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The Gully -Sable Island

Symphony on the St. Lawrence: From Québec to the Canadian Maritimes – with Smithsonian Journeys

Toronto - Boston - Example 15 Day Cruise aboard Le Bellot
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Experience the unforgettable 15-day cruise exploration offered by Le Bellot and enjoy the  vast, unspoiled expanses of Canada and the North American coast. Your journey starts in Toronto. Enjoy a magnificent sail along the shimmering waters of Lake Ontario. Head to the two emblematic cities: Montreal, famous for its energy and cultural vibrancy, and Quebec. Cruise along the coasts of Nova Scotia, home to great historical towns and villages of unrivaled cachet. This trip will end in Boston, considered to be the epicenter of American history.
Highlights
  • Visit UNESCO World Heritage sites in Québec and Lunenburg
  • Discover the vibrant art scene of cosmopolitan Montréal
  • Explore a series of wildlife-rich ecosystems and geologically fascinating national parks
  • Enjoy a program of musical performances by Boston Pops conductor Keith Lock
Activities
Activity Level: Relaxed
Involves minimal physical effort and is typically associated with leisurely activities. Activities are low-intensity or last less than a few hours each day.
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Full Itinerary

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Day 1: Toronto | Embark

The largest city in Canada and capital of the province of Ontario, Toronto fascinates as much by its incredible diversity as by its size. Make sure you visit the CN Tower, the tallest tower in the western hemisphere, as well as St. Lawrence Market whose stalls reflect the multicultural wealth of this city known as the global city. Not far from there, the historic Distillery District unveils its brick-paved streets imbued with romantic charm and its myriad of small restaurants, cafés, boutiques, theatres, and art galleries. The Royal Ontario Museum and its impressive collections devoted to the world’s natural and cultural history will also be an unmissable stop during this port of call.

Day 2: Sailing Lake Ontario | Sailing Saint Lawrence River

Lake Ontario is the smallest and most easterly of the five Great Lakes of North America, that together form one-fifth of all the freshwater on the planet. Enjoy a magnificent setting, enhanced by the Indian summer, for an exceptional voyage on the sparkling waters of this natural treasure, lying 76 meters above sea level. Fed by the waters of Lake Eyrie and the extraordinary Niagara Falls, it flows into the Saint Lawrence River which follows its course. On the border between the United States and Canada, the lake has great cities like Toronto on its shores but also boasts more secret and unspoiled areas, teeming with beaches, forests, and small ports in a bucolic atmosphere.


Linking the Atlantic Ocean to the Great Lakes region inland, the Saint Lawrence Seaway was inaugurated in 1959, more than 250 years after the initial construction aiming to avoid the rapids obstructing navigation in these parts. This large engineering project, which required four years of huge work, offers a unique sailing experience, punctuated by the passage of the different locks marking out this corridor, which is almost 4,000 km long.

Day 3: Montreal

Famous for its gentle way of life, Montreal, Canada’s second-largest city, is a warm and cosmopolitan metropolis. Situated on the eponymous river island, it is home to a multitude of districts, each as unique as the other. Set off to discover Old Montreal, most of which is declared a historic area, Little Italy, where you can be able to stroll around the largest open-air market in North America, or the Golden Square Mile, the luxurious district located on one of the hills of Mount Royal and which has sumptuous Victorian-style residences. Simultaneously marked by the influences of the Old Continent and North-American gigantism, Montreal will never cease to amaze you.

Day 4: Quebec

The capital of "La Belle Province" sits at the confluence of the St Charles River and the Gulf of St Lawrence in southeast Canada. Founded in the 17th century, the city still has an encircling wall, a historic civil engineering work, and the only one of its kind remaining in North America. Love the postcard-perfect stone houses of Old Quebec, the historic district listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site. Shopping is a pleasure on pedestrian streets such as Petit-Champlain Street, or you can relax over a spruce beer, seasoned with pine buds. Dufferin Boardwalk, an esplanade near the emblematic Château Frontenac, is the perfect place for views of the river and the old city.

Day 5: Tadoussac

The Quebec village of Tadoussac stands at the confluence of the Saguenay River and the Gulf of Saint-Lawrence, in south-east Canada. The village is bright with multicoloured houses nestling in an emerald-green pine forest. From the waterfront, it’s easy to spy out Tadoussac Chapel, thanks to its bright red roof. Not far from this church built of wood, one of the oldest in North America, stands a century-old village holiday resort, Hotel Tadoussac. Treat yourself to tea on the terrace overlooking the shoreline. In addition, at the marine mammal interpretation centre, you can hone your knowledge of the cetaceans that regularly frequent Tadoussac bay.

Day 6: At Sea

  • 1 Breakfast, 1 Lunch, 1 Dinner
During your day at sea, make the most of the many services and activities on board. Treat yourself to a moment of relaxation in the spa or stay in shape in the fitness center. Depending on the season, let yourself be tempted by the swimming pool or a spot of sunbathing. This day without a port of call will also be an opportunity to enjoy the conferences or shows proposed on board, to do some shopping in the boutique or to meet the PONANT photographers in their dedicated space. As for lovers of the open sea, they will be able to visit the ship’s upper deck to admire the spectacle of the waves and perhaps be lucky enough to observe marine species. A truly enchanted interlude, combining comfort, rest and entertainment.

Day 7: Perce

If you appreciate the beauty of the scenery and geological phenomena, fall under the irresistible spell of Percé, one of the most beautiful villages in Quebec. Apart from the attractions of the town itself, Percé owes its reputation to its proximity to the famous rock of the same name that rises opposite it in the Gulf of Saint Lawrence. Along with the neighboring Bonaventure Island, this rocky outcrop forms a national park famed for its natural, historical and geological heritage. With a choice of hiking, underwater exploration and cultural activities, you can never be short of things to do in this fascinating region.

Day 8: Charlottetown

The colonial seaport of Charlottetown is the capital of Prince Edward Island, "the Garden of the Gulf of St. Lawrence." The town played a crucial role in Canada's history, hosting the Charlottetown Conference (1864), which set the stage for the country's unification. Province House is the site of that conference and now home to the provincial legislature. Explore nearby Prince Edward Island National Park and the Anne of Green Gables House—inspiration for Lucy Maud Montgomery’s classic novel. Also see the Confederation Bridge, which crosses eight miles of the Northumberland Strait, making it Canada's longest bridge and the longest bridge in the world to span ice-covered water.

Day 9: Cap-aux-Meules, Magdalen Islands

Although it is the administrative and economic center of the Magdalen Islands archipelago, in the Gulf of Saint Lawrence, the village of Cap-aux-Meules remains a peaceful location and is ideal for exploring preserved nature. Located on the eponymous island, in reference to the sandstone rocks of the cape that were used in the past to make grindstones, the location is above all considered to be the maritime gateway to the archipelago. In this respect, it offers privileged access to many sites renowned for their natural and historic heritage, such as the village of Havre-Aubert which is a member of the Most Beautiful Villages of Quebec.

Day 10: Baddeck

Discover the charming village of Baddeck in the heart of Cape Breton Island in Nova Scotia. Located on the banks of Bras d’Or Lake, designated as a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, this community of several hundred inhabitants is renowned as the point of departure and arrival of the famous Cabot Trail. Named in honor of the Venetian explorer John Cabot who discovered Atlantic Canada at the end of the 15th century, this panoramic road lets travelers enjoy the sumptuous coastal landscapes of the north of the island. Crossing the Cape Breton Highlands National Park, it offers many possibilities to admire the wooded expanses, lakes and streams, deep gorges and steep cliffs that make the area so beautiful.

Day 11: Louisbourg

Set in the Atlantic Ocean, Cape Breton Island turns up fun-to-explore curiosities such as Louisbourg, the former capital from when it was named Ile Royale. This picturesque little town is home to one of the country’s most significant historical sites: the symbolic and beautifully restored Fortress of Louisbourg. A tour transports you back to the heart of 18th-century Canada. Access the old fortified square via the drawbridge and Dauphin Gate, which is guarded by a sentry. You can then explore the fortified town as it was in its heyday. Get ready for an extraordinary adventure that’s more than just a journey back in time.

Day 12: Lunenburg

Stretching out along the eastern seaboard of Nova Scotia, the picturesque port of Lunenburg will leave an indelible impression. You can admire the colonial architecture of this fishing village whilst strolling through the chequerboard streets studded with brightly colored houses. The enchanting charm of the old town has earned it UNESCO World Heritage status. The former naval shipyard town of Lunenburg is where you can also find the replica of the legendary Bluenose schooner, originally built in this port.

Day 13: At Sea

During your day at sea, make the most of the many services and activities on board. Treat yourself to a moment of relaxation in the spa or stay in shape in the fitness center. Depending on the season, let yourself be tempted by the swimming pool or a spot of sunbathing. This day without a port of call will also be an opportunity to enjoy the conferences or shows proposed on board, to do some shopping in the boutique, or to meet the PONANT photographers in their dedicated space. As lovers of the open sea, they will be able to visit the ship’s upper deck to admire the spectacle of the waves and perhaps be lucky enough to observe marine species. A truly enchanted interlude, combining comfort, rest, and entertainment.

Day 14: Eastport

At the Canadian border, Eastport is, as its name suggests, the easternmost city in the United States. It is here that, in 1604, the first French people to arrive in the New World settled. Discover their story at the Saint Croix Island International Historic Site. In the late 19th century, this charming town in Maine grew significantly as a result of the development of the canned sardine industry. At the time, the town boasted more than a dozen sardine canneries. The architecture and some mansions from this period live on, affording the town a distinct elegance. One of the attractions of this town is undeniably its proximity to the Old Sow Whirlpool, the largest tidal whirlpool in the Northern Hemisphere, where visitors can watch the birds and marine mammals that come to feed on the nutrients driven up to the surface.

Day 15: Boston | Disembark

  • 1 Breakfast
Nicknamed "America's Walking City", the city is considered to be the epicenter of American history. Founded in 1630, the tenth largest agglomeration in the United States is a pleasure for walkers. To get around, just follow the Freedom Trail circuit that serves most of the tourist sites with its red line traced on the ground. Don’t miss all the delicious local specialties on offer at Quincy Market, like the lobster sandwich, and then take time to explore the North End, the Italian quarter. For the more romantic among you, Beacon Hill, the historic quarter, with its absolutely charming cobbled streets, is really worth a look.

Ship/Hotel

Le Bellot

Ponant Sauna
Owner's Suite
Relax aboard

Dates & Prices

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This itinerary is no longer available. For other trip ideas, please visit Canada Cruises & Tours.
Rates are dynamic and fluctuate based on capacity. Contact us for a specific quote.
Deluxe Stateroom
Deluxe Stateroom
19 m² area featuring a 4m² Private balcony, individually-controlled air-conditioning, King-size bed or twin beds, Shower
Prestige DeckPrestige Deck
Prestige Deck 4
19 m² area featuring a 4m² Private balcony, individually-controlled air-conditioning, King-size bed or twin beds, Shower
Prestige DeckPrestige Deck
Prestige Deck 5
19 m² area featuring a 4m² Private balcony, individually-controlled air-conditioning, King-size bed or twin beds, Shower
Prestige DeckPrestige Deck
Prestige Deck 6
19 m² area featuring a 4m² Private balcony, individually-controlled air-conditioning, King-size bed or twin beds, Shower
Deluxe SuiteDeluxe Suite
Deluxe Suite Deck 3
27 m² area featuring, 6m² private balcony, individually-controlled air-conditioning, King-size bed or twin beds, 1 sofa, shower
Deluxe SuiteDeluxe Suite
Deluxe Suite Deck 4
27 m² area featuring, 6m² private balcony, individually-controlled air-conditioning, King-size bed or twin beds, 1 sofa, shower
Deluxe SuiteDeluxe Suite
Deluxe Suite Deck 5
27 m² area featuring, 6m² private balcony, individually-controlled air-conditioning, King-size bed or twin beds, 1 sofa, shower
Deluxe SuiteDeluxe Suite
Deluxe Suite Deck 6
27 m² area featuring, 6m² private balcony, individually-controlled air-conditioning, King-size bed or twin beds, 1 sofa, shower
Prestige Suite
Prestige Deck Suite 5
38 m² area featuring an 8m² Private balcony, individually-controlled air-conditioning, King-size bed or twin beds, Shower
Prestige Suite
Prestige Deck Suite 6
38 m² area featuring an 8m² Private balcony, individually-controlled air-conditioning, King-size bed or twin beds, Shower
Privilege SuitePrivilege Suite
Privilege Suite Deck 5
32 m² area featuring an 8m² Private balcony, individually-controlled air-conditioning, King-size bed or twin beds, Shower
Privilege SuitePrivilege Suite
Privilege Suite Deck 6
38 m² area featuring an 8m² Private balcony, individually-controlled air-conditioning, King-size bed or twin beds, Shower
Grand Deluxe SuiteGrand Deluxe Suite
Grand Deluxe Suite Deck 6
45 m² area featuring, 40m² private balcony, individually-controlled air-conditioning, King-size bed or twin beds, Bathtub
Grand Deluxe SuiteGrand Deluxe Suite
Grand Deluxe Suite Deck 5
45 m² area featuring, 40m² private balcony, individually-controlled air-conditioning, King-size bed or twin beds, Bathtub
Owner's SuiteOwner's Suite
Owner's Suite
45 m² area featuring an 30m² Private balcony, individually-controlled air-conditioning, King-size bed or twin beds, Shower
Included
  • 14 Breakfasts, 13 Lunches, 14 Dinners
  • 13 Nights Accommodations
  • Accommodations as listed
  • Ground transportation as listed
  • Activities as listed
  • Meals as listed
  • Access to a 24-7 Emergency line while traveling
  • Port Fees
  • Unlimited Wifi
  • Onboard Entertainment 
  • Captain’s Welcome Cocktail and Gala Dinner
  • Gratuities to Onboard Crew
  • “Open Bar” (pouring wines, house champagne, alcohol except premium brands...list available upon request)
  • 24h Room Service (special selection)
  • English-Speaking Lecturer 
  • Highly experienced and bilingual (French-English) expedition staff
  • Park Entry Fees into Protected Areas
  • Water sports activities (except scuba diving) using the ship’s equipment, when permitted by local authorities and confirmed by ship Master according to safety and sea conditions onsite. 
Excluded
  • Travel Insurance
  • Personal Expenses
  • Flight costs (please request a quote)
  • Fuel and transportation surcharges (when applicable)
  • Visa Fees
  • Optional Excursions - Ponant allows you to pre-book your excursions approximately six to two months prior to the cruise* departure. Please note that this is subject to change. Please contact us for more details.
  • Any ground services before and/or after the cruise other than the ones mentioned
  • Luggage Handling 
  • Laundry Services, Hair Salon, and à La Carte Spa Treatments
  • Pre or post cruise programs, overland programs or shore excursions 
  • Beverages other than the ones mentioned in inclusions
  • CDP recommends that every Traveler has full and adequate travel insurance covering the risks of cancellation, assistance being required, repatriation, damages to and loss of baggage, and medical expenses

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The trip might have been the absolute best of our lifetime (thus far). We particularly want to commend our guide Peter in the Guilin area-he was so incredibly attentive, energetic, enthusiastic-and absolutely dedicated to ensuring that our meals were 100% vegetarian.
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