THE CANADIAN MARITIMES
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8 DAYS
Visit the quaint fishing villages, beautiful national parks and an old viking settlement on this extraordinary journey around the Canadian Maritimes.
ITINERARY SUMMARY
| Day | Place | Highlights |
| Day 1 | St. John’s, Newfoundland, Canada | Board the National Geographic Explorer for your Canadian Maritimes voyage |
| Day 2 | St. Pierre, France | France’s oldest overseas territory, whale watching lookout |
| Day 3 | Louisbourg and Baddeck, Cape Breton Island, Nova Scotia | Fortress of Louisbourg , village of Baddeck, of the Bell Museum |
| Day 4 | Îles-de-la-Madeleine, Quebec | Explore on foot, by bike or by kayak |
| Day 5 | Gros Morne National Park | Cliffs and fjords, glacial valleys of Gros Morne National Park |
| Day 6 | L’Anse aux Meadows | Viking village remains from the 11th century |
| Day 7 | Exploring Eastern Newfoundland | Fishing villages, Zodiac and Kayaking excursions |
| Day 8 | St. John’s, Newfoundland, Canada | Signal Hill, the Rooms Museum |
Day 1 St. John’s, Newfoundland, Canada – St. Pierre, France
Overview:
Arrive in St. John’s, the picturesque capital city of Newfoundland and Labrador. Here you will board the National Geographic Explorer. Settle into your cabin and meet the expedition team.
The first stop is Saint-Pierre Island, France’s oldest remaining overseas territory. Here you have an opportunity to explore the beautiful fishing enclave and visit the whale watching lookout.
Ship
National Geographic Explorer
National Geographic Explorer was completely redesigned and rebuilt prior to being relaunched in 2008. The ship is equipped with an ice-strengthened hull and advanced navigation equipment making it ideal for Antarctic expeditions, and offers a well-appointed interior with vast expanses of glass for an unprecedented connection to the regions explored. The Explorer accommodates guests in 81 spacious outside cabins, most with feature windows and some with balconies. Public areas include a lounge and bar, a spa, fitness centre and sauna, and a choice of dining options that offer regionally inspired cuisine.
The ship is outfitted with the latest equipment for exploration – kayaks and a fleet of Zodiac landing craft, as well as hydrophones, HD cameras, and sophisticated video equipment that allows access to the underwater world.
Day 2 Louisbourg and Baddeck, Cape Breton Island, Nova Scotia
Overview:
Visit the reconstructed 18th-century Fortress of Louisbourg before exploring the village of Baddeck, where Alexander Graham Bell, a founding member of the National Geographic Society, built his summer home and conducted much of his research. Take a guided tour of the Bell Museum and have the opportunity to see historic artifacts from Canadian Maritimes that are usually not available to the public.
Day 4 Îles-de-la-Madeleine, Quebec
Overview:
In the Gulf of St. Lawrence, the Îles de la Madeleine has stunning coastline that stretches for miles with sand dunes, red sandstone cliffs and grassy hills. The caves, sea arches and rocky nooks are perfect to explore by Zodiac or kayak. You will also have the opportunity to explore the green hills by foot or bike and learn more about Acadian culture which dates back 250 years.
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Day 5 Gros Morne National Park
Overview:
Today you will visit the Gros Morne National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site for its unique geology. Admire the incredible views of the glacial valley, cliffs and fjords and extensive alpine plateau whilst your geologist guide, explains the forces that shaped this region.
Day 6 L’Anse aux Meadows
Overview:
In 1960, the remains of a Viking village established in the 11th century were discovered at L’Anse aux Meadows, now a UNESCO World Heritage site. You are able to walk among the Nors ruins and reconstructed sod huts, and learn the saga of the Vikings in North America—nearly 500 years before Columbus arrived.
Day 7 Exploring Eastern Newfoundland
Overview:
Newfoundland’s east coast is dotted with quaint fishing villages, of which many are only accessible by sea. You will be able to explore the shoreline by Zodiac or Kayak. On board you can attend presentations on the civilizations and wildlife of this area.
Day 8 St. John’s
Overview:
Sail via the natural gateway ‘The Narrows’ and arrive in St. John’s. Take a look around and visit the colourful waterfront and historic Signal Hill. You can also visit the Rooms Museum before transferring to the airport.