Fall Foliage on the St. Lawrence with Smithsonian Journeys

Arrive in Toronto, the capital of Ontario and Canada’s largest city. Transfer from the airport to the pier for embarkation aboard Le Bellot. Before boarding, explore key landmarks such as the CN Tower and St. Lawrence Market. Walk the historic Distillery District with its cobblestone streets, shops, and cafes. Visit the Royal Ontario Museum, known for its collections on world cultures and natural history. Board the ship in the afternoon and settle in before departure. Enjoy a welcome briefing, dinner, and views of the Toronto skyline as the cruise begins along the St. Lawrence Seaway.

Spend the day sailing across Lake Ontario, the easternmost of North America’s Great Lakes. Cruise through this freshwater basin fed by Niagara Falls and flowing into the St. Lawrence River. Travel past Toronto’s skyline and along remote shores lined with forests, beaches, and small ports. The onboard team provides insight into the region’s geography and ecosystems. Enjoy fall foliage views during this seasonal passage and prepare for the voyage ahead along the St. Lawrence Seaway.

Sail through the Saint Lawrence Seaway, a key waterway linking the Atlantic Ocean to the Great Lakes. Opened in 1959, the Seaway spans nearly 4,000 kilometers and features a system of locks designed to bypass natural rapids and elevation changes. Navigate this vital shipping corridor while learning about its history, engineering, and economic impact. The passage offers views of riverfront towns, natural landscapes, and maritime activity.

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’ll 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.

The capital of "La Belle Province" sits at the confluence of the St Charles River and the Gulf of St Lawrence in south-east 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. You will love the postcard-perfect stone houses of Old Quebec, the historic district listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site. Shopping is a pleasure in 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 old city.

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 multicolored 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 center, you can hone your knowledge of the cetaceans that regularly frequent Tadoussac bay.

Included Excursions:

Whale Watching
Duration : 4h15
Originally the site of an Inuit base for hunting seals, Tadoussac was established as a trading post by fur merchants in 1599, making it the first French outpost in mainland North America. Today it is a charming tourist destination, a member of the Club of the Most Beautiful Bays in the World, and a leading departure point for whale watching.

This excursion takes full advantage of Tadoussac's access to the abundance of marine mammals—porpoise, dolphin, seal and 13 species of whales—attracted to the rich feeding grounds where the Saguenay River flows into the St. Lawrence. Begin with a two-and-a-half-hour expedition aboard local vessels under the direction of an experienced and expert Captain and Naturalist, searching for whales. October is one of the most active months for the large animals, as they prepare to migrate to their breeding grounds.

On your return to Tadoussac, visit the Marine Mammal Interpretation Center, a museum dedicated to educating the public about whales and other marine mammals. Exhibits range from the skeleton of 40-foot-long sperm whale and a narwhal tooth, to films, sound recordings, and interactive displays.

The amount of walking on this tour is at your discretion. Guest should dress appropriately (waterproof jacket and rubber-soled shoes) for the whale watch.

Walking Tour of Tadoussac
Duration : 2h45
Originally the site of an Inuit base for hunting seals, Tadoussac was established as a trading post by fur merchants in 1599, making it the first French outpost in mainland North America. Today it is a charming tourist destination, a member of the Club of the Most Beautiful Bays in the World, and a leading departure point for whale watching where the Saguenay River flows into the St. Lawrence.

Your guided walking tour begins with a visit to the Marine Mammal Interpretation Center, a museum dedicated to educating the public about whales and other marine mammals. Exhibits range from the skeleton of 40-foot-long sperm whale and a narwhal tooth, to films, sound recordings, and interactive displays. Continue to the Chauvin Trading Post, a recreation of the original, with exhibits on early contacts with First Nations, the building of the post, and the history of its trade in furs and hides.

Stop for a spot of tea at the Tadoussac Grand Hotel, a Belle Époque gem with magnificent views overlooking the Bay and the St.-Lawrence River, before bringing your tour to an end at le Petite Chapelle, the oldest wooden church in North America. Built in 1747 by Jesuit missionaries as part of their effort to convert the Montagnais to Christianity, the chapel still contains some of the original religious items used over two and a half centuries ago. Before returning to the ship, take a brief walk on the Pointe-de-l'Islet Trail, which offers incredible views of the St. Lawrence River and the Saguenay River, as well as the chance to spot some whales.

This moderate tour is entirely on foot and involves approximately 1.25 miles of walking. It is recommended you wear comfortable shoes.

During your journey 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 journey without a port of call will also be an opportunity to enjoy the conferences or shows proposed on board, depending on the activities offered, or 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.

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 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 the eight miles of the Northumberland Strait, making it Canada's longest bridge and the longest bridge in the world to span ice-covered water.

Included Excursions:
Eastern PEI Lighthouse and Historic Village
Duration : 4h30
Today's excursion departs Charlottetown and travels to the southeastern tip of Prince Edward Island. Overlooking the Northumberland Strait, guests will discover Cape Bear Lighthouse. Built in 1881, this 3-story square tower still stands today. During the Second Word War the lighthouse was used to spot German U-boats that approached the coast. A Marconi Wireless Telegraph Station was built on the site in 1905 and on April 14, 1912, it was the first Canadian land station to receive an SOS signal from RMS Titanic. 

Your journey through Eastern PEI will continue with a visit to Orwell Corner Historic Village. This charming village depicts what life was like on PEI in the 1890s. Here you will have the opportunity to feed farm animals, stroll through gardens, explore the Agricultural Museum, witness a blacksmithing demo, go for a horse and wagon ride, and explore on your own before returning to the pier in Charlottetown.

This is an easy excursion, where the amount of walking is at your discretion. Wear comfortable shoes and layered clothing to cope with changeable weather. 

Highlights of Charlottetown
Duration : 3h30
Your Highlights of Charlottetown tour will begin with a visit to the Prince Edward Island Regiment Museum. Located within the Queen Charlotte Armories, this museum exhibits artifacts and photographs relating to the history of militia on PEI. 

Next, visit All Souls Chapel. Designated as a national historic site in 1990, the chapel was built between 1867-1869 in the High Victorian Gothic Revival style of rust-red PEI sandstone. The eighteen mural paintings that distinguish the interior are by the well-known 19th-century Canadian artist Robert Harris, brother of the architect and painter of the official portrait of the Fathers of Confederation. 

Next, stop at Beaconsfield Historic House. This symbol of Victorian elegance was bult in 1877 for wealthy shipbuilder and merchant James Peake. Tour its Victorian furnished rooms and enjoy views of the Charlottetown Harbor before returning to your ship.

This is an easy excursion, where the amount of walking is at your discretion. Wear comfortable shoes and layered clothing to cope with changeable weather. 

Meet and Indigenous Community
Duration : 3h00
Step into the heart of Mi'kmaq Culture with this immersive experience that connects you to ancient traditions and the wisdom of the land. Abegweit Mi’kmaw Nation is an Indigenous community located east of Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island in Scotchfort, Prince Edward Island. The Mi’kmaq have been here for over 10,000 years and live on the traditional unceded Mi’kmaq Territory – Epekwitk. 

Led by a respected Knowledge Keeper, Elder, or chosen person whom an Elder has passed down the knowledge of Cultural Teachings to, this excursion invites you to participate in this intimate session - a sacred smudging ceremony, where you'll learn about the significance of the four sacred medicines—cedar, sweetgrass, sage, and tobacco—and their role in purification and balance. 

After the ceremony, you'll be guided through an introduction to the Mi'kmaq people's rich history, culture, and spiritual practices. Gain a deeper understanding of their close connection to nature and the land that has sustained them for generations.

As part of the experience, enjoy traditional “Lu’skinikin” (Bannock), a delicious, freshly made bread that embodies the flavors of Indigenous culture. Pair it with your choice of tea, coffee, or select beverages, creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere as you connect with the teachings and stories shared during the session.

The experience concludes with a hands-on opportunity to create your own Mi'kmaq-inspired lanyard. Using beads, you’ll learn the art of traditional beading while discovering the cultural significance of this ancient craft. This enriching experience offers a unique chance to connect with Mi'kmaq heritage, deepen your spiritual understanding, and leave with a beautiful, handcrafted keepsake. Join for a meaningful and personal journey into the traditions that continue to shape the Mi'kmaq people today.

This is an easy excursion, where the amount of walking is at your discretion. Wear comfortable shoes and layered clothing to cope with changeable weather. 

Anne of Green Gables and Wine Tasting
Duration : 7h30
Today's excursion, focused on the life and works of Lucy Maud Montgomery, begins with a 45-minute drive from Charlottetown to the northern coast of Prince Edward Island and the site of the house built in 1872 by Montgomery's Aunt Annie and Uncle John Campbell. The house is now the Anne of Green Gables Museum, where you will have ample time to explore. Some of the artifacts you may recognize from the novels are Anne's enchanted bookcase, the organ on which her wedding march was played, and the 'crazy patchwork quilt' she worked on for 5 years, as well as some of Montgomery's personal memorabilia. Next, visit Montgomery's birthplace in picturesque New London.

After lunch at a local restaurant, continue to Cavendish for a docent-guided tour of the Green Gables Heritage Place. Afterward, travel to one of the wineries on the south shore of the island, where you enjoy a tour of the estate and a tasting. On the way back to Charlottetown, pause briefly along the way in some of the picturesque small fishing villages that dot the coastline.

This is an easy excursion, where the amount of walking is at your discretion. Wear comfortable shoes and layered clothing to cope with changeable weather. 

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.

Included Excursions:
Acadian Culture and Heritage
Duration : 4h00
This excursion to Havre Aubert, where the first Acadians to arrive in the Îles de la Madeleine settled, focuses on their continuing legacy in the architecture, art, agriculture, and marine life of the island. After a short drive along the beaches that separate Cap-aux-Meules from Havre Aubert, you arrive at Le Verger Pomeloi, the only orchard on the islands, and one of the few distilleries in Canada to produce cider from beginning to end, cultivation to bottling. Capitalizing on the special qualities of fruit grown in salty sea air, and insisting on a process of cold-fermentation, the orchard creates four distinct elixirs, evocatively named l'Enchanteur de pommes, le Chouchen, l'Escarbille and le Pomeloi (with an apple in the bottle).
 
At the Musee de la Mer, an exhibit on Laboureurs du Golfe illustrates the maritime history of the Islands through the use of models, photographs and artefacts that chronicle the evolution of all sorts of seaborne activity—navigation, fishing, seal hunting—that have been central to the economic welfare of the region. Very near the museum you will find Atelier Cotier, a one-of-a-kind art studio, committed to sustainability, where a multidisciplinary team creates a variety of products from clothing and home decor to jewelry, all inspired by the sea and sand that surrounds them.
Before returning to the port and your ship, drive to Cap-Hérissé on the north coast of Cap-aux-Meules, where you can enjoy views of the steep, jagged cliffs sculpted by the sea that are characteristic of the island.

This is an easy excursion with very little walking. There are a few uneven surfaces and some steps, but most guests will have no trouble participating. Layered clothing—particularly a windbreaker—is highly recommended.

Tastes of Iles de la Madeleine
Duration : 3h30
The Iles de la Madeleine archipelago is a treasure trove of flavorful locally sourced foods. During this excursion, you will meet with several local producers, discover their passion for their work, and sample some of the fruits of their labor.
From the pier, it is a fifteen-minute drive to the Pied-de-Vent Cheese Factory, where you will be met by the dedicated artisans who work here. Pied-de-Vent uses raw milk to produce their popular Pied-de-Vent cheese, as well as Tomme des Demoiselles, a semi-hard cow's milk cheese. You will have the opportunity to sample both before rejoining your coach to drive through the countryside on the Chemin Pointe-Basse, a road peppered with many examples of the traditional local architecture—primarily Acadian and French, with some New England influences, reflected in the simple homes and barns painted a variety of bright colors.

Visit the Fumoir d’Antan Museum, a typical smokehouse that showcases what was once an important industry on the island. As you sample smoked herring, mackerel, scallops, and salmon, you may want to check out the small museum housed in what used to be the primary smoking room.
Continue your drive along the north coast and pause at The Echouerie Lighthouse to enjoy views of the steep, jagged cliffs sculpted by the sea, before arriving at Les Cultures du Large Interpretation Center. Discover the world of shellfish farming, marine aquaculture, and lobster fishing and learn about these ever-changing industries. Sample their local brand of oysters, La Tresor du Large, before boarding your coach to return to the ship.

This is an easy excursion with very little walking. There are a few uneven surfaces and some steps, but most guests will have no trouble participating. Layered clothing—particularly a windbreaker—is highly recommended.

The Madelinots and their Environment
Duration : 6h30
This excursion to the northern tip of the island begins with a 90-minute drive through an impossibly beautiful variety of landscapes and seascapes of different shades of blue and green water, golden sand beaches, ever changing sand dunes, and the contrast of rugged red cliffs against a background of rolling green hills. As you pass through the village of Gross Ile, you will be driving atop an enormous underground salt reserve that produces 1.5 million tons of salt each year to be shipped to the United States and eastern Canada, where it is used to de-ice roads.
Your destination is Grand Entree, the largest lobster fishing wharf in Quebec. Here you will have a chance to meet with some of the local fisherman and learn about the history of the fisheries in the Gulf of St. Lawrence and about their daily lives, tending their boats and traps and dealing with the challenges of conservation in a fragile ecosystem.

Enjoy a leisurely lunch of hearty Madelinot fare at Auberge Le Salicorne before continuing to the East Point National Wildlife Reserve. Administered by Environment Canada's Canadian Wildlife Service, East Point is an essential stopping point for many shorebirds and ducks on their annual migrations. Explore the area on an easy 2-mile walking trail along the dunes above Old Harry Beach, once the site of walrus hunts, and now a prime spot for bird-watching.

This is a moderate excursion, involving a total of approximately 2 miles of walking on maintained trails. It is not recommended for guests with limited mobility.

Founded in 1785, Sydney is located in the province of Nova Scotia, on Cape Breton Island. Sydney was very much shaped by the steel industry, since in the early 20th century it became home to the world’s largest steel plants. The city contributed to the allied war effort by becoming a base for the supply convoys bound for Great Britain during the Second World War. Today, tourism has supplanted mining and the Sydney Mines Heritage Museum & Fossil Center makes for an interesting visit. Walkers will enjoy hiking along the lighthouse coastal trail through the wild nature of Cape Breton, with stunning views over the ocean.

Included Excursion:

Fortress of Louisbourg National Historic Site
Duration : 4h00
The Fortress of Louisbourg National Historic Site, is Canada's largest historic park, a living museum that recreates 18th-century life through period costumes and reconstruction of the formerly thriving settlement. Transfer from Sydney to Louisbourg and explore the fortress, as your guide leads you through the streets with tales of a thriving cosmopolitan town, repeatedly besieged by the British from 1713 to 1758, when the French were finally defeated.

Visit one of the finest homes in the Fortress for a sampling of traditional hot chocolate. Hear about the life of Louisbourg’s elite as you sip on the warm drink they enjoyed on chilly days.

Gather at the Mi’kmaw Interpretive Center for a glimpse into the vibrant culture and heritage of the Mi’kmaq who have lived on Unama’ki (Cape Breton Island) since time immemorial. A member of the Mi’kmaw community will share stories and invite you to learn about present-day Mi’kmaw communities whose sustainable practices are based on traditional knowledge.

Visit the Storehouse Tavern, where you will be invited to sample the favorite drink of 18th century Louisbourg—Fortress™ rum. Locally crafted beers and ciders are also available. These local products are inspired by some of the stories of Louisbourg, from exceptional women to the impact of climate change, which you are invited to discover through a multimedia interpretation.

After your guided tour, enjoy time at leisure to explore the fortress on your own before meeting back up with your group and returning to your ship.

This is a moderate excursion with as much as 2 miles of walking over generally flat and even surfaces. Comfortable shoes and layered clothing are recommended. Not suitable for guests with limited mobility. 

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 will also find the replica of the legendary Bluenose schooner, originally built in this port.

Included Excursion:

Lunenburg Walking Tour and Fisheries Museum
Duration : 3h00
Lunenburg has been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site as the best surviving example of a British colonial settlement in North America. On this excursion you will understand why.

A guided walking tour of this picture-perfect town touches on its history, culture and architecture, dating to the arrival of the first European settlers in 1753. Pass the poignant Fishermen’s Memorial Monument and learn about the devastating August Gales of 1926-27. Hear the story of the legendary sailing ship Bluenose, nicknamed the 'Queen of the North Atlantic', as well as of her replica, Bluenose II, which now serves as Canada's sailing ambassador. Observe the architectural details of well-preserved 18th-and 19th-century homes, and stop at St. John’s Anglican Church, a National Historic Site.  Dating from 1753, this remarkable structure is the second-oldest Anglican Church in Canada.

Begin your visit to the Fisheries Museum of the Atlantic with a 30-minute guided tour that provides an overview of the industry at the heart and soul of Lunenburg. After the tour, you are free to wander and explore on your own. The Museum is quite large, with floating vessels at the wharves, an extensive aquarium and a large exhibit complex. Whether you’re interested in local crafts and culture, boats, or history, the Museum has much to offer.

This is an easy excursion, with less than half a mile of walking over sidewalks. Comfortable shoes and layered clothing are recommended.

During your journey 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 journey without a port of call will also be an opportunity to enjoy the conferences or shows proposed on board, depending on the activities offered, or 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.

The former colonial maritime port of Portland, lying in the hollow of Casco Bay, will fascinate you with its abundant nature, cultural riches and unique atmosphere. Let yourself be guided by the salty air of the Atlantic and admire the colorful fishing boats in the old port. A stroll through the paved little streets edged with historical red-brick buildings from the 19th century promises you an extraordinary journey back in time. This city of nature is home to many verdant parks, botanical gardens and other nature reserves where you will find it easy to recharge your batteries and reconnect with the elements.

Included Excursion:

Traditional Lobster Bake
Duration : 3h30
This excursion begins with a short walk from the pier to the Casco Bay Lines, the regional ferry system that serves the many islands scattered across Casco Bay. After check-in with your guide, board the ferry for a 20-minute scenic transfer to a nearby island, a quaint and quintessentially New England destination located just three miles offshore yet still part of the City of Portland.

Upon arrival, stroll to the historic inn where you will enjoy a traditional lobster bake. Your menu includes New England clam chowder, steamed mussels, a 1¼-pound lobster, potato, corn on the cob, dinner rolls, and a seasonal dessert, all served in a relaxed island setting. Chicken is available upon request for non-lobster eaters.

After lunch, enjoy free time to wander the quiet island streets at your own pace before returning by ferry with your guide to Portland’s waterfront.
This is a leisurely excursion involving short walks on paved surfaces.
Dress in layers. It is recommended bringing a jacket and wearing comfortable shoes.
A minimum of 30 guests is required to offer this excursion. 

Schooner Sail
Duration : 4h00
Discover Portland by land and sea on this relaxing half-day tour. Begin with a drive through the charming Old Port district, where cobblestone streets and red-brick warehouses have been transformed into restaurants, boutiques, and galleries. Continue past the city’s Arts District and commercial center before heading along the scenic coast to Cape Elizabeth. Here you’ll visit Portland Head Light, commissioned in 1791 and the oldest lighthouse in the United States, for a photo stop at this iconic landmark.

Return to Portland’s waterfront to board a classic wooden schooner for a two-hour sailing adventure on Casco Bay. As you glide past historic forts, rocky islands, and additional lighthouses, watch for seabirds and seals while the crew shares stories of Maine’s maritime heritage. Guests may help raise the sails, take the helm, or simply sit back and enjoy the view.

Total walking is approximately 0.25 miles over mixed terrain with a few steps.
A portable toilet is available at Portland Head Light.
Dress in layers. It is recommended bringing a waterproof jacket. 

Portland Highlights
Duration : 2h00
Join an intimate small-group tour in a 14-passenger van as you explore the vibrant city of Portland and its coastal landmarks. Begin with a drive through the Old Port district, where cobblestone streets and 19th-century buildings capture the character of this lively waterfront city. Continue along the Eastern Promenade and Munjoy Hill, where Fort Allen Park offers sweeping views of Casco Bay, its lobster boats, and the Calendar Islands. Pass the Portland Observatory, a beloved landmark of maritime history, as well as the city’s Arts District and stately City Hall.

Travel onward to Portland Head Light, commissioned in 1791 by President George Washington and recognized as the most photographed lighthouse in the United States. Located within Fort Williams Park on Cape Elizabeth’s rocky shoreline, this iconic beacon has long served as a gateway to Portland Harbor. Enjoy free time here to explore the grounds, capture memorable photos, and admire the dramatic coastline.
Your tour concludes with a drive through the Western Promenade, a cliff-edge neighborhood rising 175 feet above sea level and listed on the National Register of Historic Places. With its preserved Victorian architecture and panoramic views, this community remains one of Portland’s most distinguished. After this scenic finale, return to the pier.

Total walking is approximately 0.5 miles over mixed terrain (paved, uneven ground, and a few steps).
Restrooms are available via portable toilet at Portland Head Light.
Entry into the lighthouse museum is not included. 

Working Waterfront and Lobster Pull
Duration : 3h00
Nestled in the historic Old Port district of Portland is the bustling working waterfront where lobstermen offload their catch from Casco Bay and seafood shops offer the freshest delicacies straight from the ocean. Discover the inner workings of the Old Port district with a voyage on a lobster boat followed by a walking tour through the cobbled streets of the district, exploring the numerous marine related businesses.

From the pier, a short walk brings you to the waterfront, the departure point of your lobster boat excursion. Following a short safety briefing, motor into Casco Bay to pull live lobster traps.  During the voyage, discover how lobsters get from the bottom of the ocean to your dinner plate and learn about their habits, conservation efforts, and the difference between hard shells, shedders, shorts, culls, and keepers. A see-through “live tank” allows you to watch the catch until the end of the day when they are released back into the sea.

Upon return to the pier, begin a walking tour of the Old Port district. Your guide will carve a path through the streets of this charming historic area which a hundred years ago was home to fish houses, canneries, industrial factories, and textile mills. Today, the brick warehouses hold numerous fresh seafood shops, coffee houses, bakeries, and award-winning restaurants. Explore the area as your guide offers insight into the history and lore of the old waterfront. You stroll concludes at the pier where you may reboard your ship.

This is a moderate excursion that includes approximately 1 hour of slow walking and standing on flat paved and cobble stone surfaces. Please note that the tour may operate in reverse order. Guests must be able to get on and off the lobster boat. It is recommended comfortable footwear and dressing in layers, including a waterproof jacket, hat, and sunglasses. 

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 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.

Disembark after breakfast.