All About Cruising

Best Fall Cruise Destinations

Published June 28, 2023

Updated October 10, 2025

Travel Experts

at The Cruise Web

Tourist taking photos of the Eifel Tower in Paris, France in autumn.
Tourist taking photos of the Eifel Tower in Paris, France in autumn.

Cruising in the fall can be one of the most relaxing and rewarding experiences one can have – it’s just a plus that there are so many beautiful places to visit!

While you can cruise anywhere pretty much any time of the year, there are a few destinations that will steal your heart during autumn. Below, we’ll tell you all about our favorite fall cruise destinations and why they’ll be your new favorites, too.

Canada & New England Fall Cruises

New England Fall foliage.

The main reason Canada & New England are one of the best fall cruise destinations: FOLIAGE!

When autumn hits in this region, the colors of the landscape change, adding pops of reds, oranges, and yellows as the leaves change to signal the changing of the seasons. Many of the ports in this region, like Bar Harbor, Maine, are highlighted by outdoor excursions. Namely, Acadia National Park in Maine is arguably the best place on earth to soak in the sights of a fall cruise.

Not only are Canada & New England one of the best fall cruise destinations because of the sights, but also the smells and tastes! If you’re a seafood lover, a cruise to Canada & New England needs to be on your bucket list.

From the famous clam chowders in Boston, Massachusetts to a hearty lobster roll in Maine or a fresh oyster and mussels in Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island, a fall cruise to Canada & New England is basically a seafood buffet!

View Canada & New England Cruises

Fall Cruises to Alaska

Alaska is another place falling into our list of top fall cruise destinations for so many reasons! If you choose a cruise to Alaska in the fall, the wonders of the wilderness in the Last Frontier will be the highlight of your trip.

Also known for fall foliage, an Alaska cruise in September brings another natural wonder into sight, the Northern Lights! Cruising to Alaska in the fall makes this a great chance to set your sights on a once-in-a-lifetime light show.

Another reason Alaska is in the running as one of our favorite fall cruise destinations is the wildlife. During your fall cruise to Alaska, make sure you choose at least one excursion that involves a hike, or maybe opt for a cruise tour!

This time of year is prime time to spot the local bear feasting on salmon swimming through streams. During this time of year, you may be lucky enough to spot some humpback whales making their way south for winter!

View Fall Alaska Cruises

Caribbean Cruises in the Fall

Colorful beach houses in Barbados, Caribbean.

One of the hallmarks of the autumn season is falling temperatures, and that makes the Caribbean the perfect spot for a tropical getaway!

The Caribbean is one of our favorite fall cruise destinations because who doesn’t need a little Vitamin D and sand between their toes when dreary fall weather starts to roll around? In the Caribbean, summer weather can be scorching and too hot for some, so as the weather cools down to 75 degrees Fahrenheit and sunny, the beaches start calling and our phones start ringing!

The fall in the Caribbean can also be a little less crowded, making it a perfect time to book a cruise calling on a private island. With so many exclusive activities, fewer crowds mean shorter lines and more time for your family to have fun.

Choosing the Caribbean as your destination for your cruise this fall will most definitely save you a few bucks! During this season, some family-focused cruise lines run Kids Sail Free promotions, meaning the children get to join their parents on vacation for no extra cost! Don’t worry – there’s childcare onboard! In addition to these popular promotions, you’ll always get the best deal on your fall cruise with The Cruise Web.

View Fall Caribbean Cruises

Fall Cruises to Europe

Neuschwanstein Castle in Schwangau, Germany, Europe.

If you have to take the kids out of school to save some money on your vacation, why not take them somewhere educational? Europe is one of the most popular fall cruise destinations for a variety of reasons. One of the main things we love about fall cruises to Europe is the smaller crowds!

Many tourist sites, especially in the Mediterranean, are incredibly busy during the peak summer months, so spend more time exploring the Roman Forum and less time in line when you choose Europe as your fall cruise destination.

Smaller crowds make it easier to get around as well, as many of the cities around the Mediterranean are very walkable, and fewer people make navigating your way to a local spot for lunch, your next tour, or transfer back to the ship even easier.

If you aren't interested in ocean cruising this fall, Europe is still an excellent fall cruise destination! During the cooler months, a river cruise through Europe is a wonderful experience! Leisurely cruise along Europe's rivers, admiring the fall foliage that lines the banks, or take a nice bike ride through a local town. After all, a nice, cool fall day makes for perfect touring weather.

Another highlight of cruising European rivers during the fall is seasonal festivals, in particular, Oktoberfest in Germany! Indulge in a boot of German beer and a fresh soft pretzel, enjoy local traditions, and have the time of your life this fall on a European cruise.

View Fall European Cruises

No matter what fall cruise destination you choose, it’s the perfect time to recharge and relax with family and friends. Give our experts a call at 1-800-377-9383 or visit us at cruiseweb.com to start planning your dream autumn getaway.