Canada & New England Circle: Maritimes & New France

Montreal, Quebec's largest city, stands out as a centre of culture and history, reflecting a dynamic blend of French and English influences. The city's heart beats strongest in its old quarter, Vieux-Montréal, where cobbled streets and historic buildings create a European ambiance. Notable landmarks include Notre-Dame Basilica, with its intricate interior, and the bustling Place Jacques-Cartier.

Montreal is also celebrated for its culinary scene, from classic poutine to innovative fine dining, drawing on its diverse cultural heritage. The city hosts numerous festivals throughout the year, such as the famous Montreal Jazz Festival, which transforms the streets into vibrant venues for live music, demonstrating Montreal's lively spirit and its residents' love for celebration.

Cruise through the Gulf of St. Lawrence and witness a blend of history and natural beauty. The region boasts historic landmarks like the Gaspé Peninsula, where Jacques Cartier first landed in 1534. The waters are rich with marine life, and the scenic shores are lined with dramatic cliffs and verdant forests, making for a truly memorable voyage.

Few places in North America are as steeped in history as Québec City, Canada. Older than Jamestown and founded before the Pilgrims landed at Plymouth Rock, it is the only city north of Mexico whose original fortifications remain intact. The Québec City historic district, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is still home to religious orders and hospitals that date back to the 17th century. Its Place-Royale would look familiar to the explorer Samuel de Champlain, even with its modern attractions of gift shops and cafés. On the Plains of Abraham, you can walk the battlefield where, in 1759, the French forces under General Montcalm were decisively trounced by the British, led by General Wolfe.

The British took control of all of New France within a year of that 1759 battle, but even so French culture still lives on here in Québec City. More than 95 percent of Québec City's population speaks French as its first language, though it's easy to sightsee and navigate the city in English. As you tour the museums and historic sights of Québec City that celebrate Québecois history and dine at restaurants that serve its distinctive cuisine, you'll discover a remarkable culture that has survived and thrived into the 21st century.

Saguenay is distinguished by its dramatic landscape, where lush forests meet the fjord’s steep cliffs. This region is famous for the Saguenay Fjord, one of the world’s longest, offering breathtaking views and opportunities for whale watching. The fjord itself is a powerful presence in the city’s identity, influencing local culture and outdoor activities.

Cultural enrichment is plentiful in Saguenay, with the La Pulperie de Chicoutimi / Regional Museum providing insights into the area's historical industry and art. For those keen on performance arts, the Théâtre Banque Nationale offers a variety of shows that enhance the local cultural scene. Discover the natural and cultural offerings in the heart of Quebec’s wilderness and heritage during this port of call in Saguenay.

Cruise through the Gulf of St. Lawrence and witness a blend of history and natural beauty. The region boasts historic landmarks like the Gaspé Peninsula, where Jacques Cartier first landed in 1534. The waters are rich with marine life, and the scenic shores are lined with dramatic cliffs and verdant forests, making for a truly memorable voyage.

A day cruising at sea offers you the perfect mix of relaxation and activity. Start your morning on the top-level decks with a game of pickleball, enjoying the fresh sea breeze and expansive ocean views. Or, head to the Greenhouse Spa & Salon® to rejuvenate with a therapeutic spa treatment. The Kids Club will keep younger guests entertained with a variety of fun events and activities, while you can unwind by the pool or enjoy a Pilates class at the Fitness Center.

In the evening, delight in a tantalizing meal at one of the ship's restaurants, and afterward, enjoy a world-class performance at the stunning World Stage, adding a touch of culture to your night. Whether you're seeking adventure, relaxation, or both, a day at sea will be full of unforgettable experiences.

Newfoundland, an island in Canada, is known for its stunning coastal scenery and rich cultural heritage. The vibrant city of St. John’s, one of North America’s oldest, features colourful row houses, the iconic Signal Hill, and the historic Cabot Tower, offering panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean.

Exploring beyond the city, visitors can discover Gros Morne National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site with dramatic fjords, cliffs, and diverse wildlife. The island’s picturesque fishing villages, such as Twillingate, are perfect for whale watching and iceberg spotting. Newfoundland’s blend of natural beauty and unique culture makes it an unforgettable destination.

St. John's, the vibrant capital of Newfoundland and Labrador, is known for its colorful row houses and friendly streets. As the easternmost point in North America, this city offers breathtaking views from Signal Hill, where Marconi received the first transatlantic wireless signal.

For those interested in maritime history, the Rooms museum provides insights into the rich cultural heritage of Newfoundland and Labrador through extensive exhibits and artifacts. Nearby, Cape Spear Lighthouse stands as the continent's oldest surviving lighthouse, offering panoramic views of the Atlantic. Nature lovers can relish coastal walks that offer glimpses of icebergs, seabirds, and whales, depending on the season.

Saint Pierre and Miquelon, a small French archipelago near the coast of Newfoundland, Canada, exudes a unique blend of French charm and rugged North Atlantic beauty. This remote outpost of France offers a slice of Gallic culture, complete with quaint bistros, street-side cafés, and shops selling French goods. The islands’ colourful houses and the old-world feel of its capital, Saint-Pierre, transport visitors to a coastal town in Brittany or Normandy.

The natural surroundings are marked by stark, windswept landscapes, offering ideal conditions for hiking and bird watching. The rich waters around the islands are also popular for fishing and observing marine life, such as seals. Saint Pierre and Miquelon stand as a fascinating fusion of French culture and subarctic wilderness.

Cap-aux-Meules, located in the heart of Quebec's Magdalen Islands, serves as the gateway to this unique archipelago in the Gulf of St. Lawrence. Known for its distinctive red sandstone cliffs and inviting beaches, the area offers a rich blend of Acadian culture and maritime heritage. Explore local artistry at the numerous galleries and shops, or sample regional seafood delicacies in the town’s welcoming eateries.

The Lighthouse at Borgot Point offers panoramic views and a chance to learn about local maritime history, and the Fromagerie du Pied-De-Vent is a must-visit for cheese lovers, offering a taste of the island's renowned homemade cheeses. Ships dock at the port in Cap-aux-Meules.

Charlottetown might be small but it’s bursting with big energy and infectious island vibes. It’s got all the charm and hospitality Prince Edward Island is famous for, plus culinary experiences and an arts and culture scene that takes visitors by surprise. Ships will either dock or anchor offshore in Port Charlottetown.

Top Things to Do in Charlottetown:

• hike or bike through Prince Edward Island National Park
• see the Green Gables House
• enjoy a scenic drive around the island
• visit the picturesque Victoria-by-the-Sea

Cruise through the Gulf of St. Lawrence and witness a blend of history and natural beauty. The region boasts historic landmarks like the Gaspé Peninsula, where Jacques Cartier first landed in 1534. The waters are rich with marine life, and the scenic shores are lined with dramatic cliffs and verdant forests, making for a truly memorable voyage.

Montreal, Quebec's largest city, stands out as a centre of culture and history, reflecting a dynamic blend of French and English influences. The city's heart beats strongest in its old quarter, Vieux-Montréal, where cobbled streets and historic buildings create a European ambiance. Notable landmarks include Notre-Dame Basilica, with its intricate interior, and the bustling Place Jacques-Cartier.

Montreal is also celebrated for its culinary scene, from classic poutine to innovative fine dining, drawing on its diverse cultural heritage. The city hosts numerous festivals throughout the year, such as the famous Montreal Jazz Festival, which transforms the streets into vibrant venues for live music, demonstrating Montreal's lively spirit and its residents' love for celebration.