From the epic golden sweep of California's Big Sur to the rugged, lighthouse-dotted coast of Atlantic Canada, cruising North America delivers cinematic scenery and bucket-list experiences.

Step back in time amid the cobbled streets of Québec City’s UNESCO-listed old town, pausing for a maple taffy stick or two. Hike or bike along the striking red sandstone cliffs of Les Îles-de-la-Madeleine, and soak up the independent spirit of Boston, where a glass of craft beer and a walk along the Freedom Trail are musts. There’s seafaring history and fresh lobster to enjoy at every stop and then the iconic skyline of New York City glides into view, and whether it’s your first or fifteenth time here, there’s always something new to discover. It’s simply impossible not to get swept up in the irrepressible energy of the Big Apple, from the stardust of Broadway to the tranquility of Central Park.

On North America’s west coast, meanwhile, there’s another tale to tell. Here, the treasure came from the land, not the sea, when, in 1848, a small shining nugget was plucked from the soil, triggering the great Gold Rush. The phenomenon left its mark; today there are numerous fascinating mining towns to visit throughout California and Alaska, including Eureka and Skagway.

Gold of a different kind draws visitors today: the long sandy coastline is synonymous with California cool and the laid-back, easy-breezy outdoor lifestyle that people enjoy here. It’s also a magnet for surfers, sailors, and nature lovers, with migratory whales a regular sight. Monterey is a particular hotspot for marine life – order a bowl of clam chowder from a waterfront restaurant while you look out for seals, otters, and sea lions. Elsewhere, our North American cruises include stops in Astoria in Oregon, the oldest city west of the Rockies, pulsating San Francisco with its hip food scene and photogenic streets, chic Santa Catalina island, and cosmopolitan Vancouver with its majestic mountains-meet-sea setting.

Our luxury cruises in North America and Canada take place during September and October, perfectly timed to make the most of the seasonal marvel that is the spectacle of the turning leaves, as the onset of fall paints the landscape in ever-deepening shades of burnt orange, crimson, and amber. It’s one of the great sights of nature, akin to cherry-blossom season in Japan, and you’ll have a front-row seat for it all.