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The 9 Best Sites to Book a Cruise

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Avital Andrews

Avital Andrews, SmarterTravel's editor-at-large, is a travel and lifestyle journalist who is also a contributing editor for AAA's Via magazine. Her stories have been among the 10 most emailed or viewed on the Los Angeles Times, Outside, Sierra, and SmarterTravel websites, and have also appeared in USA Today, HuffPost, Apple News, Business Insider, and many other nationwide outlets. Her travel book , sold at bookstores and on Amazon, is in its fourth edition, and her journalism gets national media attention, including from The New York Times , The Atlantic , Time , NPR, and MTV. She's currently working on her first children's book. Follow her on Twitter @avitalb .

The Handy Item I Always Pack: My laptop—the lightweight and stylish HP Spectre x360—since I'm almost always on deadline.

Ultimate Bucket List Experience: A round-the-world cruise that makes stops to experience Aurora Borealis, the Olympics opening ceremony, Borneo, Madagascar, the Jerusalem Festival of Light, the Bolivian salt flats, Kenya's Giraffe Manor, the Galapagos, the Maldives, Bora Bora, the Seychelles, and every Disney park. (That itinerary definitely exists, right?)

Travel Motto: I'll steal Saint Augustine's: "The world is a book, and those who do not travel read only a page."

Aisle, Window, or Middle Seat: Window, always. For the views and also the naps.

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Booking a cruise isn’t always simple. It can be a complicated, time-consuming process that involves dozens of open tabs and maybe a spreadsheet or two. But knowing the best site to book a cruise can help a lot.

And while would-be travelers are accustomed to clicking around on travel search engines to find the best deals on flights , hotels , and rental cars , many people don’t realize that they can use these same types of sites to book cruises, too.

But is there one best site to book a cruise? That depends on what you’re looking for. Sometimes the best cruise website is actually a cruise line’s own site—since technically, cruise booking websites aren’t allowed to undercut the prices that the cruise lines set.

Often, though, the best cruise search engines are indispensable for locating incredible deals, including ones that throw in booking incentives worth hundreds of dollars—in Amazon gift cards, complimentary shore excursions, onboard freebies, and so on.

To save you the hassle, SmarterTravel investigated the glutted space of cheap cruise sites to determine which are worthy of listing as the best cruise websites; below are a few that come highly recommended.

The Best Sites to Book a Cruise

  • Expedia (including Travelocity and Orbitz )
  • TripAdvisor

Avoya Travel

Cheapcaribbean.com, cruisedirect, cruise critic, costco travel, cruisewatch.

Laptop showing the cruise search homepage of Expedia

Expedia is an obvious first mention in a list of the best cruise booking sites, in part because it’s an absolute juggernaut (Expedia also owns Travelocity and Orbitz ). Its cruise-booking interface is simple and straightforward, only requiring you to enter your preferred sailing destination and date range, as well as how many passengers you’ll be bringing along. Then Expedia does the heavy lifting for you, with comprehensive results that make it one of the best cruise search engines.

On Expedia, it’s common to find bookable cruises for 70 percent off face value, with the ability to sort by price so the best cruise deals come up at the top of the list, saving you the scrolling. A sample search for a mid-June cruise to Alaska, for example, quickly came up with a seven-night itinerary starting at $389 per person—that’s less than $56 per person, per night for a mostly inclusive weeklong vacation.

Expedia’s cruise deals tend to come paired with other enticing offers, including steep discounts on pre-departure hotels when you book both your cruise and hotel through Expedia. There’s also a dedicated 800 number that lets you speak to Expedia’s cruise experts and, often but not always, a generous amount of onboard credit thrown in for good measure.

Best feature: Sheer search power. Expedia’s easy-to-use cruise search engine generates a useful and well-ordered list of the best cruise deals, without much effort required from the user. Also, Expedia’s prices frequently match what the cruise lines themselves offer.

Check out Expedia

Laptop showing the cruise search homepage of Priceline

Priceline is another powerhouse among cheap cruise websites. The initial interface comes off a bit clunkier than, say, Expedia’s or Kayak’s, but the tradeoff is that you can quickly search by cruise line, both standard and luxury, as well as by cruise length and departure port.

Using the seven-night Alaska example, Priceline brought up an itinerary aboard Royal Caribbean International’s Radiance of the Seas that starts at just $374 for the full week—roughly $53 per night. Hard-to-believe cruise deals like this show up on Priceline with regularity, which is part of what solidifies it as one of the best cruise websites.

Also adding to the appeal: deals exclusive to Priceline, plenty of bonus amenities (examples include $50 in onboard credit, third and fourth guests sailing free, and free specialty dinners for two), no money down to book certain sailings, frequent onboard credit sales, an 800 number to call should you need assistance while booking, and a loyalty club that’s ties in with every cruise line’s loyalty program. Priceline also lets you click a “senior discount” box if that applies to you.

Best feature: Priceline’s “ 110% Best Price Guarantee ” promises that if you find your cruise listed at a lower price on another website within 48 hours of booking, then Priceline will refund you 110 percent of the cost difference, including port charges.

Check out Priceline

Tripadvisor

Laptop showing the cruise search homepage of Tripadvisor

Many people think of Tripadvisor mainly as a travel review site, where you go to get real talk on hotels and attractions, and to see non-glamorized photos of places as seen through actual travelers’ eyes. But Tripadvisor is also an excellent site for travel deals, including on cruises.

Tripadvisor Cruise , which launched in April 2019, is among the best websites for cruise deals—it lets you nab the lowest price by comparing more than 70,000 ocean and river cruises from some 60 of the best cruise websites. It’s got an attractive, inspiring landing page, and its newest function, “Explore Ship-tinerary pages,” lets you browse full ship profiles, details, photos, and itineraries.

Though Tripadvisor is technically a meta-search site for cruises, which means that it will send you elsewhere to actually book, its search engine lets users sort by destination, length, cruise line, and month of travel. The default search results are ordered by “best value”, unless you specifically click that you’d rather see the results organized by price, cruise length, departure date, or cruise ship. Even when you click on “price,” the lowest-priced offering doesn’t always come up first, though it only takes a few seconds of scanning to determine which itinerary has the lowest price—that seven-night Royal Caribbean International trip to Alaska came up on Tripadvisor starting at $365.

Best feature: What makes Tripadvisor one of the best sites to book a cruise? In addition to having one of the best cruise search engines, Tripadvisor lets you read other cruisers’ candid reviews of the cruise that you’re considering, so that you get the non-sugarcoated truth about each sailing.

Check out Tripadvisor

7 Things You Should Never Do on a Cruise Ship

Laptop showing the cruise search homepage of Avoya Travel

A rarity on the internet, Avoya Travel is a family-owned company that has been dealing in travel for more than 55 years. Avoya is one of the best sites to book a cruise in part because of its patented technology that lets travelers search cruises by destination, date range, cruise line, and last-minute status—and then get matched up, in real time, with one of Avoya’s expert vacation planners, who use that algorithm to customize a cruise booking to your specific preferences. (From Avoya’s website: “…we combine the ease of online search, with the expertise and personalized service of Independent Vacation Planners, plus secure exclusive deals and extras so you get more out of every vacation.”)

Avoya’s team of staffers and wide network of independent agencies make for a cruise booking website that’s a bit different from the rest. Its front page shows the “Best Travel Deals,” which might include half-off cruise fares, onboard credit, prepaid gratuities, and free or reduced airfare.

Like several of the other best cruise websites, Avoya offers a low-price guarantee; if you book a cruise with Avoya and then find a lower rate on another website within 24 hours of booking, Avoya will refund the difference.

Best feature: Avoya offers free membership, and members get exclusive deals and discounts, access to unpublished fares, first dibs on promotions, the ability to save favorite searches, and the right to book, change, or cancel travel without incurring any Avoya fees.

Check out Avoya Travel

Laptop showing the cruise search homepage of CheapCaribbean.com

When looking for the best site to book a cruise, don’t be put off by CheapCaribbean.com ’s overly specific moniker. Despite the site’s name, it offers cruises all over the world. The site’s vibe is beach-oriented and a bit cheeky, with a front page that can overwhelm—but click on the “Cruises” tab, and a cleaner interface appears. There you can search by cruise line, ship, destination, departure date, and departure port.

CheapCaribbean.com offers refunds on 24-hour cancellations (within certain parameters) and a “ 110 percent best price guarantee, ” a promise that if you find a lower price on the same cruise within 48 hours of booking, the company will refund you 110 percent of the difference. The site also lists traveler reviews about each cruise ship (as supplied by Cruiseline), though the reviews often include comments about the ship’s destinations other than the one you’re considering, which isn’t entirely helpful. There’s also a live chat widget if questions come up while booking.

Best feature: Helping to make CheapCaribbean.com one of the best cruise search engines is the fact that it lets you check boxes for additional discounts, including a senior discount, discounts by state (just enter your ZIP code), and past guest discounts if you’ve previously sailed with, say, Princess, Norwegian, or Disney.

Check out CheapCaribbean.com

Laptop showing the cruise search homepage of CruiseDirect

Its front page is clunky and sort of in your face, but CruiseDirect is still one of the best cruise sites for a variety of reasons. As a cruise-only company, CruiseDirect doesn’t deal in flights, hotels, or rental cars, allowing it to focus its full capacity on helping you find the best cruise deal possible. On the site, you can search by destination, departure port, month, length of cruise, and cruise line. There’s real-time online chat and a contact number for support from a cruise expert. If you aren’t quite ready to buy, you can “heart” cruises to save them as favorites to refer back to later.

CruiseDirect offers perks on most sailings, like onboard credit, free drinks, free Wi-Fi, free gratuities, free travel insurance, or a free specialty dining experience—check out the “Bonus” box on the cruise listing you’re considering to see what extras it comes with.

Best feature: Like some of the other cruise websites on this list, CruiseDirect offers a “ best price guarantee ,” which means that if you find a lower price on another cruise booking website within 24 hours of your initial booking, you’ll get refunded the difference. But one key difference between CruiseDirect and the other cruise sites is that you don’t have to pay the cost of your cruise up front, just a deposit—and then if your cruise fare drops before you’ve made your final payment, CruiseDirect will readjust your rate accordingly.

Check out CruiseDirect

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Laptop showing the cruise search homepage of Cruise Critic

A subsidiary of Tripadvisor, Cruise Critic has similar search results to that site, but it offers a bit more comprehensive information for seasoned cruisers who want more details before they book. Cruise Critic has tons of filters and sort options to help you find what you want, including everything from cruise line to cruise style (family cruises, luxury cruises, cruises for the disabled). Each itinerary clearly lists what is and isn’t included in the fare; Wi-Fi, alcoholic drinks, gratuities, and port taxes and fees are among the common exclusions.

Certain itineraries are marked with graphics declaring that the ship has won one of the site’s “Cruisers’ Choice” awards, denoting vessels that Cruise Critic members declare to be the among the best in categories such as cabins, entertainment, and family-friendly features.

You can sign up for price alerts, which will notify you by email when the fare on your selected itinerary drops.

Once you’re ready to book, Cruise Critic shows you a variety of offers from some of the best cruise booking sites, including bonuses such as onboard credit and prepaid gratuities. Then you click off to the site of your choice to make your purchase. Prices generally match what’s advertised on Cruise Critic.

Best feature: Under each search result is a tab for “reviews” where you can read reviews from Cruise Critic members who’ve previously traveled on the ship. On certain cruises you can click over to a full-length write-up of the ship by one of the experts on the Cruise Critic editorial team, including detailed information on dining options, cabins, entertainment, dress code, and more.

Check out Cruise Critic

Laptop showing the cruise search homepage of Costco Travel

When you think of Costco, you probably think of bulk food and toilet paper. But the next time you’re booking a cruise, it’ll be worthwhile to pull up Costco Travel , which is, unexpectedly, one of the best cruise websites.

The site doesn’t look fancy—it’s pretty bare-bones, visually—but the upside of going with a no-frills cruise-booking website is that Costco Travel offers extremely competitive prices, as well as some of the most attractive incentives, usually in the form of Costco Cash delivered to you after you get home from your cruise.

Though there’s no single point of contact if you need to call and discuss your cruise booking, Costco Travel’s call center is staffed with helpful agents from early morning until evening, seven days a week, and passengers can rest assured that Costco won’t go out of business before they set sail. Note that a Costco membership (starting at $60 per year) is required to book with Costco Travel, and that Costco doesn’t accept American Express.

Best feature: Rock-bottom prices—plus lots of cash back if you play your cards right: Costco Citi cardholders earn 3 percent cash back on cruise purchases, which can combine with the 2 percent Costco Reward for Costco Executive Members for a total of 5 percent back on Costco Travel’s already super low cruise rates.

Check out Costco Travel

Laptop showing the cruise search homepage of Cruisewatch

Pondering which is the best site to book a cruise? Keep Cruisewatch in strong consideration—more than a typical cruise booking website, Cruisewatch bills itself as a “digital cruise advisor” that couples data power with personalization.

As an artificial intelligence cruise advisor, Crusewatch created technology that makes searching and booking a cruise more efficient—the first, it calls “Cruise Price Prediction.” In short, Cruisewatch collected and stored the daily price for each ship and cabin over a span of five years, resulting in millions of data points—and a massive database that informs exactly when cruise prices are lowest, and when the greatest saving potential exists.

Thanks to this comprehensive price history, Cruisewatch can predict cruise prices and drops with an accuracy rate of around 80 percent. Using the site’s cruise price prediction alerts, travelers can save up to 71 percent just by booking at the right time.

In addition to being able to predict prices, Cruisewatch tailors user search results to match their established preferences through customizable profiles and other similar features. This means you won’t waste time wading through cruises that may be cheap but don’t align with your vacation goals.

Best feature: Cruisewatch’s easy-to-set price alerts, based on tons of data, allow users to be notified in real time of the best new cruise deals the minute they come online.

Check out Cruisewatch

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Follow Avital Andrews on Twitter  @avitalb  or on  Facebook .

Editor’s note: Sarah Schlichter contributed to this story.

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11 best cruises to Canada and New England

Donna Heiderstadt

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

best place to book cruise 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

best place to book cruise canada

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

best place to book cruise canada

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

best place to book cruise canada

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 Best Websites to Book a Cruise in 2024

Looking for the best website to book your cruise ?

We wouldn’t be surprised if after a little bit of searching, your head is spinning a little bit.

Think of all the options you have to consider — the length of your trip, the cruise line, the ship, the date, ports of call, and more. And that’s before you even decide on which website to use to book your cruise.

Seaview from the deck of a cruise ship

Cruising is big business, and that’s why you have dozens of websites at your disposal, all competing for your travel dollars.

From the major cruise line websites like Carnival.com to major travel portals such as Orbitz or Expedia to lesser-known sites that specialize in cruises like AvoyaTravel.com, it can seem like your options are nearly unlimited… and overwhelming.

The good news? It doesn’t have to be stressful to book a cruise.

To help you out, we detailed the pros and cons of the best websites to book your cruise below. Before we get too far, however, there’s something you should know about price shopping for cruises online.

Cruise Buying Tip: Prices Are Often the Same Across Every Site

If you are worried about finding the best price for your cruise, there’s some good news and bad news. The good news is that cruise prices are usually the exact same across every single website you search .

Below are the results of a search we recently did for a July 2024 Carnival cruise from Miami aboard Carnival Celebration, with prices listed for each website:

As you can see, they all have the exact same rates. That means you don’t have to run yourself ragged trying to find the best deal.

The bad news? If you’re a deal-hunter, there isn’t some magic website that has cruise fares for dramatically cheaper than everyone else (that we’ve ever found). But there are differences on where you book.

That’s because some sites can offer perks like onboard credit or even a direct phone number to call to talk to someone with any questions you might have before you cruise.

So should you just find any random site and book your cruise? We’d suggest not. Below we lay out the advantages and disadvantage of booking with each different type of website.

For more on getting the best deal on a cruise, see our 10 Rules to Getting the Best Deal on a Cruise here .

Booking Direct Through Cruise Line Websites

best place to book cruise canada

It used to be that if you wanted to book a cruise, you’d visit a travel agent or call up the cruise line. You can still take those routes, but the cruise line websites make it simple to book your trip.

Every major cruise line allows you to book online and do everything from find a cruise to make upgrades, buy extras like drink packages, and pay for the trip. In other words, you can book your spot on the ship completely online at any time of the day.

Specific cruise line websites include:

  • Carnival.com
  • RoyalCaribbean.com
  • DisneyCruises.com
  • MSCCruisesUSA.com
  • Princess.com

Each of these cruise line websites will allow you to be as narrow or as broad with your search as you wish. You can search all cruises, or search for trips on a specific ship, leaving a specific date, and from a specific port.

Advantages: The good thing about booking directly through the cruise line then there is no third-party company to deal with should there be an issue with your trip. Want to make a change or get a refund? You don’t have to worry about any sort of mix-up between the cruise line and another website. While this is rarely an issue, it could happen.

Disadvantages: The main drawback of using a cruise line website? It’s like going to a buffet and restricting yourself to only the salad bar.

Cruise line websites only have cruises from that line, so you are limiting your options of prices, ships, dates, and itineraries. In other words, if you’re looking for the absolute best deal or the most flexible schedule, you aren’t likely to find it searching only one cruise line.

If you are loyal to one specific cruise line, then that’s ok for you. But if you want to see all your options, it’s better to do a search on an “aggregator” website that will search all the cruise lines for that perfect vacation.

Bottom line: Know which cruise line you want to sail? Then going directly to the cruise line site is a good idea. Just know that if you want the cheapest deals or the most available cruises, then opening your search to more lines is ideal.

Booking on Aggregator Websites

best place to book cruise canada

While aggregator websites sound complex, they are actually just search engine for travel bookings. In fact, you’ve likely searched on these sites before for a hotel or a rental car. The sites include the big names that you’ve seen advertised heavily on TV and the Internet:

  • Travelocity.com
  • Expedia.com
  • TripAdvisor.com

Just like searching for a hotel room, you can search these websites for a cruise across all of your options. This means being able to search across all the lines at once. They also give you the ability to narrow searches to specific dates of cruising, length of trip, destination, port of departure and more.

One thing to note is that many websites in this space are actually owned by a single company — Expedia. For instance, Expedia.com, Travelocity.com, and Orbitz.com, are all part of the Expedia family.

That means you’re going to find the same prices across these sites, along with similar search functions.

Advantages: There are two main advantages to using an aggregator website. First, they allow you to search across every cruise line.

So if you want to sail from Miami, you’ll see all the options from the port for every cruise line. That gives you a better chance of finding something that matches your budget and schedule versus just searching one line.

In addition, while aggregator websites will almost always have the same prices you’ll find everywhere else, they often offer perks you won’t find on the cruise lines websites.

For instance, a cruise might be priced the same as another website, but will have an offer of free onboard credit as an incentive to book through them. These perks usually aren’t huge, but are a nice to have.

Disadvantages: The drawback is that booking through third-party websites introduce a “middle man” into your cruise booking. The vast majority of the time that creates no issue.

However, if there is a reason where you need to change your booking or get a refund, then it could be a little more complicated than booking directly through the cruise line.

So should you use aggregator sites? We think so as they can help you look at every cruise available to find one that fits. Smart cruise shoppers use them to look at all their options and see what sort of incentives they have for booking through their site.

Bottom line: Not sure which cruise line you want? An aggregator site will search them all at once, allowing you to sort by price, date, and more. Use these to find the best deals and the most flexible dates.

Booking Through Specialized Cruise-Travel Websites

In addition to the large cruise aggregators, there are a number of smaller websites focused solely on cruises.

These sites include:

  • AvoyaTravel.com
  • CruisesOnly.com
  • Cruises.com
  • VacationsToGo.com

These websites are similar to the large aggregator websites in that they can help you search through every cruise out there to find the best deal. The difference? These websites focus solely on cruises.

With a focus on cruising, they are able to better serve cruise passengers — including having staff that you can call directly to help you book.

In other words, these sites are more akin to having your own travel agent to help you with the booking process compared to only a website.

That’s a big help if you’re not entirely sure about which cruise you should book. As well, these sites often have deals and incentives to entice you to book.

Advantages: Like the larger aggregators, the niche booking websites offer the ability to search across multiple cruise lines to see all of your options. As well, many of these sites also offer their own special incentives such as onboard credit or low deposits for booking through them.

In addition, these sites feature their phone number prominently for those who wish to talk to a person about their reservation. You don’t always find that with the large aggregation websites. Their staff are also focused on cruises, giving you someone who knows what they are talking about compared to someone with more general travel knowledge.

Disadvantages: While booking through these sites is largely the same as through the cruise line or an aggregator, we’ve found the incentives can be somewhat confusing.

For instance, one recent search promoted free gratuities on trips booked through the site, but we couldn’t find any mention of this once we actually started the booking process. Digging further, the incentive applied only to certain cruises, despite being heavily promoted.

That’s where having the phone number to call an agent of the company directly is a big help in getting things explained.

Bottom line: Sites like these offer the benefit of searching multiple cruise lines and the help of an agent you can call to help you book.

Booking Through Costco Travel

Are you a Costco member? If so, then you can book cruises online through the store. In fact, the offers are good enough that it’s usually worth it to become a member for a year just to book a cruise.

You can book online at CostcoTravel.com

Costco is well-known for its low prices, great deals, and customer service. Buying a cruise through the store might not enter many people’s minds, but it can save you big.

Like other cruise-buying websites, Costco offers rates that are in line with what you’ll find anywhere else. However, the big difference is that Costco offers special incentives to book through their site. This includes Costco Shop Cards — a gift card to the store.

Advantages: While the deals change from day to day on aggregator websites, Costco’s incentives are simple and straightforward. If you book through them, then they offer Costco Shop Cards. The amounts can be high as well.

For example, we found a cruise offering a $45 Costco Cash Card for booking the cheapest stateroom for just $409. In other words, that deal is like getting 11% off the price of your cruise . The cash increases substantially with upgraded cabins.

Disadvantages: First, in our searches, sometimes Costco’s pricing seems to jump around quite a bit. So you’ll see one price, click through, and then another price appears. Even so, sometimes that works in your advantage with seeing lower prices than you thought. Sometimes it doesn’t, but the Costco Shop Card more than makes up the difference.

The other disadvantage is that you need to be a member of Costco to book. An annual membership costs $60. In addition, the Costco Shop Cards are only valid at the store. It’s not the same as actual cash.

Bottom line: Costco can offer great cruise deals if you are a member, but not everyone is.

Final Recommendation for the Best Websites to Book a Cruise

Costco Members: If you are a Costco member, then we suggest CostcoTravel.com as the best website to book a cruise. It’s the largest and simplest incentive we’ve seen for booking online. Prices are competitive, but the cash back offers provide a lot of value. Just be sure to compare the total price there with what you find on other sites before booking.

Non-Costco Members: If you aren’t a Costco member and don’t want to join, then we suggest looking first at the specialized cruise travel sites to search all your options and find the cruise you want.

If the site offers a good incentive for booking through them, then know that you’ve found a good deal. If the incentive isn’t that strong or you don’t want to go through a third-party to your reservation, then booking directly through the cruise line is your best bet.

FAQ About Booking Cruises Online

How do I know if a website is legit to book a cruise? There are dozens — if not hundreds — of websites that you can use to book your cruise. Frankly, not all of them look professional, so it is understandable you might question the legitimacy of a website or their deals.

We suggest you stick with the websites mentioned here or other well-known spots.

Above all, remember the age-old rule that if something sounds too good to be true, it likely is. Be wary of any websites advertising cruise deals that are significantly less than the same cruise priced elsewhere.

What about booking last-minute cruise deals on websites? It makes sense that if a cruise cabin is about to sail empty the price would drop to fill it up. In reality, this doesn’t usually happen. In fact, cruise lines consistently have occupancy rates above 100% — meaning that more than two passengers are in some cabins.

By waiting until the last minute you aren’t likely to find great deals, but it will mean that you have fewer cabin choices. It’s best to book earlier compared to later.

What if I book on a website and the price drops? Cruise prices can fluctuate. It’s possible that if you book one day, the next day the price may go down. The good news is that the price is unlikely to move much (unlike airfare).

So what do you do if the price does change? In that case, you’ll want to contact the website that you booked through — not the cruise line (unless you booked through the cruise line’s website). For example, if you book through CostcoTravel.com, then contact them first for any price drops you see.

Have more questions about the best website to book a cruise? Let us know in the comments below.

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CruiseCompete.com allows you to get quotes from multiple travel agencies by requesting a quote only once. You open an account for free, enter the date/cruise you want to go on (their site has info on itineraries, dates, etc) and then travel agents will respond with their pricing and special deals (OBC’s, etc).

I totally agree. I know people like to think they’re getting a “deal” but there aren’t that many deals out there. Most websites and TA’s are basically selling the same thing, for the same price. Where you will find better “value” sometimes though, is with a travel agent that can help put the pieces of the trip together for you. You’re getting more personal service, without paying more. A nice little bonus when we booked through an online TA was that we received an onboard credit that we weren’t expecting, which was nice. The deals likely come with whatever credit card you use, getting points or cash back. Some cards are pretty generous with their cashback on certain things.

You are dead wrong about costco cash cards. As a costco member you can cash the cards at any store for actual cash money. Done so many times.

That’s a good tip.

What about booking thru an independant, or franchise, agent? ONLY an indepent person is able to/allowed to give you back some of their commission. Most often as OBC – but heck $100 of OBC pays your gratuities. fyi: There are THOURSANDS of agents that have the SAME inventory as Cruises Only. ALL under the World Travel Holding Umbrella.

Vacations to go has a amazingly well laid out web site with every imaginable ship or itinerary feature. Just check it out and see. Great price and incentives as well

Why no mention of “www.Vacationstogo” ? I booked many at a reduces price on their website.

you didn’t mention booking through credit card companies. For instance, you can earn points for booking your cruise through Capital One, or, if you have discover you can earn 5% cash back through booking a cruise. Also, There are a few other sites such as Sears or Shop Your Way where you can book vacations. It’s not just going to the travel aggregator sites. if you can’t find a lower price, at least you can get a discount through these card companies. If you have the card that is.

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The 17 Best Websites To Book Cruises at the Cheapest Prices [2024]

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The 17 Best Websites To Book Cruises at the Cheapest Prices [2024]

1. Cruise Line’s Website

2. cheapcaribbean.com, 3. cruise critic, 4. cruisedirect, 5. priceline, 6. tripadvisor, 7. cruisesonly, 10. cruises.com, 11. american airlines cruises, 12. delta skymiles cruises, bonuses for united premier members, use united mileageplus miles to pay for your cruise, use marriott bonvoy points to pay for your cruise, 15. costco travel, 16. cruise.com, 17. travelocity, price comparisons, final thoughts.

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So, you’ve decided you want to go on a cruise. Great news! But, do you know where to book it to get the best price?

There’s no shortage of websites out there that can help you book a cruise. There may even be more options to book cruises than hotels or flights. In addition to the traditional online travel agencies, there are a bunch of cruise-only sites that you can choose from, too.

So how do you know which site offers the best price? That’s where we come in. We combed through the most popular websites used to book cruises to look at their pros and cons and to do some head-to-head price comparisons.

If you’re only concerned about finding the cheapest price, scroll down to the price comparison section at the bottom of this post to see how all of these sites stack up against each other.

Your first instinct when booking a cruise may be to go directly to the cruise line’s website, especially if you have elite status with a specific cruise line. There are definitely some benefits to this — it’s simple and there are fewer hassles if you have to make any changes .

If you’re sure of the cruise line you want to take, it makes your search a little easier because you’re just looking at one specific line.

The big drawback when booking directly on a cruise line’s website is that you can miss out on extra deals that online travel agencies (OTAs) may offer.

Pros and Cons of Booking Directly with the Cruise Line

  • Simpler search functions make it easier to locate specific cruises.
  • There’s no middleman (another website) to deal with if there is a problem.
  • You might miss out on extra deals offered by other sites.

Bottom Line: No matter where you choose to book your cruise, be sure to use the right credit card — refer to our list of best credit cards for cruises to get you started.

CheapCaribbean.com is an OTA that specializes in travel to the Caribbean, Mexico, and Central America. It was founded in 2000 and prides itself on offering the best prices and great U.S.-based customer service . The site’s sales agents are available 7 days a week to help you plan your ultimate Caribbean vacation.

Despite the name, you can book cruises to destinations other than the Caribbean through CheapCaribbean.com, including Europe, Canada, Hawaii, and Alaska.

Cheap Caribbean cruise booking

CheapCaribbean.com sometimes offers extra bonuses, like extra onboard spending credit. Plus it offers a 110% best price guarantee — if you find the exact same cruise for a cheaper price (available to the general public) on another website, CheapCaribbean.com will refund 110% of the price difference.

The not-so-great thing about CheapCaribbean.com is that it charges a $24.99 processing fee on each booking. It’s lumped into the taxes and fees, so you may not realize it unless you read the fine print.

CheapCaribbean.com processing fee

Pros and Cons of CheapCaribbean.com

  • Occasional special deals like extra onboard credit may be offered.
  • 110% best price guarantee.
  • There’s a $24.99 processing fee on each booking.
  • You need to sign up for emails or call in to book a cruise if you want to access exclusive deals.

Hot Tip: Want to save more? CheapCaribbean.com offers exclusive deals to email subscribers and offers unpublished fares and exclusive offers if you call in to book your cruise. 

Cruise Critic is a cruise-focused website that features reviews, tips, and advice for a huge community of cruisers. The Cruise Critic forums provide a place to ask questions, give advice, and get help booking your next cruise.

The site also acts as a metasearch engine for cruises, allowing you to compare prices from lots of other websites . You can search for your perfect cruise and when it’s time to book, Cruise Critic will transfer you to another site to complete your booking.

Cruise Critic

Pros and Cons of Cruise Critic

  • The site offers lots of cruise reviews, plus cruise tips and a travel forum to help you plan your trip.
  • You can sign up for email alerts so you’re notified when the price of a cruise drops.
  • The prices you see are not guaranteed and may be subject to other fees or restrictions depending on what website they are from.

CruiseDirect is a website that specializes only in cruises. The site allows you to quickly search cruises by destination, cruise line, departure port, or last-minute deals . You’ll find lots of different types of cruises, from budget to luxury and from mega-ships to riverboats.

With each cruise listing, you’ll see bonus details next to each sailing date — just click on each icon for details. Some of these are already reflected in the price and some are extras like onboard ship credit or discounts on shore excursions.

CruiseDirect.com perks

Pros and Cons of CruiseDirect

  • Bonuses are offered with each cruise ranging from discounts, shipboard credit, or discounts on shore excursions.
  • The bonuses offered are often from the cruise line and not exclusive to CruiseDirect, so you can get them regardless of where you book.
  • The site is a bit cluttered and can be hard to navigate.

Kayak is a popular online travel agency but the site doesn’t support cruise searches anymore.

Priceline gained fame from its “Name Your Own Price” feature but has since transformed into a more traditional OTA. In addition to hotels, flights, and rental cars, you can use this site to book cruises, too.

Priceline often offers deals above and beyond what’s being offered through the cruise line. At the time of writing, a few different deals offered perks like $1,000 in onboard credit or 30% off every guest .

Priceline Cruise Deals

Plus, Priceline offers a 110% best price guarantee — if you find a lower, publicly available price for the exact same cruise within 48 hours of booking, you’ll be refunded 110% of the price difference.

Pros and Cons of Priceline

  • Extra deals like onboard credit or room upgrades are sometimes offered.
  • The site offers a 110% best-price guarantee.
  • Some offers, including the one for up to $1,000 in shipboard credit can be confusing. Once you read the fine print, you’ll realize you need to spend $20,000 to get the full $1,000 credit.

Hot Tip: For more information, check out our detailed guide on booking travel with Priceline .

While you might think of Tripadvisor as just a place to get reviews and photos of hotels, restaurants, and activities, it’s actually much more than that. In addition to reviews and traveler forums, Tripadvisor acts as a metasearch engine , comparing prices on lots of other websites.

When you’re searching for a cruise, just click on the drop-down arrow that tells you how many deals there are — then you’ll be able to see that cruise’s price on many sites.

Tripadvisor Cruises

Pros and Cons of Tripadvisor

  • It offers lots of great ship reviews and travel forums.
  • It’s a great site to quickly compare prices on many sites at once.
  • You may not be able to see all the deals being offered on each site.

Hot Tip: For more information, check out our detailed guide to booking travel on Tripadvisor .

CruisesOnly claims to be “the best” because each of its call center agents has an average of 5+ years of experience plus professional training.

While that might be helpful if you’re new to cruising or need some advice about which cruise line, ship, or destination you should choose, it doesn’t necessarily mean you’re getting the best price (scroll down to the Price Comparison section to see how CruisesOnly stacks up against other websites).

CruisesOnly also has its own loyalty program. The V.I.P. Customer Loyalty Club is free, and you’re signed up automatically if you have booked with CruisesOnly at least once before. Benefits include things like shore excursion credits and onboard spending credits.

CruisesOnly loyalty program

The V.I.P. Customer Loyalty Club only applies to cruises on these cruise lines:

  • Holland America
  • Royal Caribbean

CruisesOnly’s best price guarantee is similar to other sites — a refund of 110% of the price difference if you find a lower price on an identical cruise within 48 hours of booking.

Pros and Cons of CruisesOnly

  • The V.I.P. Customer Loyalty Club is free and offers plenty of benefits.
  • The site offers a 110% best price guarantee.
  • The site, like many other OTAs, can be very busy, making it hard to narrow down the cruise you really want to take.
  • The loyalty program only applies to 6 cruise lines.

When booking a cruise through an OTA, be sure to use a card that earns bonus points on travel purchases, such as the  Chase Sapphire Reserve ®  which earns 3x Ultimate Rewards points on cruises purchased from any website or travel agency.

Expedia might be one of the first websites you visit to search for flights or hotels (and it’s probably a site you have used for a long time), but did you know that you can book a cruise through Expedia as well?

The site is straightforward, easy to use, and offers cruises from all the major cruise lines . While Expedia doesn’t charge any booking fees, it also doesn’t offer any price guarantees. However, you can sometimes find additional bonuses for booking your cruise through Expedia.

It also does a nice job of showing exactly what’s included and what might cost extra.

Expedia Cruises

Pros and Cons of Expedia

  • The site sometimes offers extra bonuses like onboard credit.
  • It’s easy to use and is very clear about what’s included in the price.
  • No price guarantee is offered

Hot Tip: For more information check out our complete guide to using Expedia .

Orbitz is a typical OTA that offers flights, hotels, car rentals, vacation packages, and cruises. There are no booking fees on cruises and a price guarantee is offered . However, the price guarantee isn’t as strong as some of the other sites — you’ll need to find a lower price within 24 hours to receive the difference in price as a refund.

Like Expedia, Orbitz does a good job at displaying prices clearly so there’s no confusion.

Orbitz cruises breakdown

One of the nice things about Orbitz is that it offers a rewards program, but, unfortunately, cruises are not eligible for Orbitz Rewards.

Pros and Cons of Orbitz

  • It offers a best price guarantee.
  • There are no booking, change, or cancellation fees.
  • Cruises aren’t eligible for Orbitz Rewards

Hot Tip: For more information, check out our complete guide to using Orbitz to book travel .

Cruises.com is another site that claims to be the best place to book your cruise. It can offer some impressive deals, but once you read the fine print, well, you realize there’s a lot of fine print.

For example, a deal was offered for up to $2,000 cashback, $1,500 to spend onboard, or a Visa gift card. However, after reading the fine print you’ll notice that in order to get the full bonus you’d have to spend $20,000+ on a cruise. To top it off, the bonus is only available for select cruise lines.

Cruises.com 2000 offer

So while the deals offered could be lucrative, they aren’t necessarily a slam dunk.

Cruises.com also has its own loyalty program. It’s free and you’re signed up automatically if you have booked with Cruises.com at least once before. Benefits include things like shore excursion credits, onboard spending credits, or deposit waivers. Benefits are identical to those offered through the CruisesOnly loyalty program.

Pros and Cons of Cruises.com

  • A loyalty program is offered for past guests.
  • There are sometimes extra bonuses beyond what’s offered by the cruise line.
  • There is a lot of fine print with its offers.

Hot Tip: Cruises.com and CruisesOnly are both owned by World Travel Holdings, along with other websites, including Cruise411.com. These sites offer the same loyalty program and similar perks, however, their prices can be different.

Did you know that you can book a cruise through American Airlines ? The best part is that when you do, you’ll earn American Airlines AAdvantage miles for your purchase (in addition to any points or miles you will earn from your credit card).

  • Earn 1 AAdvantage mile per $1 spent on cruises booked through American Airlines (up to 10,000 miles)
  • American Airlines credit cardholders will earn 2 AAdvantage miles per $1 spent on cruises booked through American Airlines (up to 20,000 miles)
  • Occasionally, additional bonus points will be offered for select cruises

Hot Tip: Base miles earned by booking a cruise through American Airlines will also count as Loyalty Points that help you earn American Airlines elite status .

American Airlines Cruises also offers a 110% best price guarantee — if you find the exact same cruise priced lower within 48 hours of booking, you’ll be refunded 110% of the price difference.

The bad news is that you’re charged a $24.99 processing fee on every booking.

Pros and Cons of American Airlines Cruises

  • AAdvantage members have the ability to earn lots of American Airlines miles and Loyalty Points.
  • There is a $24.99 processing fee on every booking.

Bottom Line: While you can book a cruise through American Airlines, you can’t use AAdvantage miles to pay for it.

In addition to flights, you can book cruises through Delta Air Lines’ SkyMiles Cruises and earn Delta SkyMiles at the same time.

Currently, you’ll earn 2 SkyMiles per $1 spent on a cruise , excluding the taxes, fees, and port charges.

SkyMiles Cruises also offers a 110% best price guarantee — if you find the exact same cruise priced lower within 48 hours of booking, you’ll be refunded 110% of the price difference.

Pros and Cons of Delta SkyMiles Cruises

  • Earn extra Delta SkyMiles.

Bottom Line: While you can book a cruise through SkyMiles Cruises, you can’t pay for your cruise with Delta SkyMiles.

13. United Cruises

When you book a cruise with United Cruises you can choose to either earn United MileagePlus miles for your purchase or you can use MileagePlus miles to pay for your cruise !

United Cruises offers different ways to earn miles on your next cruise:

  • Earn 2 MileagePlus miles per $1 spent on an interior or oceanview stateroom
  • Earn 4 MileagePlus miles per $1 spent on a balcony stateroom or suite
  • Any United MileagePlus credit cardholder will earn 4 MileagePlus miles per $1 spent on an interior or oceanview stateroom
  • Any United MileagePlus credit cardholder will earn 7 MileagePlus miles per $1 spent on a balcony or suite stateroom

Additionally, there are sometimes opportunities to earn even more miles.

United Cruises offers a 110% best price guarantee — if you find the exact same cruise priced lower within 48 hours of booking, you’ll be refunded 110% of the price difference.

Unfortunately, United Cruises charges a $24.99 processing fee on every booking.

If you have any Premier status with United Airlines you’ll also receive onboard extras with select cruise lines:

  • A bottle of wine and chocolate-covered strawberries in your stateroom
  • $100 spa credit
  • $200 onboard credit
  • $250 onboard credit

Paying for your cruise with miles is a great option to have. Unfortunately, you’ll lose out on some value if you do so .

When you book a cruise using United Miles, you’ll get about 0.7 to 0.8 cents per mile in value. United miles are generally worth around 1.3 cents per mile (or more if you’re booking business or first class flights), so you’re getting less value than you could get if you used your miles for a flight.

However, if you have a bundle of United miles and prefer cruising to flying, it might be a good redemption for you.

Pros and Cons of United Cruises

  • MileagePlus members have the ability to earn lots of extra miles.
  • United Premier members receive extra perks with Norwegian, Oceania, and Regent Seven Seas Cruise Lines.

Bottom Line: When you choose to book your cruise through United Cruises, you can either earn United MileagePlus miles on your purchase, or you can pay for your cruise using your United MileagePlus miles.

14. Marriott Bonvoy Cruises

Marriott Bonvoy Cruises allows you to earn Marriott Bonvoy points on your cruise or you can choose to pay for your cruise with Marriott Bonvoy points !

When you book a cruise through Marriott , you’ll earn up to 3 points per $1 spent . Chase Marriott Bonvoy credit cardholders will earn an extra 2 Marriott Bonvoy points per $1 spent on a cruise booked through Marriott Bonvoy Cruises.

Marriott Bonvoy also offers a 110% best price guarantee — if you find the exact same cruise priced lower within 48 hours of booking, you’ll be refunded 110% of the price difference.

Hot Tip: If you book a cruise through Marriott Bonvoy, know that you’ll be charged a non-refundable processing fee of $24.99. That’s a pretty hefty fee considering many other sites don’t charge any fees.

It’s a great option to be able to pay for your cruise with points , and Marriott Bonvoy makes that possible. However, it’s not the best way to use your Marriott Bonvoy points.

When booking a cruise with Marriott Bonvoy points, you’ll only get 0.4 cents per point in value. Since Marriott Bonvoy points are generally worth about 0.7 cents each, you’ll be missing out on some value, so you might want to look into other ways to redeem your Marriott Bonvoy for hotels or flights .

Pros and Cons of Marriott Bonvoy Cruises

  • Members can earn extra Marriott Bonvoy points.
  • You can pay for your cruise with Marriott Bonvoy points.
  • The site offers a 110% best price guarantee
  • You’ll be charged a non-refundable processing fee of $24.99 per reservation.
  • Marriott cruises can only be booked with Marriott Bonvoy points over the phone.

Bottom Line: When you book a cruise through Marriott Bonvoy, you can pay for your cruise with points or you can choose to pay cash (I mean, credit card!) and earn Marriott Bonvoy points on your purchase.

Costco Travel is an in-house travel agency that’s only available to Costco members . Costco offers 2 levels of membership: Gold Star for $60 per year and Executive for $120 per year. Executive membership comes with a valuable extra perk for travelers — 2% back on your purchases through Costco Travel (up to $1,000)!

Another great thing about Costco Travel is that you’ll sometimes find deals that offer extra shipboard credit or a Costco shop card as a bonus.

Costco Travel is easy to use and offers all of the search and filter functions found on any other website.

Pros and Cons of Costco Travel

  • Executive members receive 2% back on purchases through Costco Travel.
  • Costco shop cards or onboard credit are sometimes offered as a bonus.
  • Costco Travel is for members only.

Hot Tip: For more information, check out our detailed post on using Costco Travel .

Cruise.com  is a cluttered website and can be overwhelming when you’re searching for a cruise (especially if you’re a first-time cruiser and not quite sure how everything works). It offers lots of deals and discounts, but many of those are actually offered through the cruise line, so it can be hard to tell which bonuses are actually coming from Cruise.com.

Cruise.com offers

Pros and Cons of Cruise.com

  • Lots of deals for a variety of cruise lines are offered.
  • The website is very busy and cluttered.
  • No price guarantee is offered.
  • You may be contacted by cruise.com after searching for a cruise on the site.

Hot Tip: Don’t be confused — Cruise.com and Cruises.com are 2 separate websites!

Travelocity is a website that many travelers use to book flights, hotels, rental cars, and cruises. The simple interface and the fact that there are no booking fees will make this a good choice for many travelers.

While Travelocity doesn’t advertise as many deals and savings as other sites, the price still manages to come out about the same as other websites.

Pros and Cons of Travelocity

  • There are no booking fees.
  • It’s simple to use.
  • No rewards program or extra bonus points.

Hot Tip: For more information, check out our complete guide to booking travel with Travelocity .

Let’s get to the important part — price comparisons! We priced out a 7-night Eastern Caribbean cruise from Miami on Royal Caribbean’s Icon of the Seas. Prices are for 2 adults in an Infinite Central Park View Balcony room.

As you can see, most websites offer the same price . The difference comes in the extras like onboard credit, free specialty dinners, free gratuities, or bonus miles.

The exception in this example was Cruise.com, which offered a savings of $50 on the price of the cruise. However, some of the extras offered by other sites could be worth more than that, so it’s always a good idea to price your cruise on multiple websites before booking.

Bottom Line: The base cost of a cruise is generally the same across most websites. The big difference comes in the extras — onboard credit, specialty dinners, cash-back, or bonus miles. 

No matter where you book your cruise, you’ll be paying the same base price 9 times out of 10. Even though a website might be offering “the best prices” or a “50% discount,” when you actually look at the numbers they’ll usually be the same as every other website.

To get a great deal, you’ll need to look for bonuses that a particular website is offering, such as onboard credit, free specialty dinners, cash-back, or bonus airline miles.

The higher the room category you’re booking, the more bonuses you’ll be able to get. Keep in mind that lots of the bonuses you may see advertised won’t kick in unless you book a balcony stateroom or a suite. Cashback and onboard spending bonuses are generally tied to your stateroom level as well which means you’re not going to get anywhere near the amount advertised if you’re booking an interior or ocean-view cabin.

No matter where you book your cruise, be sure to check out our post with cruise tips and a downloadable packing guide !

Frequently Asked Questions

How do you get the best deals on cruises.

To get the best deals on a cruise, it’s important to know which website is offering the most bonuses. The base price of your cruise will be the same from website to website 9 times out of 10, so you’ll need to find the website that’s offering the best bonuses like onboard credit or free specialty dinners.

Is it better to book directly with the cruise line?

Surprisingly, you’ll usually get a better deal when you book your cruise through an OTA (think Cruise.com, Expedia, or United Cruises). When you book through these types of sites you’ll get any deals that are being offered directly by the cruise line plus any extras offered by the OTA.

Is it better to book cruises last minute?

While you can find some great deals on last-minute cruises, it’s not a guarantee. If you have any preference about your cabin type or location, you’ll want to book as early as possible to make sure you get exactly what you want. If you’re traveling with a group and want to book cabins that are next door to each other, you’ll also want to book ahead of time. However, if you’re super flexible and don’t care what type of cabin you’re in, where it’s located, or even what cruise you’re on, you can often find some good deals at the last minute.

What is the best website for booking cruises?

Unfortunately, there’s no one site that always offers the best cruise deals. Most of the OTAs like CheapCaribbean.com, Cruises.com, or Priceline offer the same prices. The difference usually comes when you factor in extras like onboard credit or free gratuities.

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About Katie Seemann

Katie has been in the points and miles game since 2015 and started her own blog in 2016. She’s been freelance writing since then and her work has been featured in publications like Travel + Leisure, Forbes Advisor, and Fortune Recommends.

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Cheap Canada Cruises - Cruises to Canada

Featured canada cruise deals, cruising guide, why cruise to canada.

Rich in maritime history, hockey culture, seafood selections and stunning fall foliage, Canada's coastal provinces are worth a visit, particularly for travelers who aren't sure where to begin touring, given the country's massive size.

The best way to see several Canadian highlights in one trip is on a cruise, where you unpack once, your accommodations travel with you and dinner awaits at the end of a fun day in port.

You'll typically see a sailing to Canada billed as a Canada/New England cruise, as most voyages include a mix of ports from both regions.

What are Popular Activities in Canada?

There's lots to see on a Canada cruise, and options abound. In Halifax, you might hop on a bus tour that touches on the port's maritime ties and hits several highlights, such as Citadel Hill and Fairlawn Cemetery, where more than 100 Titanic victims are buried.

In Charlottetown, you won't want to miss a visit to the "Anne of Green Gables" house, and if you're in Montreal at night, the Notre Dame Basilica's AURA light show is an absolute must.

When is a Good Time to Cruise to Canada?

Although Canada sailings are generally offered from May through October, autumn is the best time to go. Temperatures are cooler, and if you time it right, you can take in the breathtaking fall foliage with its fiery red, orange and yellow hues.

What are Popular Ports in Canada?

The most popular ports include Halifax, Saint John, Quebec City, Prince Edward Island's Charlottetown and Sydney. A handful of American ports -- such as Bar Harbor and Portland, Maine -- are also offered on some Canada itineraries.

Canadian ports along the west coast can also be found on Alaska itineraries, whether it's Dawson or Whitehorse in the Yukon Territory or Vancouver and Victoria in British Columbia. The Canadian Rockies, including Banff National Park, make an excellent pre- or post-Alaska cruise tour on the Rocky Mountaineer train line.

Where do Canada cruises depart from?

Most Canada cruises actually begin and end in the United States, often sailing roundtrip from Boston. Other departure ports for Canada itineraries include Baltimore, New York, Bayonne and Fort Lauderdale's Port Everglades in the U.S., as well as Montreal and Quebec City in Canada.

What are Tips to Find Cruise deals to Canada?

Here are our best tips for finding a cheap cruise or cruise deal to Canada. If you book a “guaranteed cabin” (they select for you), a cabin on a lower deck or sail on an older ship from a brand you like, then you can get the best price for a specific cruise to Canada. Last minute cruises deals to Canada appear as you get closer to the sail date, usually 1-2 weeks in advance. Taking a cruise to Canada in the shoulder season (before or after the peak season) can also be a great way to find a cruise deal.

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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.

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The Trails Are Waiting For You

Charming cities, mesmerizing mountains and lucid lakes await in Canada

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Mountain and Nature in Canada

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.  

Grouse Mountain in Vancouver, British Columbia

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.

Orca Jumping Over the Water

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.

Kayaking in La Mauricie National Park in Canada

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.

Colorful Houses in St.Johns Harbor, Canada

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.  

City Houses and Frontenac Castle in Canada

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.

Anthropology Museum at the University of British Columbia

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.

Powered Steam Clock in Vancouver

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.

Bridge in Vancouver

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.

Beautiful Mountain View in the National Park, Icy Strait Point, Alaska

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.

The Louisbourg Lighthouse during a Beautiful Day, Sydney, Nova Scotia

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.

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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.

Typical Poutine Canada

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?

Montreal Style Bagels

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.

Authentic Canadian Dessert, Nanaimo Bars

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.

Stanley Park Urban Greenspace, Vancouver, British Columbia

Vancouver, British Columbia

Parliament Garden, Victoria British Columbia

Victoria, British Columbia

Bar Harbor, Maine Lush Landscape at Acadia National Park

Bar Harbor, Maine

Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island Red And White Lighthouse

Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island

Gros Morne National Park, Corner Brook, Newfoundland

Corner Brook, Newfoundland

Mcnabs Island Lighthouse, Halifax, Nova Scotia

Halifax, Nova Scotia

Quebec City, Quebec, City And Chateau Frontenac

Quebec City, Quebec

Saint John, New Brunswick, Reversing Falls

Saint John (Bay of Fundy), New Brunswick

St. John's, Newfoundland, Aerial View

St. John's, Newfoundland

The Louisbourg Lighthouse during a Beautiful Day, Sydney, Nova Scotia

Sydney, Nova Scotia

Nanaimo, British Columbia, Rocky Coastline

Nanaimo, British Columbia

Montreal, Quebec Cobbled Streets

Montreal, Quebec

Saguenay, Quebec, Fjord

Saguenay, Quebec

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Canadian Rockies Park in the West Coast

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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

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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.

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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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Discover American history & natural beauty

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. Or ascend Cadillac Mountain in picturesque Acadia National Park for one of the "Best National Park Experiences," according to Lonely Planet. 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.

Watch Canada & New England cruise videos: Canada & New England video

Tree-lined coastline in Maine.

  • Canada & New England Cruise Vacations

Explore the beauty of Canada & New England and visit some of the top rated ports including Boston, Bar Harbor, Yorktown, Quebec City and St. John on one of our unique itineraries, departing from New York, Boston, Quebec or Ft. Lauderdale, and enjoy the best of seaside life — refreshing breezes, fresh seafood and quaint colonial cities.

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  • Canada & New England Cruisetour Vacations

Uncover even more of Canada & New England, before or after your cruise, with a cruisetour vacation . Stay overnight in historic Williamsburg or Gettysburg, or spend more time in stunning Niagara Falls or Montreal and enjoy all of Canada & New England’s beauty.

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  • Why Cruise Canada & New England?

Walk along storied shores to enjoy everything from succulent seafood to dramatic coastlines. Sightsee in ports like French-influenced Quebec City, and explore famed sites, such as Peggy’s Cover in Halifax. See the site of the Boston Tea Party and where Paul Revere rode along the Freedom Trail.

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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.

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What to Do in Seven of My Favorite Canada Cruise Ports

Cruises to Canada rank really high on my list of favorite cruise itineraries. Maybe it’s the scenery or the ever-changing weather or just a particular port. Canada cruise ports offer so much to do, eat and see that you’ll probably forget you’re still in North America.

Peggy's Cove Lighthouse near Halifax, Nova Scotia

Seven Must-See Canada Cruise Ports

There’s a season for cruises to Canada that runs from April through October. Lengths of these cruises generally range from four to 14 nights and may begin or end in Quebec City, Montreal, New York or Boston. If you’re looking for fall foliage cruises, it’s time to start planning. These time-sensitive itineraries sell out well in advance, especially for balcony staterooms.

A handful of Canada cruise ports seem to get more cruise traffic than other smaller Canada cruise ports. I’ll attest that they are all wonderful to visit. 

If you’re lucky enough to cruise to really smaller ports, you’ll meet  some of the most friendly people to greet you upon arrival. But since this article is about the top seven Canada cruise ports that are most likely to be on your cruise itinerary, let’s start at the beginning.

What to Do in These Popular Canada Cruise Ports

I’ve put together a list of what I suggest to do at the most visited Canada cruise ports. You can choose to purchase a ship shore excursion or in some cases, simply walk from your ship into town.

Sydney, Nova Scotia

  • A stroll through Sydney right from the cruise terminal. Chocolate lovers: be sure to visit the Cape Breton Fudge Company on Prince Street.
  • Take a drive along the winding Cabot Trail for awesome views of the rugged coastline and through Cape Breton Highlands National Park.
  • To visit the two of the oldest homes in Sydney; the Cosset House Museum and the Jost Heritage House. Both are on Charlotte Street, not far from the Cruise Terminal.

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best place to book cruise canada

St. John’s, Newfoundland

  • Meander through the narrow streets of The Battery, a quaint neighborhood which still resembles a 17th century fishing village.
  • When the urge to splurge strikes, head up the hill one block from the pier Water Street. Here you’ll find the main shopping area and lots of down-home handicrafts.
  • Check out the panoramic view from Cabot Tower on Signal Hill. You can see out over the water all the way to Cape Spear as well as the city and harbor.

Saint John, New Brunswick

  • Follow the yellow brick road. Actually, it’s a white painted strip called the Harbour Passage that goes from the cruise port all the way to the Reversing Falls Rapids. Not to be missed!
  • Not for the faint of heart is the zipline across the Reversing Falls Rapids, 50 feet above the water. Definitely a white-water rush!
  • Covered bridge fans, (remember, Bridges of Madison County?) should check out the 15-mile covered bridges bicycle tour through the tranquil New Brunswick countryside.

Halifax, Nova Scotia

  • One of the most popular Canada cruise ports, Halifax has great food, easy walking paths and of course, friendly people!
  • Take a bus ride out to Peggy’s Cove to walk through their quaint and colorful fishing village and venture out to one of the most photographed lighthouses in North America.
  • Stroll along the 2.5 mile Harbourwalk, a dedicated waterfront path that takes you through downtown Halifax , past Victorian homes, warehouses. Stop for lunch at a café and enjoy the views.
  • Walk through town to the Citadel and climb to the top for a spectacular view of the harbor. Completed by the British in 1749, the pointed star-shaped fort was a major defense post. There’s a daily canon firing plus you (or your kids) can dress up in period military garb. Tours are available.

Quebec City, Quebec

  • This Canada cruise port is almost like being in France! Tune up your high school French, sit at a café and celebrate the joie de vivre!
  • Head on up to the Haute-Ville (the old section) either on foot (au pied!) or ride the vintage funicular up to the top ($3.50 Canadian). Explore, dine, drink and shop along narrow streets overlooking the harbor.
  • Sign up for Afternoon Tea at the famous castle-like Chateau Frontenac, perched high atop the cliff. Can’t miss it…just look up!
  • With a little pre-cruise planning, you can catch a couple of buses from the port to take you directly to roaring Montmorency Falls. Ships tours go there, too.

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  • Have the lunch buffet at the celebrated Queen Elizabeth Hotel on René Lévesque Avenue. Then check out subterranean life beneath the hotel where you’ll find one of the largest underground complexes in the world, nicknamed the Underground City. It’s also home to ViaRail and Amtrak train stations.
  • A great walking city, hoof it from the port over to Old Montreal. Be sure to check out the ornate Basilique Notre Dame de Montreal. China Town is nearby, with interesting shops and of course, lunch!
  • Have a craving for a mile-high juicy corned beef sandwich or a world-renown bagel? Hop a taxi to Schwartz’s Deli on St. Laurent Blvd. Napkins included. From there, take a ride to Montréal’s famous farmer’s market , Jean Talon Market, located in Little Italy. This is FoodieTown.

Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island

  • Anne of Green Gables anything! The story of the orphan girl, adopted and growing up on Prince Edward Island, put Charlottetown on the tourist map. Walk from the cruise port to downtown and browse the “Anne” shops and candy stores.
  • Enjoy a tour out to Prince Edward Island National Park. It’s a wildlife and birder’s paradise. Plus gorgeous coastline, beaches and sand dunes.
  • Foodies take note: Head over to Queen St. or Victoria St. for lunch. Savor local cuisine with regional ingredients. Suggestion: the island fish chowder and lobster cheese casserole are fabulous!

If I had to choose a season to cruise to Canada, it would have to be late fall. While you can never pinpoint when the best week for leaf-peeping will occur, your chances greatly increase from late September through the last cruise of October. Be prepared for abrupt weather changes and dress in layers. If you don’t feel like a ship’s shore excursion, keep in mind that so much of the charm of cruising to Canada can be experienced on a walk from the cruise port.

Read next:  Eight of my favorite New England cruise ports

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On a Canada cruise, discover a taste of Paris in the restaurants and cafés of Montréal. Or cruise Canada’s West Coast and visit bustling Vancouver. Take high tea in Victoria and wander the world-famous Butchart Gardens. Cruise the inland waterways of the St. Lawrence River. Enjoy a horse-drawn trolley ride through the streets of Halifax. From the Atlantic to the Pacific, the US border to the Arctic Circle, Canada awaits your exploration. 

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A view of the mountains and water near Port Gaspe in Quebec Canada

Gaspe, Quebec, Canada

A picture of boats docked in Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island, Canada while on a Canada cruise

Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island, Canada

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Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada

A picture of the Historic District in Quebec City, Quebec, Canada taken on a Canada cruise

Quebec City, Quebec, Canada

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Canada Cruises

Consistently named as one of the top countries in the world to visit, Cruise Nation’s Canada cruises offer travellers the chance to see the best of this spectacularly beautiful nation. With some of the finest National Parks on planet, incredible mountain ranges – including the unmissable Canadian Rockies – and a host of historically rich and multi-cultural cities to explore, visitors to the “Great White North” are guaranteed to leave with a feeling of awe at everything this amazing country has to offer.

At Cruise Nation, we offer a huge range of cruises to Canada, including  USA cruises  which take in some of Canada’s most beautiful coastal regions, alongside vibrant American cities like Boston and Portland. For adventurous travellers looking to discover the best of Canada’s epic scenery and the wild beauty of Alaska, our  Alaska Cruises  offer the best of both worlds – onboard some of the world’s leading cruise ships.  Our extensive online cruise deals also cover South American Cruises , which give cruise-goers with more time the opportunity to see Canada’s most impressive sights, alongside the colourful countries of South America.

Weather in Canada

Why cruise nation.

At Cruise Nation, we offer one of the biggest and lowest-priced ranges of Canada cruises online, with Canada and USA cruises, Canada and Alaska cruises and Alaska Cruise and Stay Holidays. Our low cost Cruise and Stay holidays, allow you more time to explore exciting destinations around the world, whether it’s a Bali Cruise and Stay holiday, a Canadian Cruise and Stay Package or a Cruise and Stay deal to the Caribbean . If you’re hoping to book a cheap, last minute cruise to Canada, you’ve come to the right place. Our last minute, luxury Canada cruises give you the chance to make incredible savings on cruises from some of the biggest names in the cruise industry, including  Cunard Cruises ,  Norwegian Cruise Line  and  Royal Caribbean Cruises .

WHY BOOK A CANADA CRUISE?

With the opportunity to see and experience Canada’s most beautiful cities, incredible landscapes and famous landmarks, a cruise to Canada is an outdoor enthusiast’s dream come true. And, with our range of Canada cruises which also take in the highlights of countries including America, Alaska and even the Caribbean, you’ll be able to pick the perfect itinerary for your dream cruise. Maybe you want to spend a few days exploring Vancouver, before embarking on your Canada cruise? With our low cost cruises, you can fly to Vancouver, stay in the city with free accommodation before setting sail to see the rest of the country. If sight-seeing in New York is more your idea of the perfect break, choose one of our Cruise and Stay Canada cruises which includes a couple of nights in the Big Apple, allowing you to discover the city at your own pace before embarking on your luxury cruise liner to Canada.

No matter what kind of traveller you are, Cruise Nation has a Canada cruises to suit every style, and for families of all ages. With our huge range of cheap deals, you’ll be able to book the Canada Cruise you’ve always hoped to experience for a lot less than you might imagine. With our award-winning advisors, including our expert Product Building Team who specialise in creating tailored Smart Packages, you’ll find it easy to get the advice and support you need to make your Canada cruise dream a reality.

With Canada Cruise itineraries to keep city and nature lovers alike entertained, here are just a few of the port highlights you could discover on your Canada Cruise:

Canada’s “country within a country”, French Quebec is a rare example of European and North American cultures mixing in near perfect. As one of North America’s first township settlements, Quebec’s pretty Old Town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, where cobbled streets lead to magnificent examples of 17 th  and 18 th  century architecture. The city’s coffee culture has a definitive European feel, with sidewalk cafes and charming squares, but venture just outside and you’ll find yourself back in Canada’s familiar epic wild landscapes and stunning mountain ranges.

Nova Scotia’s breezy capital city is often ranked amongst the top cities to live in the world, and consistently listed as one of the cities with the best quality of life. When you set sail on a Canada cruise which stops in Halifax, you’ll see why the local “Haligonians” are so happy – with a beautiful waterfront, rich history and pretty green parks. Halifax also has an impressive food and drink scene, with a growing craft beer movement and tons of quirky places to grab a bite to eat and order a coffee. Entertainment is mostly focused on the city’s popular live music joints, as well as the wonderfully old-world Victoria Theatre.

Rainbow coloured houses define America’s oldest town, the historic St. John in Newfoundland. Closer in distance to Dublin, Ireland - from where many of its resident’s ancestors came - than fellow Canadian city Toronto, St. John’s blends a mixture of both British and Irish influences. St. John’s pretty harbour and fascinating old town are ideal places to leisurely wander around, whilst Cabot Tower, built to commemorates John Cabot's discovery of Newfoundland, is the most popular tourist attraction. Although small, St. John still has plenty to offer the more active cruise-goers, with a range of outdoor activities. Above the city, the walking trail at Signal Hill is worth the effort to visit the site of the first ever, transatlantic wireless communication, whilst pretty Bowring Park has offers sports courts and a golf club.

Many of our most popular Canada cruises depart from New York and, thanks to our great value Cruise and Stay deals, you can spend a few days exploring the city before you embark on your Canada Cruise. From the bright lights of Times Square to the iconic Statue of Liberty and the surprising tranquillity of Central Park, New York is a city full of contrasts, quirks and culture. Known as the “world capital” for almost every in the creative industry – from music to fashion and food to design – the “city that never sleeps” is packed with designer shops, first-class eateries and some of the best entertainment options in the world. With time to spare, check out some of New York’s diverse surrounding neighbourhoods, including Downtown Brooklyn, Harlem, Williamsburg and Soho.

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Plan the ultimate cruise vacation, how can i book a cheap cruise.

If you're looking for cheap cruise deals, booking with Expedia.ca allows you to customize your search with filters that will put the best value at the top of your search results. Filters are available for various factors, including cabin experience, cruise line, destination and more. In most cases, the simpler your cruise is, the cheaper it will be. Even so, you may still find discounts on luxury cruise experiences, so don't hesitate to filter for some more high-end amenities and sort by price to see the cheapest cruises available.

Which month is the cheapest for cruises?

There is no consistent answer for the cheapest month for cruises unless you specify a destination first. With a cruise to the Caribbean , for example, the cheapest month will be around August since that's when the region undergoes hurricane season.

What happens if a cruise gets cancelled?

Every cruise operates differently, but you'll generally get a choice between a rescheduled date, a refund or cruise credits. Check the policy on your cruise before booking to learn more.

How affordable are cruise trips?

Cruise trips can be surprisingly affordable given all the features you can enjoy on them. Booking with Expedia.ca lets you filter for features like cabin experience, cruise length, cruise line and cruise ship while also sorting the results by price to ensure that you're getting the cheapest options at the top of your search results page while still meeting your search filter specifications.

What are some of the top cruise lines?

Top cruise lines include Viking cruises and Disney cruise lines. While Viking excels at luxury, Disney is among the best when it comes to family-friendly experiences. Some of the other best cruise lines include Royal Caribbean International cruises , Carnival cruises , Princess cruises and Celebrity cruises . What really qualifies as the best is more up to what you're looking to get out of your experience. For example, travelling with kids typically means a Disney cruise or something similar is the best, while budget travellers may prefer Carnival.

How much are cruise ship tickets?

Cruise prices largely depend on the kind of cruise you opt for. Cruise ship costs can be fairly affordable, with cheap cruises only charging $50 a night per person or so for some of their trips, while luxury cruises can run you upwards of $1,000 per night per person or more.

How far ahead should I book a cruise?

Cruise tickets should be bought 6 to 12 months before your cruise departure in most cases. Tickets are technically available further in advance and closer to your cruise departure date. Still, the 6- to 12-month range is generally the best way to get the best deals without missing any opportunities.

What are cruises like?

The cruise you book will have plenty to see and do before you even reach the first destination stop. The ship can be just as exciting as the destinations on your route. Cruise vacations offer food and drinks along with pools, shops and live performances in some circumstances. You may even find a cruise with a water park and a cruise with a roller coaster among particularly luxurious options.

Are cruises a useful way to travel?

Cruise travel ensures that every step of the journey is fun, with activities available between destinations, starting from your cruise terminal. While cruises may only have a single destination, some will travel to multiple spots throughout their entire duration, allowing you to enjoy locales that are just as varied as the attractions on the ship.

Which cruise line is the most affordable in 2024 / 2025?

Deals are often available for just about every cruise line, but Carnival cruises tend to be the most affordable with their Mardi Gras ship . You can also usually find cheap cruises with Royal Caribbean . When searching for a cruise, remember to sort by price to put the most affordable options at the top of your search results page.

How do I get the top cruise deals?

Start your cruise search with Expedia.ca to get the best cruise deals by using our comprehensive filters to sort through our vast collection of offerings. Expedia.ca Rewards members may even find discount cruises through their membership perks, so don't hesitate to take advantage of the free membership.

What cruise would work best for me?

If you're looking for the absolute best cruise in the world, the answer depends on what you're personally interested in experiencing. A laid-back cruise is notably different from a family-friendly cruise with its own amusement park. Take advantage of search filters to narrow down your results to cruises that work for you.

What should I keep in mind when booking a cruise?

Finding a cruise you'll be satisfied with means considering the type of cruise you want and the budget you have to work with. See what's included in the price of a ticket and what you'll have to pay extra for. If aspects like food aren't included, for example, you'll need additional funds in your budget to cover that cost.

What are some of the best cruise destinations in 2024 / 2025?

Cruises can take travellers all over the world, whether you're looking for a cruise to Alaska , a cruise to Mexico or even Antarctic cruises . Cruises to the Middle East and cruises to Australia are popular as well. Think about the kind of cruise experience you want to determine which is the best destination. If you want plenty of time on the cruise, picking a faraway destination can be useful. You also need to consider the attractions available in the destination itself.

What countries should I visit on a cruise?

The Bahamas cruises are among the most iconic cruise destinations, but the cruises to Cuba can also be lovely. Of course, countries all over the world are available. Remember that cruises may not necessarily stop in a country for all that long, so keep in mind how long your visit will actually be when considering what you want to do during your stop.

Are last-minute cruise deals available?

Last-minute cruise deals are often available, and you can check what's available by inputting your travel dates into the cruise finder on Expedia.ca. If you sort by price, the cheapest options will be listed first, including opportunities with special deals applied.

Are there all-inclusive cruises?

Yes, all-inclusive cruises are available and quite popular, and you can find them by using the search filter for all-inclusive. Celebrity cruises and Royal Caribbean cruises , for example, both offer all-inclusive packages.

Is food included with a cruise ticket?

Whether or not food is included in your cruise depends on your booking details. You can check to see what exactly is included with the ticket by checking the ‘What's included’ section of the cruise summary page after clicking it from your search results.

Are there adults-only cruise lines?

Some lines are adults only, including Viking cruises , though Carnival cruises and Princess cruises have options for adults-only cruises as well. With an adults-only cruise, you can immerse yourself in a peaceful and tranquil environment designed to make it easy to sit back and relax.

What kind of luxury cruise lines are there?

Luxury cruise lines include ships like the Caribbean Princess from Princess cruises , along with pretty much anything that Viking cruises have available. With luxury cruises, you can expect high-end amenities and a variety of things to see and do on the ship, such as shopping, dining, live performances, pools and even theme parks.

What family cruises are best suited for kids?

Disney cruises go above and beyond to offer fun cruises for kids and adults alike, but some cruises, like MSC cruises , have special promotions that allow children to get booked for free. Think of Disney cruises as having a Disney theme park on a ship with rides, shows and attractions for the whole family to enjoy.

Which lines offer the best cruises for couples?

Romantic experiences are easy to enjoy with Viking Cruises and Holland America Line cruises . The latter's Koningsdam Cruise is complemented by truly stunning views among breathtaking natural features. River cruises tend to be some of the most romantic, with more stops in historic romantic cities for you and your partner to enjoy.

Why should I go on a cruise for my honeymoon?

A cruise is one of the best ways to spend your honeymoon, as you and your partner can enjoy pampering at spa facilities with fine dining too. You can check what special features are available on every cruise on Expedia.ca in the ‘What's included’ section of their summary page.

Do cruises run around Christmas?

Yes, several cruises operate during Christmas, and you can find them by entering travel dates around Christmas to see what's available for a 2024 cruise to finish out the year. Carnival and Disney both offer special Christmas cruises with special activities and features centred around the holiday theme.

Is it worth going on a river cruise?

River cruises offer a bit of a different experience from ocean cruises, as they tend to have more stops and more varied sights to see. Viking river cruises are among the best available, as they got their start doing river cruises, making them have extensive experience with river journeys.

Are passports required for cruises?

You will need a passport if the cruise travels outside of Canada, even if you're leaving from a Canadian port like cruises from Vancouver . Cruises to the US require a passport valid for at least 6 months after your return. Cruises to other international locations require the same in addition to any potential necessary visas.

What are the benefits of booking a cruise with Expedia.ca?

When you book with Expedia.ca, you'll have access to an expansive catalogue of cruise options and search filters that allow you to narrow down those results as you see fit based on the destination, length, itinerary, cruise line and more. Additionally, Expedia.ca Rewards members accrue points on eligible purchases and other perks that can be put towards subsequent trips. Membership is free, so feel free to join and reap the benefits.

Other vacations you might like

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Top Cruise Destinations

  • Cruises to Alaska
  • Cruises to Bahamas
  • Cruises to Caribbean
  • Cruises to Europe
  • Cruises to Hawaii
  • Cruises to Mexico

Top Cruise Departure Ports

  • Cruises from Boston
  • Cruises from Fort Lauderdale
  • Cruises from Galveston
  • Cruises from Honolulu
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Top Cruise Lines

  • Carnival Cruise Lines
  • Holland America Line
  • MSC Cruises
  • Norwegian Cruise Line
  • Princess Cruises
  • Royal Caribbean International

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CRUISE DEALS

Cruise for LESS! It's all smooth sailing with discounts and deals on your next cruise vacation.

To book a cruise or Flight & Cruise package online, enter your province or country below to find the best fares:

Earn Aeroplan® points for the flight portion of your cruise package or redeem your points to book a Flight & Cruise package!

Cruise with confidence and peace of mind! All cruise deals include our Cruise Promise, offering flexible payment features like 100% refundable flights up to 24 hours prior to travel, and combinable with flexible cancellation policies offered by cruise lines! Find out more .

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GETTING READY TO CRUISE

Cruise Promise

Our Cruise Promise lets you enjoy:

  • Cruise deposit 1 : Secure your booking on select cruise lines with a deposit of just $50 per person.
  • Guaranteed return flight 2 : If the ship is late, we'll book you on our next available flight home.
  • Don't miss your cruise 2&3 : If a delayed flight causes you to miss your cruise, you'll be rebooked to catch up with it.
  • Flexible Flight booking options: All flights require no deposit and all flights are 100% refundable, or 1 name change is permitted up to 24 hours prior to travel.
  • Lowest airfare or you fly FREE 4 : If you find a flight with Air Canada® or Air Canada Rouge® at a lower price at time of booking, we'll pay for your flight.

+ All the features of Our Vacation Promise. Find out more

Terms & Conditions: Applicable to bookings of Flight & Cruise packages made through Air Canada Vacations only. Flight & Cruise packages must be purchased through a travel agent, on www.aircanadavacations.com, or by calling our Cruise Department at 1-866-529-2079. All the components of Air Canada Vacations' Cruise Promise are subject to change without notice and can be modified at any time.

1 Applicable to Carnival Cruise Line, Celebrity Cruises, Norwegian Cruise Line and Royal Caribbean International. Excludes groups, cruises booked with non-refundable rate codes (NRD) and cruises booked with final payment.

2 Flights will be rebooked depending on the next available flight aboard Air Canada® or Air Canada Rouge®, subject to availability/capacity. Not applicable to force majeure situations or for other reasons beyond the control of the air carrier. Hotel accommodations and any related land expenses associated with the delay are the sole responsibility of the customer. However, insofar as it is applicable, Air Canada and Air Canada Rouge will fulfill all their obligations under the Air Passenger Protection Regulations. Does not replace travel insurance. May be discontinued or changed at any time without notice. Other conditions may apply at the time of booking.

3 To the extent permitted by the cruise line. Cruise lines cannot guarantee late embarkation on the cruise at all ports of call. Whether late embarkation will be permitted is dependent on the country of the port of call and applicable embarkation rules. It is at the cruise lines’ sole discretion if a delayed passenger will be allowed to board the cruise after initial departure. No refund will be given for missed days of cruise.

4 At the time of booking, if you find a lower price for your flight with Air Canada or Air Canada Rouge than the one provided, Air Canada Vacations will pay the total cost of the applicable airfare, including applicable taxes, fees, and service charges. Lower airfare must be identical to Air Canada or Air Canada Rouge flights (same travel dates and times, class of service, cabin, etc.) be on a published fare and not combined with any other special discount or corporate rate offer. Must be available for purchase at the time of booking, be refundable, and include one free checked bag to qualify. All claims/proof must be submitted at time of booking. Applies to all passengers on file for the same booking. Can be applied only once. Excludes groups.

®Air Canada, Air Canada Rouge and Air Canada Vacations are registered trademarks of Air Canada, used under license by Touram Limited Partnership.

Cruise Vaccination Policies

BOOKING YOUR FLIGHT

Sailing soon? We recommend booking your flight to the departure port city at least a day earlier than your cruise’s departure date to better prepare for your voyage. This guarantees peace of mind to make it onboard on-time, but also allows you to explore before you set sail.

ON-BOARD HEALTH PROTOCOLS & TESTING REQUIREMENTS

Did you know certain cruise lines have updated their pre-cruise testing requirements? From vaccination requirements and testing or screening and on-board health measures, find out how our trusted cruise line partners are ensuring your safe journey at sea:

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Read our First Timer’s Guide to Cruises for more tips on what you should know before you cruise.

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Canada Cruise Deals

Canada’s Atlantic coastline is an area of incredible natural beauty, and its cities are equally charming. From the French ambience of Québec, to Halifax on the Nova Scotia peninsula, each of Canada’s coastal cities has something unique and special to offer its visitors. The city of Québec is absolutely unique—it has all the appearance and atmosphere of a French city. Experience the unique character of its upper and lower town districts, and the historic area of Old Québec , a UNESCO World Heritage Site . The bay in which Halifax, Nova Scotia, is situated is the second-largest natural harbour in the world. One of the most interesting places to visit is Lunenburg, an 18th century British Colonial settlement. More deals here .

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The Best Ways to Book a Cruise

Lee Huffman

Many or all of the products featured here are from our partners who compensate us. This influences which products we write about and where and how the product appears on a page. However, this does not influence our evaluations. Our opinions are our own. Here is a list of our partners and here's how we make money .

Not all cruise sites are created equal. While you may find comparable prices on different sites, each site has its own benefits, offers and cancellation policies. 

Before you book, though, have a look at these credit cards that come with cruise benefits to sweeten the pot even more.

What is the best way to book a cruise?

The best place to book a cruise will vary depending on what you're looking for out of the experience. We've broken out cruise booking sites based on common booking goals.

From our findings, here are the top cruise booking sites for your next vacation, plus the pros and cons they offer travelers.

For sailings across the Caribbean, Mexico or Central America: CheapCaribbean

CheapCaribbean.com is the best cruise website for the Caribbean, Mexico or Central America. It offers a best-price guarantee plus limited-time offers and discounts.

If you find a better deal within 24 hours of booking, CheapCaribbean will price match and beat it by $25. The company's customer service is available seven days a week, from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. ET.

Best-price guarantee.

Customer service is available seven days a week.

Charges a $24.99 processing fee on reservations.

Must provide an email address to receive the best deals and promos.

» Learn more: The best cruise lines

For consulting reviews from other cruisers: Cruise Critic

Cruise Critic is an independent website that encourages community members to post reviews and share tips.

Its message boards offer ways for website visitors to ask questions and share feedback with others based on their personal experiences and opinions. The site also acts as a metasearch for cruise deals, pulling in prices from multiple cruise websites.

Read cruise reviews from travelers who've been on that itinerary before.

"Deal Score" ranks deals to find the best value.

Price tracker shows 90-day trends for cruise prices.

Must click through the deal to book your cruise on other websites.

Prices are not guaranteed and can change before booking due to fees and restrictions on the sites where the cruises are being sold.

To review several cruise prices at once: CruiseDirect

CruiseDirect is the best cruise website when all you want are cruise prices. It doesn't offer hotels, flights, rental cars or other reservations you may want for your next vacation. CruiseDirect does, however, offer bonuses for travelers booking through its site.

Travelers can filter search results by destination, cruise line or departure port on various ships. This site offers cruises for every type of traveler, from budget to luxury, and every type of ship, from riverboats to mega-ships.

Bonus offers on every reservation provide extra value.

Best-price guarantee and free reservation holds.

Buy now, pay later financing options.

Promos offered by cruise lines aren't exclusive to CruiseDirect.

Customer service can be unfriendly.

Video preview image

» Learn more: Should you insure your cruise?

For budget-friendly options: Priceline

Priceline was originally known for its "Name Your Own Price" promotions, but has grown into a full-service online travel agency offering flights, hotels, rental cars and cruises, saving consumers more than $1 billion dollars per year.

Travelers who book a cruise with Priceline receive up to $2,000 to spend at sea, plus waived deposits on their reservations.

Up to $2,000 to spend on board.

Waived deposits of up to $500 when booking your cruise.

110% best-price guarantee within 48 hours of booking.

Ability to book flights, hotels, rental cars and more from the same site.

Must call Priceline to get exclusive offers and unpublished fares.

Restrictions make the best-price guarantee harder to benefit from.

» Learn more: Tips for getting the best cruise deals

For booking travel experiences beyond the cruise: TripAdvisor

TripAdvisor is an online reviewer community where travelers share their experiences, pictures and ratings of hotels, suggested activities and more. This honest feedback and travel inspiration also make it one of the best websites to book a cruise.

Search over 70,000 cruise deals from more than 60 sites at once.

Dedicated ship pages share details, reviews, photos and itineraries.

Too many search results make it harder to narrow down your choices.

» Learn more: Are cruises all-inclusive?

To match with a vacation planner: Avoya Travel

Avoya Travel is a family-owned website that matches travelers with a vacation planner based on their preferences. It's the best way to book a cruise using a travel planner because it offers a low-price guarantee without charging extra fees for the planner.

The downside is that online pricing is not "live." Therefore, you must speak with a travel planner to get the latest prices and book your cruise.

Match with cruise planners according to your needs.

Does not charge Avoya fees for booking, changes or cancellations.

Get a low-price guarantee and the expertise of a vacation planner without extra fees.

Must become a member to unlock the best deals.

Pricing on the website is not "live" pricing, so actual cost may vary.

Cannot book a cruise online. You must speak with an independent vacation planner.

» Learn more: The best cruise insurance right now

To book a vacation package with an airline or hotel

American airlines cruises.

American Airlines AAdvantage members can earn airline miles when booking cruises at BookAACruises.com . All members earn one mile for every dollar they spend on cruise reservations, up to 10,000 miles. Some cruise specials offer up to 100,000 miles based on your selected cruise.

If you have an American Airlines credit card, you'll earn 2x miles, up to 20,000 miles. These miles and Loyalty Points count toward airline elite status. Additionally, trips booked through this site are eligible for promotions offered by the cruise lines.

Earn miles and Loyalty Points toward travel and elite status.

Cardholders earn 2x miles, up to 20,000 miles on cruises.

Cruise experts are available 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

Cruise reservations are offered by a third party, so customer service issues can be a challenge.

» Learn more: The best travel credit cards right now

Delta SkyMiles Cruises

Delta Air Lines is another airline that allows members to earn airline miles when booking cruises through its portal. Booking through SkyMilesCruises.com helps you earn Delta SkyMiles on your purchase.

Members get up to 10,000 miles on most cruises and up to 100,000 miles on luxury cruises. Plus, the site waives deposits on eligible cruise reservations.

Can earn up to 100,000 miles when booking a cruise.

Waives deposits when booking eligible cruises.

110% price guarantee within 48 hours of booking.

Most cruise awards are capped at 10,000 miles.

Miles earned are based on the length of the cruise, not the amount spent.

United Airlines Cruises

United Airlines MileagePlus members can earn up to 25,000 miles when booking a cruise through United at Cruises.United.com .

When you have a United Airlines credit card, you'll earn up to 45,000 miles. By offering up to 4x miles per dollar spent (or 7x as a cardholder), this site is the best way to book a cruise and earn airline miles on your purchase. If you have Premier status, you receive additional perks on select cruise lines, like wine and onboard credits.

Earn up to 7x miles on cruises.

United MileagePlus Premier members receive additional perks.

Can redeem miles to pay for some or all of your trip.

Not all cruises can be booked online.

Prices do not include a nonrefundable $24.99 processing fee.

Marriott Bonvoy Cruises

If you want to earn hotel points on your cruise, Marriott Cruise with Points is the best cruise website for you. You'll earn up to 6x points on your cruise purchase, or you can redeem Marriott Bonvoy points to pay for your trip.

Plus, Marriott cardholders can earn an extra 2x points when they use that card for their purchase. While most cruises max out at 25,000 Bonvoy points earned, some luxury cruise lines offer up to 250,000 Marriott points.

Earn up to 6x points on your cruise, up to 250,000 Marriott points.

Marriott cardholders receive an extra 2x points when paying with their cards.

Can use Bonvoy points to pay for your cruise.

Redemption value of Bonvoy points is only 0.4 cent.

Must call to book cruises using points.

Processing fee of $24.99 per reservation.

» Learn more: Airline credit cards vs. hotel credit cards

For cruise package deals: Costco Travel

Costco is a retailer that offers exclusive products and pricing to its members. Through its Costco Travel website , members receive exclusive prices and benefits when booking hotels, rental cars, cruises and travel packages.

Executive Members earn 2% back on Costco Travel purchases and receive additional benefits on select packages. Plus, Costco Anywhere Visa® Card by Citi cardholders earn 3% cash back rewards on Costco Travel purchases.

Earn 2% rewards and extra perks with Executive Membership.

Some cruises offer Costco gift cards or onboard credit.

Must be a member to book reservations with Costco Travel.

Directly with the Cruise Line

In some cases, booking directly with the cruise line can be best because it eliminates a third party. If there's a problem with your reservation or you need to make a change, you don't have to worry about the booking site and the cruise line pointing fingers at each other.

This may be the best approach if you know which cruise line you want to book and which cities you want to visit. However, you may miss out on promotions offered by third-party sites.

Simple search functions.

No hassles with third parties for problems, changes or cancellations.

Less likely to get scammed by fraudulent sites.

Miss out on deals offered by third-party sites.

Harder to compare prices, benefits and routes from multiple cruise lines.

Comparing cruise prices across websites

Without being able to compare prices, it can be a challenge to determine the best site for booking a cruise. To make it easier to compare, we priced out a 7-night Caribbean cruise for two adults. 

We selected the lowest-priced balcony room on Royal Caribbean departing from Miami in August 2023. Here are the results:

Mitigate cancellation policy risks with travel insurance

If you're worried your trip plans being disrupted by bad weather or a change of plans, travel insurance might help. This optional standalone insurance can be purchased separately from your cruise bookings.

But you might not even need to pay out-of-pocket for trip insurance because many credit cards offer travel insurance as a built-in benefit to customers who pay for travel expenses on that card.

» Learn more: The best credit cards for cruises

Travel cards with cruise benefits

You can get even more perks by booking your cruise with the right card.

Chase Sapphire Preferred Credit Card

on Chase's website

Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card

on Bank of America's website

The Platinum Card® from American Express

on American Express' website

Earn 60,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That's $750 when you redeem through Chase Travel℠.

Enjoy a one-time bonus of 75,000 miles once you spend $4,000 on purchases within 3 months from account opening, equal to $750 in travel.

Receive 60,000 online bonus points - a $600 value - after you make at least $4,000 in purchases in the first 90 days of account opening.

Earn 80,000 Membership Rewards® Points after you spend $8,000 on purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership. Terms Apply.

Get 25% more value out of your points when you book cruises through Chase.

Book with your card to get automatic travel protections for your cruise.

Redeem miles as a statement credit to cover spending on cruises.

Book with your card to get automatic travel insurance coverage for your cruise.

Earn 2x points on travel spending, including cruises and some ship excursions.

Book with your card to get trip delay reimbursement, trip cancellation coverage and other travel assistance services.

Get American Express Cruise Privileges Program benefits when you book at least five nights with eligible cruise lines. Terms apply.

Cruise program benefits include $300 credit redeemable toward dining and spa services plus amenities like wine, chocolates and champagne. Terms apply.

Booking a cruise recapped

When looking for the best way to book a cruise, the price is virtually the same on every website. The difference lies in how each seller sweetens the deal.

Several cruise booking sites set themselves apart from the competition by offering additional benefits to encourage booking through them. Additionally, being able to book other parts of your trip — like flight and excursions — on the same site, or offering access to a travel agent, distinguishes some of the best cruise websites. 

When prices are the same, we recommend cruise bookers compare the perks being offered, then book on the site with the most appealing bonuses, like onboard credits, airline miles, hotel points or cash back.

If you're searching for cruises on a third-party website, you may question the legitimacy of that site. This is especially true if the site doesn't look professional or some of the information is outdated.

For this reason, you should stick with one of the best cruise booking sites on this list because they've been vetted for legitimacy and have a good track record with travelers.

Yes, last-minute deals can be the best way to book a cruise. If your travel plans are flexible, these deals can save you a lot of money. Keep in mind that you may not be able to book your preferred destination or routing if it is sold out.

Unfortunately, most cruise lines do not offer free cancellations or changes to take advantage of price drops after you book. Passengers can always negotiate with a booking site or cruise line, but they aren't obligated to refund the difference. Instead, they may offer you onboard credit, complimentary excursions or credit toward another cruise booking.

How to maximize your rewards

You want a travel credit card that prioritizes what’s important to you. Here are our picks for the best travel credit cards of 2024 , including those best for:

Flexibility, point transfers and a large bonus: Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card

No annual fee: Bank of America® Travel Rewards credit card

Flat-rate travel rewards: Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card

Bonus travel rewards and high-end perks: Chase Sapphire Reserve®

Luxury perks: The Platinum Card® from American Express

Business travelers: Ink Business Preferred® Credit Card

1x-5x 5x on travel purchased through Chase Travel℠, 3x on dining, select streaming services and online groceries, 2x on all other travel purchases, 1x on all other purchases.

60,000 Earn 60,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That's $750 when you redeem through Chase Travel℠.

1.5x-2x Earn unlimited 2 points for every $1 spent on travel and dining purchases and unlimited 1.5 points for every $1 spent on all other purchases.

60,000 Receive 60,000 online bonus points - a $600 value - after you make at least $4,000 in purchases in the first 90 days of account opening.

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Niagara Falls Canada – USA Border Crossing

Our most popular question from U.S. and International visitors is information regarding crossing the Canadian and United States border. Click here to find what you need to know.

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Niagara Falls Canada – Respect Our Planet

Learn more about how Niagara City Cruises is committed to respecting our crew, guests, and the natural environment. Click here to learn more.

Niagara Falls is a natural phenomenon that attracts millions of tourists every year. Whether you’re looking for adventure or relaxation, there are plenty of things to do in Niagara Falls that will make your trip unforgettable.

Niagara Falls History

The history of Niagara Falls is as vast and beautiful as the falls themselves. About 12,000 years ago, erosion from melting Ice Age glaciers created the Niagara River’s majestic waterfalls, which run along the border between Canada and the United States. These natural marvels are one of North America’s most popular tourist destinations in Niagara Falls State Park.

Due to its location on the southern end of Lake Erie and at the beginning of Lake Ontario, this region has always been an important transportation corridor for travelers heading westward across North America.

Fun Activities in Niagara Falls

Niagara Falls has something fun for everyone in your group, regardless of age. Here are a few of the most popular activities people do when visiting Niagara Falls.

Take a Boat Cruise

Niagara Falls is best experienced by taking a boat cruise. However, get closer than most tourists by taking an evening cruise where you can see how different lights play off each other at night. Niagara City Cruises is the official supplier to Niagara Parks, providing Canada’s only Niagara Falls boat tour experience.

Niagara City Cruises – Voyage to the Falls

The 20-minute Voyage to the Falls boat tour will take you on the journey of a lifetime! Enjoy breathtaking views of the Niagara Gorge, American Falls and Bridal Veil Falls, and come face-to-face with the famous Canadian Horseshoe Falls. Feel the thunderous roar and incredible power of one of the world’s most stunning natural wonders.

Niagara City Cruises – Falls Fireworks

Marvel at the nightly Niagara Falls Illumination light show from the water on the Falls Fireworks cruise . Every evening beginning at dusk, Niagara Falls is transformed into an incredible, multi-coloured water and light masterpiece. Then at 10:00 pm each night from Victoria Day weekend to Canadian Thanksgiving (weather permitting), enjoy an unforgettable evening in Niagara Falls with a jaw-dropping fireworks displays against the backdrop of the American and Canadian Horseshoe Falls.

Niagara City Cruises is located at 5920 Niagara Pkwy, Niagara Falls, ON L2E 6X8, Canada.

Outdoor Recreation

Niagara Falls parks, trails and gardens are easily accessible to biking, hiking, walking – or even just a nice afternoon picnic. The Niagara Parks Botanical Gardens offers 40 hectares (99 acres) of beautifully maintained gardens to explore and is home to the Butterfly Conservatory , providing a truly enriching experience for all seasons. The heart of the Niagara Parks, Queen Victoria Park celebrates every season in style with a visual spectacle, from daffodils and tulips in spring to tree branches covered with the freezing mist of the Falls in winter. Niagara gardens such as the Parks Floral Showhouse , Centennial Lilac Garden , Floral Clock , Dufferin Islands , Oakes Garden Theatre and Queenston Heights Park provide inspiration and delight. Whether by foot or bike, discover 56 kilometers (35 miles) of historical and horticultural sights along the Niagara River Recreational Trail , described by Sir Winston Churchill as “the prettiest Sunday afternoon drive in the world.” The Recreational Trail connects Fort Erie to Niagara-on-the-Lake , meandering through parkland with views of the Niagara River and winding past places of historical and cultural interest, Niagara Falls, wineries, lookout points and beautiful homes.

Book a Tour

Local companies offer sightseeing tours of Niagara and the Falls, while visitors may also indulge a particular interest with a themed Niagara tour. Niagara wine tours traverse the region in search of the perfect Chardonnay, double decker tours lend a different perspective to the city, or Niagara adventure tours take visitors on a whirlwind of the area’s most exciting attractions.

Taking a tour in Niagara Falls will allow you to interact with knowledgeable tour guides that can give you all the valuable tid- bits of everything Niagara. Often times they take the burden a way of finding your way, parking and in some cases front of the line options at Niagara Falls attractions. Taking a combination tour between Niagara-on-the-Lake and Niagara Falls is a great way to spend the week in Niagara.

Go Shopping

Head to the Canada One Factory Outlet on Lundy’s Lane with over 20 brand name stores or visit the Outlet Collection in Niagara-on-the-Lake , a unique open air collection of over 100+ brand name stores.

Within the heart of the tourist district there are also many shopping options. On Clifton Hill there are a number of shops where you can pick up souvenirs from your visit to Niagara Falls.

If you are looking for shopping decadence then we would recommend the Fallsview Casino Resort Shopping Galleria , great shops integrated with great restaurants and a Casino right there for a one stop shopping experience.

See the Falls from Skylon Tower

The Skylon Tower is a 456-foot tower with a 360-degree observation deck, giving fantastic views of the falls. You can also see Lake Ontario, Navy Island, and Toronto.

Walk Across the Rainbow Bridge

The Rainbow Bridge is a pedestrian suspension bridge that spans the Niagara River between Rainbow Boulevard in Niagara Falls, New York, and Prospect Avenue in Niagara Falls, Ontario.

The bridge was built in 1938 by the Canadian Pacific Railway company to carry passengers between both sides of the river. Still, it is now open to pedestrians 24 hours a day and year-round. Canada and the United States have designated the structure as a National Historic Civil Engineering Site. In addition, it won an award for its beauty at its dedication ceremony.

Take a Helicopter Tour

Helicopter tours are a great way to see the falls from a different perspective. While you won’t be able to fly directly over the falls, you can see them from above. You’ll also get breathtaking views of Lake Ontario and its surrounding towns. Book your tour in advance because they sell out quickly on busy days.

Wineries, Breweries and Distilleries in Niagara Falls

Niagara Ontario Canada has become famous for its wines. Whether you are looking for wineries in the Niagara Region, or a specific winery in Niagara-on-the-Lake , Niagara is gaining international recognition as ‘must visit’ destination to enjoy a beautiful country escape with a bit of food and drink. Twenty-five vineyards dot the landscape just 15 to 20 minutes outside Niagara Falls, Canada in quiet and charming Niagara on-the-Lake. The entire Niagara wine region along the shores of Lake Ontario is home to over 50 wineries. Discover the best of the region’s vineyards by following the Wine Route of Ontario through the countryside by car, bike or guided tour . Many Niagara wineries have restaurants, where they pair their fine wines with regional cuisine, and an overnight outing can easily be arranged at nearby a bed-and-breakfast or inn for a Niagara Falls romantic getaway . And if you fall in love with our wine, consider planning a Niagara vacation around one of our popular annual Niagara festivals . The Niagara Wine Festival, which occurs annually in autumn, includes tours and tastings at Niagara vineyards, concerts, Niagara cuisine, artisan shows, and family entertainment. The Niagara Icewine Festival in January celebrates Ontario’s most famous wine in a winter wonderland setting, and the Niagara New Vintage Festival in summer gives visitors a chance to be the first to try the year’s wines.

Visit Old Fort Erie

Old Fort Erie is a National Historic Site of Canada. It was built in 1812, making it one of the first buildings in Fort Erie. This fort was a key site during the War of 1812 and played an important part in Canadian history.

This remarkable site features three main attractions:

The restored Officers’ Quarters: houses exhibits that discuss life within a military garrison.

The Blockhouse: a fortified structure with artifacts from several wars, including American Independence, War of 1812, and World War II.

The Museum exhibits military life, including uniforms and weapons used by soldiers.

Ride the Niagara SkyWheel

If you like to get out of your comfort zone, then the Niagara SkyWheel is for you. The tallest observation wheel in Canada, the SkyWheel, is located on Clifton Hill in Niagara Falls. It has 42 air-conditioned gondolas that can fit up to 8 people each and offers spectacular views of both sides of the falls (especially at night). The best part? It’s open year-round.

Dine Looking at the Falls

Table Rock House Restaurant is located in the Table Rock complex, known for its views of Niagara Falls. The restaurant has a seasonal outdoor patio and indoor seating with great views of the falls. So whether you sit in the dining room or at the bar, you can enjoy your meal while looking out at one of nature’s most legendary displays: Niagara Falls.

Experience the Theatre in Niagara Falls

When looking for theatre or shows in Niagara Falls, there’s an eclectic choice of Niagara entertainment for the entire family at one of our many theatres. Enjoy a Las Vegas style magic show at the Greg Frewin Theatre , or see dramatic productions chronicling the history of Niagara Falls at the Niagara Falls Adventure Theatre . From family-friendly entertainment to a couples-night-out, select from one of these shows for a well-rounded Niagara Falls getaway.

If you’re a theatre buff then you’ve heard of the famous Shaw Festival Theatre in Niagara-on-the-Lake . Only minutes away from Niagara Falls, the Shaw Theatre host an amazing selection of must-see live theatre productions.

What is the Best Time of Year to See Niagara Falls?

The peak tourist season is summer. However, spring and fall provide for a quiet getaway if you prefer not to deal with crowds and long lines.

However, not to be overlooked, Niagara Falls has a breathtaking calm during winter when ice and snow turn the Falls into a majestic winter castle.

The weather at Niagara Falls can dramatically affect whether your trip will go smoothly or turn into a disaster zone. Between June and September (and even into early October), the average temperature is in the 80s. Spring and fall temperatures range from 40F to 70F, while the cold Canadian wind keeps winter below zero.

Make sure to wear layers no matter when you visit Niagara Falls, so you are prepared for any weather changes.

Is Niagara Falls in Canada or New York?

Niagara Falls is located in both countries because it lies on the border between Canada and the United States. However, activities, dining, accommodations, and shopping vary significantly between the Canadian and American sides.

Do I Need a Passport to Go to Niagara Falls, Canada?

Yes. A Passport (or a Passport Card or Enhanced Driver’s License if coming by land) is required for crossing the border into Canada unless you are age 15 or younger. Please visit the government website for any further details.

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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

Northern lights over Kirkjufell in Iceland.

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

Aurora borealis over tree line in 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

Norther lights over landscape of 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

Northern lights over Pyhae Luosto National Park in northern 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

Northern lights over a lake in the Scottish Highlands.

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

Northern lights over trees and lights in 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

Two people sitting on a the ice of a lake and watching the northern lights in the north of 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

Northern lights above Hallgrimskirkja Church in central 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

Northern lights over Reynisfjara black sand beach in 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

Northern lights reflected in water with mountains in eastern 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

A pool by windows overlooking the ocean on a Viking cruise ship.

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

Northern Lights shine through Michigan’s Upper Peninsula Forest.

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

Northern lights above trees and lake of 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

Northern lights seen from Abisko Mountain Station in Abisko, 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

Northern lights above The Nellim Wilderness Hotel in 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

Northern lights above a snowy track through trees in the Arctic.

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

Sign for Stewart Island lodge on 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.

Southern Aurora Australis in Tasmania.

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

The aurora australis as seen over the South Pole during austral winter.

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.

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  1. The 9 BEST Websites to Book a Cruise (2023)

    Expedia. guteksk7 | Adobe Stock & Expedia. Expedia is an obvious first mention in a list of the best cruise booking sites, in part because it's an absolute juggernaut (Expedia also owns ...

  2. 11 best cruises to Canada and 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.

  3. The Best Websites to Book a Cruise in 2024

    RoyalCaribbean.com. DisneyCruises.com. MSCCruisesUSA.com. Princess.com. NCL.com. Each of these cruise line websites will allow you to be as narrow or as broad with your search as you wish. You can search all cruises, or search for trips on a specific ship, leaving a specific date, and from a specific port.

  4. The 17 Best Websites To Book Cruises at the Cheapest Prices

    Kayak is a popular online travel agency but the site doesn't support cruise searches anymore. 5. Priceline. Priceline gained fame from its "Name Your Own Price" feature but has since transformed into a more traditional OTA. In addition to hotels, flights, and rental cars, you can use this site to book cruises, too.

  5. Cheap Canada Cruises

    Here are our best tips for finding a cheap cruise or cruise deal to Canada. If you book a "guaranteed cabin" (they select for you), a cabin on a lower deck or sail on an older ship from a brand you like, then you can get the best price for a specific cruise to Canada. Last minute cruises deals to Canada appear as you get closer to the sail ...

  6. Cruise Deals

    Looking for the best cruise deals? Don't search any further! We have the best available offers and last minute deals on cruises. Call 1-800-861-8007 Now! ... Secure yours by redeeming AIR MILES® Dream Miles™ or book to get Reward Miles. ... 5343 Dundas Street West, 4th Floor Toronto, Ontario, M9B 6K5 Canada. Prices advertised on our site are ...

  7. New England & Canada Cruises 2024-2025

    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.

  8. Canada Cruises: Explore Mesmerizing Canada

    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 ...

  9. Canada & New England 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.

  10. Canada & New England Cruises

    Canada & New England Cruise Vacations. Explore the beauty of Canada & New England and visit some of the top rated ports including Boston, Bar Harbor, Yorktown, Quebec City and St. John on one of our unique itineraries, departing from New York, Boston, Quebec or Ft. Lauderdale, and enjoy the best of seaside life — refreshing breezes, fresh seafood and quaint colonial cities.

  11. Seven of My Favorite Canada Cruise Ports

    Halifax, Nova Scotia. One of the most popular Canada cruise ports, Halifax has great food, easy walking paths and of course, friendly people! Take a bus ride out to Peggy's Cove to walk through their quaint and colorful fishing village and venture out to one of the most photographed lighthouses in North America.; Stroll along the 2.5 mile Harbourwalk, a dedicated waterfront path that takes ...

  12. CANADA

    CANADA. On a Canada cruise, discover a taste of Paris in the restaurants and cafés of Montréal. Or cruise Canada's West Coast and visit bustling Vancouver. Take high tea in Victoria and wander the world-famous Butchart Gardens. Cruise the inland waterways of the St. Lawrence River. Enjoy a horse-drawn trolley ride through the streets of ...

  13. Canada Cruise Deals

    At Cruise Nation, we offer a huge range of cruises to Canada, including USA cruises which take in some of Canada's most beautiful coastal regions, alongside vibrant American cities like Boston and Portland. For adventurous travellers looking to discover the best of Canada's epic scenery and the wild beauty of Alaska, our Alaska Cruises ...

  14. The Best Site to Book a Cruise Online

    Book a Cruise Online with the Best Cruise Finder and Cruise Booking Website. CruiseDirect is a leading online cruise travel company dedicated to providing customers with better deals than any other cruise website and access to great deals on cruise vacations. Offering special rates and savings on cruise bookings with some of the most popular ...

  15. Discount & Cheap Last Minute Cruise Deals (2024/2025)

    The cruise you book will have plenty to see and do before you even reach the first destination stop. The ship can be just as exciting as the destinations on your route. Cruise vacations offer food and drinks along with pools, shops and live performances in some circumstances. You may even find a cruise with a water park and a cruise with a ...

  16. Cruise Deals

    Secure your winter Flight & Cruise package and save $250 per couple*. Applicable: select Flight & Cruise packages to Hawaii and the Caribbean. 1st checked bag free & more. Learn more about Our Cruise Promise 1. Book between: April 1 and July 1, 2024. Departures between: November 1, 2024 and April 30, 2025. Discover more winter deals on select ...

  17. Canada

    0239 327 7800. Customer Service. Open until 16:00 today. Send an enquiry. View opening hours. All Inclusive Cruises. Cruise Deals. Planet Cruise Blog. Last Minute Cruises.

  18. The Best Ways to Book a Cruise

    Find the best cruise website for your travel needs with NerdWallet's comparison of prices, perks and drawbacks. Book a trip and set sail today.

  19. Canadians, what cruise booking websites do you use? : r/Cruise

    Same or better prices as cruise sites, but also you get Expedia rewards points which can add up quickly.... Which you can use for a hotel or flight in the future. 3. valiamo. • 3 yr. ago. I use either Expedia Cruiseship centres, and directly with the cruise lines. I am also a CAA member and have never seen prices that are $200-300 under ...

  20. Niagara Falls Tours & Boat Rides

    Then at 10:00 pm each night from Victoria Day weekend to Canadian Thanksgiving (weather permitting), enjoy an unforgettable evening in Niagara Falls with a jaw-dropping fireworks displays against the backdrop of the American and Canadian Horseshoe Falls. Niagara City Cruises is located at 5920 Niagara Pkwy, Niagara Falls, ON L2E 6X8, Canada.

  21. Costco Travel Cruise Vacations

    Australia & New Zealand Cruise. 12-Night Crown Princess Cruise. Digital Costco Shop Card. Click for Details. On a cruise, there's adventure around every corner and a new city to explore in every port. Book your cruise with Costco Travel. We're proud to offer our members a Digital Costco Shop Card with every sailing.

  22. The Best Websites to Book a Cruise? : r/Cruise

    1. Share. PGH_LOVER. • 5 yr. ago. Costco is the way to go. We cruise Princess, so we get OBC instead of Cash Cards. Last two cruises: 15 day Hawaii - $545 OBC 14 day Greek Islands - $690 OBC. 1.

  23. Here's When You Need (and Don't Need) a Passport to Cruise

    The Bahamas, Mexico, Bermuda, the Caribbean and Canada are all foreign ports, which means they only qualify for the passport exception if they are a stop along your cruise itinerary. If the cruise ...

  24. The 18 Best Places to See the Northern Lights

    Use this guide to learn more about cruise pricing and how to figure out the total cost of a cruise. Gwen Pratesi April 24, 2024 The Best Whale Watching in Cape Cod