At a glance
- Duration:
- 11 Days
- Start/End:
- Quebec City to Portland or reverse
- From:
- $8,990
- Time of Year:
- October
Embark on an unforgettable 11-day Canada and New England Fall Foliage cruise aboard the Pearl Mist, traveling between Portland, ME and Quebec City, QC. Explore the most sought-after Canadian destinations and charming New England towns, all while soaking in the vibrant colors of fall.
From your private balcony, watch the vibrant reds, oranges, and golds paint the landscape as the season transforms the shores.
Delve into captivating ports of call with guided shore excursions, including the historic cobblestone streets of Québec City. Discover Saguenay Fjord, one of Canada’s top whale-watching spots, and marvel at the striking red sandstone cliffs of Prince Edward Island, especially stunning during peak foliage.
Indulge in locally-sourced, regionally inspired cuisine throughout your journey, adding a delicious local flavor to your adventure.
Your voyage begins amidst the old-world charm of Québec City, where rich history and picturesque streets set the stage for an unforgettable trip. From there, explore the dramatic beauty of Gaspé, where rugged cliffs meet the Atlantic Ocean, offering breathtaking views around every corner.
Prepare for the thrill of whale-watching at Saguenay Fjord, where you can encounter these majestic creatures in their natural habitat. With private guided tours at each port, you’ll uncover the fascinating history, vibrant culture, and stunning natural beauty that make this region so special. Explore coastal villages, immerse yourself in local arts, and create memories to last a lifetime.
Join Pearl Seas Cruises for a luxurious adventure through the Canadian Maritimes, where every moment is filled with discovery, exploration, and breathtaking beauty. Experience the magic of this spectacular region and the warmth of its welcoming communities, all while cruising in unparalleled comfort.
Canada and New England Fall Foliage Details
Day-to-Day Itinerary
Pre-Cruise: Québec City, QC
Pearl Seas Cruises offers a seamless way to experience the charm of Quebec City before you set sail with our exclusive Pre-Cruise Package. Arrive the day before your cruise, and let us take care of everything.
This convenient package includes a luxurious 1-night stay at the iconic Château Frontenac, complete with a full breakfast and concierge luggage service. On the morning of your embarkation, enjoy a narrated tour of Quebec City’s historic Old Town, where you’ll explore landmarks like Dufferin Terrace, Château Frontenac, Place-Royale, National Battlefields Park, and Grande-Allée. You’ll experience the city’s rich history and stunning beauty, before concluding your tour at the ship, ready to begin your incredible adventure.
Please note, Pre-Cruise Packages must be reserved at least 30 days prior to your departure date.
Day 1: Quebec City, QC
Québec City, perched along the majestic St. Lawrence River, is a charming blend of history and beauty. Its old stone houses, alongside grand religious buildings crafted from the same stone, tell tales of centuries past. The cobbled streets of Old Québec are a haven for history lovers, showcasing a mix of architectural styles that evoke the elegance of both England and France. Stroll through the city’s historic streets, where you’ll discover stunning churches, fragrant gardens, and stylish boutiques, each corner offering a glimpse into the city’s rich past.
Day 2: Saguenay, QC
The villages along the Saguenay Fjord are accessible by road, but the true splendor of this stunning waterway is best experienced by boat. One of the top whale-watching destinations is where the St. Lawrence River converges with the Saguenay Fjord. This area is home to a thriving whale colony, with over a thousand residents. For breathtaking views of the fjord, head to Cap Trinité, a towering cliff that rises above the water, offering panoramic vistas. At the cliff’s edge, a 33-foot statue of the Virgin Mary watches over the scene, adding a serene touch to the dramatic landscape.
Day 3: Baie-Comeau, QC
Nestled on the Manicouagan Peninsula along the St. Lawrence Estuary, Baie-Comeau is a haven of sandy beaches offering stunning views of an archipelago of islands home to harbor seals and a variety of seabirds. Immerse yourself in its natural beauty, where crystal-clear waters meet the untamed splendor of boreal forests, creating a breathtaking backdrop that’s sure to captivate your heart.
Day 4: Gaspé, QC / Percé, QC
The deep-water port of Gaspé holds historical significance as the site where Jacques Cartier first landed to claim the land for France, earning it the title “Birthplace of Canada.” The town boasts the stunning Gaspé Bay, the second-largest natural bay in the world, offering magnificent water views. Nearby, the charming village of Percé is set against the striking backdrop of Percé Rock, the area’s most iconic natural landmark.
Day 5: Îles de la Madeleine, QC
Spend the day exploring this remote archipelago, home to some of North America’s most breathtaking secluded beaches. Nestled in the heart of the Gulf of St. Lawrence, the Isles consist of around a dozen islands, six of which are connected by sweeping sand dunes. The area boasts striking red cliffs, rolling hills, 180 miles of golden sandy shores, and charming fishermen’s houses in vibrant colors scattered across the landscape.
Day 6: Charlottetown, PEI
The picturesque Prince Edward Island is renowned for its world-class golf courses and pristine sandy beaches. A must-see is Green Gables, the charming farmhouse made famous in Lucy Maud Montgomery’s beloved 1908 novel, Anne of Green Gables. In downtown Charlottetown, the architectural highlight is the grand St. Dunstan’s Basilica. Its three copper spires, visible from nearly every corner of the city, enhance the Victorian elegance that defines the heart of the downtown area.
Day 7: Pictou, NS
Nestled along Nova Scotia’s picturesque Northumberland Shore, the Town of Pictou is known as the “Birthplace of New Scotland,” where the first wave of Scottish immigrants arrived in 1773. Guided by a local expert, you’ll have the opportunity to explore Pictou’s 18th-century homes, which line its tree-shaded streets, and experience the town’s warm, welcoming community.
Day 8: Halifax, NS
Halifax, the capital of Nova Scotia, offers a glimpse into its rich history, reminiscent of its 1800s glory when it served as a key naval station for the British Empire. The Halifax Citadel, a 250-year-old military fortress, stands proudly restored and still active. On the waterfront, the Maritime Museum of the Atlantic honors the legacy of Samuel Cunard, a Nova Scotia native and shipping magnate who founded a successful steamship company. Spring Garden Road, a vibrant area filled with unique boutiques and a laid-back, Bohemian vibe, is one of the city’s most charming highlights.
Day 9: Lunenburg, NS
Lunenburg, Nova Scotia’s first British colonial settlement, is a historic village brimming with charm. Its downtown is dotted with distinctive buildings adorned with ornamental brackets and towers, each painted in vibrant hues that add to the village’s unique character. The area boasts a growing collection of art galleries and craft shops, perfect for leisurely browsing. The scenic Lunenburg waterfront is home to the Fisheries Museum of the Atlantic, a world-class attraction featuring aquarium exhibits and a replica of the Bluenose, Canada’s most iconic and legendary ship.
Day 10: Bar Harbor, ME
Tucked away on the east side of Mount Desert Island, Bar Harbor has captivated visitors for centuries with its stunning natural beauty and lively downtown. The majestic mountains and sweeping seascapes have inspired countless artists and writers, while others come to reflect, relax, or explore the great outdoors. In the early 20th century, philanthropists contributed to the creation of what is now Acadia National Park, renowned for its awe-inspiring vistas and rich wildlife.
On select cruises, Eastport, ME may be visited instead of Bar Harbor.
Day 11: Portland, ME
After a rejuvenating week at sea, spend a day discovering the delights of Portland. Nestled in the heart of Casco Bay, this charming seaside city has something for everyone. Explore its diverse museums and art galleries, or wander through the unique boutiques in the historic Old Port district.
