Day 1 - Depart Boston aboard Holland America's ms Maasdam
This afternoon, you will board the luxurious ms Maasdam for a Canada and New England cruise experience that will be as enchanting and elegant as the destinations themselves are varied and thrilling. With an exciting cruise itinerary you will visit five ports, including Quebec, and enjoy plenty of scenic cruising as you explore the coasts of New England and Canada. Indulge on local lobster and clam chowder while learning about the rich culture of the Northeast, as deep blue waters take you from Bar Harbor, Maine, to Montreal.
Soaring three-deck-high atrium featuring a monumental glass sculpture by Luciano Vistosi of Italy is just one of the magnificent elements waiting for you onboard ms Maasdam. In the tiered grand Rotterdam Dining Room guests overlook an antique marble fountain from Argentina, and beyond - the sea. Grandly proportioned, ms Maasdam is among the most spacious cruise ships at sea. Designed to provide more space for fewer guests than other ships in her class, ms Maasdam ensures you a more comfortable and intimate onboard experience.
Moderate: Overnight ms Maasdam in an Inside Cabin (J class)
Superior: Overnight ms Maasdam in an Outside Cabin (D class)
Deluxe: Overnight ms Maasdam in an Outside Cabin with Veranda (A class)
Day 2 - Bar Harbour, Maine
On this gorgeous island you can have the quintessential New England tourist experience with a walk on the beach followed by a dinner of fresh lobster and homemade ice cream. Or explore the fir-lined, glacier-carved beauty of Acadia National Park and understand at once why this place was originally called Eden. Sample Shore Excursions (not included): Acadia National Park & Carriage Ride Cadillac Mountain and Jordan Pond House with Lunch.
Moderate: Overnight ms Maasdam in an Inside Cabin (J class)
Superior: Overnight ms Maasdam in an Outside Cabin (D class)
Deluxe: Overnight ms Maasdam in an Outside Cabin with Veranda (A class)
Day 3 - Halifax, Nova Scotia
This thriving, picturesque city is one of the great North American seaports. Watch the changing of the guard at a citadel built by the British to fend off an attack from the fledgling US. Visit a first-rate maritime museum which includes an exhibit on the Titanic. Or hike to the lighthouse and unbeatable ocean views in car-free Point Pleasant Park. Sample Shore Excursions (not included): Peggy's Cove Lighthouse & Lobster Lunch Soldier for a Day Interactive Tour.
Moderate: Overnight ms Maasdam in an Inside Cabin (J class)
Superior: Overnight ms Maasdam in an Outside Cabin (D class)
Deluxe: Overnight ms Maasdam in an Outside Cabin with Veranda (A class)
Day 4 - Sydney, Nova Scotia
Adventure awaits on Cape Breton Island, once a refuge for British loyalists. Wander the narrow lanes of the old French village of Louisbourg. Explore the hands-on exhibits at the Alexander Graham Bell National Historic Site. Or beeline to hiking, biking and kayaking in Cape Breton Highlands National Park, perched on a craggy plateau above the Atlantic and the Gulf of St. Lawrence. Sample Shore Excursions (not included): A Guided Walk in Old Sydney Town Fortress of Louisbourg National Historic Park.
Moderate: Overnight ms Maasdam in an Inside Cabin (J class)
Superior: Overnight ms Maasdam in an Outside Cabin (D class)
Deluxe: Overnight ms Maasdam in an Outside Cabin with Veranda (A class)
Day 5 - Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island
Street actors reenact the events leading to the creation of the Canadian confederacy, which was born in this charming town. You can cast your vote for seafood, shopping or a walk through Victorian streets. If you love 'Anne of Green Gables', the picturesque farm that inspired the tale is nearby. Sample Shore Excursions (not included): Island Drive & Anne of Green Gables Biking the Confederation Trail.
Moderate: Overnight ms Maasdam in an Inside Cabin (J class)
Superior: Overnight ms Maasdam in an Outside Cabin (D class)
Deluxe: Overnight ms Maasdam in an Outside Cabin with Veranda (A class)
Day 6 - Saguenay Fjord, Scenic Cruising
Thread 62 miles of spectacular Precambrian cliffs that jut dramatically from a dark mix of freshwater and sea that is home to a rich diversity of wildlife including small, white beluga whales. Quebec City marks the start of Saguenay Fjord. This 200-mile natural canal brings saltwater from the Atlantic Ocean inland and creates a beautiful environment for waterfront living for the communities of the St. Lawrence Seaway.
Moderate: Overnight ms Maasdam in an Inside Cabin (J class)
Superior: Overnight ms Maasdam in an Outside Cabin (D class)
Deluxe: Overnight ms Maasdam in an Outside Cabin with Veranda (A class)
Day 7 - Quebec City, Quebec
The only walled city north of Mexico, whose entire, marvelous Old Town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Feast on wild game, delight in boutiques and stroll cobblestones to high tea at the monumental Chateau Frontenac. The Musée d'Art Inuit Brousseau houses masterful carvings by Native Canadians. Sample Shore Excursions (not included): St. Lawrence Grand Tour with Lunch Quebec City Walking Tour with Tea at the Chateau Frontenac.
Moderate: Overnight ms Maasdam in an Inside Cabin (J class)
Superior: Overnight ms Maasdam in an Outside Cabin (D class)
Deluxe: Overnight ms Maasdam in an Outside Cabin with Veranda (A class)
Day 8 - Arrive Montreal / Guided Montreal Tram Tour
This morning you will arrive in Montreal will you disembark the ms Maasdam and transfer by private sedan to your hotel. At the hotel, you will store your luggage with the bell desk and depart on a 3 hour morning city tour while you wait for your hotel check-in time.
Greater Montreal Tram Tour
Experience the best of Montreal on an exciting 3 hour sightseeing tour. A complete tour of the City, taking in over 200 points of interest, including a stop at the Notre Dame Basilica, St. Joseph's Oratory (photo stop), residential and financial districts, Old Montreal (photo stop), French Quarter, outside view of Olympic Site (photo stop), McGill University and a panoramic view from an observation point on top of Mt. Royal. Discover Montreal through hundreds of places of interest with an uninterrupted commentary by a friendly, knowledgeable & bilingual guide.
Moderate: Overnight Delta Centre-Ville
Superior: Overnight Fairmont Queen Elizabeth Hotel - Fairmont room
Deluxe: Overnight Fairmont Queen Elizabeth Hotel - Fairmont Gold (includes deluxe continental breakfast and afternoon hors d'oeuvres)
Day 9 - VIA Rail - Montreal to Toronto
This morning you will transfer (on own) from your hotel to the VIA Rail station. Upon arrival at the train station, go straight to the Panorama lounge which is reserved for VIA 1 passengers. You'll be able to unwind as you wait for departure. The day's newspapers, coffee and juice will be yours to enjoy, free of charge. You will depart Montreal and travel to downtown Toronto, Canada's largest and most vibrant city. Travel in total comfort and ease and forget the hassles of driving. You will travel in VIA 1 class which offers you a delicious meal and exclusive access to the VIA 1 lounge in the service-car. Upon arrival in Toronto transfer (on own) to your hotel. The remainder of the day is at leisure for you to start exploring this world class destination.
Moderate: Overnight Courtyard by Marriott Downtown Toronto
Superior: Overnight Fairmont Royal York Hotel - Fairmont room
Deluxe: Overnight Fairmont Royal York Hotel - Fairmont Gold (includes deluxe continental breakfast and afternoon hors d'oeuvres)
Day 10 - Toronto City Tour / Lunch at the CN Tower
Today you will embark on a 2 hour guided tour of the city. Your fully commentated tour highlights include the Eaton Centre, Chinatown, CN Tower, and Old and New City Halls with the opportunity for pictures along the way. At the end of the tour, you will be dropped off at the CN Tower.
Lunch at the CN Tower
Defining the Toronto skyline, the CN Tower is Canada's most recognizable and celebrated icon. At a height of 553.33m (1,815 ft., 5 inches), it is the World's Tallest Building. This afternoon you will dine at the 360 Restaurant, acclaimed for its exquisite cuisine, service and selection of over 400 International and Canadian wines. You will enjoy a panoramic tour of the city as the restaurant completes one revolution in 72-minutes. Your lunch consists of a choice of appetizer & main course, dessert of the day and tea/coffee. After your meal, you can explore the Lookout & Glass Floor levels at leisure and make your own way back to your hotel.
Moderate: Overnight Courtyard by Marriott Downtown Toronto
Superior: Overnight Fairmont Royal York Hotel - Fairmont room
Deluxe: Overnight Fairmont Royal York Hotel - Fairmont Gold (includes deluxe continental breakfast and afternoon hors d'oeuvres)
Day 11 & 12 - VIA Rail - Toronto to Jasper
In the early morning you will transfer (on own) to the train station to begin your train adventure across Canada. In the morning VIA Rail's Canadian train rolls out of the Toronto station. Your journey will take 2 nights as you cross the lake country and prairies of central Canada. Enjoy private bedroom accommodation, meals in the private dining car and relax in the 'Silver & Blue Lounge' or Dome car.
OPTIONAL UPGRADE:
Romance by Rail Suite - For the ultimate in luxury, you may decided to upgrade to a Romance by Rail suite aboard VIA Rail's 'Canadian'. Enjoy a dream voyage in the intimacy of a private suite. You will be spoiled by: fresh flowers, chocolates on the pillow, top-quality sparkling wine as the train leaves! Your spacious suite, comprising two converted regular bedrooms, will be the envy of other passengers. Crisp bed linen and an inviting down duvet await you. And if you have a quick word with your attendant before retiring, he will bring you breakfast in bed! Romance by Rails has been designed just for you and your 'significant other'.
Moderate: Overnight VIA Rail in a Private Bedroom
Superior: Overnight VIA Rail in a Private Bedroom
Deluxe: Overnight VIA Rail in a Private Bedroom
Day 13 - Arrive Jasper
Your journey will reach the Canadian Rockies by mid-afternoon today. You will arrive at the train station in the quaint mountain village of Jasper, the northern gateway to the Canadian Rockies. Upon arrival in Jasper, you will transfer (on own) to your hotel for check-in.
Moderate: Overnight Amethyst Lodge
Superior: Overnight Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge - Fairmont room
Deluxe: Overnight Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge - Lake view Junior Suite
Day 14 - Maligne Lake Cruise or Walk
This morning you will embark on a tour of one of the most spectacular areas of Jasper National Park. The first stop will be at Maligne Canyon where 10,000 years of erosion have created a 165-foot deep gorge. Set off on a short walk to marvel at the Maligne River as it thunders through the canyon in a series of waterfalls. From the canyon continue to the 'mysteriously' disappearing Medicine Lake and then to Maligne Lake for a 90-minute interpretative boat cruise bound for the world-renowned Spirit Island bring your camera, as this truly is a picture postcard setting. After the boat cruise, relax and soak up the sights or enjoy a tasty treat at the Lake Chalet. Alternatively, those who would prefer to go for walk rather than take the cruise can enjoy a guided 75-minute walk along the shoreline trail of Maligne Lake.
Note: Maligne Lake Walk is available from May 1 - October 31 & the Maligne Lake Cruise is available from June 1 - October 10.
Moderate: Overnight Amethyst Lodge
Superior: Overnight Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge - Fairmont room
Deluxe: Overnight Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge - Lake view Junior Suite
Day 15 - Jasper to Banff Tour
Enjoy a narrated tour from Jasper through the 'heart' of the Canadian Rockies to Banff along the Icefields Parkway. You will be inspired by rushing waterfalls, crystal-clear rivers, emerald lakes, alpine meadows and snow-capped peaks create an ever-changing montage of mountain wilderness. This tour along the Icefields Parkway takes you through Jasper and Banff National Parks, stopping at the Columbia Icefield. Included in your package is the 'Ice Age Adventure', a tour onto the icy slopes of the Athabasca Glacier. You will travel in a specially designed Ice Explorer to the middle of the glacier, on a 5-kilometre round- trip journey. Your driver-guide will explain how glaciers are formed and point out interesting geological features as you travel in comfort and safety. The trip affords many opportunities to see mountain wildlife and photograph the spectacular views. Late afternoon you will arrive in Banff.
Note: Ice Age Adventure operates from April 15 - October 15, weather permitting. When the Snocoach is not running, the tour will be reduced by approximately 1 1/2 hours
Moderate: Overnight Charlton's Cedar Court
Superior: Overnight Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel - Fairmont room
Deluxe: Overnight Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel - Junior Suite
Day 16 - Discover Banff Tour
This morning's tour takes you through the town of Banff and the surrounding area. You'll ascend Tunnel Mountain Drive to view the beautiful town of Banff and visit the Cave and Basin National Historic Site where a natural hot springs led to the creation of Canada's first National Park in 1885. Take a mid-morning stroll along Lake Minnewanka or ' Lake of the Spirits' to refresh yourself prior to your final stop at Banff Gondola, where you will take a spectacular 8-minute gondola ride to the summit of Sulphur Mountain. From this vantage point at the summit, you will enjoy amazing panoramic views of Banff town site and the surrounding peaks of the Bow Valley. Enjoy the summit and take any regular shuttle back to your hotel at their leisure. Remainder of the day is yours to explore the town site and visit the many museums, art galleries, & boutiques.
OPTIONAL AFTERNOON TOUR:
Lake Louise & Moraine Lake Tour - The morning is at leisure to explore Banff on your own. The afternoon your sightseeing tour will visit the “Jewel of the Canadian Rockies," Lake Louise & the world renowned Moraine Lake. Both are part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site and you will have time to take photos and explore their shorelines. Learn about our mountaineering history and how a tragic accident at Lake Louise shaped Canadian mountain culture. Finally, walk to a viewpoint in the Valley of Ten Peaks overlooking Moraine Lake.
Moderate: Overnight Charlton's Cedar Court
Superior: Overnight Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel - Fairmont room
Deluxe: Overnight Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel - Junior Suite
Day 17 - Banff to Calgary Airport
Today you will depart Banff and transfer by regular scheduled airporter to the Calgary International Airport in time for your flight departure home.
PACKAGE INCLUDES:
- 7 night Holland America cruise aboard the ms Maasdam including onboard meals & entertainment, taxes and port charges
- 2 nights bedroom accommodation and meals on VIA Rail
- 7 nights accommodation, room tax and any mandatory service charges
- Greater Montreal Guided Tram Tour
- VIA Rail from Montreal to Toronto in VIA 1 Class including one meal onboard(meal is dependant on time of departure)
- Toronto City Tour
- 1 full course lunch at the revolving restaurant on top of CN Tower, including tower admission and gratuities
- Choice of Activity: Maligne Lake Cruise or Maligne Lake Walk
- Jasper to Banff Tour including a 1 1/2 hour Ice Explorer ride (SUBSTITUTIONS: If the Snocoach is not running, the tour will be reduced by approximately 1 1/2 hours)
- Discover Banff Tour including admission to Cave & Basin
- Sulphur Mountain Gondola
- Coach transfer between Banff to Calgary Airport
- Private sedan transfers between Montreal cruise ship terminal & hotel including gratuities
- National Park Entrance Fee
- Personalized documentation package
PACKAGE DOES NOT INCLUDE:
- Shore Excursions
- Alcoholic beverages
- Gratuities not listed as included (including meals & cabin attendants onboard the ms Maasdam)
- Meals not listed as included
- Transfers not listed as included
- Optional activities not listed as included
- Trip Cancellation Insurance (Insurance can be purchased from your Vacation Specialist, ask for more details)