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 re-enact 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, 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), Latin 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
Today you will embark on a 2 hour guided tour of the city. Discover the sights of Canada's largest and most diverse 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. Remainder of the day is at leisure or take an optional tour to Niagara Falls.
Optional Tour:
Niagara by Night Tour
No trip to Ontario is complete without a visit to Niagara Falls and the famous Horseshoe Falls! This afternoon you will depart on a 9 hour tour and experience the breathtaking footage of the mighty Niagara Falls. You then arrive at the Maid of the Mist for a truly amazing boat ride to the base of the Horseshoe Falls. Don't be fooled into thinking that the Falls are the only highlight. This city has a plethora of activities and you will sample a few on today's day trip. From the majestic Falls to the quaint and charming town of Niagara-on-the-Lake you will enjoy an educational and entertaining day. After your tour, you will enjoy dinner at Niagara Falls, with a magnificent view of the falls illuminated at night, before returning to Toronto.
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 & 13 - VIA Rail - Toronto to Vancouver
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 3 nights as you cross the lake country and prairies of central Canada and pass Mt. Robson, the highest mountain in the Canadian Rockies, and see the glaciers, mountain peaks and lush forests of western Canada. Enjoy private bedroom accommodation, meals in the private dining car and relax in the 'Silver & Blue Lounge' or Dome car.
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 14 - Vancouver City Tour
In the early morning the train will arrive in Vancouver. Upon arrival in Vancouver, you will transfer by private sedan to your hotel. At the hotel, you will store your luggage with the bell desk and depart on a 4 hour morning city tour while you wait for your hotel check-in time. You will see Stanley Park, Gastown, Robson Street, English Bay, Queen Elizabeth Park and Granville Island. A visit to the Lookout Tower is included, providing you with a bird's-eye view of Vancouver.
Moderate: Overnight Residence Inn by Marriott Downtown Vancouver (includes buffet breakfast)
Superior: Overnight Fairmont Hotel Vancouver - Fairmont room
Deluxe: Overnight Fairmont Hotel Vancouver - Fairmont Gold (includes deluxe continental breakfast and afternoon hors d'oeuvres)
Day 15 – Butchart Gardens & Victoria Scenic Drive Tour
This morning, your tour takes you across to Vancouver Island aboard a large & comfortable BC Ferry for a spectacular 90 minute cruise through the Gulf Islands 'marine wonderland'. Upon arrival Vancouver Island (Swartz Bay), the tour will continue on to the world-renown Butchart Gardens with their 50-acre display. You'll enjoy some free time in the Butchart Gardens, then it's off to Victoria, BC's Capital City for a city tour. Highlights include Beacon Hill Park, Chinatown, Empress Hotel and the Parliament Buildings. Return to Vancouver at approximately 10:00 pm.
Moderate: Overnight Residence Inn by Marriott Downtown Vancouver (includes buffet breakfast)
Superior: Overnight Fairmont Hotel Vancouver - Fairmont room
Deluxe: Overnight Fairmont Hotel Vancouver - Fairmont Gold (includes deluxe continental breakfast and afternoon hors d'oeuvres)
Day 16 - Vancouver Exploring / Depart Vancouver aboard Holland America's ms Zaandam
You have the morning at leisure to explore Vancouver. Take a water taxi to the market on Granville Island get your designer duds on Robson Street get your culture fix in Chinatown and get splashed by a beluga whale at the Vancouver Aquarium. And when you're all done, get sand in your shoes at English Bay before you head back uptown for fusion cooking at the vibrant restaurant scene of Gastown. This afternoon, transfer by private sedan to the cruise ship terminal where you will set sail for new adventures on board the exciting ms Zaandam. The musically themed ms Zaandam offers its 1,440 guests a unique shipboard atmosphere. Inspired by the world's great music, artifacts and memorabilia from across the pantheon of musical genres decorate the ship, such as guitars signed by the Rolling Stones and other relics of legendary musicians. At the heart of the ms Zaandam, in a soaring three-story atrium, guests revel at a Baroque-style Dutch pipe organ, inspired by the traditional barrel organs still found on the streets of The Netherlands. The ms Zaandam features spacious public rooms as well as spacious and tastefully decorated staterooms. This spectacular cruise ship delights guests with unforgettable onboard experiences.
Moderate: Overnight ms Zaandam in an Inside Cabin (K class)
Superior: Overnight ms Zaandam in an Outside Cabin (DA class)
Deluxe: Overnight ms Zaandam in an Outside Veranda Suite (A class)
Day 17 - Scenic Cruising Inside Passage
Today is at sea. Journey deep into one of nature's most isolated monuments accessible only by sea and air and encounter the magnificence of the Ice Age as you slowly glide through the Inside Passage. Expect the unexpected on your Alaska cruise - a massive glacier calves, a bald eagle soars above, a humpback whale clears the water and the night sky awakens to waves of color. With guaranteed views of sky-splitting peaks, glaciers and vast wilderness.
Moderate: Overnight ms Zaandam in an Inside Cabin (K class)
Superior: Overnight ms Zaandam in an Outside Cabin (DA class)
Deluxe: Overnight ms Zaandam in an Outside Veranda Suite (A class)
Day 18 - Ketchikan, Alaska
In the heart of the Tongass National Forest, immerse yourself in Tlingit Indian culture and view the world's largest collection of totem poles kayak the colorful waterfront and stroll the boardwalk that once led to Ketchikan's red light district. Sample Shore Excursions (not included): Best of Ketchikan & Misty Fjords Flightseeing, Saxman native Village, Back country Jeep & Canoe Safari
Moderate: Overnight ms Zaandam in an Inside Cabin (K class)
Superior: Overnight ms Zaandam in an Outside Cabin (DA class)
Deluxe: Overnight ms Zaandam in an Outside Veranda Suite (A class)
Day 19 - Juneau, Alaska
For years Juneau's livelihood, like that of many cities in Alaska, was tied to mining. The city itself is built on tailings from the A-J mine whose shafts perforate the hillside above town. Because it is Alaska's capital, Juneau prospers through government work and tourism. This is a great place to sample salmon baked over an alderwood fire, pan for gold, and hike the massive Juneau Icefield. If you feel the need for speed, hop on a sled and let a dog team pull you across the surface of a glacier. Sample Shore Excursions (not included): Four-glacier Adventure by Helicopter, mendenhall Glacier & Whale Quest, Guide's Choice Adventure Hike
Moderate: Overnight ms Zaandam in an Inside Cabin (K class)
Superior: Overnight ms Zaandam in an Outside Cabin (DA class)
Deluxe: Overnight ms Zaandam in an Outside Veranda Suite (A class)
Day 20 - Skagway, Alaska
The sidewalks are all but rolled up in Skagway come winter, so you can only imagine the frightful conditions endured by the gold prospectors who passed through en route to the Yukon, with a mandatory ton of supplies to be hauled with them over the steep and treacherous Trail of '98. 21st-century summertime visits to Skagway require nothing of the sort, but you can still ride the antique White Pass & Yukon narrow-gauge railway up through silvery-purple rock faces, past Deadhorse Gulch, to see what it was like back then. Sample Shore Excursions (not included): White Pass Summit Scenic Railway, Klondike Summit & Gold Rush Camp, Valley of the Glaciers Helicopter Tour.
Moderate: Overnight ms Zaandam in an Inside Cabin (K class)
Superior: Overnight ms Zaandam in an Outside Cabin (DA class)
Deluxe: Overnight ms Zaandam in an Outside Veranda Suite (A class)
Day 21 - Glacier Bay National Park Scenic Cruising
Cloistered in the rocky recesses of Alaska, Glacier Bay is a world still emerging from the Ice Age. Sixteen dazzling tidewater glaciers creep back and forth by millimeters, chiseling great masses of moraine onto their pristine surfaces.
Moderate: Overnight ms Zaandam in an Inside Cabin (K class)
Superior: Overnight ms Zaandam in an Outside Cabin (DA class)
Deluxe: Overnight ms Zaandam in an Outside Veranda Suite (A class)
Day 22 - Scenic Cruising College Fjord
Prince William Sound's College Fjord is one of the northernmost inlets on the Gulf of Alaska. It terminates in Harvard Glacier, more than two miles wide and 300 feet tall at the face. On the west side of the fjord, the glaciers are named after colleges for women on the east, after colleges for men, hence the name College Fjord.
Moderate: Overnight ms Zaandam in an Inside Cabin (K class)
Superior: Overnight ms Zaandam in an Outside Cabin (DA class)
Deluxe: Overnight ms Zaandam in an Outside Veranda Suite (A class)
Day 23 - Arrive Anchorage (Seward), Alaska
Arrive in Anchorage (Seward) in the early morning. Ice-free the year round, Seward was a natural choice as the ocean terminal and supply center during the construction of the Alaska Railroad. Upon arrival, transfer (on own) from the cruise ship terminal to the Anchorage Airport in time for your flight departure home. Transfer is approximately 3 hours in length. Sample Transfer Options (not included): Cruise and train Transfer to Anchorage, Motor coach transfer to Anchorage
PACKAGE INCLUDES:
- 7 night Canada/New England Holland America cruise aboard the ms Maasdam including onboard meals & entertainment, taxes and port charges
- 3 nights bedroom accommodation and meals on VIA Rail
- 5 nights accommodation, room tax and any mandatory service charges
- 7 night Alaska Glacier Bay Holland America cruise aboard the ms Zaandam including onboard meals & entertainment, taxes and port 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
- Vancouver City Tour including visit to the Lookout Tower
- Butchart Gardens & Victoria Scenic Drive Tour
- Private sedan transfers between Montreal cruise ship terminal & hotel, Vancouver train station & hotel, and Vancouver hotel & cruise ship terminal including gratuities
- Alaska State Cruise Tax
- Personalized documentation package
PACKAGE DOES NOT INCLUDE:
- Shore Excursions
- Alcoholic beverages
- Gratuities not listed as included (including meals & cabin attendants onboard the ms Maasdam & ms Zaandam)
- Meals not listed as included
- Transfers not listed as included
- Optional activities not listed as included
- Goods and Services tax (GST)
- Trip Cancellation Insurance (Insurance can be purchased from your Vacation Specialist, ask for more details)