Fall Foliage Southbound

Quebec City blends old-world eye candy with fresh attitude from modern boutiques and coffee shops to cutting-edge music festivals. Set upon the mighty St Lawrence River, the city holds more than four centuries of history, a vibrant contemporary art scene and an abundance of gastronomic discoveries. Step back in time and explore the Old City. Pass through imposing stone walls and walk cobblestoned streets – you’ll notice a range of architectural styles, from Baroque to art deco. With Quebec City cruises you can experience a sugar rush at one of the many boulangeries. Then, walk it off with a visit to the iconic Chateau Frontenac towering over the Quebec capital.

Saguenay, Canada is reminiscent of a sleepy New England town; with a church standing tall in its skyline, rolling hills, the Saguenay River flowing by and golden trees come autumn. A former mill town, this French-Canadian city was only formed in 2002 by amalgamating the townships of Chicoutimi, Jonquiere, La Baie and Laterriere. The new city is most well-known for its Saguenay Fjord, which formed during the Ice Age and is the most southerly fjord in the Northern Hemisphere. When visiting Saguenay with your cruise, see its number-one attraction and its pine-studded soaring cliffs from the comfort of a cruise.

Charlotte Amalie is one of the world’s most beautiful harbours; blue waters peppered with sailing boats and green hills dotted with quaint little cottages make for picture perfect brags. Just outside the lively port town, you’ll find ribbons of powdery sand beaches dotted with hammocks. Cruise to St Thomas and explore colonial landmarks like Blackbeard’s Castle or raise a pint of the local lager at quaint microbreweries. And when it’s time to fuel up, you’ll find plenty of beachside bars serving conch fritters, johnnycakes and coconut patties. St Thomas may technically be part of the US, but with its colourful markets, unspoiled beaches and the ever-present sound of steel drums, you’ll feel a world away.

The sight of the world’s largest fiddle welcomes you to Sydney, Nova Scotia. In this enclave on Cape Breton Island, metropolitan charm meets local hospitality. Originally founded by Loyalists spooked by the American Revolution, Sydney remains a haven – but today, it’s one replete with golf courses, a hearty music scene and the world-famous Cabot Trail. Step back into the 18th century while you walk amongst the town’s classically inspired buildings and dramatically steepled churches. Cruise to Nova Scotia and stroll along the boardwalk, indulge your inner lover of learning at the Cape Breton Centre for Heritage and Science, and end your day toe-tapping to Celtic beats.

In Saint John, New Brunswick, you’ll discover a perfect mixture of natural and urban adventures. Canada’s oldest incorporated city, Saint John is also the country’s third-largest port and the only city located on the Bay of Fundy, home to the world’s highest tides. Cruise to New Brunswick and stretch your legs while you catch a view of the bay on the Skywalk. Then, discover the local bounty at Saint John City Market, North America’s oldest continuing farmers market, and check out its rafters that resemble a ship’s inverted hull. Later, head out to explore Irving Nature Park’s trails and Rockwood Park, a Stonehammer Geopark site.

Once you set foot on the historic cobblestone streets of Portland, Maine, you’ll know what keeps visitors flocking to these shores from around the world. Located in the heart of Casco Bay, Portland is home to a mix of activities, from outdoor adventures to artfully curated excursions and food experiences that will leave your taste buds wanting more during your cruise to Portland. Create an adventure in this sophisticated seaside city that perfectly matches your taste: Hike Casco Bay out to the lighthouse, peruse through the shops of Congress Street and the Old Port, or taste your way through the many highly regarded breweries inside the city limits and just beyond.

New England charm, scenic vistas and outdoor adventure have kept visitors returning to Bar Harbour for over 100 years. Unwind on the beach, and take in the view of the soaring granite cliffs. Stretch your legs with a relaxed walk along Shore Path. Explore the cobblestoned streets of the town centre and fuel up on freshly caught lobster. Then, explore wild Acadia, Maine’s only national park – hike to the top of Cadillac Mountain, the highest peak on the Atlantic seaboard. At the summit, enjoy panoramic views of the lush surrounding forests and ocean. Cruise to Maine and take an easy stroll around Jordan Pond to see the mountain reflected in the clear waters below.

Whether you’re wandering among priceless works of art at The Met or the MoMa, tucking into a slice of famous New York-style pizza in Little Italy, catching a performance of your favourite musical on Broadway or enjoying a picnic in scenic Central Park, New York City brims with countless ways to fill your days with wonder. But did you know that the Big Apple also serves as a portal to some of the most beautiful holiday destinations in the Caribbean and along the coasts of New England and Canada? Just a quick car ride away you’ll find the bustling port of Cape Liberty, home to some of the most incredible ships in the Royal Caribbean NY cruises fleet. Not only is it the perfect starting point for cruises to sun-soaked Bermuda, The Bahamas and other exotic shores in the Caribbean, including the newly revamped Royal Caribbean private destination Perfect Day at CocoCay – it’s also where you’ll catch cruises from NY to the picturesque port towns that line the rugged Northeastern coastline all the way to Canada, like Bar Harbour, Halifax and Quebec City. Whatever holiday spot tops your bucket list, you’ll find the perfect cruise out of New York to get you there.

Sightseeing in Manhattan excites and amazes like nowhere else – and every neighbourhood presents a fascinating, unique personality. Tour the Rockefeller Centre and catch a show at Radio City Music Hall. Walk the High Line and soak in the urban buzz of Times Square. New York cruises allow you to experience it all – by tour bus, train or on foot.

Stand amongst skyscrapers on one of New York’s scenic observation decks. Admire Central Park from the open-air Top of the Rock. Enjoy twinkling evening views from the top of the Empire State Building. Or venture 104 floors up to the One World Observatory in the tallest building in the Western Hemisphere.