5 Cruise ports you can drive to from Ontario
4 Minute Read
Dreaming of a cruise but not keen on flying? Luckily, Ontario's convenient location means you can drive to several major cruise ports.
These easily accessible cruise ports offer a variety of exciting destinations and experiences that cater to all kinds of travellers. Whether you're looking to explore the Great Lakes, discover the charm of New England, or escape to the Caribbean, there's a cruise for you.
Here are some of the top ports you can easily reach by car.
Toronto, Ontario
Toronto is a lively city full of attractions, including the iconic CN Tower and the picturesque Distillery District. Conveniently located just a short drive from Ottawa, it serves as an ideal destination where you can easily extend your trip and enjoy a wealth of experiences. Additionally, Toronto is the embarkation point for Viking Cruises, which offers explorations of the Great Lakes.
Cruise pick: Viking Cruises – Niagara and the Great Lakes
Viking Cruises has an eight-day Niagara and the Great Lakes cruise that visits nine stops, including Niagara Falls and Detroit, before ending in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, on the shores of Lake Michigan.
Montreal, Quebec
Montreal is only a short two-hour drive from Ottawa and is known for its European charm, delicious cuisine, and vibrant culture. Some cruises departing from here include Azamara Cruises, Seabourn Cruise Line and Holland America Line.
Ships arrive and depart from the Old Port neighbourhood, where there is plenty to visit, including La Grande Roue de Montreal (a Ferris wheel), the Montreal Science Centre, and Cirque du Soleil.
Cruise pick: Azamara Cruises – Canada and New England Voyage
Explore the beauty of the East Coast of Canada and part of the United States. Azamara Cruises offers a 12-day voyage starting in Montreal and travel your way up through the mighty St. Lawrence River with stops in Quebec from Quebec City all the way to Havre-Saint-Pierre. Following Quebec, you fully immerse yourself in the East Coast with the breathtaking views of Sydney and Halifax, Nova Scotia, Saint John, and New Brunswick. Finally, you transition into United States waters, visiting the vibrant coastal cities of Eastport and Portland, Maine and concluding the journey in Boston, Massachusetts.
Boston, USA
Slightly further from Ottawa, Boston is a little over a six-hour drive. One of the oldest cities in the United States, Boston holds tons of charm and character, historical architecture, and lively neighbourhoods, home to widely successful sports teams and Harvard University. Cruise lines departing from the ports of Boston are the Royal Caribbean Cruises, Norwegian Cruises, Princess Cruises, and Holland America Line.
Cruises disembark from the Boston Seaport District, located in the south of Boston, with ample rooftop restaurants serving local seafood, along with local shops and the occasional concert at the Leader Bank Pavilion.
Cruise pick: Royal Caribbean Cruises – 7 Night Boston To San Juan Cruise
Aboard Royal Caribbean's Brilliance of the Seas, families can enjoy a wealth of entertainment suited for all ages. This stunning seven-night voyage begins with a stop at the Royal Naval Dockyard in Bermuda, followed by a relaxing day at sea before arriving in St. Johns, Antigua. On the seventh day, you will visit Tortola in the British Virgin Islands, concluding your journey in the vibrant city of San Juan, Puerto Rico.
Quebec City, Quebec
Quebec City is one of Canada's most iconic and oldest cities in North America. It boasts over four hundred years of rich history and a vibrant French-Canadian culture. As a premier destination in Canada, it is just a five-hour drive from Ottawa, making a visit to the Port of Quebec well worth your time.
The port welcomes several cruise lines, including Viking Cruises, Norwegian, Silversea Cruises, Holland America Line, and St. Lawrence Cruise Lines, among others. While you’re at the port, there are numerous attractions to enjoy, such as snapping a photo in front of the majestic Château Frontenac, taking a refreshing dip in the harbour bath, or exploring the local art galleries and antique shops.
Cruise pick: Holland America Line – 28-Day New England Discovery and Perfect Caribbean Escape
The 28-Day New England Discovery and Perfect Caribbean Escape is a remarkable cruise that deserves a spot on your bucket list and will be a topic of conversation for years. This twenty-eight-day journey with Holland America Line takes you along the East Coast of Canada and the United States before venturing into the Caribbean, where you'll explore twelve captivating destinations. Finally, you'll make your way back north, completing an unforgettable adventure.
Halifax, Nova Scotia
Halifax is the biggest city on the East Coast of Canada. It is known for its kind people, superb cuisine, and beautiful scenery. Halifax is a place you'll want to revisit time and time again. The city is perfect for those who seek excellent seafood and thrive by the water.
Cruises that leave from the Halifax Seaport include the Norwegian Cruise Line, Princess Cruises, Holland America, Royal Caribbean, Hurtigruten and more. Halifax Seaport is more of a trek; however, experiencing the Halifax lifestyle is a must for a Canadian.
Cruise pick: Hurtigruten – Halifax to Boston, History, Seafood, and Nature Reserves
The Hurtigruten cruise from Halifax to Boston is a remarkable nine-day journey that navigates the stunning Eastern Scotian Shelf. Your adventure begins in Lunenburg, Nova Scotia, before heading to Maine to explore Eastport and Boothbay Harbor. The journey culminates in Massachusetts, with three stops in the picturesque destinations of Martha's Vineyard, Provincetown, and Boston. This cruise is ideal for those with a profound interest in history and a desire for an adventurous experience, rather than a leisurely getaway.
There is no need to book a flight to cruise
Ready to set sail? CAA Travel Consultants are happy to help you book your next cruise and give expert advice. Make an appointment to get started.
