Where do Canada cruises go?
At 151,019 miles long, Canada’s coastline is the longest in the world, meaning plenty of this country can be explored via cruise ship. Here are five popular Canada cruise destinations that our customers love:
Charlottetown
Charlottetown, the capital of Prince Edward Island and Canada’s smallest provincial capital, is famous for its rich culture and history. Enjoy the city’s lively culture at the Confederation Centre of the Arts or the Charlottetown Festival, which showcases musicals, plays and concerts. Step back in time as you wander through the charming streets of historic downtown Charlottetown, where cobblestone pathways and Victorian-era buildings tell the story of the city’s rich maritime heritage.
Halifax
Perched along the rugged shores of Nova Scotia, Halifax is a capital city steeped in history and brimming with vibrant culture. With its iconic waterfront boardwalk, where ships gently bob in the harbour against a backdrop of towering historic buildings, and its lively downtown core filled with bustling cafés, galleries and boutiques, it's no wonder Halifax is such a popular port of call. While in Halifax, visit the Maritime Museum of the Atlantic, savour fresh seafood at waterfront restaurants and experience the lively energy of Atlantic Canada’s largest city.
Québec City
Québec, set along the scenic St. Lawrence River, is a true reflection of French Canadian culture and history. With cobblestone streets, historic buildings and grand fortifications, this UNESCO World Heritage site offers a blend of old-world charm and European elegance. While here, immerse yourself in the city’s rich French heritage, sample delectable dishes like poutine and tourtière at quaint bistros and wander through lively markets brimming with artisanal delights.
Vancouver
Nestled between the Pacific Ocean and the Coast Mountains, Vancouver attracts around 10 million tourists each year. With its snow-capped peaks, sparkling waters, vibrant culture, diverse neighbourhoods and thriving food scene, it’s easy to see why this city is so popular. Vancouver is also the starting or ending point for three Rocky Mountaineer routes: First Passage to the West, Journey through the Clouds and Rainforest to Gold Rush. Why not pair your cruise to Canada with a journey aboard the world-renowned Rocky Mountaineer? The two go hand in hand.
Victoria
As the capital city of British Columbia, Victoria is a picturesque city ideal for outdoor enthusiasts. While in Victoria, visit Butchart Gardens, known worldwide for its stunning floral displays, or explore The Royal BC Museum to learn about British Columbia’s natural and human history. Known for its mild climate, Victoria boasts a year-round array of outdoor activities, such as hiking and cycling. Head to The Inner Harbour, a lively area and a gateway to whale-watching tours, harbour cruises and kayaking adventures. The view from the water offers a unique perspective of the city and its surrounding landscapes.
Best things to do on a Canada cruise
From navigating the Eastern Seaboard during ‘fall,’ when the region is at its warmest and the palette of colours at its most vibrant, to journeying on Rocky Mountaineer, which glides majestically through the delicate photogenic scenery of British Columbia, every experience boasts a wholesome reward.
Canada is proud of its European heritage, which is particularly notable in the East. As you sail the Gulf of St. Lawrence on your Canada cruise, you’ll pass coastal villages, islands and rugged shorelines. Along the way, enjoy a stunning backdrop of dense green forests and towering rock peaks that plunge into the water.
This water is rich with plankton and krill, which, in turn, attract an abundance of Crustacea, fish and whales. European fishermen from Portugal, Spain, England and France were the first to explore these waters. The French established Acadia, followed by the British, who founded New Scotland (now Nova Scotia). Battles for control shaped the region’s place names, customs and languages, reflecting its complex history. Discover this rich past on your Canada cruise.
As you leave the Gulf of St. Lawrence, Nova Scotia opens to the vast ocean and beautiful coastal harbours. Enjoy breathtaking scenery, diverse wildlife and charming seaside towns serving the freshest, tastiest seafood. Canada’s cuisine reflects its rich history and diverse heritage, from the Atlantic to the Pacific and everywhere in between. Influenced by Indigenous, French, British and global traditions, it offers a unique blend of flavours and cooking styles. Must-try Canadian dishes include poutine, beavertails and tourtière.
As you travel west, the population dissipates, revealing breathtaking natural wonders. Enjoy skiing in Whistler, exploring Vancouver’s vibrant culture and witnessing the majestic beauty of the Rockies - experiences as sweet as maple syrup. The best way to discover the Rockies is on Rocky Mountaineer, an iconic train that travels through Western Canada’s wild beauty by day. Pair your cruise with a rail journey to explore remote, untouched landscapes only accessible by train. Canada’s culture is shaped by a mix of traditions and influences, making it a truly unique place. Every year, festivals and events bring this heritage to life, giving visitors a chance to experience its rich history, diverse communities and lively spirit.
When is the best time to cruise to Canada?
The best time to cruise to Canada depends on you and your preferences. While Canada does have the same four seasons as the UK, the weather extremes in Canada are generally much more pronounced. Canadian winters are significantly colder, and summers can be much hotter.
Spring, which occurs from March to May, offers budding flora and fewer crowds. Summer (June to August/September) reigns supreme with long days, perfect for outdoor activities and sightseeing. From September to November, Autumn enchants with vibrant foliage and crisp air. Winter transforms Canada from December to February into a magical wonderland.
Which cruise lines sail to Canada?
Many of our cruise line partners offer cruises to Canada. Among the most popular are Celebrity Cruises, Holland America Line, Princess Cruises, Seabourn and Silversea, all of which offer fly cruises. Fly cruises are a great way to travel to a wider variety of destinations around the world.
If you’d prefer to set off on a no-fly cruise to Canada, cruise lines, including Cunard and P&O Cruises, offer an extensive range of voyages.
Explore more Canada cruises:
Cruise to Canada from the UK | Canada and Alaska Cruise | Princess Cruises Canada | Celebrity Cruises Canada | Cruises from Southampton to Canada | Fly Cruise Canada | P&O Cruises to Canada from Southampton | Princess Cruises New York to Canada | Canada Cruise and Rocky Mountaineer | All-Inclusive Cruises Canada
