New England, New France & Newfoundland: St. John's

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.

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.

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

Cape Breton is fabled as a magical travel destination and the Port of Sydney is the gateway. Step back into the 18th century while you walk amongst the town's classically inspired buildings and dramatically steepled churches, Sydney is known for its beauty and unique Celtic music and culture - it's also home to the world largest fiddle!

Top Things to Do in Sydney:

• relive history at the Fortress of Louisbourg
• take a road trip along the Cabot Trail
• take in a walking tour of Old Sydney Town or boat ride on Bras d’Or Lake
• tour the museum of Alexander Graham Bell and the scenic village of Baddeck

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.

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.

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.

Halifax is the capital city of Nova Scotia, a Canadian province that borders the Atlantic on the east coast of Canada. Travellers can spend the day exploring the city’s many museums and learning about its rich history. It’s also fun to spend time walking around the waterfront and busy downtown area to take in the sights and sounds that include ship traffic, open-air cafes, tree-lined streets, statues and memorials, and even a waterfront casino.

Sightseers may also want to book a tour that includes a coastal drive to Peggy's Cove, a small community just north of the city that has long been celebrated for its scenic views of the Atlantic.

Eastport, located on the eastern coast of Maine, USA, is the easternmost city in the United States. Known for its stunning coastal scenery and rich maritime heritage, Eastport offers a unique blend of natural beauty and historical charm. The city’s waterfront is dotted with fishing boats and historic buildings, reflecting its long history as a fishing and trading hub.

Visitors can explore the scenic Moose Island, connected to the mainland by a causeway, and enjoy activities such as whale watching, fishing, and kayaking. The Tides Institute & Museum of Art showcases local history and contemporary art, while the annual Eastport Pirate Festival brings the community together for a lively celebration. With its picturesque landscapes and vibrant local culture, Eastport is a captivating destination on the Maine coast.

Portland, Oregon’s largest city, sits on the Columbia and Willamette rivers, in the shadow of snow-capped Mount Hood. It’s known for its parks, bridges and bicycle paths, as well as for its eco-friendliness and its microbreweries and coffeehouses.

Iconic Washington Park encompasses sites from the formal Japanese Garden to Oregon Zoo and its railway. The city hosts thriving art, theater and music scenes.

Nicknamed 'America's Walking City', Boston is considered to be the epicentre of American history. Skyscrapers mingle harmoniously with cobbled streets and the city brims with heritage landmarks and cultural attractions that tell the story of its country's fascinating history. Ships will dock at the Black Falcon Cruise Terminal.

Top Things to Do in Boston:

• walk the Freedom Trail
• visit the Quincy Market
• have a pint at the 'Cheers' bar
• visit Harvard University
• explore the dark past of Salem