Sailing the St. Lawrence Seaway and Canadian Maritimes | 11 Days | National Geographic Explorer Cruise

Sailing the St. Lawrence Seaway and Canadian Maritimes | National Geographic Explorer | Arctic ToursSailing the St. Lawrence Seaway and Canadian Maritimes | National Geographic Explorer | Arctic Tours

Embark on an unforgettable journey along the St. Lawrence Seaway and the Canadian Maritimes, where rugged coastlines, Indigenous heritage, and rich marine ecosystems await. From the French charm of St-Pierre to the striking cliffs of the Saguenay Fjord, explore historic cities, remote islands, and wildlife-filled waters. Encounter whales, visit UNESCO-listed Québec City, and discover the unique Acadian culture of the Îles de la Madeleine.

11 Day Artic Itinerary

Day 1: St. John's, Newfoundland | Embarkation

Arrive in St. John's, the historic capital of Newfoundland and Labrador. Transfer to the ship and take in the stunning harbor views before setting sail on your maritime adventure.

Meals Included: Lunch / Dinner

Day 2: St-Pierre, France | A French Enclave in North America

Step ashore in St-Pierre, the last remaining French territory in North America. Visit a local island to learn about the region’s cod fishing history and explore the L’Arche Museum, which preserves the rich maritime heritage of this remote yet culturally distinct territory.

Meals Included: Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner

Day 3: At Sea | Marine Life and Relaxation

Cross the Gulf of St. Lawrence, home to a rich marine ecosystem that includes seven whale species, such as the endangered North Atlantic right whale. Watch for wildlife from the observation deck, attend expert-led talks, or unwind with a spa treatment as the ship sails toward Québec’s remote northern coast.

Meals Included: Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner

Day 4 & 5: Côte-Nord, Québec | Wild Landscapes & Indigenous Culture

Spend two days exploring the remote and stunning Côte-Nord region, where rugged landscapes meet centuries-old Indigenous heritage. Join local experts on Zodiac and kayak excursions through dramatic fjords, learn about the traditions of the region’s nine Indigenous communities, and observe the abundant marine life that thrives in these pristine waters.

Meals Included: Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner

Day 6: Québec City | European Charm in Canada

Explore Québec City, the only walled city north of Mexico and a UNESCO World Heritage site. Wander the cobblestone streets of Old Québec, marvel at the historic Citadel, and admire murals that depict the city's colonial past. Savor the city’s famous culinary delights, from French-inspired dishes to maple-infused treats.

Meals Included: Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner

Day 7 & 8: Saguenay River & Tadoussac | Fjords & Whales

Sail into the breathtaking Saguenay Fjord, a deep glacial valley carved over 10,000 years ago. This area is a prime habitat for beluga whales, as well as blue, fin, and minke whales. Explore the dramatic landscapes by Zodiac, keeping an eye out for harbor seals and soaring seabirds. After a day of exploration, enjoy a relaxing day at sea, attending expert lectures or unwinding with a book in the ship’s lounge.

Meals Included: Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner

Day 9: Îles de la Madeleine | Red Cliffs & Acadian Culture

Discover the remote Îles de la Madeleine, a windswept archipelago known for its golden beaches, rolling dunes, and striking red sandstone cliffs. Join local guides to explore hidden sea caves and picturesque fishing villages while learning about the region’s vibrant Acadian heritage.

Meals Included: Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner

Day 10: At Sea | Final Exploration & Reflection

Sail back through the Gulf of St. Lawrence, passing between Nova Scotia and Newfoundland. Spend the day editing your photos with a photography expert, learning about the ship’s navigation, or simply enjoying the last moments of this remarkable journey.

Meals Included: Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner

Day 11: St. John's, Newfoundland | Disembarkation

Arrive back in St. John's and disembark the ship. Transfer to the airport for your flight home or take some time to explore this lively city before your departure.
Meals Included: Breakfast
 | Faroe Islands | Puffin
 | Falkland | Orca | Westman Islands |  Antarctica | Faroe Islands |  Antarctica | Cierva Cove |  Antarctica | Cierva Cove | Leopard SealDevon Island | Canada |  Antarctica | Chilean Fjords |  Antarctica | Paradise Bay |  Antarctica | Falkland | Bird | Falkland | Black-browed AlbatrossBaffin Island | Canada |  Antarctica | Falkland | Commerson’s dolphins

11 Day Artic Itinerary Highlights

  • Explore the stunning Saguenay Fjord, home to beluga whales and towering cliffs.
  • Visit the historic walled city of Québec, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
  • Experience the unique French culture of St-Pierre, France’s last remaining North American territory.
  • Discover the breathtaking landscapes and Indigenous heritage of Côte-Nord, Québec.
  • Walk the red sandstone cliffs and golden beaches of the Îles de la Madeleine.

11 Day Arctic cruise activities

Sea Kayaking
Under full instruction from your sea kayaking guide, experience true tranquillity as you paddle through clinking ice floes and realise the enormity of the surrounding scenery. Look out for breaching whales, lounging seals and penguins zipping alongside your kayak. Some experience is required.
Ice Camping
Camp out on the ice and experience the silence which blankets the continent by night. This is your chance to completely connect with this ethereal ice world – wrap up warm and embrace the Antarctic elements.
Snowshoeing
Get a spring in your step when you slip on a pair of snowshoes in Antarctica. Enabling you to easily scale gentle slopes, this unique activity allows you to access hard to reach places and seek out the most impressive views.
Photography
Learn to capture wildlife and landscape shots in a small group photography program, including critiquing sessions and editing classes. Plus, Explorer Boat excursions with a dedicated photography expert on landings.
Explorer Boats
Achieve the best views and photographs from a forward facing Explorer Boats. They allow you to sit comfortably and securely while crackling through the ice-strewn waters. Look out for wildlife such as penguins, seals and whales as you cruise.
Yoga
It doesn’t get more serene than complimentary yoga classes to the tune of glacial scenery. Join the most unique exercise setting in the world after a day of exploration. Classes are regular but are dependent on weather conditions and swell.

Animals you might see on this itinerary

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