Cruising can be a relaxing and enjoyable way to spend a vacation and offers the chance to visit a few different locations, rather than staying in just one. For those considering this type of vacation, there are a number of options available, ranging from traveling around the destinations of one country, a few different countries or an entire region. Cruises to Canada provide an opportunity to visit a few great locations in the country, and there are a number of operators that run these.
Companies Offering Canada Cruises
There are a few companies that offer Canada cruises, and vacation options are available for both the west and east coast of the country. Some of the larger cruise line operators that offer this type of vacation include Holland America, Royal Caribbean, Carnival and Princess Cruises. All of these typically operate on the east coast of Canada and the US, offering cruises that take in destinations in the New England area and Canada. They also offer some opportunities on the west coast which take in Canadian destinations, with a number of Alaska and Pacific Northwest cruises typically doing so. There are also a number of smaller cruise lines that offer Canada cruises, with some of those to look to including Bluewater Adventures and Edgewater Fortune.
Usual Destinations Visited
The destinations visited on cruises to Canada will depend on which coast you choose to sail. For those that plan a trip along the east coast of Canada, some of the common destinations that will be visited include Halifax in Nova Scotia, Charlotte Town on Prince Edward Island, as well as Quebec City and Montreal in Quebec. Typically ships sailing up the east coast to Canada will also visit a few US locations in New England states, and this can include destinations such as Newport in Rhode Island, Bar Harbor in Maine and Boston in Massachusetts. Locations further south in the US can also be included on an itinerary, with New York and Fort Lauderdale being examples of this.
For those that choose to cruise the western coastline of Canada, some of the common Canadian destinations which will be visited include cities such as Vancouver and Victoria in British Columbia. Cruises in this region can also take in a number of US destinations, including a few locations in Alaska and also cities further south such as Seattle and Los Angeles.
When Do They Sail?
The majority of cruises to Canada sail during the spring to fall months of the year. This can start around May and run until around September/October. The fall period can be a good time to choose an east coast cruise when the displays of foliage on fall trees can be an impressive sight in many of the destinations visited. Cruises on the west cost can visit a few more cold weather destinations but will also provide some fantastic sights. The length of most cruises typically last somewhere between 5 and 14 days, although some shorter cruises can also be found.
Where to find them
Most of the larger cruise ship operators have their own website, and these are usually one of the best places to find the various deals they have on offer for cruises to Canada. They typically provide details of itinerary, cost and what to expect from a Canada cruise. There are also a range of cruise comparison websites, which can be useful in terms of comparing some of the best offers available, with some of these including Kayak, Cruises Only and Cruise Reviews Online.
Cost
The cost of cruises to Canada can depend on a number of factors including length of vacation, cruise line travelled with and the type of berth selected. Some shorter cruises in interior cabins can be found for less than $500, although for anyone planning a longer cruise the cost can easily run into the low thousands of dollars.
A cruise can be a great way to see a variety of fantastic destinations, and while they can be relaxing, they can also cram a lot into a short space of time. Cruises to Canada can take in some beautiful and historic locations in the country, as well as destinations in the US. Whether you choose the east or west coast they are sure to provide you with an enjoyable trip and some great memories.