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Fly to Toronto
Today, you’ll board a flight to Toronto. If you purchased airfare from Vantage, a Vantage representative will meet you at the airport to assist with transfers to your hotel. Following check-in, you’ll have the evening to relax and enjoy dinner on your own.
Toronto at your leisure
Enjoy breakfast at your hotel this morning, then maximize your time in Toronto with a day at leisure to explore this city however you wish. Lunch and dinner today are on your own.
Destination Enhancement: Customize your journey when you add an optional excursion. On this optional tour, you’ll visit two of Toronto’s iconic landmarks: the CN Tower and the Hockey Hall of Fame. Learn More
Included meals:
On this optional tour, you’ll pay a visit to two of Montréal’s most iconic sites: the CN Tower and the Hockey Hall of Fame. First you’ll head to the CN Tower, where you will board a high-speed elevator to the Main Observation Level, located 1,136 feet above the city. Step off the elevators and find yourself surrounded by 360-degree views of the Toronto skyline. The floor-to-ceiling window walls give guests the chance to see the full sweep of the city below, the perfect setting for taking photos and making memories. Next, you’ll head to the Hockey Hall of Fame, a museum dedicated to the history of ice hockey. Onsite exhibits provide visitors with insight about famous NHL players and teams, league records, memorabilia, and NHL trophies, including the Stanley Cup.
Due to high call volume, we recommend you visit MyPortfolio to book this Destination Enhancement. Don’t wait — these optional experiences are limited to a select number of guests and are selling out fast!
Tour panoramic Toronto, then embark the Ocean Explorer
Start the day with breakfast at your hotel, then head out for a panoramic tour of Toronto. You’ll see this wonderful metropolis and its skyline in full view as we drive by Toronto City Hall, the Eaton Center, and more, before visiting the pedestrian-only Distillery Historic District.
Following your tour, you'll embark the luxurious Ocean Explorer. Settle into your comfortable stateroom, then get acquainted with your 5-star small ship. Tonight, join your fellow travelers for the first of many exquisite dinners on board.
Included Feature:
Tour the riverfront city of Kingston today
Today we'll explore Kingston, known as the "Limestone City" for its historic architecture and charm. You'll experience this city in the best way, via a hop-on/hop-off narrated coach tour. The included stops will offer a look at all of the city's most well-known visitor destinations, including the Canadian Penitentiary Museum, Queen’s University's Agnes Etherington Art Centre, Pumphouse Museum, Bellevue House, Kingston City Hall, and Market Square. Later we'll visit the downtown shopping area for a brief stroll and finish our tour at Fort Henry. Fort Henry is a 19th century British military base complete with period equipment, museum, and even garrison parades. There will be an interactive tour and lunch at the fort before returning to the ship.
Please note: Some attractions may not be open and available to visit. In that case, the itinerary and attractions for this day will vary.
Scenic sailing through the Thousand Islands
The Thousand Islands region is one of northeastern Canada’s most beautiful destinations. You’ll enjoy a relaxing day on board as we make our way through the wide open waters of Lake Ontario and the meandering channels of the St. Lawrence River. Head to the upper level sundeck, or the sumptuous Observation Lounge, and take in the unbeatable panoramic views.
Onboard Enhancement: Customize your journey when you add an optional onboard experience. Enhance your time on board with one of our Vantage-exclusive activities, including wine and whiskey tastings, a multicourse Chef’s Table Dinner, or an exclusive wine-pairing dinner. Learn More
Tour Montréal’s highlights today
Today, you’ll enjoy breakfast on board then set out to explore Montréal. This remarkable city, situated on an island in the St. Lawrence River, is a UNESCO City of Design (one of only a few in the world). Home to more than 50 national historic sites, it boasts a lively downtown arts and cultural scene. You’ll have the opportunity to view many of its gems, including historic Old Montréal’s stunning architecture, and the magnificent neo-Gothic Notre Dame Basilica.
Uncover Québec City’s French heritage
You’ll set out to discover Québec’s Upper and Lower Towns on an included half-day tour today. In the shadow of the palatial Fairmont Le Château Frontenac, you’ll enjoy sweeping views of the Saint Lawrence River and the surrounding Laurentian Mountains from the Dufferin Terrace. Admire the 18th-century stone architecture of the Place Royale in Old Town, home to the oldest Catholic church in North America, and see the Plains of Abraham, where the French surrendered to the British in 1759. Finally, you’ll gaze upon impressive vistas from Cap Diamant, before returning to the ship. The remainder of the day will be at your leisure to spend as you wish. Your onboard Destination Manager can assist with suggestions and reservations to make the most of your time here.
Enjoy a day at leisure in Québec
Québec’s interesting history and multitude of attractions, as well as its welcoming vibe, make this city a stand-out destination for visitors. You’ll have the day to yourself to discover more of this enchanting city at your leisure.
Destination Enhancement: Customize your journey when you add an optional excursion. Spend time in breathtaking Montmorency Falls and lovely Sainte-Anne-de-Beaupré. Learn More
Located just a few minutes from downtown Québec City, you’ll find beautiful Montmorency Falls. This towering waterfall, situated at the mouth of the Montmorency River, surpasses legendary Niagara Falls by over 90 feet. You’ll have the opportunity to visit this spectacular site and take in the awe-inspiring views from the suspension bridge hovering over the crest of the falls. Your optional tour will continue on to the picturesque town of Sainte-Anne-de-Beaupré. Set along the banks of the Saint Lawrence River, this lovely destination is home to the Basilica of Sainte-Anne-de-Beaupré. This incredible shrine honoring Saint Anne was constructed in 1926, on the site of the original 1658 shrine. Its breathtaking interior, designed by Canadian sculptor Joseph-Émile Brunet, depicts 52 religious subjects reflecting the life of Jesus. Brunet also sculpted 14 "Stations of the Cross" lining the walls of the cathedral, with a stone statues of Saint Anne at the entrance of the cathedral.
See Saguenay Fjord and the best of Baie-Comeau
While you enjoy breakfast on board this morning, keep an eye out for whales and dolphins as we cruise through Saguenay Fjord National Park on our way to the charming city of Baie-Comeau. Founded in the early 20th century, Baie-Comeau is located on the shores of the peaceful St. Lawrence River. Primarily known as a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, active visitors will find many watersport opportunities, beautiful hiking trails, paved cycling paths, and scenic beaches. Today’s included tour will touch on a few of the city’s most interesting sites, including the Ha! Ha! Pyramid. This permanent art installation, named after the nearby Ha! Ha! River, commemorates the Saguenay flood of 1996. The exterior of the almost 70-ft-tall structure is entirely constructed of 3,000 triangular “yield” road signs. Inside you’ll find a staircase that leads to a viewing platform overlooking the river. We’ll also pay a visit to La Petite Maison Blanche (The Little White House). Constructed in 1890, it was once a private residence owned by Jeanne d'Arc Lavoie-Genest. Today, the house is a museum that tells the story of how this modest building survived two major floods in the 20th century, and the interior of the house is laid out in a way that pays homage to the original architecture. Spread out over three floors, exhibits include models depicting the surrounding area prior to the devastation of the 1996 flood, educational videos, and a collection of art and antiques.
Scenic cruising in the Gulf of St. Lawrence
Today, you’ll get to take in the breathtaking views as we round the Gaspé Peninsula where the St. Lawrence River opens up to the Gulf of St. Lawrence. You’ll have a day of leisure on board to relax and relish in your ship’s 5-star amenities. Perhaps you’ll join a morning workout class, or lounge on the sun deck. You could enjoy a facial at the spa, meet friends in the lounge for a game of bridge, attend an engaging lecture, or simply soak in the hot tub with the cocktail of the day — the choice is yours!
Scenic Sailing:
Culture, heritage, and beauty in the Magdalen Islands
Arrive this morning in the Magdalen Islands, a pristine archipelago of red cliffs and dunes in the Gulf of St. Lawrence. You’ll visit the Fumoir d’Antan, where you’ll witness the enduring tradition of smoking herring. You can even have a sample if you wish. At the Dune du Sud, walk a scenic beach overlooked by dramatic red sandstone cliffs. Conclude your rewarding tour in La Grave, a picturesque fishing and yachting harbor. This haven for artists and craftspeople is teeming with maritime flavor. You’ll also stop by the Atelier Côtier, where local sand from the beaches is transformed into remarkable sculptures.
Cultural Discovery:
Welcome to the village of Baddeck
Stretching along the picturesque shores of UNESCO-designated Bras d’Or Lake, the vibrant village of Baddeck is a quaint destination known for its rocky cliffs, magnificent trails, and stunning coastline. It is also known as the home of one of the world's most important inventors: Alexander Graham Bell. Although an innovator in the fields of aeronautics, hydrofoils, and wireless communications, Bell is best known as the inventor of the modern telephone. Visitors to Baddeck can explore the world’s largest collection of this famous inventor’s mementos, photos, and models at the Alexander Graham Bell National Historic Site. This picturesque site also features several ornamental gardens and visitors can take home a part of this story with seeds from the museum gift shop to plant their own garden of inspiration. Your half-day tour today will highlight the village’s best sights. You’ll have time to explore further on your own following your tour, or return to the ship for an afternoon of leisure before dinner on board.
Explore historic Louisbourg, Nova Scotia
Founded in 1713, the town of Louisbourg — once a bustling 18th-century French fortification — is now a vital coastal community where land and sea connect to make an utterly unique destination, which you’ll be able to discover for yourself on today’s half-day tour. Located just east of Sydney, and situated on storied Cape Breton Island, Louisbourg is embraced by history. Visitors will discover a portal to the past where they can step back into 18th-century colonial France. The crown jewel of this community is the Fortress of Louisbourg National Historic Site, a one-quarter-scale reproduction of the original fortress that once stood in its spot.
Another of Louisbourg’s interesting sites is the Lighthouse Trail. This trail along the rugged Atlantic coastline is home to Canada’s first lighthouse, built in 1734. Reconstructed nearly 100 years ago, the red-and-white lighthouse stands on Lighthouse Point, a perfect spot to stop and admire the natural beauty of the Atlantic Ocean, and the local flora and fauna. Louisbourg is not just a place with amazing historic sites and natural beauty. Its charming downtown district will reward visitors with unique dining experiences, local history museums, and exceptional shopping opportunities.
Please note: While some sights in the Magdalen Islands may not open daily and others are only open seasonally, we will make every effort to visit all important sights during your tour. Tour buses can be quite scarce on the island and often not available during our visits. If this is the case, a school bus will be used for transportation instead.
Get to know Halifax, Nova Scotia
The city of Halifax, Nova Scotia, has a long and interesting history, dating back several centuries. Once home to the First Nations Mi’kmaq people, Nova Scotia’s capital town was founded by Great Britain in the mid-18th century. Nowadays, this beautiful city prides itself on its eclectic waterfront district, the most visited destination in all of Nova Scotia. The city’s historic sites include Fairview Lawn Cemetery, where visitors can hear the compelling tale of how 121 victims of the RMS Titanic disaster were recovered and buried here. Its picturesque Citadel, a star-shaped fortress, was constructed in 1856 to defend the city from invading forces. The current residents of this unique building are the 87th Highlander Regiment, which regularly performs reenactments inside the square. The Art Gallery of Nova Scotia features a fine Italianate façade, and houses a rich collection of regional, national, and international art. You'll visit some of the area’s iconic sites on today’s illuminating half-day tour, then have the afternoon free to continue exploring on your own. Or, return to the ship for another fascinating lecture on board.
Relax on board with a day at sea
Today you will spend the day at sea, enjoying all of the Ocean Explorer’s onboard amenities. Relax with your favorite movie or book, soak in the top-deck hot tubs, enjoy a drink in the panoramic Observation Lounge, or try a new dining experience at the hot rock-cooking restaurant.
Say farewell to the Ocean Explorer and hello to Boston
Following breakfast on board, you’ll disembark the Ocean Explorer in Gloucester and make your way to Boston, enjoying a panoramic tour of the city’s highlights. Boston, the birthplace of the nation, is steeped in history. Major sites include Back Bay with the lovely Trinity Church, Boston Public Library, Boston Common, the historic brick-lined lanes of Beacon Hill, Harvard Yard, and the Italian North End with its renowned Old North Church from where Paul Revere hung the tell-tale lanterns. After your tour, you’ll check into your comfortably appointed hotel and enjoy the remainder of the day at your leisure. Lunch and dinner today are on your own.
Explore Boston at your leisure
Following breakfast at your hotel, you’ll have a full day at leisure to explore Boston on your own today.
Destination Enhancement: Customize your journey when you add an optional excursion. Discover Lexington and Concord, the battleground where the “shot heard round the world” officially triggered the American Revolution. Learn More
Follow the trail of the nation’s first patriots during an optional tour to Lexington and Concord. You’ll learn how these former farming communities played a pivotal role in the early days of the American Revolution. Visit Lexington Green, where Paul Revere made his midnight ride to warn the minutemen that the British were coming and where the “shot heard ‘round the world” was fired. Stop at the Old North Bridge, and then get a glimpse of the region’s literary past when you drive by the homes of Nathaniel Hawthorne, Louisa May Alcott, and Ralph Waldo Emerson.
Return home today
Today, you’ll check out of your Boston hotel and head to the airport for your return flight home.
Please Note: Ocean cruising is not the same experience as river cruising; as such, you may experience fluctuating tides and weather patterns that may involve some rocking of your vessel. Itineraries will include all activities as planned except in extreme cases that can’t be controlled by your shipboard crew. Day-by-day itineraries are preliminary and therefore subject to change. If changes occur while on tour, you will be notified by your Cruise Director or regional expert.
