At a glance
- Duration:
- 10 Days
- Start/End:
- Montréal, Québec to Portland, Maine
- From:
- $5,999
- Time of Year:
- October
Embark on an unforgettable 10-day autumn odyssey that begins with the timeless elegance of Montréal, Québec’s vibrant cultural heart.
Arrive early for an included overnight stay to explore the city’s European-flavored streets, sip coffee in boutique cafés, and wander the cobblestones of Old Montréal where history and modern gastronomy collide. From the iconic spires of Notre-Dame Basilica to panoramic views atop Mount Royal, the city sets a spirited tone for the journey ahead.
On day two, step aboard in Montréal’s historic Old Port and glide down the majestic St. Lawrence River, watching the skyline fade into lush countryside as your ship begins its scenic voyage. Your first true port of call is Québec City, a UNESCO World Heritage gem that feels lifted from a storybook. Here, you can stroll fortified ramparts, admire the fairytale silhouette of Château Frontenac, and lose yourself in the charming cafés and artisan shops of Petit-Champlain.
As you head further north, the natural splendor of the Saguenay Fjords unfolds, towering cliffs rising from deep blue waters invite you to keep watch for breaching whales and playful seals amid the dramatic landscape. It’s a day to be awed by nature, camera in hand and sea breeze in your hair.
A peaceful day at sea follows, offering time to relax on deck with a book or join fellow travelers in lounges and observation spaces as you cross the broad Gulf of Saint Lawrence toward Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island. Here, gentle red-sand beaches, Victorian-era architecture, and a rich maritime heritage await. Savor fresh seafood, trace the literary footsteps of Anne of Green Gables, and enjoy the island’s laid-back charm.
The voyage then carries you through the scenic Strait of Canso, a picturesque channel separating Cape Breton Island from mainland Nova Scotia, before arriving in Halifax. In this welcoming port city, a storied maritime past meets a lively cultural scene. Wander the bustling waterfront, explore historic Citadel Hill, or delve into seafaring lore at the Maritime Museum of the Atlantic.
After a reflective day at sea across the Atlantic waters, your cruise culminates in Portland, Maine, a quintessential New England port where rugged coastline, historic lighthouses, and seafood-centric cuisine define your final stop. Explore the cobblestone streets of the Old Port, snap photos of the iconic Portland Head Light, and raise a lobster roll toast to the rich tapestry of cultures and landscapes you’ve encountered on this remarkable passage from French-Canada to the Atlantic coast of the United States.
New England & Canada – Montréal to Portland Details
Day-to-Day Itinerary
Day 1: Montréal, Québec - Hotel Stay
Begin your journey with an overnight stay in Montréal, a city brimming with old-world charm and modern flair. Wander the cobblestone streets of Old Montréal, take in the grandeur of Notre-Dame Basilica, and savor French-inspired cuisine at a local bistro.
Day 2: Montréal, Québec - Embark
Board your ship in Montréal’s historic Old Port. As you set sail down the St. Lawrence River, enjoy stunning views of the city skyline and the lush landscapes that surround this vibrant metropolis.
Day 3: Québec City, Québec
Step into the heart of French Canada as you explore the enchanting streets of Québec City. Marvel at the iconic Château Frontenac, visit the historic Plains of Abraham, or stroll through the artisanal shops and cafés of Petit-Champlain.
Day 4: Cruising the Saguenay Fjords
Experience the awe-inspiring beauty of the Saguenay Fjords, where towering cliffs meet deep blue waters. Keep your eyes peeled for whales as you sail through this remarkable region, renowned for its marine wildlife and dramatic landscapes.
Day 5: Scenic Sailing on the Gulf of St. Lawrence
Enjoy a tranquil day at sea on the sparkling waters of the Gulf of Saint Lawrence, where the rhythm of the water and the expansive views offer a chance to relax and recharge. Take in the serene beauty of the open water as you sail toward Prince Edward Island.
Day 6: Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island
Arrive in Charlottetown, the charming capital of Prince Edward Island. Explore the historic sites tied to Canada’s founding, stroll along Victoria Row, and enjoy the island’s famed red-sand beaches. Don’t miss a taste of the region’s fresh lobster and mussels.
Day 7: Scenic Sailing through the Strait of Canso
Sail through the Strait of Canso, a narrow channel that separates mainland Nova Scotia from Cape Breton Island. Admire the scenic coastline and take in the peaceful ambiance of this picturesque passage.
Day 8: Halifax, Nova Scotia
Halifax combines a rich maritime heritage with a modern cultural scene. Walk along the bustling waterfront, visit the Maritime Museum of the Atlantic, or take in panoramic views from the historic Citadel Hill. Halifax’s friendly atmosphere makes it a memorable stop.
Day 9: Scenic Sailing on the Atlantic Ocean
As you sail toward New England, enjoy a leisurely day at sea on the vibrant Atlantic Ocean. Reflect on your journey, partake in onboard activities, or simply relax and watch the horizon stretch endlessly ahead.
Day 10: Portland, Maine - Disembark
Conclude your journey in the charming coastal city of Portland. Wander the cobblestone streets of the Old Port, explore the Portland Head Light—one of the most photographed lighthouses in the world—or savor fresh Maine seafood as you bid farewell to your voyage.
