There’s something magical about seeing Eastern Canada and New England from the water. Maybe it’s the blend of history and scenery, or the way each port feels completely different from the last. Or perhaps it’s the simple pleasure of unpacking once and letting the ship take you from one charming coastal town to another.

This fall, my cousin Tam and I sailed on Holland America Line’s Canada & New England cruise from Quebec City to Boston, and it turned out to be one of my favourite itineraries for food lovers, slow travellers, and anyone who wants to explore this beautiful corner of the world without rushing.