Historic Cities by Sea: A Guide to Cruising North America
There’s so much to love about cruising to North American cities, from harbors lined with gleaming skyscrapers to experiences that take you back in time — strolling Boston’s Freedom Trail or exploring the winding streets of Old Québec.
Boston — “The Cradle of Liberty”
The 2026 7-Day America’s 250th Celebration: Stars & Stripes Voyage offers the opportunity to celebrate the United States’ 250th anniversary with a late-night Fourth of July departure out of Boston. Watch as Boston fireworks fill the sky while you sail away. This cruise will sell out fast — book now!
As a city of many firsts, Boston is a fitting place to kick off our guide to cruising from historic North American cities. Boston is home to the United States’ first public park, public school, chocolate factory, lighthouse, and subway.
History comes alive the moment you glide into Boston Harbor — site of the Boston Tea Party, in which Massachusetts colonists dumped 342 chests of tea into the water to protest the British Parliament’s Tea Act.
The dive into the United States’ revolutionary roots continues with a stroll along the Freedom Trail, where you can see notable landmarks including the Massachusetts State House, Park Street Church, and Granary Burying Ground — the final resting place of many Americans who shaped history.
Boston’s visitors can taste New England’s freshest seafood or explore the Museum of Fine Arts.
Boston at a Glance
- Best Boston cruise itineraries: 7-Day America’s 250th Celebration: Stars & Stripes Voyage; 35-Day Legendary Voyage of the Vikings; 7-Day Canada & New England: Maine, Martimes & Montréal
- What to eat in Boston: Chowder (local pronunciation: “CHOW-dah”)
- Must-visit historical site: The Freedom Trail — a 2½-mile path leading to 16 different historical landmarks
New York — “The City That Never Sleeps”
Keep your camera in hand as you approach New York Harbor. You will see the iconic Statue of Liberty, Ellis Island, and the dazzling Manhattan skyline.
Historic New York
History enthusiasts can admire the Empire State Building’s superb Art Deco details, walk in the footsteps of Alexander Hamilton on Wall Street, or tour the Federal Hall National Memorial — the site of George Washington’s inauguration. Visit the 9/11 Memorial and Museum for a deeply touching and somber experience that speaks to the strength and resilience of this one-of-a-kind city.
New York at a Glance
- Best New York cruise itineraries: 7-Day America’s 250th Celebration: Stars & Stripes Voyage; select transatlantic sailings
- What to eat & drink in New York: Bagels with lox and cream cheese; oversized pizza slices; classic cheesecake
- Must-visit historical site: Ellis Island
Ready to experience North American history? Find your next cruise.
Montréal — “The Paris of North America”
Bienvenue (“Welcome”) to one of North America’s most culturally rich cities. Begin or end your cruise in Montréal — a rarity on ocean cruises made possible by “R” Class ship Volendam, whose small size enables it to pass beneath the bridges that span across the St. Lawrence River.
We highly recommend tasting your way through this metropolitan city. Follow your cravings to authentic delis serving stacked smoked-meat sandwiches and artisan bagels, or to a Parisian-style terrace on which pillowy crêpes and decadent steak frites delight.
Historic Montréal
Once you’re properly satiated, it’s time for a taste of history. Explore Old Montréal — an enchanting neighborhood of 17th-, 18th-, and 19th- century buildings. Climb to the top of the Clock Tower for panoramas of the St. Lawrence River or visit the Notre Dame Basilica, considered a masterpiece of Gothic Revival architecture.
- Best cruise itineraries featuring Montréal: 7-Day Canada & New England itineraries
- What to eat & drink in Montréal: Bagels; dinner at a brasserie
- Must-visit historical site: Notre Dame Basilica
Québec City — “The Old Capital”
Québec City is a distinctive North American treasure, known best for its UNESCO-listed Old City — a tangle of streets surrounded by well-preserved ramparts and punctuated by the grand Château Frontenac. French heritage, sweeping St. Lawrence River panoramas, and a thriving culinary scene make it a favorite port call on our Canada & New England cruise itineraries.
Historic Québec City
As you walk along the city’s fortified ramparts, you’ll find history at every turn. Pass Place d’Armes, the Québec Seminary, and Artists Alley or indulge in high tea (pinkies out!) at the Château Frontenac, designed by Bruce Price and built by the Canadian Pacific Railway.
Québec City at a Glance
- Best cruise itineraries featuring Québec: Canada & New England cruises
- What to eat & drink in Québec: Poutine; smoked meat; crêpes; icewine
- Must-visit historical site: La Citadel; Place-Royale; the Plains of Abraham
