7 Fall Foliage Cruising Destinations

Autumn is a special time in New England as the region’s leaves turn from green to brilliant shades of red, orange, and yellow, putting on a show that people from around the world come to witness.

The majority of leaf-peepers will view the foliage from their cars. But who wants to view such beauty from inside a car when you can take in beautiful views of fall foliage from the comfort of your boat?

New England is blessed with beautiful, scenic tree-lined coasts, rivers, and lakes where boaters can enjoy an autumn cruise with spectacular views of fall foliage. So grab a sweatshirt, fill a thermos with some warm apple cider, and enjoy these amazing New England fall foliage cruises.

Acadia National Park overlooking Bar Harbor. Photo Pixabay.

Bar Harbor, Maine

Bar Harbor is a wonderful boating destination any time of year, but it truly stands out come autumn. The dramatic views of the Maine coastline at Acadia National Park are breathtaking when the leaves turn in the fall.

Eastern Point Lighthouse. Photo by Benjamin Boynton.

Cape Ann, Massachusetts

Made up of the communities of Gloucester, Rockport, Essex, and Manchester-by-the-Sea, Cape Ann features some of the most beautiful coastline in New England. Cruise up the Essex River to enjoy views of a tidal estuary in the fall.

Newfound Lake from Little Sugarloaf. Photo courtesy Visit New Hampshire.

Newfound Lake, New Hampshire

Trailer your boat to pretty much any lake in New Hampshire during autumn and you’re bound to view some incredible fall scenery. But the peaceful waters of Newfound Lake, combined with its beautiful natural surroundings, make it one of the best places to view those autumn colors.

Safe Harbor Essex Island Marina is a favorite stop among transient boaters heading up or down the coast. Photo by Tom Richardson.

Essex, Connecticut

After a more than 400-mile journey through New England, the Connecticut River comes to a spectacular end in southern Connecticut. Near Essex, the river features beautiful natural scenery with several state parks and nature preserves along its banks.

North Hero on Lake Champlain has its own marina with transient docks and moorings. Photo by Tom Richardson.

Lake Champlain, Vermont

With the Green Mountains to the East and the Adirondacks to the West, Lake Champlain is the epicenter of autumn beauty in the Northeast. Beautiful natural scenery surrounds the lake, and fun destinations like Burlington give visitors lots of options for dining and lodging.

Numerous private docks line the river from Christmas Cove to Damariscotta. Photo by Joe Devenney.

Damariscotta River, Maine

The Darmiscotta River is a 19-mile tidal river that is navigable for nearly its entire length. Along the way, it passes through some of the most beautiful natural scenery in Maine. At the upper reaches of the river is Damariscotta Lake, which offers pristine water, great fishing, and gorgeous views.

The Race Point Light Station can be reached on foot or by 4-wheel vehicles. Photo/NEB

Cape Cod, Massachusetts

From Woods Hole to Provincetown, Cape Cod is legendary for its beautiful coastal scenery. Autumn is the best time to visit the region as the summer crowds have disappeared and the fall colors provide breathtaking views from the water.