Don’t sweat your summer travel plans this year. When the hot temperatures seem relentless, you can sizzle on the sidewalks, breezes and misty mornings sound intriguing.
If you want to escape the heat with your summer adventure, you don’t even have to leave the mainland to find the ideal resort. In fact, the most scenic and temperate destinations in North America are the best experiences for cruise or rail, so all you need to do is pack your luggage and climb onto the boat. Just sit down, relax and watch the landscape unfold.
From glacier-lined shorelines to peaceful hillside passes, here are some of the top choices for summer trips that will allow you to relax, explore and chill.
Alaska Cruise
If you’re craving summer travel, combining breathtaking scenery, cool weather and adventurous feel, Alaska can pull out spades. The Alaska cruise is a “bucket list” experience for many people, and there is good reason. Imagine waking up to cheer up the ocean air and rub coffee on the deck when you find a humpback whale on the boat. See Alaska on the water, offering an unparalleled mix of solid beauty and easy exploration.
The small boat experience allows you to visit intimate Alaska villages like Petersburg, Flagle and Haines, where you can find a charming small town atmosphere with local shops, fresh seafood and a rich local and gold rush history.
As you cruise between harbors, beware of towering glaciers, eagles flying overhead, and brown bears along the coast. When you enter the harbour, you can choose from unique coastal excursions such as salmon fishing, gold rush towns, petroglyph tours or taking a jet boat to see wildlife. In between, you’ll relax on the deck and are happy that you’ll leave the heat behind.
Tour Puget Sound and San Juan Islands
The cruise through Puget Sound and San Juan Islands feels away from the world of everyday life. The Northwest corner of Washington State is known for its amazing natural beauty, rich wildlife and history. Small boats weave between the entrance and the harbor, giving you a close-up experience of the archipelago, with over 450 islands, rocks and spikes.
Each station has its own specialty when you cruise the island of Salish – Friday Harbor is known for art galleries and seaside restaurants, while Lopez Island offers pastoral scenery and local ambience. Orcas and harbor seals are common companions that almost guarantee vultures.
Your itinerary may also include the Puget Sound Port, such as the historic port of Port Townsend and the small town of Poulsbo, rich in Norwegian heritage. The parade really captures the soul of the Pacific Northwest – easygoing, beautiful, and always cool. Many Bay Sound Cruises start and end in Seattle, so they are easy to access and are ideal for shorter trips, such as five to seven days.
Waterways in New England and Canada
A summer cruise from Montréal to Portland, Maine exudes a refreshing escape from the wet inland heat as it winds through the cool, scenic waterways of eastern Canada and the North Atlantic coast. You will soak in Montreal’s European style, meandering the St. Lawrence River and exploring historic towns and breeze seafronts. Also, be aware of wildlife; whales are often found on the deck.
You will stop in unique destinations like Quebec City, tadoussac and Prince Edward Island and enjoy the dramatic coastline and lush green countryside. The Gulf of St. Lawrence and the Canso Strait offer uninterrupted views of cliffs, lighthouses and tranquil sea views. Coastal cities such as Halifax, Nova Scotia and Portland, Maine have a historic charm. Halifax’s marine heritage and vivid waterfront make it a favorite for cruise travelers, while Portland is delighted with its fresh seafood, pedestrian streets and creative local culture.
This part of Canada enjoys some of the mildest summer weather in the country, with the air usually cool and crisp, especially in the mornings and evenings. Lift your feet and relax as you enjoy the easy-going cruise travel speed.
See North America by rail
A rail journey through Canada, Alaska or Colorado Rockies is a spectacular way to experience some of North America’s most breathtaking scenery. Rail tours with wide windows and relaxing seating allow you to ride on the mountain vista, alpine lakes and wild forests without taking a step forward. It’s a carefree way to explore high-altitude destinations with fresh and cool air and endless views.
One of the most iconic train routes is the Canadian Rockies Rail Tour through cities such as Vancouver, Banff and Jasper. As the train climbs into the mountains, you will pass turquoise lakes, towering peaks and wildlife-rich valleys. These luxurious train trips are made with locally inspired meals and experts on board telling stories so you will travel in comfort.
The Rocky Mountains’ summer highs tend to stay in the 60s and 70s (15–25°C), which is the ideal weather to get on the train and explore historic mountain towns, glacier parks or just breathe in that crisp, alpine air.
in addition, Railways and cruises Through Alaska, it is a truly memorable way to experience the wild, majestic beauty of the state. The train route passes through remote landscapes and you can’t travel through the huge wilderness through cars and winds. Not only can you get from point A to B, but you have a front seat on the most breathtaking scenery in North America.
As you watch the elk wiping in the distance, you will drink coffee on the railroad in the glass chamber or walk to the open-air platform as the train bends in the pass passage. It’s a way to experience extraordinary ways such as stunning wilderness areas, such as the strong shoreline of Denali National Park and Kenai Fjords.
Train Travel offers slower speeds, giving you time to really understand the scale and stillness of Alaska. If you want to avoid heating a little longer, you can choose to merge Cruise/rail journey From both perspectives, this allows you to see the best in Alaska.
this Rocky Mountains to Red Rocks From the Rockies in Colorado to the Red Rock wonders of the Canyon Country in Utah, the journey takes you through the most amazing and diverse landscapes of the American West.
Highlights of the trip include scenic views at Glenwood Springs, a charming resort surrounded by mountains, Utah’s desert gemstones and a gateway to Arches and Canyon National Park. Along the way, you will cross the continental divide, roll along the Colorado River, and watch the scenery transform from alpine forests to dramatic red rock formations. Railway travelers enjoy guided visits to Arches National Park, picnics on Dead Horsehorn, and star-gazing nights with local astronomers, which are ideal ways to occupy Utah’s famous clear desert skies.
The luxurious Rocky Mountaineer features glass outdoor coaches and gourmet meals so you will ride with maximum comfort. The Rockies to Red Rocks Train is awesome way to discover the vast variety of American landscapes.
This summer, heat is exchanged for highlands, ocean breezes and unforgettable landscapes. With so many routes to choose from, your cool weather adventure may just be the most memorable for you.
Join a guided land and water tour in Maine
If you’ve ever wanted to experience the true spirit of the coastal areas of Maine (locals cherish and travelers dream of dreams), this is your ticket. Maine’s summer means mornings on the water, winding trails through hardwood forests, and a small harbor with historic lighthouses and lots of fresh lobsters.
With over 3,478 miles of coastline and 4,600 sea islands, Maine offers quiet coves and pristine nature around each bend. You will meander through its narrow, narrow peninsulas, indented coves and rocky headlands and discover protected natural reserves and wildlife habitats.
On this group tour, you will be up close to one of the country’s most scenic corners, under the guidance of experts who learn about the landscape, wildlife and the best secrets of the Maine coast. Taste local life as you sail in a charter caravan and lobster boat.
It’s a tour where you can spend time savoring the special magic of Maine. The group is limited to 14 travelers, providing the best way to experience nature. In fact, you can even book this trip for your family, group or friends as a private vacation.
No matter where you travel, it’s great to know that summer doesn’t have to mean bonded clothes and overheated afternoons. From breeze shorelines to misty mountains, these cool destinations offer a refreshing way to enjoy the season without overheating. Find the perfect cool escape and absorb the season without sweating.
Why do you want to cruise on a small boat?
A small boat cruise offers a completely different experience than a large boat cruise. Due to their size, smaller boats offer unique itineraries, which include smaller ports and less travelling waterways, offering some of the most beautiful coastal towns and scenery. You will explore destinations for temporary paths – fishing villages, remote islands or historic ports – tourism does not transcend culture or landscape. It’s a more intimate and immersive way to experience your destination.
The small boat also provides a personal and relaxing atmosphere on board. With fewer passengers, usually less than 200 guests, you won’t have to deal with long rows or crowded decks. The staff know your name and preferences, so the journey is more like staying in a boutique hotel.
Many small tours have expert guides, naturalists and cultural historians who provide talks or leadership tours that provide insiders’ opinions on each location. The atmosphere is casual and relaxing, allowing you to truly relax, enjoy the scenery and experience your journey.
Book now to retain your cruise or rail travel
Don’t wait to plan your perfect escape – Small boat cruises and scenic rail travel will soon be filled, especially in the summer. Due to limited capacity and high demand for cool, uncrowded resorts, you need to book your location early. Whether you are browsing glacier fjords or driving through the mountain vistas by train, you can ensure you get the best itinerary, cabin or seat.
Your comfort and cool adventure summer is waiting for you!
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