice skating and snow tubing.

Located in Old Montreal neighbourhood, Le Westin Montréal is connected to a rail/subway station. Place d'Armes and Notre Dame Basilica are notable landmarks, and the area's natural beauty can be seen at Parc Jean-Drapeau. See what's going on at Bell Centre or Circuit Gilles Villeneuve. Take in the nearby slopes with a ski area and skiing or check out other outdoor activities such as ice skating and snow tubing. Guests love the hotel's central location.

Spacious rooms and suites equipped with free Wi-Fi, pillowtop mattresses and marble bathrooms. When you've worked up an appetite, our on-site GaZette restaurant features a mouth-watering menu with take-out options. Whether travelling for leisure or business, or a bit of both, Le Westin Montréal provides a refined experience meant to restore a sense of balance and control.

Distance/Airport: 13.5 miles - Montréal-Pierre Elliott Trudeau International Airport (YUL) 160 miles - Québec City Jean Lesage International Airport (YQB)

Phone: (514) 380-3333

Distance/Pier: 167 miles - Quebec Pier

Read THINGS TO KNOW ABOUT Canada & New England Cruises

Cruise Canada & New England Without a Passport

Learn more about cruising to Canada & New England without a passport.

Quebec: A UNESCO Heritage Site

All the beauty and charm of Europe, but closer to home than you think.

Explore Halifax, Nova Scotia

Witness the beauty of Halifax, Nova Scotia on a Canada & New England cruise.

Experience a traditional Maine lobster that includes New England clam chowder, steamed mussels, and more.

What to Wear

Canada and New England cruises are all about the fall colours.

Nice 'tude

Boston has a latitude similar to Barcelona, Rome and Istanbul.

Canada has two official languages – English and French.

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Ocean Cruise Tours & Trips in Eastern Canada

Explore a wide diversity of ocean cruise tours through Eastern Canada. We have 17 adventures that vary from 12 days to 31 days. With the greatest number of departures in May, this is also the most popular time of the year.

17 ocean cruise Eastern Canada tours with 78 positive reviews

• Ocean Cruise

Cambridge Bay to Portland

Eastern Explorer, Maritimes Cruise & New York

Eastern Highlights and New England Discovery Cruise - Ottawa – Montréal

Eastern Explorer & Maritimes Cruise - Ottawa > Québec City

Eastern Highlights and New England Discovery Cruise - Ottawa – Québec City

Eastern Explorer, Maritimes Cruise & New York - Ottawa > Québec City

Great Explorer Trail | Iceland, Greenland & the Northwest Passage

• Sightseeing

Greenland, Labrador and Newfoundland—Encounters at the Edge

• In-depth Cultural
• Coach / Bus

Indulgence in Eastern Canada (from Toronto to Boston)

Quebec in Depth with the Gaspe Peninsula & Ocean Train to Halifax

Eastern Canada and New England Cruise Toronto to Boston (2024)

Fall Colours of the East & Canada New England Cruise 25 Days (from New York City to Boston)

Eastern Explorer & Maritimes Cruise - Ottawa > Montreal

Eastern Explorer, Maritimes Cruise & New York - Ottawa > Montreal

Eastern Explorer, Maritimes Cruise & New York - Ottawa to Montreal

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• 10 Amazing Ocean Cruise Tours & Trips 2024/2025

Canada & the Atlantic Coastline

Sail along the legendary St. Lawrence Seaway and the Atlantic coast of the US on a memorable voyage that combines scenic landscapes and storied cities. Led by a team of experts, explore the unspoiled wilderness near Trois-Rivières, Louisbourg and Lunenburg by land and water. Experience New York City’s expansive Central Park, an oasis in the middle of a bustling metropolis, and immerse yourself in the rich histories of Quebec City, Norfolk and Charleston. Travel between Toronto, Canada and Ft. Lauderdale, Florida on this amazing voyage!

Ports of call: Toronto | Trois-Rivieres | Quebec City | Cap-aux-Meules | Cape Breton Island | Lunenburg | New York City | Norfolk | Charleston | Ft. Lauderdale

Cruise Details

or call 800.578.1479

*Per person/double occupancy. Special single rates apply where listed. Excludes port fees. Itineraries may operate in reverse.

Your Itinerary

1 Toronto, ON Embark your ship and settle into your stateroom. Toronto is beloved by many as one of Canada’s boldest and most innovative capitals. Hugging the shores of Lake Ontario and facing the picturesque Toronto Islands, it was founded by British loyalists fleeing the American Revolution in 1793. Today the city is a pleasure to explore on foot, whether strolling past the Victorian bay-and-gable homes of Rosedale, or the historic enclave of Wychwood Park, an Ontario Heritage Conservation district. The city’s Distillery District is home to North America’s largest preserved collection of Victorian industrial architecture.

2 Scenic Sailing: St. Lawrence Seaway Locks A brilliant feat of engineering, the St. Lawrence Seaway comprises a series of locks, canals and channels that allow ships and goods to travel from the Atlantic Ocean up the St. Lawrence River to Lake Superior. Seven locks point the way between Montreal and Lake Ontario, detouring past rapids and several dams. The 27-mile Welland Canal lifts ships over the Niagara Escarpment to Lake Erie, sidestepping Niagara Falls. The Canadian-and American-operated waterway is known locally as “Highway H2O” for the traffic and trade it allows.

3 Trois-Rivieres, QC Canada Trois-Rivières is the cultural center of Quebec’s Maurice region. This picturesque city was established in 1634, the second—after Quebec City, in 1608—to be permanently settled in New France. With its strategic location, it played an important role as all eyes looked west to trade fur with the First Nations peoples. “Three Rivers,” the city’s anglicized name, is located at the point where two islands in the Saint-Maurice River break the waterway into three channels before it spills into the St. Lawrence. Today, stately century-old buildings form the core of the Old Town.

4 Quebec City, QC Quebec City is by many accounts the most French city in New France. The Old Town’s centerpiece, the magnificent Château Frontenac, seems transported from the palatial landscapes of the Loire Valley, and its French-accented streets lead past white-stone buildings that evoke old-world medieval villages. The only remaining walled city in North America outside of Mexico, Quebec City was fortified in the 17th century soon after its founding in 1608. Its strategic setting on the rocky promontory of Cape Diamond gave troops a close view of the St. Lawrence.

5 Scenic Sailing: St. Lawrence River Flowing through the fertile lowlands that link the US Great Lakes to the Atlantic Ocean, the St. Lawrence River is one of North America’s most scenic waterways. Canada’s second longest river features a number of great cultural capitals, including the stately facade of Château Frontenac, the gleaming skyline of Montreal and the pastoral island of Île d’Orléans. To the island’s east, the river widens into the largest estuary in the world, passing small towns, gently rising hills and rocky banks. Farther east, the long Île d’Anticosti marks the mouth of the river.

6 Cap-aux-Meules, QC The village of Cap-aux-Meules—or Grindstone Cape—was named for the headland on Grindstone, one of Quebec’s 13 Magdalen Islands. Its French moniker, rarely used in English, is nonetheless its official name. This is the second largest of the Magdalens by area, a low-lying expanse ringed by rugged shores that was inhabited by the Mi’kmaq tribe when they came on a seasonal walrus hunt. The first European to step on this land was Jacques Cartier in 1534. Today, some islanders are descendants of shipwreck survivors and live in houses built out of wood retrieved from the waters.

7 Cape Breton Island (Louisbourg), NS Cape Breton Island sits at the confluence of the Gulf of St. Lawrence and the Atlantic Ocean. Hiking paths dot its terrain, inviting treks through its rolling farmlands, striking highlands and dense forests, while sheltered inlets call to kayakers and boaters to explore the rocky shoreline. The island is home for an array of birdlife, including cormorants, hawks and skuas. The fortified town of Louisbourg was one of France’s strongholds in North America during the 18th century. Today, the partially reconstructed fortress and its former town are a National Historic Site.

8 Lunenburg, NS Nova Scotia’s coast still retains much of its unspoiled natural beauty. Rolling hills and boreal forests stretch to coastal cliffs that steeply drop to rugged shores dotted with sheltered bays and sea caves. The site of the first permanent European settlement north of Florida in the New World, it is rich in maritime heritage. The city of Lunenburg was once a busy shipbuilding center. Its historic Old Town is both a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a National Historic Site, considered the best surviving example of planned British colonial settlement in North America.

9 Sail the Atlantic Ocean Sail the Atlantic Ocean, divided in half, north to south, by the Mid-Atlantic Ridge. Longer than the Rockies, the Himalayas and the Andes combined, this underwater mountain range is the longest on Earth. As you sail today, attend an informative lecture or watch a film on our 8k laser-projected panoramic screen in The Aula, one of the world's most advanced venues for learning at sea. This indoor-outdoor experience allows nature to take center stage with its retractable floor-to-ceiling windows that unveil 270° views.

10 New York City, NY New York City is at once romantic and exhilarating. From the robust streets of Lower Manhattan’s financial district to the intimate warrens of Greenwich Village, the city overflows with culture, cuisine and architectural beauty. New York is for everyone. Music lovers marvel at Carnegie Hall or catch a 1920s-style jazz and blues show in Harlem. Romantics board a horse-drawn carriage in Central Park. Art lovers browse the Museum of Modern Art or the Guggenheim. And theatergoers attend the greatest shows in the world on Broadway, amid the glitter of Times Square.

11 Sail the Atlantic Ocean Sail legendary waters, where medieval Europeans believed “there be dragons” beyond the ocean’s horizon. Soak up the views from the Finse Terrace, a unique outdoor lounge area named after a famous mountain plateau in south-central Norway. Relax amid your surroundings in comfort, with heated couches and lava rock “firepits,” allowing you to enjoy the outdoors no matter the temperature, as you admire the dramatic scenery or expansive ocean vistas.

12 Norfolk, VA With its striking setting on a wide natural harbor, Norfolk is home to the world’s largest naval base. Dozens of vessels line seven miles of wharfs on the waterfront. The city’s identity and history are intertwined with the US Navy and other military branches. Norfolk is also the resting place of General Douglas MacArthur, the much-decorated US Army commander. He and his wife are entombed at the MacArthur Memorial, a museum in Norfolk’s former City Hall. This remarkable collection sheds light on the general’s life with preserved uniforms, personal papers and memorabilia.

13 Sail the Atlantic Ocean The nutrient-rich waters of the Atlantic Ocean are home to more than half of the world’s fisheries, annually providing millions of tons of fish and other marine species for human consumption and industrial purposes. As you sail, take advantage of the array of delicious cuisine offered on board. You may visit Mamsen’s, our casual gourmet deli, any time from early morning to late at night for a taste of traditional Norwegian fare. Or, dine at Manfredi’s Italian Restaurant for authentic fare with options ranging from Milanese risotto to Tuscan-inspired classics.

14 Charleston, SC Charleston is a historic center of Southern culture. Founded in 1670, it sits between two estuaries and is fronted by a deep natural harbor. An important commercial port since colonial times, the city was also a leader in the secessionist movement; the capture of Fort Sumter by Confederate forces on April 14, 1862, marked the beginning of the Civil War. Today, Charleston is notable for its many well-preserved colonial homes and churches, charming streets and courtyards, and expansive parks and gardens. The Charleston Museum, founded in 1773, is the oldest museum in the US.

15 Sail the Atlantic Ocean The Atlantic Ocean derives its name from Greek and means “Sea of Atlas,” a reference to the mythological Atlas, a Titan who supported the heavens on his shoulders as a punishment for fighting the gods. As you sail today, relax in the Explorers’ Lounge, inspired by epic journeys of discovery. Marvel at the views through the two-story panoramic windows as you share a cocktail with friends, or settle down to read a book.

16 Ft. Lauderdale, FL A beloved leisure destination for Floridians and visitors alike, the Ft. Lauderdale area exudes the carefree attitude of South Florida’s coast. In Miami, a thriving Cuban culture infuses Old Havana and gleaming high-rises overlook Biscayne Bay. On the outlying barrier islands, South Beach is an intoxicating blend of seaside glamour and art deco pastel brilliance. Farther north, the seven-mile-long Ft. Lauderdale Beach provides a more leisurely ambience. Along Las Olas Boulevard, cafés and boutiques invite lingering and endless browsing. After breakfast, disembark your ship and journey home.

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United States, Canada & New England

Embark on an unforgettable MSC Cruise  and set sail on captivating family cruises through the heart and history of North America. Discover the essence of these great nations as we take you to the very places where their legacies began.   Experience the allure of Canada's Atlantic Ocean region with carefully curated all-inclusive cruises by MSC Cruises. Immerse yourself in the untamed natural beauty that envelops Victorian Saint John  in New Brunswick, the pastoral landscapes of Prince Edward Island's Charlottetown , and the historic charm of Québec City  nestled along the St. Lawrence River. Marvel at the scenic beauty of Sydney and Halifax  in Nova Scotia, creating cherished memories that will last a lifetime.   For the United States of America, we have handpicked the highlights of the eastern coast, allowing you to revel in the elegance of New England found in Newport. Absorb Maine's enchanting Bar Harbor , and unwind in the tranquility of Massachusetts, including the vibrant capital, Boston —a city renowned for its history, culture, and modern dynamism.

Saint John, Canada

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MSC Cruises

Eastern Canada & New England Cruise & Land Tour

Eastern Canada and New England cruise and land tours combine a cruise with extensive sightseeing on land, offering a more in-depth look at some of that region's popular destinations. On New England land tours, visit some of the most historic sites in the United States, including Gettysburg, Williamsburg and Richmond. On Eastern Canada land tours, explore Canada's diversity and beauty with visits to places such as Montreal, Toronto and Niagara Falls.

• Most Eastern Canada and New England cruise and land tours are available from August through October.  
• Eastern Canada and New England cruise and land tours are typically 14 nights in length.  
• If you need to fly a long distance to reach your port of departure, we suggest that you arrive at the port city at least one or two days in advance of your Eastern Canada & New England cruise and land tour. This will give you time to rest and get oriented before boarding the ship. Most cruise lines offer pre-cruise hotel packages.

Eastern US & Canada Grand Vacation

Enjoy a 15-day Eastern US & Canada Grand Vacation tour that will delight you with exciting cities, historic sites and breathtaking scenery. Travel roundtrip from New York City on this exciting tour that visits Boston, Quebec City, Montreal, Ottawa, Toronto, Niagara Falls, Lancaster, Washington, D.C. and Philadelphia. Visit historic landmarks and spectacular scenery along your journey.

Delightful highlights include some of the most fascinating destinations in North America on this thrilling tour that include such New York City iconic landmarks as the Empire State Building, Rockefeller Center, City Hall and Trinity Church. While in history-rich Boston, discover Faneuil Hall, the Old North Church, the Freedom Trail and Boston Common. The walled city of Quebec features the luxury Chateau Frontenac hotel. Montreal boasts Notre Dame Church, St. Joseph’s Oratory, Mount Royal and the opportunity to stroll through the city’s Old Montreal for a glimpse of the past. See the National Arts Centre, Canadian Mint and Parliament Hill in Ottawa and the many wonders of cosmopolitan Toronto. Enjoy the thrills of a Niagara Falls sightseeing cruise and visit an Amish Farm in the Pennsylvania Dutch country. Washington, D.C. is always fascinating and this tour lets you visit Arlington National Cemetery, the Lincoln and Washington Memorials, the White House, Capitol Hill and more. Sightsee in historic Philadelphia, home to the iconic Liberty Bell and more. Let the Eastern US & Canada Grand Vacation show you diverse cultural, historic and fun places that will create one of your best and favorite vacations ever!

15 Days • fr. $2,922

• TOUR HIGHLIGHTS
• DAY TO DAY ITINERARY
• PRICES BY DEPARTURE DATE
• TERMS & CONDITIONS

Tour Includes

• A sightseeing tour of New York City with a local guide
• A sightseeing tour of Boston with a local guide
• A sightseeing tour of Quebec with a local guide
• A sightseeing tour of Montreal with a local guide
• A sightseeing tour of Ottawa with a local guide
• A scenic boat cruise in Thousand Islands National Park
• A sightseeing tour of Toronto
• A sightseeing cruise at Niagara Falls
• A guided visit to an Amish Farm & House in Lancaster
• A sightseeing tour of Washington, DC with a local guide
• A sightseeing tour of Philadelphia
• Private, deluxe, air-conditioned motorcoach while touring with free Wi-Fi.

Not Included

• Gratuities are included for services during the land stay of your vacation, except on Cosmos Lite vacations and unless otherwise noted. This includes wait staff at included meals, and porterage at hotels for one suitcase per person. Gratuities for your Tour Director, Local Hosts®, Local Guides, driver, and ship’s crew are not included in the vacation price (unless otherwise noted in pricing details) and are discretionary.
• All items of a personal nature (room service, beverages, telephone charges, laundry, special food requests, etc.) and meals not specified on the tour itinerary are not included and must be paid by the client.
• All rates exclude airfare unless expressly noted.

Meal Inclusions

Hotel details.

• New Yorker Hotel (a Wyndham property) in New York City, NY (1 night)
• Ramada Boston Hotel in Boston, MA (2 nights)
• Hotel Lindbergh in Quebec City, Canada (2 nights)
• Best Western Ville-Marie in Montreal, Canada (1 night)
• The Cartier Suite Hotel in Ottawa, Canada (1 night)
• Chelsea Hotel in Toronto, Canada (2 nights)
• Best Western Plus Cairn Croft Hotel in Niagara Falls, Canada (1 night)
• Heritage Hotel Lancaster in Lancaster, PA (1 night)
• Holiday Inn & Suites Alexandria Old Town in Alexandria, VA (2 nights)
• Wyndham Philadelphia Historical Disctrict in Philadelphia, PA (1 night)
• The hotels listed are intended to be used on all departures however Cosmos reserves the right to substitute other hotels than those listed. If a change becomes necessary for any reason, the hotel substituted will be of equivalent quality to those listed. No refunds are provided for hotel changes and full cancellation penalties apply.

ARRIVAL IN NEW YORK CITY Location Information Description

New York City, United States

Welcome to the “Big Apple!” Your Tour Director is on hand this afternoon to answer any questions.

New Yorker Hotel (a Wyndham Hotel)

NEW YORK CITY Location Information Description

This morning, on the included sightseeing tour with a local expert, visit Broadway, the Empire State Building, Rockefeller Center, Chinatown, City Hall, Wall Street and Trinity Church.

BOSTON Location Information Description

Boston, United States

This afternoon, head for Boston—the “Cradle of American Liberty.” Visit its historic landmarks, reflecting the important part it has played in the history of the United States.

Ramada Boston

On your morning guided tour of Boston, see Faneuil Hall, the Old North Church (where Paul Revere was signaled for the departure of British troops to Lexington), the Freedom Trail, and Boston Common. The afternoon is free to explore on your own.

BOSTON–QUÉBEC CITY Location Information Description

Quebec City, Canada

Journey through Hampshire, passing the State Capitol at Concord and on to the scenic White Mountains. Continue to the Canadian border, where you’ll notice a change in language and tradition as you enter the French-Canadian province of Québec. Overnight in historic Québec City on the banks of the St. Lawrence River.

Hotel Linbergh

Quebec City Location Information Description

This morning, join your traveling companions on a unique optional excursion to the Érablière le Chemin du Roy Sugar Shack. Visitors to the sugar cabin will enjoy a typical Québec breakfast, along with a guided visit and presentation to explain the process of maple extraction.

Afterward, return to Québec City for a guided tour of Canada’s only walled city, crowned by the turrets of Château Frontenac. Until the British victory of 1759, Old Québec was the center of New France; today, it’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Within the walls reside the Place d’Armes, Laval Seminary, the star-plan Citadelle with grand vistas from its bastions, and ancient Place Royale. See the Old World houses crowding narrow streets in Lower Town and the historic Plains of Abraham, where General Wolfe stormed the slopes. The afternoon is at leisure.

Hotel Lindbergh

QUÉBEC CITY–MONTRÉAL Location Information Description

Montreal, Canada

Today, drive to cosmopolitan Montréal, one of Canada’s largest cities and home of Expo ‘67 and the 1976 Summer Olympics. Included guided sightseeing includes St. Joseph’s Oratory, the lookout atop Mount Royal, once-walled Old Montréal, Notre Dame Church, the Seminary of St. Sulpice, built by the first missionary settlers, and modern Montréal.

Best Western Ville-Marie

MONTRÉAL–OTTAWA Location Information Description

Ottawa, Canada

Drive west to Ottawa, Canada’s beautiful capital. Guided city sightseeing includes Parliament Hill with its gothic buildings, the Canadian Mint, the Rideau Canal, the hexagonal National Arts Centre, and stately residences and embassies. With a free afternoon you could visit the Canadian Museum of History, with panoramic views of Parliament Hill across the Ottawa River.

The Cartier Place Suite Hotel

OTTAWA–THOUSAND ISLANDS NATIONAL PARK–TORONTO Location Information Description

Toronto, Canada

Trace the Rideau Canal south to the amazing Thousand Islands National Park. Enjoy many wooded islands along the St. Lawrence River, sprinkled with beautifully simple to opulent summer homes on your included scenic cruise.

Chelsea Hotel

TORONTO Location Information Description

Setting Toronto’s exciting architectural tone are City Hall; the downtown banking district; Roger’s Center; and stunning CN Tower, more than a third of a mile high. See all this and more on your morning city sightseeing tour. Then, spend the rest of teh day exploring the city sights on your own, including Harbourfront, Ontario Place and Chinatown.

TORONTO–NIAGARA FALLS Location Information Description

Niagara Falls, Canada

Travel south along the lakeshore and through the rich farmlands and vineyards of Ontario to Niagara Falls. Stop at Table Rock and hear the raging waters. Then, board your Niagara Falls sightseeing cruise for amazing close-ups at the base of the falls.

NOTE: Operation of the Niagara Falls sightseeing cruise is subject to favorable weather conditions. When weather is unfavorable, a walking tour through the scenic tunnels will be substituted.

Best Western Plus Cairn Croft Hotel

NIAGARA FALLS–LANCASTER Location Information Description

Lancaster, United States

Leave Canada and head southeast through the Appalachian Mountains and along a portion of the Susquehanna River into Pennsylvania Dutch farm country. Tonight, join the optional excursion and experience a traditional Amish dinner.

Heritage Hotel Lancaster

LANCASTER–PENNSYLVANIA DUTCH COUNTRY Location Information Description

This morning, stop at the Amish Farm & House. A Local Guide explains the faith, culture, and way of life of these people for whom tradition forbids the use of electricity or telephones in the home.

WASHINGTON DC AREA Location Information Description

Washington, D.C., United States

On to Washington DC for an afternoon arrival.

Holiday Inn & Suites Alexandria Old Town

The nation’s capital is a sightseeing treasure trove, and your half-day tour with a Local Guide visits Arlington National Cemetery to see the graves of American heroes, including those of John F. Kennedy and his brother Robert. Afterward, see the Lincoln and Washington Monuments, National WWII Memorial, and photo stops at Capitol Hill, the White House, and other well-known sights. Your Tour Director will also suggest a number of independent activities that explore different facets of this splendid city.

Holiday Inn Hotel & Suites Alexandria Old Town

WASHINGTON DC AREA–PHILADELPHIA Location Information Description

Philadelphia, United States

Travel north this morning to Philadelphia for included sightseeing focusing on the important buildings of this historic city, the “Birthplace of the Nation.”

Wyndham Philadelphia Historical District

PHILADELPHIA–NEW YORK CITY Location Information Description

This morning, leave for New York City via Newark International Airport for those with homebound flights. Please schedule flights after 6 pm. For guests with flights out of Kennedy or LaGuardia airports, transfers are not included; we suggest booking flights after 7 pm. The trip ends in Manhattan in the late afternoon for guests on the New York city extension.

• All rates listed are per person based on double occupancy and are subject to change without notice. Your land package pricing will be confirmed and guaranteed once your deposit is received and applied to the booking, except where price increases may result from increases in government taxes or fees. Room configurations are subject to availability. Guests added to your party after the booking are priced at the prevailing rate at the time they are added.

Important Information

Cancellation policy.

• 45-22 days prior to commencement of services: 20% of total price*
• 21-8 days prior to commencement of services: 30% of total price*
• 7-1 days prior to commencement of services: 50% of total price*
• On departure day and later: 100% of total price*
• *Total price does not include any Instant Purchase Air or Instant Purchase Air service fees, which are non-refundable after 24 hours from purchase. Intra-vacation air is non-refundable after final payment.
• Cancellation fees may also apply to any additional services, including extra night accommodations, independently supplied services, and optional excursions reserved prior to, during, and after the tour. If flight changes, including, but not limited to, flight cancellations or name changes, are requested after full land and air deposits are received, revision fees, change fees, or airline cancellation fees will apply.
• In many instances, airline revision or change fees can be up to $300, but in some instances may be up to 100% of the ticket price. Cancellation penalties will be quoted at time of cancellation.
• All cancellations must be received in writing prior to tour departure. The cancellation policy will apply according to the date that the cancellation notification is received. The MINIMUM cancellation penalty is the deposit amount.
• The purchase to trip cancellation insurance is strongly recommended.

Terms and Conditions

• Land only “from price” is per person based on two people sharing a room together and does not include airfare unless expressly stated.
• All prices are in US Dollars.
• A $250 non-refundable, non-transferable, per-person, per-vacation deposit is required to reserve space for you, with some limited exceptions, as noted below. Payment of the deposit indicates you have read and accepted theseall Terms & Conditions. Your booking is not confirmed until the deposit payment is processed and you receive a confirmation invoice.
• Final payment is due 45 days prior to departure, with some limited exceptions, as noted below. Within the final payment date, payment in full is required at time of booking to reserve space. Reservations (land, cruise, and air) are canceled if final payment is not received by the due date. The payment policy may vary for group reservations.
• Additional deposits or payments are required for international air added to the start and/or end of your vacation and/or for intra-vacation air, as specified in the itinerary (“air-inclusive vacations”). Air-inclusive vacation pricing is guaranteed upon receipt of full land plus air deposit or land deposit plus full airfare price, depending on type of airfare purchased (Flex-Air or Instant Purchase Air).
• For complete terms and conditions please visit the Globus Terms & Conditions for more information.

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The 18 best places to see the northern lights.

Check the aurora borealis off your bucket list.

The Best Places for the Northern Lights

Getty Images

The northern lights, known as the aurora borealis, are a spectacular natural light show visible at certain times of the year in the Northern Hemisphere. They occur when electrically charged particles from the sun collide with gases in the Earth's atmosphere, creating vibrant streaks of blue, green, pink and violet dancing across the night sky. 2024 and 2025 are an excellent time to catch the northern lights: Solar activity will be at a peak, making for a more impressive experience, if you're in the right place.

The best places to see the aurora borealis have little light pollution, clear skies and no precipitation. The lights are only visible at northern latitudes when it's dark outside, so the months from September to April are best for seeing the aurora. There's also a Southern Hemisphere counterpart, the aurora australis; there are fewer easy spots from which to view this phenomenon, but if you're lucky, it can be equally brilliant.

For more information on the northern lights, scroll down to the FAQ section at the bottom of this page. Read on to discover the top destinations where you can see the kaleidoscopic northern and southern lights.

Fairbanks, Alaska

Fairbanks is by far one of the best places in the world to view the northern lights, as it's located directly under the auroral oval. This ring-shaped zone sits around the Earth's geomagnetic North Pole and is generally associated with the most vibrant aurora sightings. Visitors can expect to see the lights on an average of four out of five clear nights during aurora season, which lasts from late August to late April.

You can book a northern lights tour to see the aurora from the springs and tubs at Chena Hot Springs Resort. This excursion includes round-trip transportation to the resort from town, a soak in the hot springs, a visit to the Fairbanks Aurora Ice Museum and an aurora viewing tour; dinner and drinks centered around Alaska produce are an option extra with hot drinks supplied.

There's more to Fairbanks than just the northern lights: If you visit in late summer, consider family-friendly activities like a ride on the Riverboat Discovery or gold panning. For a festive holiday experience in the winter, head around 15 miles out of Fairbanks to visit the Santa Claus House in the city of North Pole. Travelers can also see ice sculptures in February and March at the impressive World Ice Art Championships or take a dog-sledding or snowmobiling tour .

Where to stay: For excellent chances of aurora viewing, book a private igloo at Borealis Basecamp, a top glamping resort located on 100 remote acres of boreal forest about 25 miles from Fairbanks. With activities like dog-sledding on top of aurora viewing, past visitors regularly describe it as a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Tromsø, Norway

Located about 220 miles above the Arctic Circle, Tromsø is one of several top spots to view the northern lights in Norway. At the darkest point of the aurora season – which runs from September to early April – the sun doesn't rise in this northern part of the country, although there is twilight during the day. With this level of darkness, there are more opportunities to see the aurora.

Tromsø itself is a small but lively city, so there's plenty to see and do when you're not looking up at the sky, including a visit to the beautiful Arctic Cathedral. In late January to early February, the city hosts the Northern Lights Festival, a 10-day music and performing arts event featuring a variety of musical genres.

Aurora chasers can view the lights on their own while in town, but to get a better view, it's recommended to head away from the city lights. Arctic Circle Tours is one company offering guided trips, with small groups for a more personal vibe. Alternatively, adventure-seekers can embark on an exhilarating husky trekking expedition in the Arctic wilderness.

Where to stay: For accommodations with harbor views, look no further than the Scandic Ishavshotel – guests love it for its convenient central location in the city, as well as its plus-sized breakfast buffet with plenty of choices.

Luosto and Rovaniemi (Lapland), Finland

Lapland is located within the Arctic Circle in the northernmost part of Finland. The northern lights are most visible here between the end of August and April – and approximately 200 times a year – so there are many opportunities for aurora spotting. Finnish Lapland is also known as home to the Sámi people (the only recognized Indigenous group in the European Union region), some 200,000 reindeer and Santa Claus – who can be visited in the town of Rovaniemi, the region's largest city and a great base for your aurora expedition.

Consider venturing roughly 70 miles north of Rovaniemi to the resort town of Luosto, set among the picturesque and hilly landscape of Pyhä-Luosto National Park. Here, you can also spend a magical evening outdoors under star-filled skies during a reindeer-drawn sleigh ride through the snow-covered forests. Jaakkola Reindeer Farm offers a reindeer sleigh tour to spot the aurora once weekly; it includes a stop to warm up at a bonfire camp with snacks, hot beverages and local fireside stories.

Where to stay: For a bucket list experience, watch the impressive light show from a glass igloo at Santa's Hotel Aurora & Igloos in Luosto. Past visitors love the cozy atmosphere here, boosted by amenities like saunas and log fireplaces. If you're sticking to Rovaniemi, the Arctic TreeHouse Hotel is a stunning choice, with designer cabins perched among the snow-covered taiga forest.

Orkney, Scotland

This group of captivating (and mostly uninhabited) islands, located about 10 miles off Scotland's remote northern coast, is one of the best places to see the northern nights in the U.K. Fall and winter are the best seasons to witness the aurora, also known in local Shetland dialect as the "Mirrie Dancers," with fall bringing the highest proportion of clear nights. A few places to see the spectacular light show include along the coast at Birsay or the Broch of Gurness, an archaeological ruin on a sweeping and dramatic coastline.

In addition to the aurora, Orkney is home to breathtaking coastal landscapes and more sheep than you can count (try some local lamb, if you can). Travelers can also visit the Heart of Neolithic Orkney, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with several monuments dating back 5,000 years.

Where to stay: During your visit, plan to stay in the historic town of Kirkwall, the capital of the Orkney Islands: The no-fuss Ayre Hotel offers harbor views, and past visitors compliment the hearty meals in the hotel restaurant. Spot the aurora close to town at Inganess Bay and Wideford Hill.

Yellowknife, Canada

Yellowknife, the capital of Canada 's Northwest Territories, dubs itself the "Aurora Capital of the World." Thanks to its position in the middle of the auroral oval, the city puts on one of the world's most awe-inspiring light shows. The period from mid-November to the beginning of April is the recommended time to spot the aurora, but it's also possible to see the aurora during more hospitable weather from late summer to early fall as the lights are visible up to 240 days a year.

Located on the northern shore of Great Slave Lake, Yellowknife boasts winter sports such as ice fishing and cross-country skiing. If you visit in March, plan to attend the monthlong Snowkings' Winter Festival, which features events and activities like a snow-carving competition, a snow castle, live music and more.

For a unique experience, book a tour through Aurora Village to view the lights. The property will pick you up from your hotel and take you to its site, where you can stay warm in a tent while sipping hot beverages. The Aboriginal-owned Aurora Village also offers activities such as dog-sledding or snowshoeing excursions.

Where to stay: Warm up in the fireside lounge at The Explorer Hotel in Yellowknife. Previous visitors note the warm and helpful staff as a strength here.

Jukkasjärvi, Sweden

The optimal time for seeing the illuminated skies in the northern part of Sweden, known as Swedish Lapland, is between early September and late March. The small Swedish village of Jukkasjärvi sits around 125 miles above the Arctic Circle on the Torne River and is an ideal locale for aurora viewing. You'll fly to the nearby Kiruna Airport to get here. With the village's origins dating back to the 17th century, you can still find some of the original homesteads, including an old timber cottage. Today the village boasts 800 residents – and more than 1,000 dogs.

Where to stay: If you're up for a chilly overnight adventure, reserve accommodations at the world's first permanent ice hotel, the aptly named Icehotel 365. Each of its artist-designed suites is sculpted from ice with a unique theme and maintains temperatures around minus 5 degrees Celsius (about 23 degrees Fahrenheit). The rooms also feature beds with reindeer hides and thermal sleeping bags so you can bundle up during the night. While you're at the property, take advantage of the guided "Northern Lights Safari on Snowmobile" or embark on the "Moose Safari on Horseback" atop an Icelandic horse.

Reykjavik, Iceland

October through March is the best time to chase the aurora borealis in Iceland . There are numerous natural parks and attractions throughout the country where you can view the show during the long and dark winter, but the capital city of Reykjavik also offers many options for accommodations, restaurants, tours and other activities for your visit. For optimum aurora viewing in the city away from the light pollution, head to Öskjuhlið. This wooded and hilly area in Reykjavik sits at 200 feet above sea level and has walkways and paths where you can see the nighttime show.

Atop this hill sits Perlan, which houses the only planetarium in the country and a museum featuring exhibits about Iceland. Perlan is also home to the world's first indoor ice cave and glacier exploratorium. During your visit, don't miss the panoramic views of the city from the building's fourth-floor observation deck. From this vantage point, you'll be able to see the Snæfellsjökull glacier; Keilir, a volcanic mountain; and Esja, the mountain of Reykjavik.

Where to stay: While in Reykjavik, splurge on an overnight tour with Buubble Tours. This experience includes breathtaking sightseeing spots and a night spent under the magical northern skies in a transparent bubble at the 5 Million Star Hotel. For longer stays, consider the eco-friendly Eyja Guldsmeden Hotel, with sweeping views of the city – guests love it for its cozy yet chic Scandinavian design.

Southern Iceland

While Reykjavik is a great aurora-viewing spot if you like having amenities close by, consider getting out into Iceland's stunning, otherworldly countryside for a unique backdrop for the northern lights. One unique place to see them is the black sand beach at Reynisfjara (but watch out for the dangerous waves here). Alternatively, head to Jökulsárlón, a glacial lagoon and seal habitat, where the aurora's reflections in the icy water are truly beautiful.

There's no shortage of tours that will stop by these locations and more for possible aurora sightings. Consider a 10- or 13-day tour around the country with Fun Travel, or a four-day option from Arctic Adventures. If you want to do things at your own place, it's also possible to self-drive – just know that road conditions can be icy, particularly in the depths of winter (although Icelandic roads are generally well-maintained).

Where to stay: Hotel Rangá is a formidable option for aurora-spotting. It offers a variety of special amenities, such as aurora wake-up calls, a lookout deck and snowsuits to keep you warm if you're outside viewing the lights. Past visitors praise Rangá for being a comfortable yet luxurious place to relax, be it in the outdoor hot tubs or the cozy and sociable bar.

Kangerlussuaq, Greenland

Greenland may not be the most accessible place to travel for viewing the northern lights, with limited flight options (mostly via Iceland), but those who make it here will be thrilled they did. The tundra of Kalaallit Nunaat – the Greenlandic name for the country – is one of the best places on the globe to see the aurora from September to early April.

For the more adventurous aurora seekers, head to the top of the Greenland Ice Cap for spectacular views of the lights. This impressive glacier covers 80% of the country and is accessible via the tiny town of Kangerlussuaq. Located on a fjord right along the Arctic Circle, the town, often described as a gateway to Greenland, was a former U.S. Air Force base and is now home to Greenland's main airport. The town is known for having clear skies on some 300 nights per year, so chances of a sighting are particularly good here.

Tour company Guide to Greenland offers various tours, from two-hour aurora-viewing trips to a tough but rewarding multi-night dog-sledding expedition across the ice. For a less strenuous experience, companies like Nordic Saga Tours offer cruises through the Arctic landscapes around Kangerlussuaq.

Viking cruise along Norway's coast

Courtesy of Viking

Embrace the winter and set sail for the Arctic Circle to experience the aurora in northern Norway. The 13-day "In Search of the Northern Lights" cruise itinerary with Viking departs from London for the North Sea with stops in ports of call that are top aurora-viewing locales, including Tromsø, Alta and Narvik, plus a stop in Amsterdam en route. The cruise ends in Bergen, Norway.

While on land, take in the natural beauty of the snow-blanketed landscapes and book bucket list excursions like a night spent in an igloo or a reindeer sledding adventure. You can also chase the lights into the wilderness by snowmobile, take a dog sled ride under the stars or view them from a Sámi tent atop the mountain Pæska in Alta. This Viking Ocean Cruises itinerary is offered with departure dates from mid-January to mid-March.

Headlands International Dark Sky Park, Michigan

Regarded as one of the top spots in the U.S. to see the aurora outside Alaska, Headlands International Dark Sky Park sits at the top of Michigan 's lower peninsula, less than 5 miles from Mackinaw City. While the northern lights are less common here due to the relatively southern location, the best time to catch a glimpse of this phenomenon is typically during the spring and fall – and appearances can usually be predicted a couple of days in advance. The park even maintains an online Clear Sky Chart so you can check the weather forecast before you go.

There are also other stargazing opportunities throughout the year at Headlands. During the summer months the Milky Way is visible across the sky, and late summer evenings entertain visitors with meteor showers.

Where to stay: If you're visiting between late April and the end of October, splurge on a stay at Mission Point Resort on Mackinac Island, where the aurora should also be visible. Guests describe this iconic property situated along the shoreline of Lake Huron as positively charming, thanks to its historic nature and manicured grounds. The resort also offers a host of outdoor activities from bike rentals to swimming.

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Voyageurs National Park, Minnesota

Martha Shuff | Courtesy of Voyageurs National Park

Located on the international border between Minnesota and Ontario, Voyageurs National Park is an approximately 218,000-acre labyrinth of boreal forests, lakes and streams. Voyageurs is Minnesota's only national park; it's also unique in that the park's interior is accessible only by boat, unless you visit by snowmobile in winter. As a certified International Dark Sky Park , Voyageurs provides opportunities to view the Milky Way on clear evenings, especially in the summer. Year-round aurora viewing is also possible on evenings with clear dark skies, but chances are better during the winter, when it's dark for longer.

For a guided stargazing tour – including the Milky Way, the constellations and (if you're lucky) the northern lights – book with Voyageurs Outfitters. If you're on your own, park officials note that almost any campsite is a good spot for northern lights viewing and stargazing. You can also check out the boat launch areas around Ash River, Kabetogama Lake and the Rainy Lake Visitor Center for top-notch views.

Where to stay: Those who prefer to sleep in a warm, cozy bed instead of camping under the stars can make reservations at the Cantilever Distillery + Hotel, a boutique Trademark Collection by Wyndham property in the nearby town of Ranier, Minnesota. Visitors report that there's a lot to like here, from the industrial-chic rooms to friendly staff to top-notch cocktails in the active distillery on the premises.

Abisko National Park, Sweden

Given its Arctic location, Sweden is one of the prime spots for aurora viewing in the Northern Hemisphere, with Swedish Lapland at the top of the list. The fall and winter months (from September to March) offer the best opportunities to witness the spectacle, as there is more darkness than light during the days.

If you're up for the Arctic adventure, December is an ideal month to visit Abisko National Park, which some regard as one of the best places on Earth to see the lights dance across the sky. The park's mountainous terrain and clear dark skies offer dramatic front-row seats for viewing the northern lights. The Aurora Sky Station is one of the best vantage points to see the aurora in the park. Join one of the expert presentations to learn about the science behind this fascinating phenomenon.

If you'd prefer to chase the lights with a curated tour, professional photographers and aurora-chasing guides at Visit Abisko lead three- to four-hour tours throughout the fall and winter. If you can, try to join the tours in fall, as this time of year offers a unique opportunity to view the lights both in the sky and reflected in the lakes and rivers, which you won't see in the winter months.

Where to stay: For cozy Nordic vibes, stay at Abisko Mountain Lodge, which also offers activities like ice climbing and snowmobile tours in winter. Guests love the excellent restaurant here, which offers Swedish specialties ranging from salmon to moose.

Nellim, Finland

Courtesy of Wilderness Hotels

Located a stone's throw from the Russian border in Finnish Lapland, this remote Arctic destination is a top-rated locale to view the northern lights due to the lack of light pollution. You'll be seriously out of the way of any built-up areas, as there's not even a paved road into Nellim. The best time to visit is between December and early April. This village is a great place to hunker down in a lodge and relax while enjoying a slice of life in the Finnish wilderness.

Where to stay: The Nellim Wilderness Hotel offers a perfect base with year-round activities, including aurora-chasing tours by car, snowmobile or on snowshoes. You can even take a sleigh ride through the snow to a campsite on Lake Inari to spot the aurora in pristine nature.

Beyond standard rooms, the Wilderness Hotel also offers glass-roofed cabins, as well as classic log cabins and bubble-shaped accommodations for two where guests can watch the dancing lights through the glass roof above your warm, cozy bed. When you're not chasing the lights, enjoy other Arctic activities like a husky safari, ice fishing, snowmobiling or a day in the snow meeting the local reindeer.

Saariselkä and Kakslauttanen, Finland

These two towns are around 150 miles above the Arctic Circle, with a prime location under the auroral oval, allowing as many as 200 opportunities per year to see the northern lights (weather permitting, of course). This area in Finnish Lapland is known for its stunning scenery, Sámi culture, cross-country and downhill skiing, and Urho Kekkonen National Park – one of Finland's largest.

Ski enthusiasts can roll two trips into one by hitting the slopes by day in Saariselkä and aurora spotting by night at Finland's northernmost ski resort. March into early April is the best time to view the aurora, as the Finnish Meteorological Institute notes that the weather is usually clearer at this time of year. But it's possible to see the northern lights at any time during the season from late August to early or mid-April.

Where to stay: Seven miles south of Saariselkä sits the village of Kakslauttanen, where you can book two- or four-person Glass Igloos at the Kakslauttanen Arctic Resort. The new Kelo-Glass Igloos, which sleep up to six, mix the comforts of a log chalet with the visibility of the glass roof; enjoy a private sauna, a fireplace and more. There's also an impressive selection of year-round tours and activities at this resort, including northern lights excursions on snowmobiles or by horse-drawn carriage.

Stewart Island, New Zealand

Courtesy of RealNZ

Although they may be isolated, some far-south destinations offer the chance to see the aurora australis – or southern lights. While you might be able to see them year-round in some locations (just as with the northern lights), certain months are better for aurora viewing in the Southern Hemisphere. Stewart Island is regarded as one of the top spots to see the brilliant display in New Zealand , with 85% of the island encompassed by Rakiura National Park, so there are few people and virtually no light pollution. You can reach Stewart Island by flying in from Invercargill or taking a ferry from Bluff.

New Zealand's winter months – June to August – are the best time to see the southern lights; spring and fall are also not bad times to spot them. The brighter summer months, between December and February, make it more difficult to spot the aurora, but there's still a chance you'll catch a glimpse between midnight and 4 a.m.

Where to stay: Consider reserving a room with at Stewart Island Lodge, an intimate bed-and-breakfast. This beautiful property is just minutes by foot from the village of Oban, and the property will pick you up at the ferry terminal for your stay. Past visitors rave about the spectacular views of Halfmoon Bay and the Foveaux Strait from both the rooms and lodge terrace.

Tasmania sits approximately 150 miles south of mainland Australia. This mountainous island is one of relatively few places on the planet where it's theoretically possible to see the aurora 365 days a year due to its latitude, which allows for full darkness even on summer nights. The capital city of Hobart is the easiest point of entry: It's home to Tasmania's largest airport and serves as a convenient base. The city's burgeoning food and cultural scenes will also give you plenty to see and do.

From here you'll be able to reach several great viewing locations with unobstructed and open views of the sea along the southern and southeast coastlines, like Goat Bluff and Tinderbox Bay. When you're not staring at the night sky, splurge on a once-in-a-lifetime helicopter flight with Tasmanian Air Tours. Depending on your whims, your private pilot can whisk you away to soar over the sea cliffs; stop at a local winery to sample local vintages; or head south to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Port Arthur , Tasmania 's historic and most notorious prison.

Where to stay: Reserve accommodations at The Tasman, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Hobart. The historic luxury property is situated along the lively waterfront area with harbor views. Past guests admired the historic building housing the hotel and loved the heritage rooms featuring gas fireplaces for those cold Tasmanian nights.

Expedition cruise to Antarctica

If you're one of the lucky few people on the planet to travel to the southernmost continent on Earth, it may be pricey, but you'll have an adventure of a lifetime in Antarctica, especially if the aurora illuminates the sky. The southern lights are most visible in the winter months (between March and October), but due to weather conditions, only researchers brave the Antarctic winter – and they mostly stay indoors.

However, all hope is not lost if you seek to view the aurora australis in Antarctica. Late-season expedition cruises to this continent offered in March also bring the opportunity to view the southern lights and enjoy the end of Antarctica's fleeting summer. As the days shorten in length, you may encounter light snow across the extreme landscape and ice starting to form on the water's surface.

When it comes to wildlife viewing, humpback whale sightings are abundant, and you'll still see penguin colonies – including king and gentoo penguins. You can also keep your eyes peeled for elephant seals, leopard seals, wandering albatross and other species of birds. When night falls on clear evenings, look for the light show in the southern sky. Companies that offer March voyages include Swoop Antarctica, Atlas Ocean Voyages, Silversea Cruises , Aurora Expeditions and Hurtigruten Expeditions.

Frequently Asked Questions

There's no one location that's widely accepted as the best place to see the northern lights. However, the strongest light displays are within what's called the "auroral oval": a rough circle around the Earth's magnetic northern pole that tends to occur around 60 to 70 degrees of latitude. The oval's exact size expands and contracts (some more southerly destinations can fall under it when the aurora is particularly strong), but there are certain locations that generally fall within the oval most of the time.

These places include:

• Central and northern Alaska
• Large areas of Yukon, the Northwest Territories and northern Quebec in Canada
• Southern Greenland
• Far northern Norway, Sweden and Finland

Within these areas, it could be argued that Iceland is the best place to see the aurora as it experiences much milder temperatures than some other areas within the oval. But this is subjective, and some travelers may prefer a location like Yellowknife in Canada for a full-on, very cold Arctic experience.

The northern lights are only visible when it's dark out. Since many of the best places to see them are so far north that they experience near-constant daylight in the summer, you'll generally want to schedule a trip between late August and early April. However, within this time period, there's some debate about the best time to catch the lights. For example, the aurora tends to be more active around the September and March equinoxes due to stronger solar winds – but on the other hand, your chances of seeing them may be higher in the depths of winter, since there's longer nights and therefore a longer window in which they might appear.

In more southern locations like Minnesota, it may be possible to see the light show in the summer months, but it's still advisable to go at a time when the nights are longer. It can also be worth trying to schedule your northern lights trip when there's a new moon: While the aurora can shine through moonlight, it may be harder to see if there's a full moon.

Of course, cloudy weather can block the aurora even if you go at the right time of year. So, it may be wise to research the local weather patterns at your chosen destination to find out if there's a month where you can expect clearer skies. In many cases, though, there's a little luck involved.

These two countries can offer excellent views of the northern lights, since both are directly under the typical auroral oval. Yet there are some differences to be aware of.

In Norway, you'll need to head to the north of the country to catch the aurora: While they have been sighted in Oslo , the capital and largest city, it's too far south to be a reliable vantage point. Cities like Tromsø are popular spots, but direct flights there are only possible from some European cities, so North Americans will have to take connecting flights. On the other hand, Iceland is generally easier to reach, with direct flights to its capital, Reykjavik, from a large number of U.S. destinations (particularly from the East Coast) with no further connection required.

Since clear skies are key for seeing the northern lights, weather is another factor to consider. In November, December and March, Reykjavik has statistically slightly more frequent clear skies, while in January and February, Tromsø is a little better, but the difference isn't big: Both places have clear skies only around 25 to 30% of the time in these months. Reykjavik has slightly warmer weather, though, so between that and the ease of access, it has a slight edge over Norway for seeing the northern lights.

Alaska and Iceland are known for stellar aurora light shows, so deciding between them may depend on which destination you find more convenient and more to your tastes. In Alaska , the city of Fairbanks is considered a great spot to catch the northern lights. (They can still be seen elsewhere in the state – for example, in Anchorage, although they're not so common in more southern locations like Juneau). The advantage of Fairbanks is that you won't need a passport , yet there aren't many direct flights from the lower 48 states. Despite being an international destination, Iceland may be more accessible (particularly from the eastern U.S.), thanks to fairly regular flights to Reykjavik from numerous American cities.

Fairbanks does offer statistically better weather for aurora viewing: It has clear skies more often than Reykjavik, particularly in March when the Alaska city experiences them around 45% of the time (compared to about 25% for Reykjavik). But you'll have to be able to tolerate the cold. While temperatures in Reykjavik hover around freezing in midwinter, Fairbanks is a veritable deep freeze, with average highs around 5 degrees Fahrenheit down to lows colder than minus 5 in December.

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Timothy Forster , as a Canadian who has traveled from coast to coast in that sprawling country, knows all about travel in the cold northern reaches of the world. Forster used his extensive traveling background along with research expertise to curate this article.

You might also be interested in:

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• # 1 South Island, New Zealand
• # 4 Bora Bora

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Announcing the Hot List Winners of 2024

By CNT Editors

It’s inevitable: Every spring when we pull together the Hot List , our annual collection of the world’s best new hotels, restaurants , and cruise ships , a staffer remarks that this latest iteration has got to be the best one ever. After a year’s worth of traveling the globe—to stay the night at a converted farmhouse in the middle of an olive grove outside Marrakech, or sail aboard a beloved cruise line’s inaugural Antarctic voyage—it’s easy to see why we get attached. But this year’s Hot List, our 28th edition, might really be the best one ever. It’s certainly our most diverse, featuring not only a hotel suite that was once Winston Churchill’s office, but also the world’s largest cruise ship and restaurants from Cape Town to Bali. We were surprised and inspired by this year’s honorees, and we know you will be too. These are the Hot List hotel winners for 2024.

Click here to see the entire Hot List for 2024 .

All listings featured in this story are independently selected by our editors. However, when you book something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

North Island Okavango

Angama Amboseli

Jannah Lamu

Farasha Farmhouse , Marrakech

Kozo Kigali

Waldorf Astoria Seychelles Platte Island — Seychelles

SOUTH AFRICA

Nikkei Cape Town

Molori Mashuma , Mana Pools National Park

Pemako Punakha

Regent Hong Kong

Mementos by ITC Hotels, Ekaaya Udaipur

Naar , Darwa

Papa's , Mumbai

Cap Karoso , Sumba

Further , Bali

Locavore NXT Bali

Le Pristine Tokyo

The Tokyo EDITION, Ginza

Trunk(Hotel) Yoyogi Park , Tokyo

Shinta Mani Mustang - A Bensley Collection , Jomsom

SOUTH KOREA

JW Marriott Jeju Resort & Spa

Pot Au Phở , Ho Chi Minh

Le Foote , Sydney

Southern Ocean Lodge , Kangaroo Island

Sun Ranch , Byron Bay

MIDDLE EAST

Raffles Al Areen Palace Bahrain

SAUDI ARABIA

Six Senses Southern Dunes , Umluj

The St. Regis Riyadh

UNITED ARAB EMIRATES

The Guild , Dubai

SIRO One Za'abeel, Dubai

Soul Kitchen , Dubai

The Lana, Dorchester Collection , Dubai

Koan , Copenhagen

Hotel Maria , Helsinki

1 Place Vendôme , Paris

The Carlton Cannes, a Regent Hotel , Cannes

Datil , Paris

Hôtel Le Grand Mazarin , Paris

La Nauve Hôtel & Jardin , Cognac

Rosewood Munich

Mandarin Oriental, Costa Navarino

Monument , Athens

One&Only Aesthesis , Athens

Highland Base Kerlingarfjöll

Bulgari Hotel Roma , Rome

Trattoria del Ciumbia , Milan

Hotel La Palma , Capri

La Roqqa , Porto Ercole

Nolinski Venezia , Venice

Palazzo Roma , Rome

Saporium , Florence

Hotel Violino d’Oro , Venice

Mamula Island

NETHERLANDS

De Durgerdam , Amsterdam

Canalha , Lisbon

Andreu Genestra , Mallorca

Barro , Ávila

César Lanzarote , Lanzarote

Hotel Corazón , Mallorca

Grand Hotel Son Net , Mallorca

Palacio Arriluce , Getxo

Son Vell Menorca , Menorca

The Peninsula Istanbul

UNITED KINGDOM

Broadwick Soho , London

Chishuru , London

The Devonshire , London

Chelsea Townhouse, London

Estelle Manor , Cotswolds

Fish Shop , Ballater

Raffles London at The OWO

Colima 71 , Mexico City

Maizajo Mexico City

Maroma, A Belmond Hotel , Riviera Maya

Riviera Maya EDITION

The St. Regis Kanai Resort , Riviera Maya

SOUTH AMERICA

Casa Lucía , Buenos Aires

Trescha , Buenos Aires

Oseille , Rio de Janiero

99 Restaurante, Santiago

Our Habitas Atacama , San Pedro de Atacama

Puqio , Arequipa

THE CARIBBEAN

Silversands Beach House

UNITED STATES

The Celestine , New Orleans

Dawn Ranch , Sonoma, California

The Fifth Avenue Hotel , New York

Fontainebleau Las Vegas

The Georgian , Santa Monica, California

The Global Ambassador , Phoenix

Hotel Bardo, Savannah

Ilis , New York

Kiln , San Francisco

Kona Village, a Rosewood Resort , Kona, Hawaii

Maty's , Miami

Warren Street Hotel , New York

Yess , Los Angeles

World Voyager, Atlas Ocean Voyages

CRUISE SHIPS

Silver Nova , Silversea

Norwegian Viva

Seven Seas Grandeur , Regent Seven Seas Grandeur

Oceania Vista

World Voyager , Atlas Ocean Voyages

Scenic Eclipse II

Emerald Sakara

Celebrity Ascent

Seabourn Pursuit

Icon of the Seas , Royal Caribbean

MSC Euribia

Viking Aton

Resilient Lady , Virgin Voyages

This story appears in Condé Nast Traveler's Hot List issue. Never miss an issue when you subscribe to Condé Nast Traveler.

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Where can I cruise without a passport?

At TPG, we always recommend cruising with a passport, but there are many reasons why you might want to set sail without one.

What if an opportunity pops up on short notice, and you don't have a passport yet? Or what if you forgot to renew yours when it expired? What if it's only a three-night cruise to the Bahamas, and the passport application fee is almost as much as the cruise fare? Or, maybe you have children nearing age 16 and can't justify paying for passports that will only be good for five years.

First of all, do you even need a passport to cruise ? The answer is often but not always. You have options to cruise without a passport because not every sailing requires them. Thanks to an international agreement called the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative , U.S. citizens can cruise on certain itineraries within North American countries using government-issued identification (like a valid driver's license) and proof of citizenship (like a government-issued birth certificate).

The cruises that you don't need a passport for are closed-loop sailings, which depart from and return to the same port within the U.S. One-way sailings from one U.S. port to another or from a U.S. port to a foreign one would require a passport.

For more cruise news, reviews and tips, sign up for TPG's cruise newsletter .

Before we go further, let's clarify that when we talk about cruising without a passport, we're referring to pricey passport books that some travelers do not wish to purchase. Passport cards can also be used for identification when cruising in all the places we are about to discuss; these cards are a low-cost alternative to traveling with your driver's license and birth certificate.

Let's look at the options for where you can cruise without a passport.

Cruising to Alaska is one of the easiest ways to experience all the state offers. You'll have opportunities to see glaciers and wildlife; stroll the streets of charming coastal towns; eat your fill of local crab legs and salmon; and enjoy nature on a kayak, zip line or hike.

If you're interested in cruising to Alaska without a passport, look for itineraries that begin (and end) in Seattle , San Francisco or southern California ports, such as Los Angeles or Long Beach, California. The most common length for these closed-loop Alaska cruises operated by the major cruise lines is seven nights. Cruises early or late in the season might be only four or five nights, and trips departing from LA are usually 14 nights.

What if you really want to cruise one-way from Canada to Alaska (or vice versa)? Although Canada prefers U.S. citizens who arrive by sea or land to have a passport book, it is not required as long as they have proper identification and proof of citizenship. The U.S., however, requires one of the following WHTI-approved forms of identification for entries by land or sea: passport card, enhanced driver's license, I-872 American Indian card or trusted traveler program IDs like Nexus, Sentri and Fast.

Technically, if you have one of those forms of ID but not a passport book, you can take a one-way Alaska cruise — as long as you don't have to fly to or from Canada.

More complications arise for non-passport holders who book shore excursions that involve crossing from Alaska to Canada. White Pass and Yukon Route train rides are good examples. White Pass and Yukon Route allows cruise passengers to go on the three-hour train excursion without a passport but doesn't allow them to take any longer routes. That's their policy, not a legal requirement.

This means that Alaska cruises are one instance when the passport card would be a handy alternative to traveling with both an ID card and a birth certificate. It opens up one-way itineraries.

Related: The best Alaska cruise for every type of traveler

A cruise to the Caribbean transports you to tropical islands bathed in turquoise waters. Whether you seek warm beaches, cool drinks, water sports or cultural education, you can find a Caribbean cruise to fit the bill.

It's easy to cruise without a passport in the Caribbean: Just book one of the many closed-loop, round-trip sailings departing from a U.S. port. Most major cruise lines offer sailings that range between three and 15 nights from ports like Galveston, Texas; New Orleans; multiple ports in Florida (including Miami and Fort Lauderdale); Charleston, South Carolina; Baltimore; Bayonne, New Jersey; and New York City.

Most Caribbean islands participate in the WHTI, but it's always best to check the details specific to the ports of call included in your itinerary. Don't forget that islands such as Puerto Rico, St. Thomas, St. John and St. Croix are U.S. territories, so visits never require passports for U.S. citizens.

Related: The best Caribbean cruises for every type of traveler

Bermuda is a British Overseas Territory, lying 643 miles off the coast of North Carolina. Hop on a cruise ship for a direct route to the island's famous beaches and golf courses. Spring and summer are the prime seasons to visit, but cruises are possible throughout the year.

Cruising without a passport to Bermuda is also easy. Apart from a few isolated cruises stopping in Bermuda as they come or go from other destinations, there are no one-way Bermuda cruises to confuse the situation. If you plan to sail without a passport, be wary of any Bermuda cruise longer than 10 nights. Those are likely to be point-to-point cruises that happen to include Bermuda.

Passport-free cruises to Bermuda include ample five- to 10-night sailings from the East Coast ports of Baltimore, Bayonne, Boston and Manhattan. Occasional itineraries also pop up throughout the Bermuda season departing from Norfolk, Virginia; Charleston; and the Florida ports of Miami, Port Canaveral (near Orlando) and Jacksonville.

Related: Does it make sense to take a short cruise to Bermuda?

Long known for delightful strands of beach and access to every imaginable form of water fun under the subtropical sun, the Bahamas are the ideal destination for easy and quick cruise vacations.

Skip the passport on three- to five-night Bahamas cruises sailing round-trip on most major cruise lines from the eastern Florida ports of Jacksonville, Port Canaveral, Fort Lauderdale's Port Everglades and Miami.

A few longer, seven- to 15-night itineraries stop in the Bahamas on their way into the Caribbean. Departures from Bayonne, Manhattan, Baltimore and Charleston will often get you weeklong Bahamas itineraries, as will sailings from Tampa, Galveston and New Orleans.

Related: Best Bahamas cruise tips for first-timers and repeat visitors alike

Our southern neighbor boasts two coastlines of cruise fun. Like most tropical cruise destinations, the top draws are the beaches and the ocean; however, cruise ports in Mexico also give you access to ancient Mayan ruins, delicious cuisine and an abundance of land activities.

Mexico's Caribbean and Pacific coasts are both accessible to cruisers who do not hold passports. If you want to visit Mexico's eastern shores, you can find three- to 15-night cruises to Costa Maya, Cozumel and Progreso. Sailings depart Florida from Miami, Tampa, Fort Lauderdale and Port Canaveral; you can also find itineraries from New Orleans, Galveston and Mobile, Alabama.

Western Mexico, often referred to as the Mexican Riviera, includes the ports of Cabo San Lucas, Puerto Vallarta, Mazatlan and Ensenada, among others. Cruises with several major lines depart San Diego, San Pedro port in LA and Long Beach for voyages lasting anywhere from three to 10 nights.

Related: The best Mexico cruises for every type of traveler

From water sports to American history and Hawaiian culture, there's a lot to experience on a Hawaii cruise . The best part might be the ability to hop from island to island, sampling the flavors of each as you go.

Closed-loop Hawaii cruises that don't require passports come in two varieties. The short option is to fly to Honolulu and take a seven- or 10-night cruise on Norwegian Cruise Line 's Pride of America. This is the only large cruise ship allowed to operate entirely within the Hawaiian Islands without visiting a foreign port.

Small-ship cruise operator UnCruise Adventures also offers seven-night, inter-island Hawaiian sailings. The American-flagged ships only cruise to and from U.S. ports, so no passport is needed, as would be the case on any domestic trip.

The long-cruise options consist of 14- to 18-night round-trip sailings from San Diego, LA (Long Beach and San Pedro) and San Francisco. You won't need a passport for these closed-loop sailings, but you do need to be prepared for multiple days at sea as you cross the Pacific from California to Hawaii.

Beware of 20-plus-night cruises that are round-trip sailings from the West Coast and would seem to fit the bill for closed-loop cruises that don't require passports. Most of these cruises don't work because they also include stops in French Polynesia, which is outside of the WHTI agreement. Passports are required for the islands in the South Pacific, which means they're required for the entire cruise.

Related: The best Hawaii cruises for every type of traveler

Canada and New England

Cruises up North America's East Coast allow you to take in historical sights of early Americana, stand atop rugged cliffs on the coast of Nova Scotia or revel in the French culture of Quebec.

Mainstream cruise lines operate numerous cruises along the U.S. and Canadian coasts that don't require passports. These depart from the ports of Bayonne, Baltimore, Boston, Manhattan, Brooklyn and occasionally Norfolk. The majority of these New England and Canada cruises are weeklong fall sailings; however, a handful depart at other times of the year or are a touch longer, ranging from eight to 10 nights.

Related: The best cruises to Canada and New England

Some cruise lines also offer one-way cruises in both directions between Canada and New England. These itineraries, like Alaska cruises, might be possible without a passport book. This is the case as long as your plans don't include flying into or out of Canada and your cruise line allows you to cruise with either a passport card or other acceptable form of identification and proof of citizenship.

We checked with a few lines for you. Princess, Holland America and Celebrity all strongly recommend passport books, but they allow one of the WHTI forms of identification. Again, the passport card opens up one-way possibilities, assuming you aren't flying and your cruise only includes Canada and the U.S.

Bottom line

While cruising with a passport is always recommended, it's not required by law in certain circumstances. Closed-loop cruises from U.S. ports that visit Bermuda, Canada, the Caribbean and Mexico are part of an international agreement that allows U.S. citizens to cruise without a passport. In these cases, government-issued identification and proof of U.S. citizenship are acceptable alternatives to a passport book.

Passport cards are an affordable and unquestionable alternative to carrying an ID and birth certificate. If you want to go this route, know they are not valid for travel by air into or out of any foreign country, including Canada, Mexico, Bermuda or Caribbean countries — which is the primary reason most travel advisers urge cruisers to have a passport book.

As we've shown, you have plenty of options for where to cruise without a passport, and many travelers do so without incident. However, anything from engine trouble on your cruise ship to bad weather or an accident in port might necessitate a flight home from a foreign country. This would put you in an awkward position if you didn't have a passport.

Plus, as much fun as simple round-trip cruises are, passports open up additional vacation possibilities in the form of longer, point-to-point and overseas trips. Don't dismiss registering for a passport, even as you consider where you can cruise without one.

Planning a cruise? Start with these stories:

• The 5 most desirable cabin locations on any cruise ship
• A beginners guide to picking a cruise line
• The 8 worst cabin locations on any cruise ship
• A quick guide to the most popular cruise lines
• 21 tips and tricks that will make your cruise go smoothly
• Top ways cruisers waste money
• 12 best cruises for people who never want to grow up
• The ultimate guide to what to pack for a cruise

Editorial disclaimer: Opinions expressed here are the author’s alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, airline or hotel chain, and have not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of these entities.

North Korea fires ballistic missiles, South Korea, Japan say

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Seoul-based reporter covering the Koreas with a focus on South Korean politics, North Korea's missile tests and the K-pop industry. Before joining Reuters, he worked at The Korea Herald.

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Hamas says it received Israel's response to its ceasefire proposal

Hamas said it had received on Saturday Israel's official response to its latest ceasefire proposal and will study it before submitting its reply, the group's deputy Gaza chief said in a statement.

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Middle East crisis — explained

The conflict between Israel and Palestinians — and other groups in the Middle East — goes back decades. These stories provide context for current developments and the history that led up to them.

Israel launches missile strikes into Iran, U.S. military official says

Rob Schmitz

Peter Kenyon

Demonstrators wave a huge Iranian flag in an anti-Israeli gathering in front of an anti-Israeli banner on the wall of a building at the Felestin (Palestine) Square in Tehran, Iran, on Monday. Vahid Salemi/AP hide caption

Demonstrators wave a huge Iranian flag in an anti-Israeli gathering in front of an anti-Israeli banner on the wall of a building at the Felestin (Palestine) Square in Tehran, Iran, on Monday.

The Israeli military has conducted missile strikes against Iran, a senior U.S. military official told NPR on Thursday. There are also reports of explosions in Iraq and Syria.

The strikes appear to be the response Israel vowed to carry out after an Iranian attack on Sunday, when Tehran fired hundreds of drones and missiles at Israel. Most of Iran's volleys were intercepted or caused little damage. The U.S. military official spoke on condition of anonymity Thursday.

The extent of Israel's strikes and the weapons used weren't clear.

Iran state news agency IRNA reported a military official in the central Iranian city of Isfahan, Brigadier General Mihan Dost, as saying loud sounds heard east of the city were the sound of air defenses intercepting what he called a "suspicious target" and that no damage was reported in the area.

What we know so far about Israel's strike on Iran — and what could happen next

Other Iranian news agencies had not reported any such strike and have concluded the sounds reported near Isfahan were the interception of one or more drones.

Israel's military and prime minister's office have not yet responded to NPR's request for comment.

The International Atomic Energy Agency has confirmed on social media that there is no damage to Iran's nuclear sites.

Meanwhile, Israel's hardline National Security Minister, Itamar Ben-Gvir, wrote on social media platform X, formerly known as Twitter, that Israel's latest apparent strike against Iran was "weak" and too limited.

Commercial flights continue in and out of Israel, and the country's Home Front Command system, which is responsible for issuing threat alerts to civilians during tense military times, didn't change its threat level.

In Iran, flights were temporarily grounded in the morning, but resumed just a couple of hours later.

The U.S. and other western allies had been urging Israel to forego a military strike to avoid a regional conflict springing out of the Israel-Hamas war .

Those concerns rose when an air strike – which Iran blamed on Israel – killed two Iranian military commanders in the country's consulate in Damascus, Syria, on April 1.

How Iran and Israel became archenemies

Iran said Sunday's attack on Israel was in response to that.

The region has been on the edge of wider conflict since Hamas attacked Israel on Oct. 7, killing 1,200 people and taking more than 240 others hostage, according to Israel. Israel's military campaign in response in Gaza has killed more than 33,000 people, according to Gaza health officials.

Israel and Iran-backed Hezbollah have traded frequent fire over the northern Israel border. Houthi militants, also backed by Iran, have been going after international commercial vessels passing through the Red Sea in recent months. The group's leaders claim they're targeting ships with links to Israel in response to the country's ongoing invasion of Gaza.

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United states, financial releases, ups releases 1q 2024 earnings, related documents.

• Consolidated Revenues of $21.7B, Compared to $22.9B Last Year
• Consolidated Operating Margin of 7.4%; Adjusted * Consolidated Operating Margin of 8.0%
• Diluted EPS of $1.30; Adj. Diluted EPS of $1.43, Compared to $2.20 Last Year
• Reaffirms Full-Year 2024 Financial Guidance

ATLANTA--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- UPS (NYSE:UPS) today announced first-quarter 2024 consolidated revenues of $21.7 billion, a 5.3% decrease from the first quarter of 2023. Consolidated operating profit was $1.6 billion, down 36.5% compared to the first quarter of 2023, and down 31.5% on an adjusted basis. Diluted earnings per share were $1.30 for the quarter; adjusted diluted earnings per share of $1.43 were 35.0% below the same period in 2023.

For the first quarter of 2024, GAAP results include a total charge of $110 million, or $0.13 per diluted share, comprised of after-tax transformation and other charges of $75 million and a non-cash, after-tax impairment charge of $35 million, driven by plans to consolidate certain acquired brands within the company’s healthcare portfolio.

“I want to thank all UPSers for their hard work and efforts,” said Carol Tomé, UPS chief executive officer. “Our financial performance in the first quarter was in line with our expectations, and average daily volume in the U.S. showed improvement through the quarter. Looking ahead, we expect to return to volume and revenue growth.”

U.S. Domestic Segment

• Revenue decreased 5.0%, driven by a 3.2% decrease in average daily volume.
• Operating margin was 5.8%; adjusted operating margin was 5.9%.

International Segment

• Revenue decreased 6.3%, driven by a 5.8% decrease in average daily volume.
• Operating margin was 15.4%; adjusted operating margin was 16.0%.

Supply Chain Solutions 1

• Revenue decreased 5.3% primarily due to market rate declines in forwarding.
• Operating margin was 4.1%; adjusted operating margin was 7.0%.

2024 Outlook

The company provides certain guidance on an adjusted (non-GAAP) basis because it is not possible to predict or provide a reconciliation reflecting the impact of future pension adjustments or other unanticipated events, which would be included in reported (GAAP) results and could be material.

For 2024, UPS reaffirms its full-year, consolidated financial targets:

• Consolidated revenue to range from approximately $92.0 billion to $94.5 billion
• Consolidated adjusted operating margin to range from approximately 10.0% to 10.6%
• Capital expenditures of approximately $4.5 billion

* “ Adjusted” or “Adj.” amounts are non-GAAP financial measures. See the appendix to this release for a discussion of non-GAAP financial measures, including a reconciliation to the most closely correlated GAAP measure.

Conference Call Information

UPS CEO Carol Tomé and CFO Brian Newman will discuss first-quarter results with investors and analysts during a conference call at 8:30 a.m. ET, April 23, 2024. That call will be open to others through a live Webcast. To access the call, go to www.investors.ups.com and click on “Earnings Conference Call.” Additional financial information is included in the detailed financial schedules being posted on www.investors.ups.com under “Quarterly Earnings and Financials” and as furnished to the SEC as an exhibit to our Current Report on Form 8-K.

UPS (NYSE: UPS) is one of the world’s largest companies, with 2023 revenue of $91.0 billion, and provides a broad range of integrated logistics solutions for customers in more than 200 countries and territories. Focused on its purpose statement, “Moving our world forward by delivering what matters,” the company’s approximately 500,000 employees embrace a strategy that is simply stated and powerfully executed: Customer First. People Led. Innovation Driven. UPS is committed to reducing its impact on the environment and supporting the communities we serve around the world. UPS also takes an unwavering stance in support of diversity, equity and inclusion. More information can be found at www.ups.com , www.about.ups.com and www.investors.ups.com .

Forward-Looking Statements

This release, our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2023 and our other filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission contain and in the future may contain “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Statements other than those of current or historical fact, and all statements accompanied by terms such as “will,” “believe,” “project,” “expect,” “estimate,” “assume,” “intend,” “anticipate,” “target,” “plan,” and similar terms, are intended to be forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are made subject to the safe harbor provisions of the federal securities laws pursuant to Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934.

From time to time, we also include written or oral forward-looking statements in other publicly disclosed materials. Forward-looking statements may relate to our intent, belief, forecasts of, or current expectations about our strategic direction, prospects, future results, or future events; they do not relate strictly to historical or current facts. Management believes that these forward-looking statements are reasonable as and when made. However, caution should be taken not to place undue reliance on any forward-looking statements because such statements speak only as of the date when made and the future, by its very nature, cannot be predicted with certainty.

Forward-looking statements are subject to certain risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from our historical experience and our present expectations or anticipated results. These risks and uncertainties include, but are not limited to: changes in general economic conditions in the U.S. or internationally; significant competition on a local, regional, national and international basis; changes in our relationships with our significant customers; our ability to attract and retain qualified employees; strikes, work stoppages or slowdowns by our employees; increased or more complex physical or operational security requirements; a significant cybersecurity incident, or increased data protection regulations; our ability to maintain our brand image and corporate reputation; impacts from global climate change; interruptions in or impacts on our business from natural or man-made events or disasters including terrorist attacks, epidemics or pandemics; exposure to changing economic, political, regulatory and social developments in international and emerging markets; our ability to realize the anticipated benefits from acquisitions, dispositions, joint ventures or strategic alliances; the effects of changing prices of energy, including gasoline, diesel, jet fuel, other fuels and interruptions in supplies of these commodities; changes in exchange rates or interest rates; our ability to accurately forecast our future capital investment needs; increases in our expenses or funding obligations relating to employee health, retiree health and/or pension benefits; our ability to manage insurance and claims expenses; changes in business strategy, government regulations or economic or market conditions that may result in impairments of our assets; potential additional U.S. or international tax liabilities; potential claims or litigation related to labor and employment, personal injury, property damage, business practices, environmental liability and other matters; and other risks discussed in our filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission from time to time, including our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2023, and subsequently filed reports. You should consider the limitations on, and risks associated with, forward-looking statements and not unduly rely on the accuracy of predictions contained in such forward-looking statements. We do not undertake any obligation to update forward-looking statements to reflect events, circumstances, changes in expectations, or the occurrence of unanticipated events after the date of those statements, except as required by law.

From time to time, we expect to participate in analyst and investor conferences. Materials provided or displayed at those conferences, such as slides and presentations, may be posted on our investor relations website at www.investors.ups.com under the heading "Presentations" when made available. These presentations may contain new material nonpublic information about our company and you are encouraged to monitor this site for any new posts, as we may use this mechanism as a public announcement.

Reconciliation of GAAP and Non-GAAP Financial Measures

We supplement the reporting of our financial information determined under generally accepted accounting principles ("GAAP") with certain non-GAAP financial measures.

Adjusted financial measures should be considered in addition to, and not as an alternative for, our reported results prepared in accordance with GAAP. Our adjusted financial measures do not represent a comprehensive basis of accounting and therefore may not be comparable to similarly titled measures reported by other companies.

Forward-Looking Non-GAAP Metrics

From time to time when presenting forward-looking non-GAAP metrics, we are unable to provide quantitative reconciliations to the most closely correlated GAAP measure due to the uncertainty in the timing, amount or nature of any adjustments, which could be material in any period.

Incentive Compensation Program Design Changes

During 2022, we completed certain structural changes to the design of our incentive compensation programs that resulted in a one-time, non-cash charge in connection with the accelerated vesting of certain equity incentive awards that we do not expect to repeat. We supplement the presentation of our operating profit, operating margin, income before income taxes, net income and earnings per share with non-GAAP measures that exclude the impact of these changes. We believe excluding the impacts of such changes allows users of our financial statements to more appropriately identify underlying growth trends in compensation and benefits expense.

Long-lived Asset Estimated Residual Value Changes

During the fourth quarter of 2022, we incurred a one-time, non-cash charge resulting from a reduction in the estimated residual value of our MD-11 fleet. We supplement the presentation of our operating profit, operating margin, income before income taxes, net income and earnings per share with non-GAAP measures that exclude the impact of this charge. We believe excluding the impact of this charge better enables users of our financial statements to understand the ongoing cost associated with our long-lived assets.

Transformation and Other Costs, and Asset Impairment Charges

We supplement the presentation of our operating profit, operating margin, income before income taxes, net income and earnings per share with non-GAAP measures that exclude the impact of charges related to transformation activities, asset impairments and other charges. We believe excluding the impact of these charges better enables users of our financial statements to view and evaluate underlying business performance from the perspective of management. We do not consider these costs when evaluating the operating performance of our business units, making decisions to allocate resources or in determining incentive compensation awards.

One-Time Compensation Payment

We supplement the presentation of our operating profit, operating margin, income before income taxes, net income and earnings per share with non-GAAP measures that exclude the impact of a one-time payment made to certain U.S.-based, non-union part-time supervisors following the ratification of our labor agreement with the Teamsters. We do not expect this or similar payments to recur. We believe excluding the impact of this one-time payment better enables users of our financial statements to view and evaluate underlying business performance from the same perspective as management.

Defined Benefit Pension and Postretirement Medical Plan Gains and Losses

We recognize changes in the fair value of plan assets and net actuarial gains and losses in excess of a 10% corridor (defined as 10% of the greater of the fair value of plan assets or the plan's projected benefit obligation), as well as gains and losses resulting from plan curtailments and settlements, for our pension and postretirement defined benefit plans immediately as part of Investment income (expense) and other in the statements of consolidated income. We supplement the presentation of our income before income taxes, net income and earnings per share with adjusted measures that exclude the impact of these gains and losses and the related income tax effects. We believe excluding these defined benefit pension and postretirement plan gains and losses provides important supplemental information by removing the volatility associated with plan amendments and short-term changes in market interest rates, equity values and similar factors.

Free Cash Flow

We calculate free cash flow as cash flows from operating activities less capital expenditures, proceeds from disposals of property, plant and equipment, and plus or minus the net changes in other investing activities. We believe free cash flow is an important indicator of how much cash is generated by our ongoing business operations and we use this as a measure of incremental cash available to invest in our business, meet our debt obligations and return cash to shareowners.

Adjusted Return on Invested Capital

Adjusted ROIC is calculated as the trailing twelve months (“TTM”) of adjusted operating income divided by the average of total debt, non-current pension and postretirement benefit obligations and shareowners’ equity, at the current period end and the corresponding period end of the prior year. Because adjusted ROIC is not a measure defined by GAAP, we calculate it, in part, using non-GAAP financial measures that we believe are most indicative of our ongoing business performance. We consider adjusted ROIC to be a useful measure for evaluating the effectiveness and efficiency of our long-term capital investments.

Adjusted Total Debt / Adjusted EBITDA

Adjusted total debt is defined as our long-term debt and finance leases, including current maturities, plus non-current pension and postretirement benefit obligations. Adjusted EBITDA is defined as earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization adjusted for the impacts of incentive compensation program redesign, one-time compensation, goodwill & asset impairment charges, transformation and other costs, defined benefit plan gains and losses and other income. We believe the ratio of adjusted total debt to adjusted EBITDA is an important indicator of our financial strength, and is a ratio used by third parties when evaluating the level of our indebtedness.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20240423404147/en/

UPS Media Relations: 404-828-7123 or [email protected] UPS Investor Relations: 404-828-6059 (option 4) or [email protected]

Source: UPS

Released April 23, 2024

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