Plot a Course for the Best Autumn Destinations on the Water

Fall foliage may only be around for a few weeks, but the brilliant colors that illuminate both city and countryside invite travelers to make the most of the season. One of the best ways to experience autumn is by cruise, highlighting the rolling hills and mountains of New England, the craggy coastlines of Alaska, and picturesque Quebec cities. Below are some of the best cruise routes to soak up the beautiful, quickly changing fall foliage.

Royal Caribbean’s Fall Foliage Northbound Cruise; 11 Nights

Cruise ship: Jewel of the Seas

Cost: Starting at $949/person

Capacity: 2,702 guests

Why you should go: This late September cruise leaves from Cape Liberty port in New Jersey, allowing you to enjoy seasonal foliage on your journey to Quebec City, a perfect historic setting for leaf peeping. On board, you can take in the multicolored leaves from the top of the rock wall or enjoy a poolside movie.

Princess Cruises’ Canada and New England Sailing; 7 Days

Cruise ship: Enchanted Princess

Cost: Starting at $468/person

Capacity: 3,080 guests

Why you should go: Departing from New York City in late October, this cruise takes you up the coast past Newport, Rhode Island, highlighting panoramic views of golden leaves. Stop in Halifax, Canada, where you can enjoy fresh seafood, including butter-soaked lobster.

Carnival Cruise Line’s Canada and New England Journey from New York; 7 Days

Cruise ship: Carnival Venezia

Cost: Starting at $519/person

Capacity: 4,090 guests

Why you should go: In September, sail from New York to Portland, Maine, and Canada’s Saint John, where you can enjoy the vibrant fall colors as you navigate these charming towns. The Venezia features Venice-inspired decor and Italian cuisine for a unique on-board experience.

Cunard’s New England and Canada Cruise; 7 Nights

Cruise ship: Queen Mary 2

Cost: Starting at $1,199/person

Capacity: 2,691 guests

Why you should go: This late-September cruise takes you from New York City to Halifax, where you can immerse yourself in the stunning views. The route includes picturesque stops along the colorful coastline, indulging in delightful onboard dining experiences.

Regent Seven Seas Cruises’ Autumn on the Frontier; 7 Nights

Cruise ship: Seven Seas Explorer

Cost: Starting at $6,699/person

Capacity: 746 guests

Why you should go: This cruise showcases Alaska as an underrated destination for fall foliage. Starting in Seward, you will explore the waters around the Hubbard Glacier and end in Vancouver, British Columbia. Onboard, enjoy comfortable accommodations and exciting excursions, such as wilderness sea kayaking and rainforest bicycle tours.