Halifax - Milwaukee St Lawrence River and Great Lakes: where every lock reveals the soul of North America

Cruising in the Gulf of Saint Lawrence, you will reach the Iles de la Madeleine in the Atlantic bay. The nine main islands and numerous smaller islands of the Magdalen Islands look like splashes of colour in the watercolour painting of the gulf. Red cliffs, golden beaches, green dunes and colourful wooden houses characterise the idyll, with small fishing boats bobbing on the water in front of picturesque villages. Here, your spirit of discovery is combined with savoir vivre: French caresses your ear while culinary delicacies with fish and seafood tempt your palate. From the Cape Alright Lighthouse, perched lonely up on a cliff, you can enjoy breathtaking views of the coast.

The “birthplace of Canada” is located on Prince Edward Island: in 1864, a conference of the founding fathers in the charming capital city of Charlottetown gave the impetus for Canadian Confederation. As the sound of horse-drawn carriages rings through the streets, the centre offers fascinating discoveries. The smallest Canadian province is just as important to the country’s history as it is large for its fishing tradition – there are said to be more than 1,000 licensed lobster fishermen in the region. Lobster was once considered a poor man’s meal, but today the shellfish not only tops menus, but is also the focus of adventure tours both on and off the island.

The local charm of the small town Gaspe is defined by the surrounding picturesque bays and cliffs as well as the majestic Gulf of Saint Lawrence. Located at the tip of the Gaspe Peninsula, the scenic town is known for its breathtaking landscapes. These vary greatly and have differences in height of up to 400 m (1,300 ft). The name Gaspe probably comes from a word of the Native American Mi’kmaq people and means something like “land’s end”. The place is also attributed with the historical significance of a beginning: it is considered the birthplace of the French colonisation of present-day Canada – in 1534, the explorer Jacques Cartier erected the first cross here. His contribution to the mapping of the St Lawrence River and his legacy in Canadian history remain significant to this day.

Situated on the north-western shore of the St Lawrence River, Havre-Saint-Pierre is a place of remarkable diversity: impressive experiences of nature and wildlife viewing, hikes in unspoilt countryside and cultural discoveries await you. The port was founded in the 19th century by Acadian settlers, the “Cayens”. In a former general store, which is now a cultural centre, you can gain insights into history. Directly off the coast lies the Mingan Archipelago National Park Reserve with its bizarre limestone monoliths, shaped by the sea and wind: The shapes will spark your imagination and make impressive photo motifs. In addition to rare flora with over 450 species of plants, the numerous islands and headlands are home to colonies of seabirds such as puffins and cormorants. Whales and seals also have their habitats here. Let yourself be captivated by French Canadian charm.

With a bit of luck, you will see beluga whales before you reach Tadoussac – the waters here are home to world’s southernmost population. Where the Saguenay Fjord joins the St Lawrence River, the village of Tadoussac, with its 800 inhabitants, welcomes you. It was founded by Europeans in the 17th century and is thus one of the oldest settlements in the country. Colourful houses with restaurants and small shops line the main street. Surrounded by green wooded hills, the pace of life here seems to be more relaxed. The proximity to the wide-open natural surroundings, the curved coastline and the river makes the village a popular starting point for outdoor activities* of all kinds and whale watching* – or for your own hikes.

Jacques Cartier first set foot in the area around Saguenay in 1535. The explorer was amazed by the vastness of the region and named it “Kingdom”. The reference has stuck, and Saguenay-Lac-Saint-Jean never misses an opportunity to remind its visitors of this with a variety of cultural and historical activities. It was only in 2002 that the present-day city of Saguenay was officially created by merging the surrounding small towns and communities.

In one of the largest side branches of the St Lawrence River, the Saguenay, nature is particularly vibrant. Keep an eye out for whales as you pass along the lifeline of the Canadian wilderness. Cruising in the Saguenay Fjord, you may be lucky to spot belugas, which can be found hunting for fish and plankton here all year round. The open deck areas and the deck tour at the bow are the best places to observe them. At the end of the fjord lies the region’s capital, which has a French charm all of its own. It is a picturesque starting point for spectacular excursions. Spectacular, rugged mountain landscapes frame the scenery and make cruising on the Saguenay an unforgettable experience.

On your approach along the impressive the St Lawrence River, an iconic structure already provides a hint of Quebec’s French flair: the Chateau Frontenac, a hotel in the style of a Norman castle, sits majestically high above the city. Take a fascinating journey of discovery through the picturesque old town: wander down the narrow, cobbled lanes, past traditional French architecture, charming boutiques and bistros. The ensemble is enclosed by a centuries-old city wall, which was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1985. In addition to the slower pace of life, Quebec is characterised by a vibrant cultural scene in which art galleries, theatres and street artists come together.

In Montreal, Canada’s second-largest city, the French way of life meets British understatement. The metropolis is gently nestled along Mont Royal: the local mountain is also the city’s namesake and is a pleasant park for taking walks to enjoy wonderful views of Montreal. In the oldest district of Vieux-Montreal, many buildings such as the Notre-Dame Basilica, the Bonsecours Market and the town hall are reminiscent of the city’s French roots. Enjoy the European flair of the neighbourhoods on your own explorations or on excursions*. In the largest French-speaking city in the world after Paris, your personal spirit of discovery meets a special form of savoir vivre.

A highway of water: the St Lawrence River is a transport route, lifeline and the “home of whales” in North America. It connects the Great Lakes with the Atlantic Ocean. During your extraordinary passage, the ship will have to negotiate seven locks with a difference in height of up to 15 m (49 ft). Exciting manoeuvres that you can experience directly during the day: since your ship is built for expeditions and direct encounters with nature, you can use the many open decks to observe the lock passages. The Observation Lounge on Deck 8 also offers you a beautiful view of the action ahead. With your lock adventure on the St Lawrence River, you will experience a nautical feat that only a few ships can accomplish.

Where the St Lawrence River creates the border between the United States and Canada, your small expedition ship will pass through a photogenic labyrinth of skerries. Cruising through the Thousand Islands offers highly diverse island contrasts. In fact, there are not just 1,000, but more than 1,800 islands. Each island is different: some are covered in green forests, some have an English castle or colourful cottages – and the best views of them can be enjoyed from the many open deck areas.

Welcome to Toronto, one of the most multicultural cities in the world. The metropolis is considered an international centre for trade, finance and architecture. Discover how skyscrapers, parks and trendy neighbourhoods work well together to form a whole, either independently or with the help of your experts. Combine all the highlights during your stay and take an in-depth look into the structure of the city. Many of the leading architects have designed buildings here, such as Toronto-born Frank Gehry, Daniel Libeskind and Santiago Calatrava – making your visit an expedition through architecture. Or you can use the city as a starting point for an excursion* to the fascinating Niagara Falls: a must for every nature lover.

Filled with the same passionate spirit of discovery that led the first settlers to these regions, the adventure of navigating the locks of the Welland Canal lies ahead of you. The approximately 45 km (28 mi.) long waterway, which opened in 1932, connects Lake Ontario with Lake Erie. Your small expedition ship features retractable bridge wings so that it can pass through the locks between the lakes. These feats of nautical brilliance are beyond the capabilities of most ships. Eight locks, around 20 bridges and a difference in altitude of almost 100 m (328 ft) – a lock lift comparable to the height of the Niagara Falls. This route demands millimetre precision from the captain and crew: the locks are only 2.5 m (8.2 ft) wider than the ship with a beam of 22 m (72 ft). Follow the exciting manoeuvres on the many open deck areas, with knowledgeable commentary from your experts.

History and adventure come together as you cruise on Detroit River and reach the Canadian city of Windsor. It tells the story of industrialisation in just as fascinating way as Detroit, the former “Motor City”, on the opposite side of the river in the United States. Discover the stories behind the skylines and landscapes. Your experts on board are your “navigators” with insider knowledge that remains hidden from others. For example, learn exciting things about the rise, fall and architectural diversity of Detroit, which is now emerging again. What will your personal American Dream of discovery be? The choice is yours: go on interesting excursions* or take a walk along the Waterfront Trail through the city districts of Windsor.

During your cruise across Lake Huron, you will reach the small fishing village of Tobermory. The picturesque town is located in the middle of the protected Fathom Five National Marine Park and invites you to stroll down and linger on its harbour promenade with local arts and crafts shops, cafes and restaurants. Along the coast, dramatic cliffs and towering monoliths rise out of the water, interspersed with caves and lighthouses. The sight of small coves with their turquoise water will make you think you’re in the Caribbean. Green forests, home to black bears, white-tailed deer and hundreds of other animals, are abundant close to the shore. In addition, around 40 species of wild orchids can be found here. A stage of the Bruce Trail offers a variety of landscapes and spectacular views of Georgian Bay. A true paradise for hiking lovers, the region offers a variety of trails for activities that will be enriched by your experts’ knowledge of natural history. There is something for everyone here – a must for nature and outdoor lovers.

The quaint town of Killarney, with a population of barely 500, has its Irish roots in its name. Just imagine how overwhelmed the first settlers and trappers must have felt here by the vastness and the sense of freedom. It is Ontario’s little secret in the midst of a colourful wilderness: from the white quartzite of the mountains to the pink granite of the rocks and the indigo blue of the lake. An expedition area that is second to none. An invitation for you to take walks and linger. From the promenade, a hiking trail leads to the region’s landmark, the Killarney Lighthouse. Or take the shuttle bus to Killarney Provincial Park for hikes with your experts to gain a deeper understanding of this untouched wilderness. The calm waters here also offer the opportunity to enjoy Georgian Bay on a Zodiac ride with beautiful scenery and good chances for wildlife sightings – with a bit of luck, you’ll see cormorants, Canada geese and bald eagles.

The charming town of Parry Sound is located in the heart of Georgian Bay in an archipelago with Scandinavian allure. In this area, which has been declared a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, some 30,000 islands lie close together. The scenic approach through a small lagoon brings you ashore. It is the ideal place for many outdoor activities such as canoeing, kayaking and hiking. You can explore the shore on foot along the Marine Walking Trails, with captivating views of the cliffs and lake. With luck, you might also catch a glimpse of the wildlife of Georgian Bay, which is sometimes referred to as the sixth Great Lake. The incomparable feeling of freedom and discovery is what makes the region around Parry Sound so unique.

You’ll continue to Sault Ste. Marie. Here, Stars and Stripes meet the maple leaf. The Saint Marys River separates the Canadian and American sides of the border. At the official stop, you will clear in at the border control on the US side. Use the time afterwards to visit the historic locks and a museum ship. Your experts on board will be happy to tell you about the importance of the Soo Locks for the development of shipping in North America and the industrialisation of the region.

Mackinac Island is a natural jewel and is considered to be one of the most beautiful islands in the USA. Life still moves at a slow pace here. The streets are filled with the ringing of bicycle bells, the clattering of horses’ hooves and the rattling of carriages – because this little idyll is car-free. The historic Fort Mackinac from the time of the American War of Independence perches majestically high up on a cliff. It tells the story of 1812, when the original buildings, which are still preserved today, were conquered by the British. Victorian villas and the island’s grand hotel tell of the 19th century. The spacious Marquette Park, the marina and the city centre with its many shopping opportunities and restaurants underline how beautiful the present is. Enjoy Mackinac Island fudge, a world-famous sweet speciality.