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 reenact 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 will you 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), French 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 - VIA Rail - Toronto to Jasper
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.
OPTIONAL UPGRADE:
Romance by Rail Suite - For the ultimate in luxury, you may decided to upgrade to a Romance by Rail suite aboard VIA Rail's 'Canadian'. Enjoy a dream voyage in the intimacy of a private suite. You will be spoiled by: fresh flowers, chocolates on the pillow, top-quality sparkling wine as the train leaves! Your spacious suite, comprising two converted regular bedrooms, will be the envy of other passengers. Crisp bed linen and an inviting down duvet await you. And if you have a quick word with your attendant before retiring, he will bring you breakfast in bed! Romance by Rails has been designed just for you and your 'significant other'.
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 13 - Arrive Jasper
Your journey will reach the Canadian Rockies by mid-afternoon today. You will arrive at the train station in the quaint mountain village of Jasper, the northern gateway to the Canadian Rockies. Upon arrival in Jasper, you will transfer (on own) to your hotel for check-in. Remainder of the afternoon & evening at leisure.
Moderate: Overnight Amethyst Lodge
Superior: Overnight Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge - Fairmont room
Deluxe: Overnight Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge - Lake view Junior Suite
Day 14 – Columbia Icefield Tour
Today you will travel along one of the worlds’ most scenic highways, the Icefields Parkway. Your guide will tour you along the famous Icefields Parkway with stops at Athabasca Falls to view dramatic falls and other viewpoints along the way. En route have your camera ready as you will be watching for wildlife, which frequently includes bears, bighorn sheep, moose and mountain goats. Included in your package is the Ice Age Adventure, a tour onto the icy slopes of the Athabasca Glacier. You will travel in a specially designed Ice Explorer to the middle of the glacier, on a 5-kilometre round- trip journey. Your driver-guide will explain how glaciers are formed and point out interesting geological features as you travel in comfort and safety. Return to Jasper in the early afternoon.
Moderate: Overnight Amethyst Lodge
Superior: Overnight Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge - Fairmont room
Deluxe: Overnight Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge - Lake view Junior Suite
Day 15 - VIA Rail - Jasper to Vancouver
Morning at leisure. In the afternoon, you will transfer (on own) to the Jasper train station. Here you will board VIA Rail's 'Canadian' train. Enjoy private bedroom accommodation, meals in the private dining car and relax in the 'Silver & Blue Lounge' or Dome car. You will depart Jasper National Park. You will pass Mt. Robson, the highest mountain in the Canadian Rockies, and you will see glaciers, mountain peaks and lush forests.
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 16 - Vancouver City Tour / Chef's Table Dining Experience
In the early morning the train will arrive in Vancouver. Upon arrival in Vancouver, you will be met by your private sedan and transfer 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.
Chef's Table Dining Experience - Diva at the Met
This evening you will enjoy dinner at Diva at the Met, located a couple of block from your hotel. Tonight you will experience a 6 course Chef's Table dining experience. The Chef will personally present each dish with a brief presentation & wine pairing for every course.
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 17 - Depart Vancouver
Today you will transfer by private sedan from your hotel to the Vancouver International Airport in time for your flight departure home.
PACKAGE INCLUDES:
- 7 night Holland America cruise aboard the ms Maasdam including onboard meals & entertainment, taxes and port charges
- 3 nights bedroom accommodation and meals on VIA Rail
- 6 nights accommodation, room tax and any mandatory service 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
- Columbia Icefield Tour including a 1 1/2 hour Ice Explorer ride
- Vancouver City Tour including visit to the Lookout Tower
- 6 course dinner & wine pairing Chef's Table at Diva at the Met including gratuities
- Private sedan transfers between Montreal cruise ship terminal & hotel, Vancouver train station to hotel and hotel & Vancouver Airport including gratuities
- Personalized documentation package
PACKAGE DOES NOT INCLUDE:
- Shore Excursions
- Alcoholic beverages
- Gratuities not listed as included (including meals & cabin attendants onboard the ms Maasdam)
- 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)