Day 1: Travel to Albany, NY
Sit back, relax and enjoy the drive through eastern Ontario. We pick up guests along the way as we head for the border and cross into the US at Gananoque. After a lunch stop in Watertown, travel south through lush farmland and forested hills, with picturesque, quaint villages in the valleys. Get to know your fellow travellers during dinner at the hotel.
Stay:
Holiday Inn Express, Albany, NY (1 night)
Meals: D
Day 2: Albany to Boston
This morning the journey continues to Boston. After a short orientation tour of the area, proceed to the cruise terminal to board your home away from home for the next 7 nights. Be sure to check out what’s happening onboard each day, so you don’t miss out on something special.
The Zuiderdam is a classic ship with modern amenities and numerous entertainment activities. Experience BBC Earth in Concert, spoil yourself with a massage at the spa, or visit The Music Walk venues where the best tunes are performed while at sea. Dining, too, has many options. It can be a culinary adventure at the Dining Room, Tamarind, or Pinnacle Grill, or casual and relaxed, poolside at the Dive-In. There’s something for everyone!
Stay: Holland America cruise ship, Category D Outside Cabin (7 nights)
Meals: B, D
Day 3: Rockland, ME (7am - 2pm)
Tender Required, wheelchair access limited
Known as “The Lobster Capital of the World,” Rockland is a mecca for seafood lovers. It is also a treat for folks interested in art, with the Farnsworth Art Museum and the Wyeth Center. While enjoying the charming waterfront, experience the “Rockland Renaissance” at the Maine Lighthouse museum where the spotlight is on American maritime history.
Meals: B, L, D
Day 4: Halifax, NS (8am - 5pm)
Nova Scotia’s provincial capital, has certainly been defined by its maritime geography, and the city has lots to see and do within easy walking distance of the Cruise Ship pier. Holland America offers trips a little further afield to Peggy's Cove, with its picturesque lighthouse on a rocky outcropping and to Lunenburg, whose colourful Old Town is designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site. You can also soak in the charming sights of Mahone Bay, home to artists' studios and a trio of steepled churches.
Meals: B, L, D
Day 5: Sydney, NS (9 am - 7 pm)
Sydney is the largest city on Cape Breton Island and the attractions start at the harbor with the world’s largest fiddle towering beside the port’s cruise pavilion. Some of the city’s historic houses and churches date back to the 1700’s and 1800’s and are open for tours. Day trips offered by Holland America include the Cabot Trail, Boat ride on Bras d’Or Lake, Trip to the Fortress of Louisbourg, Baddeck & the Alexander Graham Bell Museum, and a guided walking tour of Old Sydney.
Meals: B, L, D
Day 6: Charlottetown, PEI (10am-11pm)
Exclusive included Shore Excursion
Despite its modest size, Charlottetown, the capital of Canada’s smallest province has an impressive number of Victorian houses and buildings and great parks waiting to be explored. For Canadians, it is most famous as the Birthplace of Confederation. Today you will enjoy an exclusive shore excursion on PEI with a visit to the PEI Preserve Co., a lobster lunch at Fisherman’s Wharf, and a visit to Green Gables Heritage Place.
Meals: B, L, D
Day 7: Cruising the Gulf of St. Lawrence
Today we sail past reminders of bygone days, when lighthouses were critical for all who sailed. Since Jacques Cartier’s arrival in 1534, the Gulf of the St. Lawrence has been an important gateway for visitors to the New World. This is a perfect day to explore some of the things available aboard ship or just find a nice relaxing place on deck to watch the world go by. You will receive details of the day’s events so you can choose what’s best for you.
Meals:
B, L, D
Day 8: Cruising the St. Lawrence River
As we continue to sail the St. Lawrence River, we’ll be greeted with panoramic views that feature centuries-old fishing villages, lighthouses, imposing cliffs, and fertile inlets. This may be another day to relax and enjoy the passing scenery, or you may want to join in on the events aboard ship.
Meals:
B, L, D
Day 9: Québec City and Montmorency Falls
After breakfast on board the ship, disembark with the group and board the motorcoach. Few places in North America are as steeped in history as Québec City, and this morning, a local guide will provide their insights as we tour the city. Then, a short drive will take us to Montmorency Falls, where incredible views of the falls can be enjoyed from a cable car, and lunch will be enjoyed at the historic Manoir Montmorency overlooking the falls. Your hotel is located in the heart of the Old City, and after you check-in, the remainder of the day is yours to explore and enjoy the city.
Stay:
Hotel Clarendon Québec City (1 night)
Meals:
B, L
Day 10: Sugar Shack Lunch and Homeward
After enjoying breakfast at the hotel, board the coach for the journey home. The farewell lunch at the Sugar Shack will be a good opportunity to bid a fond farewell to the new friends you have met. There are sure to be stories and great memories of your adventures to share and cherish.
Meals:
B, L
