Pre-Cruise
Quebec City, QC
Our custom Quebec City Pre-Cruise Package provides you with a seamless way to experience the city and easily board the ship. Arrive the day before your cruise and Pearl Seas Cruises will handle the rest.
This convenient package includes a 1-night stay at a the luxurious La Chateau Frontenac, with a full breakfast and concierge luggage service. The morning of embarkation, enjoy a narrated exploration of Quebec City. Discover the charm and character of the Old Town as you explore the historic and natural landmarks, including Dufferin Terrace, Château Frontenac, Place -Royale, National Battlefields Park, Grande-Allée, and more. Conclude at the ship in time to begin your amazing journey.
Pre-Cruise Packages must be reserved at least 30 days before your cruise date. Please call (800) 981-9146 for pricing and availability.
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Québec City is nestled beside the majestic St. Lawrence River, where enchanting old stone houses cozy up to great religious institutions built from the same stone. The old city is a sheer delight for history buffs with a diversity of architectural styles reminiscent of those in England and France. Walk along the streets of Old Québec, and enjoy the magnificent churches, fragrant gardens, and chic boutiques.
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The villages along the Saguenay Fjord can be reached by road, but the best way to experience this magnificent waterway is by boat. One of the most popular whale watching spots is where the St. Lawrence River meets the Saguenay Fjord. The thriving natural conditions here support a permanent colony of a thousand or more whales. Beautiful views of the length of the fjord are found at Cap Trinite, a cliff that rises above the channel with a 33-foot statue of the Virgin Mary surveying the scenery from the lowest ledge.
The Best of Saguenay
Enjoy the best the Saguenay region has to offer. Begin with a scenic drive through La Baie, where you will discover the importance of the Saguenay Fjord, deeply chiseled in the Laurentian Mountain, to the development of this area. Pass the Ha! Ha! Pyramid, a monument to the great flood of 1996 that devastated the region and proved to be one of Canada’s greatest natural disasters. Stop at Arthur Villeneuve’s Place, located in the historic paper mill and view the impressive frescoes created by this local barber-painter that cover almost every square inch of his home. Conclude at Le Chevrier du Nord (goat farm), a small family business that produces goat mohair wool.
Fjord Museum Shuttle
Board this convenient shuttle to the Fjord Museum for self-exploration. This multiple award-winning museum is renowned for its in-depth information on the creation of the fjord and its mysteries with fascinating exhibits.
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Located in the Manicouagana Peninsula on the St. Lawrence Estuary, Baie-Comeau is rich in sandy beaches with picturesque views of the archipelago of islands that are inhabited by harbor seals and various species of seabirds. Explore its natural wonders and fall in love with the magnificent backdrop of clear waters and the wild beauty of boreal forests.
The Treasures of Baie-Comeau
Learn about the rich religious and cultural heritage, as well as the strong character of the hearty souls living in this remote paradise. The journey starts at a forest interpretation center known as Village Forestier d’Antan, a typical lumberjack village. Typical buildings, period objects, and old photographs demonstrate a lumberjack’s living conditions and way of life of this period. Taste a sample of a typical lumberjack meal. Do you know that a lumberjack meal turned around 2000 calories at that time?
Visit the town’s famous hotel, Manoir Baie-Comeau, a hotel with all the charm of an old French colonial manor. Enjoy tea and cake on the terrace which is open to spectacular views of the St. Lawrence River. Travel to Saint-Amelie Church for a guided exploration of the church's magnificent fresco paintings, stained glass windows, and pink granite of Quebec’s North Shore. Finally, there will be a short exploration of Baie-Comeau’s heritage area, including Place La Salle, a quaint commercial artery, with sites of historical interest, as well as souvenir shops, art galleries, and fine restaurants.
Gaspe Shuttle
Board this convenient shuttle and explore downtown Gaspe on your own. Shop at the unique local shops and taste the local flavor at area restaurants.
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Day
4
Gaspé, QC / Percé, QC
The deep water port of Gaspé is notable for having been the first stop of Jacques Cartier to claim the land for France which is why it is often referred to as the “Birthplace of Canada.” The town is proud to have a magnificent stretch of water in Gaspé Bay, which is considered to be the second largest natural bay in the world. Visit the picturesque Percé, a charming village which also borders Percé Rock, the dominant natural feature of the area.
Gaspé Forillon National Park Exploration
Discover the scenic town of Gaspé, its surroundings, and the magnificent Forillon National Park. Gaspé is associated with the beginning of western history in North America and is unique, with nearly 93 miles of coastline exposed to the sea. Explore Forillon National Park, which was declared a Canadian National Park in order to preserve the wild beauty of its coast. The landscape reveals various geological formations and phenomena up to 450 million years old and covers a large area carved out of the sea, cliffs, and mountains. The presence of ten different rock formations, colonies of seabirds, and enigmatic artic-alpine plants give this park its unique character. Other onsite attractions include Fort Peninsula, an old lookout and vestige to the Second World War, and Cap-Des-Rosiers Lighthouse, erected in 1858, it is one of the tallest beacons built by the Canadian Coast Guard in Québec.
Coastal Journey to Percé with Guided Walking Exploration
This walking exploration through the heart of one of the most beautiful villages in the province of Québec will highlight its magnificent buildings and the area’s rich history. Percé was once one of the most important fishing centers for the Jersey-based company of Charles Robin. It is the oldest judicial district in Gaspé County and a tranquil source of inspiration for internationally renowned artists. The excursion begins in the Charles Robin sector near the wharf and continues to Saint-Michel Church, a villagers’ site of worship for over 100 years. Travel down Saint-Michel Street towards Mont-Joli, showcasing sumptuous summer homes and breathtaking view of Percé Rock.
Gaspé Shuttle
Board this convenient shuttle and explore downtown Gaspé on your own. Peruse local boutiques and restaurants in this picturesque waterfront town.
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Day
5
Îles de la Madeleine, QC
Spend the day in this remote archipelago on some of the most spectacular secluded beaches in North America. Located in the geographical center of the Gulf of St. Lawrence, the Isles are made up of about a dozen islands, six of which are linked by sand dunes. Highlights of the area include beautiful red cliffs, rolling hills, 180 miles of honey-colored sand, and the brightly colored fishermen’s houses which dot the landscape.
The Magdalen Islands Culture and Heritage Excursion
Discover the beauty of the Magdalen Islands on this guided excursion to some of the best sites and attractions that Madeleine has to offer. Stop at Havre aux Maisons, an area with many examples of traditional local architecture. Featured are simple houses and barns painted in a variety of bright colors, influenced by the Acadian, French, and New England origins of many of the Islanders. Visit the extraordinary South Dune Beach where you can walk through its amazing red sandstone underground caves that have been sculpted by the sea. Visit Fumoir d’Antan, a typical smokehouse, which brings to life this last vestige of what was once a very important industry. Enjoy free time to walk on La Grave and peruse several arts and crafts boutiques, as well as the famous Café de la Grave.
A Taste of Magdalen Island
During the excursion, discover the beauty of the Magdalen Islands as you visit a variety of sights and attractions. Travel through the villages of Cap aux Meules, Fatima, Étang du Nord, Havre Aubert, and Havre aux Maisons, with several stops. Explore the Îles de la Madeleine Archipelago, an exotic miniature paradise featuring a treasure trove of tasty, tempting locally produced foods, and where the warmth and generosity of the inhabitants are legendary. During the Flavours Circuit, meet with several local producers and discover the passion and love that they have for their work, including the Pied de Vents Cheese Factory and a local apple orchard, the only one located on the archipelago.
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The pastoral Prince Edward Island is known for its world famous lush golf courses and sandy beaches. Explore Green Gables, an old farmhouse immortalized in Lucy Maud Montgomery’s cherished 1908 novel, Anne of Green Gables, high among the list of favorite places to visit. The true architectural jewel of downtown Charlottetown is the majestic St. Dunstan’s Basilica. Adorned by three copper spires visible virtually anywhere in the city, the church adds to the Victorian splendor of the downtown core.
Anne of Green Gables and Island Drive
Green Gables is one of the most notable literary landmarks in Canada. The Green Gables farm and its surroundings are the settings for the popular Anne of Green Gables novels by Lucy Maud Montgomery. Both those who are familiar with the books and who are not will enjoy exploring and learning the history of this circa-19th-century farmhouse. On the way to this National Historic Site, enjoy the beautiful scenery of Prince Edward Island while listening to your knowledgeable tour guide explain the Island’s unique culture and heritage.
Coastal Sights & Scenic Drive to the Confederation Bridge
As you drive through Prince Edward Island, Canada’s smallest and greenest province, admire the beauty of the rolling landscape, picturesque coastline, and quaint villages along the way. Enjoy a scenic photo stop at the Port Borden Front Range Lighthouse built in 1918, where before the arrival of powerful ferries, iceboats were used to transport mail and supplies. It was the light stations like these that mariners relied on for safe passage, especially during winter storms. Drive to the base of the spectacular Confederation Bridge, the world’s longest bridge over ice-covered water. At a cost of more than a billion dollars, the bridge opened in 1997, connecting the provinces of Prince Edward Island and New Brunswick. Enjoy a brief stop at Gateway Village to pick up a special souvenir before travelling back to Charlottetown.
Historic Charlottetown Walking Exploration
Walk along the waterfront and through the heritage district of Charlottetown, giving you a wonderful, historic overview of the province’s capital on this leisurely exploration. Your guide will meet you at the pier where your walking excursion will begin. During your city orientation, you will hear about the founding families and see some of their original homes, typically made of wood, sandstone, or brick. View Province House National Historic Site, where your guide will explain how Canada was formed as the result of a conference held in the building in 1864. That event led to Canada becoming a federation and when Charlottetown became known as the Birthplace of Canada. Your excursion concludes at the Charlottetown’s waterfront, where you may remain in town and do some further exploring on your own or walk back to the pier.
Charlottetown Shuttle
Board this convenient shuttle. Enjoy self-exploration of the Charlottetown Port Area, as well as Great George Street in downtown Charlottetown.
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The Town of Pictou, located on the beautiful Northumberland Shore of Nova Scotia, is renowned as the “Birthplace of New Scotland,” since it was here that the first wave of Scottish immigrants landed in 1773. Led by our local guide, explore Pictou’s 18th-century style homes on tree-lined streets and be welcomed by its warm and charming community.
Made in Nova Scotia
One of Canada’s few comprehensive industrial museums, the Nova Scotia Museum of Industry tells the story the people, places, and machines of Nova Scotia’s industrial past. Here you will find technology, steam engines and locomotives, cars, and coal mining. Find the true meaning of “made in Nova Scotia.” Artifacts big and small, photographs, recordings, video, and hands-on experiences engage you in the story of work and workers. It is not all serious learning; you can get your hands wet feeling the power of water or prove how fast you can move filling chocolate boxes with remarkably lifelike treats as they progress along the assembly line. Better yet, have fun deciding how fast or slow the conveyor belt moves. Push, pull, lift, drop, and laugh as you enjoy acres of exhibits and interactive displays that highlight how technology – and people – worked throughout this province’s history.
Historic Walking Exploration of the Pictou Waterfront
Welcome to the Town of Pictou, located on the beautiful Northumberland Shore of Nova Scotia. Renowned as the "Birthplace of New Scotland," it was here that the first wave of Scottish immigrants landed in 1773. The town of Pictou is the best place to experience old-world charm and culture, as well as present-day hospitality. Explore the world class Hector Heritage Quay and board the full-sized ship Hector replica. As you listen to the creaking timbers of the ship, your guide will offer you a glimpse into the hardships of life two centuries ago.
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Nova Scotia’s capital is a historic community that still shows a striking resemblance to the Halifax of the 1800s when it was a key naval station in the British Empire. The Halifax Citadel, a military bastion that has been standing for over 250 years, was restored and is still active. The Maritime Museum of the Atlantic on the waterfront celebrates the colorful history of Samuel Cunard, a Nova Scotia native who became a Canadian shipping magnate and founded a successful steamship company. A highlight of the city is Spring Garden Road, a lively neighborhood with intriguing boutiques in a subtly Bohemian setting.
Historic Halifax with Titanic Highlights
Discover the historic streets of Halifax as your guide introduces you to one of North America’s most captivating cities. At your first stop, step into the Halifax Public Gardens, a tranquil setting amidst the bustle of commercial Halifax. These gardens encompass 17 acres of lush flowers, duck ponds, sparkling fountains, and Victorian footpaths. Continue your journey to the Fairview Lawn Cemetery, where you will follow your guide on a walk through the grounds as they bring to life the tale of the great ship Titanic and its ill-fated maiden voyage. Discover the true identities of the “unknown child” and J. Dawson, both recovered from the icy waters of the Atlantic Ocean. These stories and more are part of a legacy that continues to fascinate visitors more than a century later. View the Historic Properties, an area on the Halifax waterfront, which is a collection of restored buildings, including stone warehouses built to hold privateers’ booty at the turn of the 18th century. Enjoy a visit to the Maritime Museum of the Atlantic. Located in the heart of Halifax’s waterfront, there is no better place to immerse yourself in Nova Scotia’s rich maritime heritage.
Picture Perfect Peggy's Cove
Today is a journey you will remember all your life, as this excursion takes you through the city of Halifax enroute to the most popular site on the East Coast – Peggy’s Cove. Our voyage begins with breathtaking wooded coastal views along the Lighthouse Route as we make our way to the historic community of Peggy’s Cove. Hear how glaciers and constant pounding from ocean waves have shaped the world-renowned village’s granite shores. See the lighthouse that has been an inspiration for generations of writers, photographers, and painters, and the famous deGarthe Monument, which artisan William deGarthe carved in the coarse stone. Take time to explore the shops and galleries around this working fishing community, before returning along the St. Margaret’s Bay to Halifax.
Historic Halifax Walking Exploration
In a seaport that is overflowing with history and atmosphere, walking is the ideal way to explore the sites and tranquil gardens. Walk with your guide along the historic boardwalk and revitalized city center to discover the area the way it is seen best - on foot. Begin with a leisurely stroll from the pier to downtown Halifax, where you can explore the beautiful Public Gardens. Founded in 1866 and encompassing 17 acres of Victorian paths, lush flowerbeds, and sparkling fountains, these are the oldest Victorian gardens in North America. Enjoy the bustle of Spring Garden Road, lined with boutiques and cafés, as you walk past elegant Georgian and Victorian doorways which help the city retain its historic charm. Stroll through the lovely Grand Parade Square and see the oldest Anglican Church in Canada. Learn the history of Province House and City Hall, overlooked by the picture-perfect Old Town Clock perched on Citadel Hill.
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Lunenburg was the first British Colonial settlement in Nova Scotia and remains one of its most historic and charming villages. Many of the downtown buildings possess a distinctive style with ornamental brackets and towers which complement their brightly painted designs. A growing number of art galleries and crafts shops also make for a rewarding browsing experience. The picturesque Lunenburg waterfront is the home of the world-class Fisheries Museum of the Atlantic, with aquarium exhibits and a replica of Bluenose, Canada’s most- recognized and most-storied ship.
Highlights of Lunenburg and Mahone Bay
Explore the brightly painted cottages and enjoy the salt-scented air of charming Lunenburg on a guided tour of this beautiful region. Lunenburg’s unique flavor and architectural character make it one of the most captivating places in Nova Scotia. View the cheerfully colored buildings on the waterfront that date back to the 18th century and walk the grounds of St. John’s Anglican Church.
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Nestled on the east side of Mt. Desert Island, Bar Harbor has enchanted visitors throughout history with its incredible natural beauty as well as its vibrant downtown village. Its majestic mountains and stunning seascapes have long inspired artists and writers and beckoned many others who come for reflection, relaxation, or outdoor exploration. In the early 20th century, wealthy visionaries donated the area now known as Acadia National Park, recognized for its breathtaking vistas and abundant wildlife.
Acadia National Park Exploration
Acadia National Park encompasses 47,633 acres of granite-domed mountains and ocean shoreline. Enjoy an excursion that features two stops inside the Park: The top of Cadillac Mountain, the highest point on the eastern seaboard at 1500+ ft., and Thunder Hole with a spectacular ocean view. This excursion will take you to the must see places of Acadia, all the while providing you with the stories behind the sights.
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After a refreshing and relaxing week of cruising, enjoy a day exploring the city of Portland. This charming seaside city is located in the heart of Casco Bay and offers something for everyone. Visit one of Portland’s many museums and art galleries or peruse the specialty boutiques in the city’s celebrated Old Port.
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