For many people, the clocks going back last weekend signified the true start of autumn. Though it means shorter days, longer nights and colder weather, autumn’s also responsible for some beautiful natural scenery as the leaves on our trees change colour and enjoy one last hurrah before leaving their respective branches entirely. When it comes to cruise destinations, there’s one which stands head and shoulders above the others when it comes to autumnal beauty. OK, so in America they call it ‘fall’ but however you want to refer to it, New England is renowned for its spectacular autumnal display.

New England comprises the American states of Maine, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Vermont, Rhode Island, and Connecticut, all of which are at least in some part coastal, except for Vermont, making the region perfect for visiting on a cruise itinerary. Here’s a look at some of the popular ports you can visit on a New England cruise in the autumn (or fall).

Bar Harbor, Maine

Bar Harbor’s location on Mount Desert Island in the stunning Acadia National Park ensures plenty of opportunity for autumnal scenery. Don’t be put off by the name either. Though there’s plenty of sandy beaches and soaring mountains, there’s some beautiful ocean trails to discover, offering a wealth of leafy delights. Frenchman Bay is a particularly beautiful spot offering a great balance of scenery and spectacular ocean views. Agamont Park offers more leafy respite to visitors, is not too big that you won’t be able to have a good look around and also offers some fantastic harbour views. Golf’s big here too, so if you’re a fan of greenery of a different kind, there are plenty of opportunities to perfect your swing.

Boston, Massachusetts

Boston is one of the USA’s real historical juggernauts at any time of the year and a popular cruise port but it’s also a firm fixture on New England itineraries. For a fix of autumnal flora, be sure to head to Boston Public Garden, which boasts over 600 different varieties of trees. It’s the first one of its kind in America and taking a ride on the lake in one of the famous swan boats is a popular tourist pastime. Walking the Freedom Trail is another tourist must and is a great way to see the city’s most celebrated sights and learn about its history. Popular landmarks include the Massachusetts State House, the Museum of Fine Arts and Fenway Park, home of the legendary Red Sox.

Newport, Rhode Island

Newport’s a popular holiday destination with tourists and natives alike, whatever the time of year but is often a fixture of New England cruises in the autumn. With a historical reputation as a hangout for the wealthy elite, Newport is famous for its many spectacular mansions. Rosecliff is one of the most popular and set in some beautiful gardens which are a stunning sight throughout autumn. Built in the style of a French palace it’s an incredible building inside and out. The aptly-named Elms is another mansion offering beautiful gardens, while The Breakers is probably the most famous, built in a Renaissance style and set in a sweeping 13-acre estate.

New London, Connecticut

If there’s a New England, it follows that there’s a New London, too. This historic port is rich in colonial maritime and military history and probably its most notable landmark is Fort Trumbull, located in the state park of the same name. The fort dates back to the time of the American Revolutionary War and was built to protect Connecticut’s seat of government from would-be invaders. It was captured by the British in 1781 and today offers a fascinating look at one of the most tumultuous times in American history. The New London Harbour Light and New England Ledge Light are, as you may have guessed, lighthouses and two of the city’s other popular landmarks.

Have you ever been on a New England Cruise? If you feel inspired to book your New England cruise for next year, we always have an excellent selection of voyages available from the world’s leading luxury cruise lines. Call our Cruise Concierge today to find out more and secure your ideal itinerary.