Enjoy your complimentary stay at the pre-cruise hotel. The evening is yours to become acquainted with the city. For your convenience, the Hospitality Desk is located in the hotel, and the friendly staff can assist with everything from general questions about your upcoming voyage to reserving premium experiences. Representatives and the local port/city partner is available to provide you with dining, entertainment, and sightseeing options to maximize your time here. 

Approximately 31 miles long by 10 miles wide, with a 755-foot mountain occupying its center, Montreal was a land mass inhabited by the Iroquois who had lived in Quebec for thousands of years.

When considering metropolitan sophistication, Montreal comes to mind as its geography is as diverse as its population. Some 120-plus cultural communities comprise the city’s multilingual fabric. An included tour showcases attractions that are urban wonders yet steeped in history. Guests also have time to visit museums, boutiques, and galleries. Optional tours take visitors to the Mount Royal Overlook for a birds-eye view of the city, then slip beneath the metropolis to explore Underground City and its many shops, art venues, and bistros. Marvel at ornate edifices like Notre-Dame Basilica of Montreal, which is sculpted, painted, and gilded in gold leaf.

INCLUDED SHORE EXCURSIONS: Montreal Included Tour
Mont Royal Overlook  Travel up Mont Royal, to the most spectacular vantage point of Montreal. From here, enjoy a breathtaking view of Montreal and the St. Lawrence River.     
Montreal Underground  As you travel the city streets of Montreal, you would never guess that beneath the city's surface lies an incredible underground pedestrian network and shopping mall. The Underground is Montreal's answer to the cold winter winds but also provides convenient walkways for pedestrians and amazing shopping opportunities year-round.     
Notre Dame Basilica  View the wonderful stained-glass windows at the Notre Dame Basilica, one of Montreal's most iconic historical buildings. This cathedral of Montreal is the first church of the Gothic Revival style in Canada. Its historical and artistic heritage makes it a significant symbol of Quebec.
 

The historic district of Old Québec (a UNESCO world heritage site since 1985) or what is today know as Québec City transports visitors. Just moments in the sleek gentility of this marvelous destination, and you’ll feel as if you were whisked across the Atlantic for a whirlwind European holiday. The old-world charm of this ramparted enclave sounds a siren’s call to visitors. From a raised mound of earth, Château Frontenac – now a hotel – towers toward the heavens over Upper Town, evoking the grandeur of a country estate. Traces of the city’s English heritage can be seen in the mixed borders of the living artwork within the Joan of Arc Garden.

Perched atop a cliff above the Saint Lawrence River, Queébec City is a destination unlike any other in North America. The only fortified city north of Mexico and the birthplace of French Canada dates to the 17th century. With its rich history, cobblestone streets, historic castles, picturesque architecture, and seductive food and wine scene, it’s easy to appreciate why Québec City draws more than 4.6 million tourists per year. Whether you travel for cultural or historical enrichment, or you prefer to enjoy charcuterie at a charming bistro, aperitif in hand, there’s something for everyone in Québec’s capital city. If you prefer outdoor activities to get your blood pumping, head to the Montmorency River, just outside of town. Atop Montmorency Falls (99 feet higher than Niagara), test your fear of heights by crossing the suspension bridge that hangs over the crest.

INCLUDED SHORE EXCURSIONS: Quebec City Included Tour
The capital city of Canada’s Quebec province is deeply engaged in its history and its unique place in Canadian culture. Most of the city’s population is French speaking. This coupled with its unique architectural styles radiate an air of European atmosphere in North America. During your visit, you explore the beauty of the city in the vibrant landscape of Joan of Arc Gardens. For a glimpse into Quebec City’s rich history, visit the Plains of Abraham where the British and French battled for control of the region and see the stunning architecture of Notre-Dame-des-Victories Church.

Enjoy your day at Sea  – a day to rise with the sun and meet with friends in the restaurant of your choosing over breakfast...or sleep in and order room service. Gather in for snacks and games in one of many intimate venues or take in the view from the Observation deck with your favorite cocktail in hand. This day is yours to craft as you desire. 

Iles de Madeleine or the Magdalen Islands in Quebec are formed by 7 communities each inhabiting an islands, with 6 connected by a main road and the seventh accessible only by boat. While it's claim to fame are the annual birth of baby seals every March along its shores, it also boasts of beautiful coastlines with white-sand beaches and serene views. If an exploration adventure is more your style, seek the expertise of a local guide and explore the islands' red cliffs by sea kayak where caves and arches abound. If cultural pursuits are preferred, then look no further than inland and the local residents, many of whom are artists and artisans whose works are proudly exhibited in the many studios, galleries and boutiques in Iles des Madeleine. Last but not least is the islands intertwined relationship with the sea that surrounds it, from where superb seafood and world-class cuisine that is synonymous to Iles de Madeleine itself.

Charlottetown is the capital and largest city of Canada’s Prince Edward Island. Charlottetown is situated on its namesake harbor, which is formed by the confluence of three rivers in the central part of the island’s south shore. 

Other highlights include the provincial legislature at Province House, which hosted the Charlottetown Conference, as well as Founders Hall, a recently redeveloped railway maintenance building which now houses an interactive trip through history tracing the development of Canada as a nation. Discover the spirit and natural displays that make this inspirational port so special. Soak in the romance and nostalgia of postcard-perfect streetscapes. Wander along a boardwalk where lobster boats and sailboats cozy up. It’s got all the charm and hospitality PEI is famous for, plus ocean-to-table cuisine and an arts and culture scene that seduce visitors. 

Included Shore Excursions:
Charlottetown Included Tour
Beaconsfield Historic House  Walk through one of the most elegant homes on Prince Edward Island. Crafted in 1877, this Victorian home is filled with many of its original features. As you tour the grounds, you get a glimpse into the life of the wealthy business owners of Charlottetown in the 19th century.     
All Souls Chapel  Constructed with Prince Edward Island sandstone, this historic chapel is attached to St. Peter's Cathedral. Step inside to see this architectural masterpiece, erupting with color from the marvelous stained-glass windows featured throughout.     
PEI Regiment Museum  At the Regiment Museum, explore the history and heritage of Prince Edward Island's military forces. Examine the multitude of interpretive displays, featuring over 2000 artifacts, some of which date back over 200 years.     
Confederation Museum of Arts  One hundred years after the historic Charlottetown conference, the Confederation Centre of the Arts was launched. Today, the Centre and surrounding area host a variety of artistic programming including theatrical productions, interactive experiences, and musical events.

Enjoy your day at Sea  – a day to rise with the sun and meet with friends in the restaurant of your choosing over breakfast...or sleep in and order room service. Gather in for snacks and games in one of many intimate venues or take in the view from the Observation deck with your favorite cocktail in hand. This day is yours to craft as you desire. 

Nova Scotia is one of the 13 provinces and territories of Canada. It is one of the three Maritime provinces and one of the four Atlantic provinces. It is also one of few places in the world where you can enjoy bustling city life and coastal relaxation on the same day. Life in its capital of Halifax revolves around the sea and you encounter the profound sense of maritime history that emits from the docks, buildings, and coastal scenery. The Maritime Museum of the Atlantic and the Canadian Museum of Immigration at Pier 21 offer their own perspectives. Guests can drink in the delightful mix of historic and modern in the beating heart of this lively seaport where bustling streets slope down toward indigo brine and oceanic splendor, stretching east into oblivion. 

The fortified summit of Citadel Hill – never needed for actual protection – stands as a testament to the peaceful nature of the nation. Bathe in the city’s botanical beauty at the Public Gardens. Nearby Peggy’s Cove, one of the most iconic and picturesque coastal villages in Canada, welcomes visitors to discover its many specialty shops, historic attractions, and scenic views. 

Enjoy your day at Sea  – a day to rise with the sun and meet with friends in the restaurant of your choosing over breakfast...or sleep in and order room service. Gather in for snacks and games in one of many intimate venues or take in the view from the Observation deck with your favorite cocktail in hand. This day is yours to craft as you desire. 

As your American Queen Voyages journey concludes, there are other opportunities for you to take in the town -- whether it's an optional premier post-cruise experience or a quick transfer to the airport for your final trip home -- your AQV team can pre-arrange everything for you.