Fall foliage is even more striking from the water. The Canada & New England Fall Foliage Cruise follows the coast between Portland, Maine, and Québec City, giving travelers a front-row view of colorful shorelines, rocky cliffs and small coastal towns during peak leaf-peeping season.
See fall color from the water
The 10-night itinerary aboard the Pearl Mist travels between Portland and Québec City, with a reverse route also available. Instead of planning a different hotel each night, travelers unpack once and watch the scenery change from the ship.
Private balconies and outdoor decks offer views of New England and Canadian coastlines as forests shift into shades of red, orange and gold. The route is designed for autumn, when Maine, Québec and the Canadian Maritimes become some of the most colorful places in the Northeast.
The fall foliage stops
The cruise pairs scenic sailing with stops in historic cities and coastal destinations.
- Québec City: Walk through Old Québec’s cobblestone streets, historic buildings and waterfront viewpoints.
- Saguenay Fjord: Cruise through a dramatic, forest-lined fjord known for rugged scenery and whale-watching opportunities.
- Prince Edward Island: See red sandstone cliffs, quiet fishing villages and rural landscapes framed by fall color.
- Portland, Maine: Start or end the trip in a walkable harbor city with historic neighborhoods and coastal views.
- New England coastal towns: Guided excursions add time to explore local landmarks, waterfronts and seasonal scenery.
What the cruise includes
The Pearl Mist offers a smaller-ship setting, making it a more intimate way to experience a fall cruise route.
- 11 days and 10 nights between Portland and Québec City
- Private balcony staterooms with views of changing coastal scenery
- Guided shore excursions in select ports
- Locally sourced and regionally inspired cuisine served on board
- Ship carries up to 210 guests
What travelers should know
Boston is roughly two hours from Portland, Maine, making the city a relatively accessible embarkation point for a longer fall getaway. The itinerary also sails in reverse from Québec City to Portland, depending on the departure.
Exact dates, prices, port calls and excursions vary by sailing. Fall departures book quickly, with several sold out, travelers should check availability early if they want to experience New England’s autumn coast from the water.
