Canada's Atlantic Maritimes

Arrive in Nova Scotia

Begin in the historic port town of Louisbourg, Nova Scotia with time to explore the Fortress of Louisbourg. Board the expedition ship in the late afternoon and settle into your cabin before gathering with your expedition team and trip mates. Enjoy a welcome dinner of fantastic local lobster as we sail out past the lighthouse into the North Atlantic.

Explore Sable Island National Park Reserve

Located on the edge of the Grand Banks, visit an infamous island with a storied history as a ship graveyard — more than 350 ships have fallen victim to the treacherous currents and sandbars. Sporadically inhabited by sealers, shipwreck survivors and salvagers, the island is now home to fewer than six year-round inhabitants, a herd of Sable Island ponies, and one of the largest gray seal colonies in the world. Explore by foot and watch for the wild ponies.

Spot Atlantic Puffins on Bird Island

Commence exploring along the north-central coast of Cape Breton, visiting Bird Island. It is home to a number of important species including the great cormorant, Atlantic puffin, Atlantic razorbill, black-legged kittiwake, and is a feeding area for local bald eagles. Board Zodiac boats in groups of 10-12 with an expert naturalist who provides insight and interpretation. Have the option to cycle, kayak, or paddle board alongside an expert guide.

Explore Prince Edward Island

Anchor offshore Prince Edward Island in the early morning with the option to split off into several directions today. Tour the town of Charlottetown, visit Green Gables, or spend a few hours at the island's famous Cavendish beach with a mandatory sampling of Cows Ice Cream. Another enticing option is a leisurely bicycle ride along the Confederation Trail or the Coastal Drive. Golfing and kayaking are also available. Be welcomed back to ship with a fresh seafood dinner.

Discover the Magdelen Islands

Take in the beauty of islands sculpted out of sandstone and home to unique fishing communities. These remote areas include beautifully maintained waterfront houses and boats, flowing grassy plains and sandstone shorelines sculpted by the elements. Experience traditional fishing and sealing culture found in the islands, and encounter diverse bird life along the beaches and lagoons. The area has been home to indigenous people for centuries - enjoy this culture through local cuisine, craft and language. Have the option to cycle, kayak, paddle board, or whale watch.

Drop Anchor at Bonaventure Island

Anchor near the town of Perce and visit the island by Zodiac. Sculpted by time and sea, the island is situated at the tip of the Gaspe Peninsula, and has a rich natural, historic, and geological heritage. Almost 300 different species of birds have been recorded as visiting, migrating to, or living on Bonaventure Island. The town of Perce provides a window into the rich fishing culture of French-Canada.

Hike the Beaches of Anticosti Island

Travel to the mouth of the St. Lawrence River, where river and Arctic waters combine creating a rich and abundant ecosystem. Hike along beaches and cruise along cliffs by Zodiac. Observe many species of wildlife here including shorebirds, seabirds, and seals. Keep an eye out for whales in the area!

Explore the Tablelands of Gros Morne National Park

Sail into majestic Bonne Bay, in the heart of Gros Marne National Park. Cliffs soar up out of the water, covered in green blankets of windswept spruce. Head ashore at Woody Point and hike to the excellent interpretation center. From there, take guided walks of various fitness levels to the World Heritage-listed Tablelands. Expect spectacular views of the park.

Visit Enchanting Francois

Enter Francois harbor, being greeted by one of the few remaining manned light stations anywhere on the coast of Newfoundland. Continue on through a narrow opening leading into the steep-walled rocky fjord. This is a spectacular location leading to one of the most photogenic towns in Canada. Visit this community and learn about its rich fishing heritage.

Stroll on Saint-Pierre and Miquelon Islands

Head to Saint-Pierre and Miquelon off the south coast of Newfoundland. They were first settled by the French in the early 17th century and today the islands represent the sole remaining vestige of France's once vast North American empire. Walk down the streets taking in the vibe of a provincial French town, and have option to see a puffin colony. Finish a beautiful day with a special dinner, attended by the captain, to mark the end of our voyage.

Sail Back to Louisbourg

Sail back to Cape Breton heading again for the historic port of Louisbourg. Disembark and either head to the airport or stay in Cape Breton, one of gems of Canada's East Coast.