New England Cruise and Stay Holidays 2025 & 2026

As the dynamic city that sparked the American Revolutionary War, Boston is one of the United States' most historically important destinations. This is where American history truly comes to life. Explore the Freedom Trail and walk in the footsteps of those who led the war, discovering a host of significant sites along the way. This is a city of wonderful contrasts where modern skyscrapers can be found just minutes from quiet neighbourhoods with old cobblestone streets. Visit world-class museums, stroll through blooming public parks, embrace the city's famous beer brewing culture and tour America's oldest college, Harvard University. Dine on delicious gourmet seafood and be sure to sample some real New England clam chowder.

Perched on green bluffs overlooking Casco Bay lies Maine's largest city, Portland. While lobstermen scour the coastline in wooden fishing boats, commercial cruise ships arriving in Portland are greeted by a revitalised seaport with restaurants, shopping and entertainment. Portland is home to three distinct neighbourhoods, each providing visitors something completely different. In the Old Port area the working waterfront blends seamlessly with chic urban offerings. Browse boutique shops, enjoy fabulous entertainment and dine on signature lobster dishes in fantastic restaurants. Portland's Art District is home to a host of cultural attractions including the Portland Museum of Art, Portland Symphony Orchestra and Children's Museum of Maine, whereas the West End district is renowned for its beautiful architecture and historic mansions.

You'll find Bal Harbor nestled on the eastern side of Mount Desert Island in Maine. This coastal retreat has managed to retain the charms of a quaint New England fishing village whilst offering the attractions of a major port, it's touristy downtown area is particularly popular with visitors. Surrounded on three sides by the mountains of the Acadia National Park, enjoy stunning scenery in every direction and embrace the natural offerings with an abundance of outdoor activities. Once an opulent playground for the rich and famous during the 19th century, Bal Harbor was home to fabulous summer estates some of which have been preserved and can be explored today.

During the Colonial-era you would've found one of America's largest seaports here, but now Newport has evolved into a fascinating locale rich with art, culture and history. Explore one of the best preserved Colonial neighbourhoods in the entire US where over 200 structures predating the American Revolution can be found. During the late 19th century, Newport was dubbed 'America's First Resort' due to an influx of elite families coming here and building palatial estates. These extravagant holiday homes can be seen around the city's famous Bellevue Avenue Historic District. Other attractions include the iconic 3.5 mile Cliff Walk taking you on a scenic journey between mansions and the ocean, the oldest synagogue in North America and the largest coastal military fortification in the United States.

Embark on a journey through one of the most important times in American history with the Boston Freedom Trail. Taking you on a 2.5 mile route, follow the path of those who led the American Revolutionary War and visit 16 sites with major significance to that time. Explore old meetinghouses, churches, burying grounds and visit museums dedicated to retelling the tales of this legendary era. Hear fascinating stories of high treason, revolutionary actions and mob disturbance as you're guided by local experts in traditional 18th century costume.

The 41,000-acre Acadia National Park is a natural wonder along the east coast and is actually the oldest national park that side of the Mississippi River. People come here to admire the beauty of Maine's rugged coastline and reach the summit of Cadilac Mountain to be one of the first in the entire US to see the sunrise that day. Explore approximately 125 miles of stunning trails, cycle along historic carriage roads and hike granite peaks for views of peaceful lakes, lichen covered mountains and craggy cliffs plunging into the ocean.

The iconic Victoria Mansion is one of the most famous attractions in Portland and is also one of America's finest examples of 19th century architecture. Built in 1860 for wealthy hotelier Ruggles Sylvester Morse, this extravagant home provides a detailed portrait of lavish living in America during that era. Visit the mansion today and explore the extraordinarily original interiors, see the opulent furnishings which adorned the house when it was completed and marvel at the early technological conveniences which would've seemed to have come from the future at that time.

Starting at Memorial Boulevard and Easton's Beach then ending at Bellevue Avenue, Newport's Cliff Walk is amongst the area's most treasured attractions. Combining the beauty of New England's coastline with the incredible architecture of Newport's Gilded Age, this 3.5 mile trail takes you on a journey of history, adventure and scenic perfection. A large portion of the trail passes through land on which many of Newport's fabulous historic mansions are located, whilst other areas are rocky and a challenge to navigate. Good walking shoes are a must if you want to explore the entire length of the trail.