2008 Itinerary
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 sceni
c 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 Harbour, 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 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 / Dinner at the CN Tower
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.
Dinner at the CN Tower
Defining the Toronto skyline, the CN Tower is Canada's most recognizable and celebrated icon. At a height of 553.33m (1,815 ft., 5 inches), it is the World's Tallest Building. This evening you will dine at the 360 Restaurant, acclaimed for its exquisite cuisine, service and selection of over 400 International and Canadian wines. You will enjoy a panoramic tour of the city as the restaurant completes one revolution in 72-minutes. Your dinner consists of a choice of appetizer & main course, dessert of the day and tea/coffee. After your meal, you can explore the Lookout & Glass Floor levels.
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 - Tour to Niagara Region
Today you can choose from one of two tours to the Niagara region.
Day Tour to Niagara Falls
Today you will be taken on a narrated day tour to Niagara Falls. You will enjoy a boat ride on the “Maid of the Mist" to the foot of the falls for a spectacular, close up view. Lunch is also included in today's tour. Before returning to Toronto, the tour will pass through the charming 19th century town of Niagara-on-the-Lake. (Note: The Journey Behind the Falls or the Imax Theatre are substituted if the Maid of the Mist is not operating)
Deluxe Winery Tour & Niagara-on-the-Lake
Your Deluxe Niagara Winery Tour takes you in comfort door to door to savour some of the finest wines of Niagara. Wineries featured are: Chateau des Charmes, Jackson-Triggs and Peller Estates Wineries. To complement your wine testing experience you will enjoy a delicious gourmet lunch at the Shaw Café Restaurant located in historic old town Niagara-on-the-Lake, voted “prettiest little town in Canada”. Return to Toronto to overnight.
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 - Depart Toronto
Today you will transfer by private sedan to the Toronto Airport in time for your onward or homeward flight departure.
PACKAGE INCLUDES:
- 7 night Holland America cruise aboard the ms Maasdam including onboard meals & entertainment, taxes and port charges
- 3 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)
- 3 course dinner at the revolving restaurant on top of CN Tower, including tower admission & gratuities
- Choice of Activity: Niagara Falls Day Tour including Maid of the Mist & lunch OR Deluxe Winery Tour to Niagara-on-the-Lake with lunch (SUBSTITUTIONS: The Journey Behind the Falls or the Imax Theatre are substituted if the Maid of the Mist is not operating)
- Private sedan transfers between Montreal cruise ship terminal & hotel and hotel & Toronto 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
- Activities not listed as included
- Trip Cancellation Insurance (Insurance can be purchased from your Vacation Specialist, ask for more details)
2009 Itinerary
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 Harbour, 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, Coastal Sea Kayaking, The Ultimate Island Experience – A private luncheon at Frenchman’s Bay
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, Titanic Tour – The Halifax Connection.
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): The Bras d’Or Lakes Grand Tour, Fortress of Louisbourg National Historic Park, Black Gold – Cape Breton Mine 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 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 on the Confederation Trail, A Day in Dalvay-by-the-Sea, Four Diamond Chef’s Table 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 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): Quebec City Walking Tour with Tea at the Chateau Frontenac, St. Lawrence Grand Tour & 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 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 / Dinner at the CN Tower
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.
Dinner at the CN Tower
Defining the Toronto skyline, the CN Tower is Canada's most recognizable and celebrated icon. At a height of 553.33m (1,815 ft., 5 inches), it is the World's Tallest Building. This evening you will dine at the 360 Restaurant, acclaimed for its exquisite cuisine, service and selection of over 400 International and Canadian wines. You will enjoy a panoramic tour of the city as the restaurant completes one revolution in 72-minutes. Your dinner consists of a choice of appetizer & main course, dessert of the day and tea/coffee. After your meal, you can explore the Lookout & Glass Floor levels.
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 - Tour to Niagara Region
Today you can choose from one of two tours to the Niagara region.
Day Tour to Niagara Falls
Today you will be taken on a narrated day tour to Niagara Falls. You will enjoy a boat ride on the “Maid of the Mist" to the foot of the falls for a spectacular, close up view. Lunch is also included in today's tour. Before returning to Toronto, the tour will pass through the charming 19th century town of Niagara-on-the-Lake. (Note: The Journey Behind the Falls or the Imax Theatre are substituted if the Maid of the Mist is not operating)
Deluxe Winery Tour & Niagara-on-the-Lake
Your Deluxe Niagara Winery Tour takes you in comfort door to door to savour some of the finest wines of Niagara. Wineries featured are: Chateau des Charmes, Jackson-Triggs and Peller Estates Wineries. To complement your wine testing experience you will enjoy a delicious gourmet lunch at the Shaw Café Restaurant located in historic old town Niagara-on-the-Lake, voted “prettiest little town in Canada”. Return to Toronto to overnight.
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 - Depart Toronto
Today you will transfer by private sedan to the Toronto Airport in time for your onward or homeward flight departure.
PACKAGE INCLUDES:
- 7 night Holland America cruise aboard the ms Maasdam including onboard meals & entertainment, taxes and port charges
- 3 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)
- 3 course dinner at the revolving restaurant on top of CN Tower, including tower admission & gratuities
- Choice of Activity: Niagara Falls Day Tour including Maid of the Mist & lunch OR Deluxe Winery Tour to Niagara-on-the-Lake with lunch (SUBSTITUTIONS: The Journey Behind the Falls or the Imax Theatre are substituted if the Maid of the Mist is not operating)
- Private sedan transfers between Montreal cruise ship terminal & hotel and hotel & Toronto 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
- 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)