Canada & New England Cruises: Excursions

Enjoy the rustic beauty of a 19th century horse-drawn wagon ride through the city of Portland. Your matched team of magnificent horses will tour you comfortably through the narrow streets of the city Henry Wadsworth Longfellow named a ‘Jewel by the Sea’. Your experienced guide will point out all the historical sites of this magnificent jewel we call Portland. Your tour will include Portland’s working waterfront, the Eastern Promenade with its spectacular views of Casco Bay and the Calendar Islands, the Portland Observatory which was used to notify the city of a ships arrival, Monument Square with its tribute to those who gave their lives for freedom, Henry Wadsworth Longfellow’s home and Longfellow Square. Pass by the Portland Museum of Art designed by I. M. Pei, and the unique combination of architectural styles that make up this vibrant city. Your guide will also discuss the history of Portland from its beginning as a part of Massachusetts to its independence and how the city was destroyed four times and rebuilt. Note: Participants must be able to negotiate three large steps to embark /disembark the wagon. This tour is not suitable for guests on wheelchairs. less

Board your Big Pink Sightseeing bus to explore Sydney, the largest community and commercial center of Cape Breton Island. Begin your tour in the historic north end settled in 1785 by British Loyalists from the New England colonies and pass by Victoria Park, the site of the original garrison camp. Continue through downtown Sydney with a brief stop at Wentworth Park for a photo opportunity. You’ll then proceed to Whitney Pier, the former site of Sydney Steel Mill which dates back to 1900. Visit the Historical Museum and learn about the importance the Sydney Coal Fields have on the local economy.

These industries brought immigrants from many parts of the world giving Sydney a multicultural mix of more than 50 ethnic backgrounds. Another photo stop will be made at The Melting Pot, honoring these people, their strong work ethic and cultural pride. Continue to the First Nations community of Membertou, a modern day blueprint for all aboriginal communities in North America. Return to the pier where you can do some shopping at the cruise terminal, visit the Interpretation Center and The Big Ceilidh Fiddle.

Board your Big Pink Sightseeing bus to explore Sydney, the largest community and commercial center of Cape Breton Island. Begin your tour in the historic north end settled in 1785 by British Loyalists from the New England colonies and pass by Victoria Park, the site of the original garrison camp. Continue through downtown Sydney with a brief stop at Wentworth Park for a photo opportunity. You’ll then proceed to Whitney Pier, the former site of Sydney Steel Mill which dates back to 1900. Visit the Historical Museum and learn about the importance the Sydney Coal Fields have on the local economy. These industries brought immigrants from many parts of the world giving Sydney a multicultural mix of more than 50 ethnic backgrounds. Another photo stop will be made at The Melting Pot, honoring these people, their strong work ethic and cultural pride.

Continue to the First Nations community of Membertou where you’ll celebrate the heritage, culture and unique history of these people through educational and interactive experiences. Your tour guide and/or Elders of Membertou will encourage you to experience their story, learn Mi’kmaq dance and drum as they provide a hands on demonstration and instruction. Sample traditional Mi’kmaq food and/or treat as you learn the history of their food, perhaps comparing the old way with the new. Enjoy a walk in their garden area and visit Petroglyphs Gift Shop featuring arts and crafts from the Mi’kmaq Nation and other First Nations across Atlantic Canada. You’ll then board your coach returning to the ship along the waterfront.

Tall Ship Silva is located in the heart of the Halifax’s waterfront and can accommodate up to 150 guests in perfect comfort. The spacious ship has been completely re-furbished with indoor and outdoor seating, a finely appointed banquet room and an on deck lounge. The ship provides a relaxing atmosphere in a true maritime environment. The sounds of sea shanties fill the air as the charming Captain and crew await your arrival. Enjoy the views of Halifax from the deck of a classic tall ship. Discover this historic seaside city with miles of shoreline guarded by George’s Island and its graceful lighthouse. Keep a lookout for marine life while enjoying Canadian croissants, soft drinks and coffee or tea. Enjoy another local treat, the traditional sounds of the Maritimes with a performance by a local fiddler. Most of all enjoy the legendary hospitality that Atlantic Canada is famous for. Note: There is an approximately 10-minute leisurely walk on flat pavement or boardwalk from the Cruise Pavilion to and from the 'Silva'. There is a ramp leading onto the boat followed by stairs leading down to the main deck. This tour is not recommended for guests in wheelchairs. less

Board a trolley for a historical and cultural tour of Charlottetown. Begin with the Fathers of Confederation route called Great George Street, where the Fathers of Canada formed the country in 1864. Visit the Province House Legislative Chambers and pass by historic homes dating back to the 1820’s, including the Lieutenant Governor's mansion. During the stop at Province House, stroll down Victoria Row with its quaint boutiques including the Green Gables Store. Note: Trolley is not wheelchair accessible. Participants must be able to get on and off the trolley themselves. Not all shops are wheelchair accessible. less