Overview
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In Carleton-Sur-Mér, visit the strawberry fields above the seaside, and learn the art of making strawberry wine and liqueurs from the local experts. Explore historic sites where the original buildings from 1766 still stand, with the rich history of fishing, shipbuilding, and fisherman’s nets. Take an excursion to the seaside hamlet of Percé—named one of the most beautiful villages in Québec. Take a scenic cruise around the huge, sheer Percé Rock and Bonaventure Island. Observe the seabird colonies and marine wildlife and enjoy the history and geology of the heritage trail on Bonaventure Island. Hear the history of native peoples, and visit Forillon National Park, the old Cap-des-Rosiers lighthouse, and the sleepy fishing port of Grand Valleé before driving through stunning scenery to Matane—Gaspé’s shrimping hub. Stroll the 40-acre gardens at Les Jardins de Metis and enjoy lunch at its founder’s historic home.
Your visit to Québec includes a thrilling whale-watching cruise excursion in the Saguenay-St. Lawrence Marine Park. Return to Québec while stopping for culinary specialties and samples in a Fromagerie in the Charlevoix region. Celebrate your adventure with guided sightseeing in Québec, followed by a farewell dinner in Île d’Orléans inside a restored 17th-century flour mill. Travel to Montréal and bid bon voyage to the shore as you embark on a Holland America cruise on the Gulf of St. Lawrence. You’ll stop in historic, picturesque, and fascinating towns of Charlottetown, Sydney, Halifax, and Bar Harbor—then disembarking in historic Boston, Massachusetts.
Highlights
Sightseeing with a Local Guide; visit Notre Dame Basilica
RIMOUSKIVisit Pointe-au-Père Maritime Historic Site
CARLETON-SUR-MÉRVisit Miguasha National Park with a Local Guide; visit LF Ferme Bourdages Tradition for a tasting; Visit Banc-de-Péche-de-Paspébiac National Historic Site with a Local Guide with lunch
PERCÉScenic cruise around Pierced Rock; LF Visit Bonaventure Island and Percé National Park; visit Gespeg Micmac Interpretation Site with a Local Guide; Forillon National Park
MATANEVisit the Les Jardins de Métis and enjoy a LF Taste the Gardens Lunch
SAGUENAY FJORDEnjoy a whale-watching cruise in the Saguenay-St. Lawrence Marine Park
CHARLÉVOIX REGIONVisit a traditional fromagerie for a LF tour and tasting
QUÉBEC CITYSightseeing with a Local Guide
CRUISE7-night cruise aboard Holland America’s MS Zaandam or MS Amsterdam
2020 Tour itinerary
Total meals included:
- 17 breakfasts, 9 lunches, 10 dinners
ARRIVE IN MONTRÉAL
Day1
Welcome to Montréal, the second largest city in Canada. At 6 pm, meet your traveling companions for a welcome drink as your Tour Director prepares you for your Québec adventure.
MONTRÉAL
Day2
After breakfast, enjoy sightseeing with a Local Guide. Take in NOTRE DAME BASILICA, the Old Seminary of St. Sulpice, and a drive to the top of Mount Royal to enjoy a panorama of the city. The rest of your day is free to explore this lively city on your own. Your Tour Director will be onsite to provide ideas for shopping, dining, and exploring.
Meals included:
- Breakfast
MONTRÉAL–RIMOUSKI
Day3
Next, follow the historic Navigator’s Route along the St. Lawrence River traveling through quaint Victorian villages, past lighthouses and into the Bas-Saint-Laurent region for an overnight in the maritime center of Rimouski.
Meals included:
- Breakfast
RIMOUSKI–MIGUASHA NATIONAL PARK–CARLETON-SUR-MÉR
Day4
Today, start your grand tour of the spectacular Gaspé Peninsula featuring panoramic views of the sea, beaches, and cliffs. Visit the POINTE-AU-PÈRE MARITIME HISTORIC SITE, home of the Empress of Ireland Museum, to learn about the transatlantic liner’s history and doomed fate. Later, travel through the Matapédia Valley to Chaleur Bay for a guided visit to MIGUASHA NATIONAL PARK, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and considered the world’s most outstanding illustration of the Devonian Period known as the “Age of Fishes.” Continue to the Carleton-sur-Mér.
Meals included:
- Breakfast
- Dinner
CARLETON-SUR-MÉR–BANC-DE-PÊCHE-DE-PASPÉBIAC NATIONAL HISTORIC SITE–PERCÉ
Day5
After a morning at leisure, continue your adventure through the Gaspé Peninsula countryside to FERME BOURDAGES TRADITION, the local experts in everything strawberries since 1821. Here, visit strawberry fields with sea views and discover the secrets behind the art of making strawberry wine and liqueurs before tasting them. Next, visit the BANC-DE-PÉCHE-DE-PASPÉBIAC NATIONAL HISTORIC SITE to explore the original buildings dating back to 1766, witness the Gaspésie fishing history, watch traditional shipbuilding, and net-mending demonstrations. Later, continue to the seaside village of Percé.
Meals included:
- Breakfast
- Lunch
PERCÉ. EXCURSION TO PERCÉ ROCK AND BONAVENTURE ISLAND
Day6
Today, discover the iconic gems of the Gaspé Peninsula. Take a scenic CRUISE around the famous “Pierced Rock” also known as the "Pierced Rock" and Bonaventure Island to observe the stunning seabird colony and marine wildlife that frequent the region. Visit LF BONAVENTURE ISLAND AND PERCÉ NATIONAL PARK, home to one of the largest migratory bird refuge in North America. Its colony of 116,000 northern gannets is the most accessible in the world. Wander the hiking trails or enjoy the heritage trail to learn about the rich natural, historic, and geological wonders of the island. This evening, enjoy dinner at a local restaurant.
NOTE:
The scenic cruise is subject to favorable weather conditions.
Meals included:
- Breakfast
- Dinner
PERCÉ–FORILLON NATIONAL PARK–GRANDE VALLÉE-MATANE
Day7
This morning, visit GESPEG MICMAC INTERPRETATION SITE for a guided introduction to the Mi’gmaq, a First Nations people, to discover their culture, traditions, and contributions to modern day society. Then, into FORILLON NATIONAL PARK and follow the peninsula road to old Cap-des-Rosiers lighthouse. Enjoy a lunch break in a sleepy, yet charming fishing community. The catch-of-the-day comes highly recommended. This afternoon’s drive provides some of the best scenery of the peninsula. Late afternoon arrival in Matane, the hub of Gaspé’s thriving shrimp industry.
Meals included:
- Breakfast
- Lunch
MATANE–QUÉBEC CITY
Day8
Today, visit the famous LES JARDINS DE MÉTIS, better known as the Reford Gardens after Elsie Reford who spent thirty years transforming a fishing camp on the Métis River into a vast 40-acre estate garden brimming with bold and innovative character. Spend time exploring the many areas of the gardens, such as the Linear Garden, the Stream Garden, or the Bird Garden which is specifically designed to attract many varieties of birds. Then, a LF TASTE THE GARDENS lunch at the historic Estevan Lodge, once the summer home to Elsie Reford. Enjoy the seasonal menu highlighted with the 150 edible plants picked daily from the gardens themselves. This afternoon, continue your journey to romantic Québec City, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, recognized for being one of the most historic and best-preserved cities in North America. Tonight, explore Québec’s Parisian ambiance by visiting the shops in the Petit-Champlain district or enjoying the French inspired cuisine at one of the many restaurants.
Meals included:
- Breakfast
- Lunch
QUÉBEC CITY. EXCURSION TO THE SAGUENAY FJORD & CHARLÉVOIX REGION
Day9
This morning, travel along the north shore of the St. Lawrence River to the breathtaking Saguenay Fjord. Here, embark on a WHALE-WATCHING CRUISE in the heart of the Saguenay-St. Lawrence Marine Park, known for having the greatest variety of whale species on earth. On board, a naturalist guide will introduce you to the marine mammals of the area including the endangered species: the blue whale and the St. Lawrence beluga whale. En route back to Québec City, stop in the Charlévoix region, known as a thriving culinary destination. Here, visit a family owned traditional LF FROMAGERIE, or cheese factory, to learn the delicate art of cheese making, followed by a tasting.
NOTE:
The whale-watching cruise is subject to favorable weather conditions.
Meals included:
- Breakfast
QUÉBEC CITY
Day10
This morning, enjoy a tour of the only walled city north of Mexico with a Local Guide. Within the walls of Old Québec, see the Place d’Armes, the Laval Seminary, the star-plan Citadelle, and the Place Royale. Also see the old-world houses crowding the narrow streets in Lower Town by the St. Lawrence River, and the historic Plains of Abraham. Tonight, travel to Ile D’Orléans to enjoy a delightful farewell dinner at a fine restaurant housed in a restored 17th-century flour mill.
Meals included:
- Breakfast
- Dinner
MONTRÉAL (EMBARKATION)-SCENIC CRUISING: SAINT LAWRENCE RIVER
Day11
Spend the morning at leisure. This afternoon, transfer to the pier to embark on your Holland America cruise ship, the MS Zaandam or MS Amsterdam.
Meals included:
- Breakfast
- Dinner
QUÉBEC CITY
Day12
Visit Canada’s only walled city, which, until the British victory of 1759, was the center of New France and today is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Stroll within the walls and see the Place d’Armes, Laval Seminary, and ancient Place Royale. Also see Old World houses crowding the narrow streets in Lower Town by the St. Lawrence River and the historic Plains of Abraham.
Meals included:
- Breakfast
- Lunch
- Dinner
SCENIC CRUISING: GULF OF ST. LAWRENCE
Day13
Québec City marks the start of Saguenay Fjord. This 200-mile-long 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. Spend the day at leisure aboard the ship, taking advantage of the numerous amenities.
Meals included:
- Breakfast
- Lunch
- Dinner
CHARLOTTETOWN
Day14
Spend the day in Charlottetown on Prince Edward Island, the provincial capital named after Queen Charlotte, consort of King George III. The city is famous for hosting the 1864 conference that three years later led to the creation of the independent Dominion of Canada. Perhaps take a trip to Cavendish and visit the famous Anne of Green Gables homestead.
Meals included:
- Breakfast
- Lunch
- Dinner
SYDNEY
Day15
So green and Gaelic is Cape Breton Island that Scotsman Alexander Graham Bell called it home for the last 37 years of his life. In fact, Cape Breton was principally settled by Highland Scots whose families had come out on the wrong side of rebellions against the Crown. You can still see this heritage in the accents in some remote villages—and in the great popularity of Scottish-style folk music. Today, you may choose to travel along the scenic Cabot Trail or visit historic Louisbourg Fortress, which recreates life in French-occupied Canada.
Meals included:
- Breakfast
- Lunch
- Dinner
HALIFAX
Day16
Arrive in Halifax, where lighthouses stand sentinel on cliff side ledges and tiny villages huddle in rocky inlets. Take time to explore Citadel Hill with its early 19th-century star-shaped fort, the tree-shaded walks of the public gardens, and Fairview Cemetery, the final resting place for more than 100 people who perished on the Titanic.
Meals included:
- Breakfast
- Lunch
- Dinner
BAR HARBOR
Day17
Arrive in Bar Harbor on Mount Desert Island, Maine’s oldest summer resort, and stroll around the charming waterfront with its many shops, galleries, and boutiques. Alternatively, take an optional excursion to picturesque Acadia National Park, one of America’s most visited parks.
Meals included:
- Breakfast
- Lunch
- Dinner
BOSTON (DISEMBARKATION)
Day18
The tour ends this morning. Guests depart on individual schedules. Please schedule your flights after Noon.
Meals included:
- Breakfast
Things to note
- Cruise itineraries are provided by Holland America Line and are up to date at time of publishing. Your Travel Documents will contain the most current information.
- At least one member of the traveling party must be 21 years of age or older.
Hotels
It may occasionally be necessary to use alternative hotels of a similar standard to those shown.
Delta Montreal Hotel
Superior First-Class
Located in the heart of downtown Montreal, Quebec, Canada, the Delta Montreal soars above President Kennedy Avenue, showcasing unique Canadian artwork in the lobby, a wealth of superior amenities, and exceptionally comfortable accommodations. The Delta Montreal features 456 guestrooms with angular layouts that lend a spacious feel. Sleek, dark mahogany furniture complements earth-toned carpets and draperies, and all rooms have floor-to-ceiling windows, and plush bedding. All of this is topped off with fantastic dining options and world-class service.
Location
475 Avenue President Kennedy, Montreal, Canada
Hotel Facilities
- Gift Shop
- Currency Exchange
- Business Center
- Spa Services
- ATM
- Free WiFi
- Restaurant On-Site
- Laundry Available
- Hot Tub
- Bar/Lounge
- Concierge desk
- Beauty Salon
- Elevator
- Fitness Room
- Pool
Room Facilities
- Room Service
- Non-smoking Rooms
- Hair Dryer
- Television
- Climate Control
- Desk
- Iron/Ironing Board
- Cable/Satellite
- Complimentary Toiletries
- Internet Access
- Wake-Up Calls
- Phone
- Disabled Access / Rooms
- Voicemail
- Alarm Clock
- Air Conditioning
- Window Opens
Hotel Rimouski & Convention Centre
Superior First-Class
Situated on the banks of the St. Lawrence River, Hotel Rimouski features spacious guestrooms, on-site restaurant and bar, health center, indoor pool and water slide, and complimentary Wi-Fi.
Location
225 Blvd Rene Lepage Est, Rimouski, Canada
Hotel Facilities
- Fitness Room
- Restaurant On-Site
- Hot Tub
- Bar/Lounge
- Laundry Available
- ATM
- Parking/Valet
- Ice Machine
- Spa Services
- Free WiFi
- Luggage Storage
- Elevator
- Business Center
- Pool
Room Facilities
- Iron/Ironing Board
- Wake-Up Calls
- Disabled Access / Rooms
- Coffee Maker
- Complimentary Toiletries
- Phone
- Voicemail
- Non-smoking Rooms
- Cable/Satellite
- Internet Access
- Alarm Clock
- Desk
- Television
- Room Service
- Air Conditioning
- Hair Dryer
- Climate Control
Hostellerie Baie Bleue
Moderate First-Class
Located in the heart of Baie-des-Chaleurs, the Hostellerie Baie Bleue offers stunning views of the bay and surrounding environment. The hotel complex is divided into four main buildings and features cozy guestrooms, on-site restaurant and bar, outdoor pool, and picnic area.
Location
482 Boul Perron, Carleton, Canada
Hotel Facilities
- Restaurant On-Site
- Parking/Valet
- Luggage Storage
- Pool
- ATM
- Concierge desk
- Currency Exchange
- Free WiFi
- Bar/Lounge
- Gift Shop
Room Facilities
- Disabled Access / Rooms
- Coffee Maker
- Air Conditioning
- Desk
- Television
- Hair Dryer
- Voicemail
- Iron/Ironing Board
- Wake-Up Calls
- Complimentary Toiletries
- Internet Access
- Phone
- Alarm Clock
- Non-smoking Rooms
- Cable/Satellite
- Complimentary Newspaper
Riotel Perce
Superior Tourist-Class
Overlooking Perce Rock and Bonaventure Island, the rustic Riotel Perce features spectacular views, cozy guestrooms, on-site restaurant, spa, and access to the beach.
Location
261 Route 132, Perce, Canada
Hotel Facilities
- ATM
- Luggage Storage
- Hot Tub
- Business Center
- Restaurant On-Site
- Currency Exchange
- Free WiFi
- Fitness Room
- Bar/Lounge
- Spa Services
- Parking/Valet
Room Facilities
- Hair Dryer
- Phone
- Voicemail
- Disabled Access / Rooms
- Television
- Window Opens
- Iron/Ironing Board
- Cable/Satellite
- Non-smoking Rooms
- Alarm Clock
- Internet Access
- Room Service
- Coffee Maker
- Wake-Up Calls
- Desk
- Complimentary Toiletries
Riotel Matane
Superior First-Class
Riotel Matane offers guests modern amenities and breathtaking views of the St. Lawrence River. The hotel features a riverside fire pit, on-site restaurant, fitness center, indoor heated pool, sauna, Jacuzzi, and complimentary Wi-Fi.
Location
250 Avenue du Phare Est, Matane, Canada
Hotel Facilities
- Pool
- Free WiFi
- Laundry Available
- Elevator
- Fitness Room
- Bar/Lounge
- Currency Exchange
- Restaurant On-Site
- Luggage Storage
- Hot Tub
- Business Center
- Parking/Valet
Room Facilities
- Desk
- Phone
- Disabled Access / Rooms
- Iron/Ironing Board
- Wake-Up Calls
- Cable/Satellite
- Voicemail
- Alarm Clock
- Air Conditioning
- Complimentary Toiletries
- Non-smoking Rooms
- Coffee Maker
- Room Service
- Hair Dryer
- Television
- Internet Access
Hotel Pur Quebec
Superior First-Class
Local, modern, and stylish, Hotel Pur is situated in the heart of the Saint Roch District of Quebec City. The hotel features an urban design with amenities that include an on-site restaurant and bar, indoor heated pool, dry sauna, and fitness center.
Location
395 rue de la Couronne, Quebec City, Canada
Hotel Facilities
- Elevator
- Ice Machine
- Parking/Valet
- Free WiFi
- Laundry Available
- Luggage Storage
- Fitness Room
- Bar/Lounge
- Business Center
- Restaurant On-Site
- Pool
- Currency Exchange
Room Facilities
- Disabled Access / Rooms
- Air Conditioning
- Voicemail
- Desk
- Hair Dryer
- Iron/Ironing Board
- Television
- Cable/Satellite
- Complimentary Toiletries
- Coffee Maker
- Wake-Up Calls
- Internet Access
- Phone
- In-Room Safe
- Alarm Clock
- Complimentary Newspaper
- Non-smoking Rooms
