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Itinerary
Sail Onboard St. Lawrence Cruise Lines - The Canadian Empress
The Canadian Empress is a grand ship with a warm and friendly personality, and the size and design of the vessel serves to enhance the intimacy of river cruising. The exterior of the ship emulates the classic steamboats of the Victorian era, while the interior is a mix of charming early heritage style, with brass handrails and ornate metal ceilings, and contemporary fashion. This classic riverboat style is combined with modern technology to provide all of the safety, comfort, and amenities expected by today's travellers. All staterooms are above the waterline and include daily maid service.
*Note: The Canadian Empress is only equipped with stairs between decks. Persons with mobility issues should enquire with reservations staff about stateroom accessibility and potential accommodations.
Day 1 Toronto
Arrive in Toronto’s International Airport and transfer independently to your downtown hotel for a three-night stay. Pick up your information kit at the front desk upon check-in. The remainder of the day is at leisure to explore Canada’s commercial and cultural centre.
Overnight in Toronto at the Chelsea Hotel (or similar)
Day 2 Toronto
Enjoy the freedom of a hop-on-hop-off city tour conducted by a friendly and knowledgeable tour guide, educating you on the fun facts and history of Toronto with stops at/near all major hotels in the downtown area. Admission to the CN Tower, standing 335.33 metres tall, is included. Ride the glass-fronted elevators to the top and take in unforgettable views of Toronto and Lake Ontario. Near the base of the tower, enter the fascinating Ripley’s Aquarium with over 12,500 sq metres of display space for hundreds of creatures from sharks to colourful and rare tropical fish. The remainder of the day is free for independent exploration, shopping or simple relaxation.
Overnight in Toronto at the Chelsea Hotel (or similar)
Day 3 Toronto Niagara Falls Toronto
Enjoy a full-day sightseeing excursion to Niagara Falls. The route takes you through the lush fruit growing district and wine region of the Niagara Peninsula. Marvel at the spectacle of the famous Niagara Falls and step aboard the Niagara City Cruises by Hornblower Voyage to the Falls Boat Tour for a fantastic boat trip to the foot of the Horseshoe Falls. You will have ample time at the Falls to take pictures and admire the thundering waters or stroll into town. Highlights include a meal and a trip along the beautiful Niagara Parkway, which winds its way along the Niagara Gorge. Pass through the historic community of Niagara-on-the-Lake before returning to Toronto for the evening. Overnight in Toronto. Lunch included.
Overnight in Toronto at the Chelsea Hotel (or similar)
Day 4 Toronto Kingston | VIA Rail & St. Lawrence River Cruise
This morning, transfer independently to Union Station to board VIA Rail’s The Corridor train to Kingston. After the scenic journey that travels through the townships and villages north of the shores of Lake Ontario, you arrive in the historic city of Kingston and the 1000 Islands region. Board your cruising vessel for an early evening departure. After a welcome reception and refreshment, learn a little about the ship before enjoying delicious dinner and evening of entertainment. Dinner included.
Overnight onboard the Canadian Empress
Day 5 Kingston Brockville | St. Lawrence River Cruise
This morning, the ship raises anchor to cruise the 1000 Islands, Wanderer's Channel and Admiralty Group of Islands while en route to Gananoque. Passengers disembark at Gananoque for a tour of the Heritage Museum of the 1000 Islands. Afterwards, board the ship and continue on to cruise Millionaires' Row across the United States border. Sail past Boldt Castle and St. Laurens Statue on the way to Ivy Lea and disembark for a coach transfer and visit to the 1000 Islands Tower. After returning to the ship and the cruise, the ship arrives in Brockville in the afternoon. Relax or stroll along the park walkways in evening after dinner. Breakfast, lunch, dinner, morning and afternoon tea (schedule permitting) included.
Overnight onboard the Canadian Empress
Day 6 Brockville Upper Canada Village | St. Lawrence River Cruise
This morning disembark and transfer by bus for a tour of Fulford Mansion. Return to the ship for departure to Prescott with views of Windmill Point, the Blue Church, and Ogdensburg, New York. Disembark at Prescott for a tour of Fort Wellington (National Historic Site). Depart Prescott and arrive in the afternoon at Upper Canada Village for the evening. After dinner, perhaps take a stroll around the marina and grounds. Breakfast, lunch, dinner, morning and afternoon tea (schedule permitting) included.
Overnight onboard the Canadian Empress
Day 7 Upper Canada Village Coteau Landing | St. Lawrence River Cruise
This morning after breakfast, disembark the ship and board a miniature train for a short journey before loading on to horse-drawn wagons for a tour Upper Canada Village. Afterwards, it’s back on the ship to continue on to Coteau Landing, Quebec. The scenic route passes through Eisenhower and Snell Locks on the American side of the marine border. Crossing back into Canadian waters, the ship arrives at Coteau Landing, Quebec in the afternoon. Enjoy some free time to relax or stroll along the park and old canal pathways after dinner. Breakfast, lunch, dinner, morning and afternoon tea (schedule permitting) included.
Overnight onboard the Canadian Empress
Day 8 Coteau Montreal | St. Lawrence River Cruise
The cruise departs Coteau Landing bound for Port of Montreal. The route travels through Beauharnois Locks into Lake St. Louis. Looking down the river, Montreal grows larger in the distance as the ship passes through St. Catherine and St. Lambert locks. Embark on a short tour of the historic harbour. Disembarking at the Port of Montreal, take a fascinating bus tour of this city that blends English and French cultures. Afterwards, there is free time before and after dinner to further explore the port lands and charms of the city. Breakfast, lunch, dinner, morning and afternoon tea (schedule permitting) included.
Overnight onboard the Canadian Empress
Day 9 Montreal Trois Riviéres | St. Lawrence River Cruise
This morning depart Montreal bound for Trois Rivières, Quebec. Arriving at Trois Rivières, enjoy a brief bus tour including a visit the Shrine at Cap de la Madeleine. Returning to the marina, you may enjoy a self-guided walking tour of the historic "Old City" if time permits. After dinner, the entertainment for the evening includes an exciting ‘Big Band’ instrumental and vocal performance and night of dancing. Breakfast, lunch, dinner, morning and afternoon tea (schedule permitting) included.
Overnight onboard the Canadian Empress
Day 10 Trois Riviéres Quebec City | St. Lawrence River Cruise
Depart Trois Rivières early morning and soon watch the shoreline transition to the scenic approach to romantic Quebec City. The ship sails past the dramatic spectacle of Montmorency Falls. Arrive in Quebec City where we enjoy a final gathering at the tour Closing Ceremonies in the Grand Saloon. Disembark the ship and transfer independently to your Quebec City hotel where the remainder of the day is at leisure. Breakfast, lunch and morning tea (schedule permitting) included.
Overnight in Quebec City at the Hotel Chateau Laurier
Day 11 Quebec City
Explore the historic and modern Quebec City on a morning sightseeing tour. Quebec City is the only city in North America with city walls and gates earning it a United Nations World Heritage Site distinction in 1985. Discover the historical treasures and wonderful “joie de vivre” atmosphere of Quebec. Your guide provides narration while you see the Latin Quarter, the Plains of Abraham, the Fortifications, the National Assembly, Place Royale, the Basilica and many more points of interest. The rest of the day is at your leisure to further explore the city or indulge at one of the many fine restaurants.
Overnight in Quebec City at the Hotel Chateau Laurier
Day 12 Quebec City
Today is at leisure to further explore the sights and sounds of Quebec City. The Old Walled City is pedestrian-friendly and is replete with history and cultural significance that helped shape modern Canadian society. This part of the city is not just an artifact to be studied, but continues to be a dynamic environment with shoppes, eateries and other contemporary businesses.
Overnight in Quebec City at the Hotel Chateau Laurier
Day 13 Quebec City Montreal | VIA Rail
Hop on the train today for a short ride to Montreal. This time, you’ll be travelling along the south shore of the St. Lawrence River. Upon reaching the bustling metropolis of Montreal, prepare for an afternoon of exploring the second-largest French-speaking city after Paris. Walk down lively St. Catherine Street with its numerous shops and cafés. Sample the fine cuisine and exuberant nightlife!
Overnight in Montreal at the Sens Hotel (or similar)
Day 14 Montreal
Experience the Heart of Montreal Motorcoach City Tour that will take you to some of the highlights of Montreal, like Notre Dame Basilica (entrance not included), residential and financial districts, historic Old Montreal, outside view of the Olympic Complex, the campus of McGill University and the panoramic view from an observation point on top of Mont Royal.
Overnight in Montreal at the Sens Hotel (or similar)
Day 15 Montreal Toronto | VIA Rail
Today is your departure from Montreal to Toronto on board The Corridor. Upon arrival at Toronto’s Union Station, your holiday has come to an end. Transfer independently to Toronto’s International Airport in time to check-in for your flight home
Accommodation
Chelsea Hotel
Toronto
Modern hotel located downtown close to shopping, dining, and public transit, just a 2 minute walk to the Eaton Centre, and a 10 minute walk to the Art Gallery of Ontario. Chelsea Hotel features 27 floors with elevator, 3 restaurants, bar, indoor pool, waterslide, fitness centre, sauna, whirlpool, children's activity centre.
Hotel Chateau Laurier Quebec
Quebec City
The Hotel Château Laurier Québec, a third-generation family business, is an award-winning four-star establishment located in the front row of the nation's capital. The hotel has 271 rooms, 17 meeting rooms, the restaurant at St. Hubert, an indoor saltwater pool, a Finnish sauna, 2 outdoor spas year-round (scheduled according to the seasons), a fitness room, a treatment room, and a four-season indoor garden. Classic, luxurious and contemporary, the hotel's rooms and suites will be that peaceful space, conducive to the rest that you are looking for.
Sens Hotel Montreal
Montreal
Uncover downtown Montreal in style at Le Méridien Versailles. At this classic yet modern boutique hotel near College de Montreal, McGill University, Concordia University, and the University of Montreal, feed your passion for discovering local art, culture and cuisine. Step outside to find yourself surrounded by the glitz and glamour of the Golden Square Mile, with cultural gems, chic shops and restaurants and beautiful architecture beckoning from all directions. Guest rooms and suites blend trendy yet true-to-their-locale décor with carefully considered luxuries like plush, pillowtop bedding, thoughtfully stocked minibars and Pharmacopia bath amenities. Infuse your Montreal Canada visit with an element of surprise at a hotel offering something more than meets the eye.
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