When summer begins to wrap up and the first fall leaves appear, there’s nowhere on earth quite like New England and the east coast of Canada to get into the autumn spirit. That’s why it’s great that Serenade of the Seas begins a series of fall foliage-themed trips between Quebec City, Canada and Cape Liberty, NJ, that stop in Prince Edward Island, Nova Scotia and New Brunswick, as well as several beautiful spots in Maine, including Rockland and Bar Harbor.
Here are a few of the most unforgettable ways to experience these charming, perfect-for-fall destinations.
Explore Acadia National Park when you sail to Maine.
Credit: Royal Caribbean
What: A feast for the eyes and the tastebuds — take a tour of Acadia National Park, the oldest American national park east of the Mississippi River, then enjoy a classic “downeast” lobsterbake, where you’ll chow down on lobster, mussels, fresh bread, coleslaw and more.
Cool factor: The annual Maine lobster yield is 40 million pounds. That’s almost 90 percent of the nation’s supply.
Find it in: Bar Harbor, Maine
Prince Edward Island is a hidden gem off the coast of New Brunswick and Nova Scotia.
Credit: Royal Caribbean
What: See the highlights of Prince Edward Island (home of Anne of Green Gables!), then visit award-winning Rossignol Estate Winery for a wine and cheese tasting.
Cool factor: You’ll get to visit two historic lighthouses: Point Prim Lighthouse and Wood Islands Lighthouse. Get your cameras ready!
Find it in: Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island
Learn some Prince Edward Island history at Merchantman.
Credit: Merchantman
What: Learn about P.E.I.’s boozy history on a walking tour of quaint Charlottetown, visiting three pubs and enjoying local-favorite tipples.
Cool factor: Your tour guide is a historical reenactor of a circa-1864 Father of Confederation.
Find it in: Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island
Meet new seafaring friends in the Bay of Fundy in New Brunswick.
Credit: Royal Caribbean
What: Set sail with a marine biologist on a 55-foot catamaran to catch a glimpse of beautiful finback, minke or humpback whales in the Bay of Fundy. You may also see eagles, seals and porpoise.
Cool factor: For every whale excursion, Royal Caribbean adopts a Bay of Fundy right whale to help fund research, conservation and education.
Find it in: Saint John, New Brunswick
Travel back in time with a stroll through the cobbled streets of Quebec City.
Credit: Shutterstock
What: Take a quaint walking, funicular and horse-and-carriage tour through lovely Quebec City, the only walled city in North America. You’ll wander down cobblestone streets, visit charming shops and cafes, and see talented street performers.
Cool factor: A horse and carriage will carry you past several picturesque historical sights, including the former French Governor’s home, Chateau Frontenac, now a Fairmont hotel.
Find it in: Quebec City, Quebec
Halifax is known for its culinary scene, including traditional lobster sliders.
Credit: Shuttershock
What: Stroll Halifax’s charming waterfront, popping into shops and cafes to sample popular Nova Scotian delicacies, including a traditional lobster slider, scrumptious locally made ice cream, and a fried dough pastry stretched to resemble a beaver’s tail.
Cool factor: Your kilt-wearing tour guide will enlighten you on Halifax’s culture, foodie traditions and rich maritime history—pirates included.
Find it in: Halifax, Nova Scotia
Fly high above the Reversing Rapids in Saint John, New Brunswick.
Credit: Royal Caribbean
What: Take a thrilling zipline ride down several lines, including one where you’ll soar 100 feet above a turbulent tidal cove.
Cool factor: You’ll get a birds’-eye view of the Reversing Rapids, where the St. John River and the Bay of Fundy come together.
Find it in: Saint John, New Brunswick
Getting into the fall spirit? Click here to learn more about how to book this amazing autumn cruise, including details about becoming a member of Royal Caribbean’s Crown and Anchor loyalty program.
