Eastern Seaboard Discoveries

Embark your ship in Montreal, nestled on an island on the St. Lawrence River. You will have the afternoon free to settle in to your ship or set off to explore the city on your own, perhaps going underground to experience its subterranean city, popular with residents during cold winter months.

Today you will continue to explore Montreal. Step into the city's rich history of fur trading in its Old Port section, lined with picturesque stone buildings along the St. Lawrence River. Ascend to the heights of Mount Royal Park for sweeping city and river views. And marvel at the glorious architecture and interiors of the Notre-Dame Basilica. Alternately, you might venture farther to witness the natural beauty of the Laurentian Mountains or sample the region's maple sugar delicacies.

Visit the grand dame of Quebec province today, the venerable Quebec City, a European-style gem on the banks of the St. Lawrence River. As you explore its cobblestone streets, you will take in its decidedly regal air, crowned by the magnificent Château Frontenac. You will see the Place Royale, the Upper and Lower Old Towns lined with distinctive white stone buildings dating to the early 17th century, and the Parliament. Or discover the province's natural beauty at Montmorency Falls and Canyon Sainte-Anne.

Discover the history of Saguenay today, a once-disparate region of boroughs established as one city as recently as 2002. Built on a rich fur-trading and timber industry, it is a quintessential Quebecois town proud of its rural roots. You can witness the story of its growth during a lively stage show created specifically for English-speaking visitors. Alternately, you can head into the countryside to visit two family businesses that embody the region's French heritage with their cheese and wine production.

Today you will make your way down the St. Lawrence River, an important waterway that allows vessels to travel from the Atlantic Ocean to the Great Lakes of the Midwest. As you sail, you might attend an illuminating enrichment lecture in the theater. This evening, enjoy cocktails with new friends in the Explorers' Lounge.

Take in the small-town charm and stunning natural beauty of the Gaspé Peninsula, from the town of Gaspé—the 'Cradle of French Canada'—to the monolithic Percé Rock. Take a panoramic drive along the peninsula's rugged, cliff-lined coast. Embark a boat and set off into the Gulf of St. Lawrence in search of blue and humpback whales. Or, stay on land for a scenic hike through the stunning Canadian wilderness in Forillon National Park.

Enjoy the day cruising to your next destination, taking advantage of your ship's generous amenities. Perhaps you will swim in the Infinity Pool or mingle with newfound friends over tea in the Wintergarden. This evening, enjoy soft piano music in the Living Room or lively jazz in Torshavn.

Explore Halifax, the cosmopolitan capital of Nova Scotia province and site of the first permanent European settlement in the region. Join a hop-on/hop-off bus tour of the city, setting your own pace for exploration of hilltop Fort George, named for King George II of Great Britain, the magnificent St. Mary's Basilica and other historic sites. If you prefer, you might travel the Lighthouse Route to Peggy's Cove, one of Nova Scotia's most scenic coastal villages, flavored by a rich fishing heritage.

Sail along the scenic coasts of Nova Scotia and Maine, crossing the Gulf of Maine. As you cruise, you might grab a workout in the Fitness Center or indulge in a facial or manicure in The Salon. This evening, perhaps you will dine on a regional favorite like New England clam chowder or boiled lobster.

Call on Portland today and explore its historic districts that are brimming with charm. Visit Maine's oldest lighthouse; a climb to the top will reward you with spectacular views. Or discover why Portland's maritime history became the inspiration for the works of one of America's greatest painters, Winslow Homer.

One of the United States' oldest cities, Newport retains much of its colonial charm and Gilded Age splendor. Stroll past the well-preserved buildings that populate the city's historic district. Or take a drive along Bellevue Avenue, home to the opulent mansions of wealthy 19th-century industrialists. Experience the city's rich maritime tradition during a cruise on an America's Cup racing yacht.

You will cruise into New York Harbor early this morning, thrilling at an iconic view of the Statue of Liberty as you arrive. You will have the day to put yourself in a New York state of mind with a city overview that highlights the landmarks of Manhattan. View the Empire State Building, Central Park, St. Patrick's Cathedral, the Theater District and Times Square. If you prefer, you can visit the powerful 9/11 Memorial or tour the city's waterways by luxury catamaran. You will enjoy an overnight stay on board, so you might also choose to relive the stylish nights of the 1920s with a Harlem jazz and blues tour this evening.

Disembark your ship after breakfast and return home, or extend your journey amid the energy and endless cultural offerings of New York City.