On this 15-day Fall Foliage on the St. Lawrence cruise from Toronto to Boston aboard Le Champlain, navigate the waterways of eastern Canada and northern New England, known for their beautiful coastlines, cliffs, and waterfront villages. Start by sailing the St. Lawrence Seaway to cities like Montréal, where travelers can visit Old Town and its arts scene. Explore Québec City’s cobblestone streets and Saguenay Fjord National Park, which offers stunning landscapes and outdoor activities. Visit Charlottetown, known for its historical significance, and Cap-aux-Meules, an Acadian settlement. Discover Nova Scotia’s history in Baddeck, Louisbourg, and Lunenburg. The trip concludes in Provincetown, Massachusetts, known for its vibrant art community, before disembarking in Boston.
Highlights
Explore the scenic waterways of eastern Canada and northern New England
Visit Montréal’s Old Town, Golden Square Mile, and its vibrant arts scene
Discover Québec City’s cobblestone streets and Saguenay Fjord National Park
Explore Charlottetown and Cap-aux-Meules, rich in history & Acadian culture
Activity options vary depending on destination and operator. Activity level is determined by the range and intensity of activities you choose to participate in. Discuss with your Trip Planner which options are best for you.
Toronto, Canada's largest city and the capital of Ontario, impresses with its vibrant diversity and vastness. A visit to the iconic CN Tower, the tallest structure in the Western Hemisphere, is a must, along with the St. Lawrence Market, which reflects the city’s multicultural essence. The nearby Distillery District, with its charming brick streets, offers a mix of restaurants, cafés, boutiques, theatres, and art galleries. Don’t miss the Royal Ontario Museum, home to an extensive collection of natural and cultural history.
Day 2: Sailing Lake Ontario and River Saint Lawrence
Lake Ontario, the smallest and easternmost of North America’s Great Lakes, holds one-fifth of the planet’s freshwater. Its beautiful setting, especially during the Indian summer, offers a unique experience as you sail its sparkling waters, situated 76 meters above sea level. Fed by Lake Erie and the majestic Niagara Falls, the lake flows into the Saint Lawrence River. Straddling the U.S.-Canada border, it hosts major cities like Toronto while also featuring hidden, pristine areas filled with beaches, forests, and quaint ports in a serene atmosphere.
Connecting the Atlantic Ocean to the inland Great Lakes, the Saint Lawrence Seaway was opened in 1959, over 250 years after the first efforts to bypass the rapids that hindered navigation. This major engineering project, completed after four years of extensive work, provides a distinctive sailing experience, highlighted by the passage through various locks along the nearly 4,000 km-long corridor.
Famous for its gentle way of life, Montreal, Canada’s second-largest city, is a warm and cosmopolitan metropolis. Situated on the eponymous river island, it is home to a multitude of districts, each as unique as the other. Set off to discover Old Montreal, most of which is declared a historic area, Little Italy, where you’ll be able to stroll around the largest open-air market in North America, or the Golden Square Mile, the luxurious district located on one of the hills of Mount Royal and which has sumptuous Victorian-style residences. Simultaneously marked by the influences of the Old Continent and North-American gigantism, Montreal will never cease to amaze you.
The capital of "La Belle Province" sits at the confluence of the St Charles River and the Gulf of St Lawrence in south-east Canada. Founded in the 17th century, the city still has an encircling wall, a historic civil engineering work and the only one of its kind remaining in North America. You will love the postcard-perfect stone houses of Old Quebec, the historic district listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site. Shopping is a pleasure in pedestrian streets such as Petit-Champlain Street, or you can relax over a spruce beer, seasoned with pine buds. Dufferin Boardwalk, an esplanade near the emblematic Château Frontenac, is the perfect place for views of the river and old city.
The city of Saguenay nestles in a valley through which flows the eponymous river, one of the region’s treasures. As it joins the Saint-Lawrence, the Saguenay River forms a spectacular fjord boasting extraordinarily differing landscapes. From Saguenay, you can explore the attractive Saguenay-Lac-Saint-Jean region, which is a paradise for those who love the great outdoors. You can combine country walks with boat trips within the various national parks studded throughout this extraordinary natural kingdom.
During your journey at sea, make the most of the many services and activities on board. Treat yourself to a moment of relaxation in the spa or stay in shape in the fitness centre. Depending on the season, let yourself be tempted by the swimming pool or a spot of sunbathing. This journey without a port of call will also be an opportunity to enjoy the conferences or shows proposed on board, depending on the activities offered, or to do some shopping in the boutique or to meet the PONANT photographers in their dedicated space. As for lovers of the open sea, they will be able to visit the ship’s upper deck to admire the spectacle of the waves and perhaps be lucky enough to observe marine species. A truly enchanted interlude, combining comfort, rest and entertainment.
If you appreciate the beauty of scenery and geological phenomena, you will fall under the irresistible spell of Percé, one of the most beautiful villages in Quebec. Apart from the attractions of the town itself, Percé owes its reputation to its proximity to the famous rock of the same name that rises opposite it in the Gulf of Saint Lawrence. Along with the neighbouring Bonaventure Island, this rocky outcrop forms a national park famed for its natural, historical and geological heritage. With a choice of hiking, underwater exploration and cultural activities, you’ll never be short of things to do in this fascinating region.
The colonial seaport of Charlottetown is the capital of Prince Edward Island, "the Garden of the Gulf of St. Lawrence." The town played a crucial role in Canada's history, hosting the Charlottetown Conference (1864), which set the stage for the country's unification. Province House is site of that conference and now home to the provincial legislature. Explore nearby Prince Edward Island National Park and the Anne of Green Gables House—inspiration for Lucy Maud Montgomery’s classic novel. Also see the Confederation Bridge, which crosses the eight miles of the Northumberland Strait, making it Canada's longest bridge and the longest bridge in the world to span ice-covered water.
Although it is the administrative and economic centre of the Magdalen Islands archipelago, in the Gulf of Saint Lawrence, the village of Cap-aux-Meules remains a peaceful location and is ideal for exploring preserved nature. Located on the eponymous island, in reference to the sandstone rocks of the cape that were used in the past to make grindstones, the location is above all considered to be the maritime gateway to the archipelago. In this respect, it offers privileged access to many sites renowned for their natural and historic heritage, such as the village of Havre-Aubert which is a member of the Most Beautiful Villages of Quebec.
Discover the charming village of Baddeck in the heart of Cape Breton Island in Nova Scotia. Located on the banks of Bras d’Or Lake, designated as a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, this community of several hundred inhabitants is renowned as the point of departure and arrival of the famous Cabot Trail. Named in honour of the Venetian explorer John Cabot who discovered Atlantic Canada at the end of the 15th century, this panoramic road lets travellers enjoy the sumptuous coastal landscapes of the north of the island. Crossing the Cape Breton Highlands National Park, it offers many possibilities to admire the wooded expanses, lakes and streams, deep gorges and steep cliffs that make the area so beautiful.
Set in the Atlantic Ocean, Cape Breton Island turns up fun-to-explore curiosities such as Louisbourg, the former capital from when it was named Ile Royale. This picturesque little town is home to one of the country’s most significant historical sites: the symbolic and beautifully restored Fortress of Louisbourg. A tour transports you back to the heart of 18th-century Canada. Access the old fortified square via the drawbridge and Dauphin Gate, which is guarded by a sentry. You can then explore the fortified town as it was in its heyday. Get ready for an extraordinary adventure that’s more than just a journey back in time.
Stretching out along the eastern seaboard of Nova Scotia, the picturesque port of Lunenburg will leave an indelible impression. You can admire the colonial architecture of this fishing village whilst strolling through the chequerboard streets studded with brightly coloured houses. The enchanting charm of the old town has earned it UNESCO World Heritage status. The former naval shipyard town of Lunenburg is where you will also find the replica of the legendary Bluenose schooner, originally built in this port.
During your journey at sea, make the most of the many services and activities on board. Treat yourself to a moment of relaxation in the spa or stay in shape in the fitness centre. Depending on the season, let yourself be tempted by the swimming pool or a spot of sunbathing. This journey without a port of call will also be an opportunity to enjoy the conferences or shows proposed on board, depending on the activities offered, or to do some shopping in the boutique or to meet the PONANT photographers in their dedicated space. As for lovers of the open sea, they will be able to visit the ship’s upper deck to admire the spectacle of the waves and perhaps be lucky enough to observe marine species. A truly enchanted interlude, combining comfort, rest and entertainment.
At the far end of Cape Cod is where you’ll find this hidden little New England village. Its elongated bay offers pristine, sandy beaches. For a bit of shopping, you can explore Commercial Street and the many art galleries and coffee shops there. At the end of the street, you will come across the Pilgrim Monument and its 116 steps. This tower was built at the beginning of the century to celebrate the first pilgrims who arrived a few hundred years earlier. The Provincetown museum commemorates the history and way of life of the Mayflower Pilgrims. Fine food is not scarce here, and you’ll be tempted by delicious sea food platters in the restaurants opposite the harbour!
Day 15: Boston | Disembark
1 Breakfast
Nicknamed “ America's Walking City”, the city is considered to be the epicentre of American history. Founded in 1630, the tenth largest agglomeration in the United States, is a pleasure for walkers. To get around, just follow the Freedom Trail circuit that serves most of the tourist sites with its red line traced on the ground. Don’t miss all the delicious local specialities on offer at Quincy Market, like the lobster sandwich, and then take time to explore North End, the Italian quarter. For the more romantic among you, Beacon Hill, the historic quarter, with its absolutely charming cobbled streets, is really worth a look.
Apologies for the inconvenience. Prices for not yet published. Below per person rate based on previous season. Contact us to confirm upcoming season pricing.
Prices for are estimated based on inflation. Contact us to confirm pricing and availability for your desired departure date.
$14,5002-3 travelers
Rates are dynamic and fluctuate based on capacity. Contact us for a specific quote.
Deluxe Stateroom
Area: 19 m². 4m² private balcony with French window. King-size bed or twin beds, and shower.
Prestige Stateroom Deck 4
Area: 19 m². 4m² private balcony with sliding bay window. King-size bed or twin beds, and shower.
Prestige Stateroom Deck 5
Area: 19 m². 4m² private balcony with sliding bay window. King-size bed or twin beds, and shower.
Prestige Stateroom Deck 6
Area: 19 m². 4m² private balcony with sliding bay window. King-size bed or twin beds, and shower.
Deluxe Suite
Area: 27 m². 6m² private balcony with sliding bay window. King-size bed or twin beds, and shower. Up to 3 passengers per cabin.
Prestige Suite Deck 5
Area: 38 m². 8m² private balcony with sliding bay window. King-size bed or twin beds, and shower.
Prestige Suite Deck 6
Area: 38 m². 8m² private balcony with sliding bay window. King-size bed or twin beds, and shower.
Privilege Suite
Area: 32 m². 8m² private balcony with sliding bay window. King-size bed or twin beds, and shower. Up to 4 passengers per cabin.
Grand Deluxe Suite
Area: 45 m². 30m² private balcony with sliding bay windows. King-size bed or twin beds, and shower + bathtub.
Owner's Suite
Area: 45 m². 30m² private balcony with hot tub and sliding bay windows. King-size or twin beds and shower + bathtub.
Notes
Please Note:
Fares are based on double occupancy and are capacity controlled. Rates may increase at any time as the ship sells out and subject to change without notice.
For full cancellation policy details, please contact us for a quote.
Included
14 Breakfasts, 13 Lunches, 14 Dinners
14 Nights Accommodations
Accommodations as listed
Ground transportation as listed
Activities as listed
Meals as listed
Access to a 24-7 Emergency line while traveling
Port Fees
Unlimited Wifi
Onboard Entertainment
Captain’s Welcome Cocktail and Gala Dinner
Gratuities to Onboard Crew
“Open Bar” (pouring wines, house champagne, alcohol except premium brands...list available upon request)
24h Room Service (special selection)
English-Speaking Lecturer
Highly experienced and bilingual (French-English) expedition staff
Park Entry Fees into Protected Areas
Water sports activities (except scuba diving) using the ship’s equipment, when permitted by local authorities and confirmed by ship Master according to safety and sea conditions onsite.
Excluded
Travel Insurance
Personal Expenses
Flight costs (please request a quote)
Fuel and transportation surcharges (when applicable)
Visa Fees
Optional Excursions - Ponant allows you to pre-book your excursions approximately six to two months prior to the cruise* departure. Please note that this is subject to change. Please contact us for more details.
Any ground services before and/or after the cruise other than the ones mentioned
Luggage Handling
Laundry Services, Hair Salon, and à La Carte Spa Treatments
Pre or post cruise programs, overland programs or shore excursions
Beverages other than the ones mentioned in inclusions
CDP recommends that every Traveler has full and adequate travel insurance covering the risks of cancellation, assistance being required, repatriation, damages to and loss of baggage, and medical expenses
This was my first experience with Adventure Life - and I couldn't have been more pleased with the trip. The guides and local staff in both Buenos Aires and Uruguay were terrific - extremely helpful and accommodating. I really enjoyed meeting the friendly staff in Buenos Aires in person (I left my bags with them for the afternoon).
Karen Snider
TrustScore 4.8 | 347 reviews
TrustScore 4.8 of 5
Based on 347 reviews on
18 hours ago
Rapa Nui was on my bucket list for a long time so I worried that it would not meet my expectations. Our tour could not have been better. Our guide was knowledgeable and professional with an understanding of the island that made it come alive. I would and have recommended this trip to everyone that will listen.
elisa wright
4 days ago
Having done a trip in the past with Adventure Life, I found picking a trip and customizing it was a breeze and fit everything I wanted
Scott Drayer
5 days ago
Careful service
older gentleman
5 days ago
We had to book within a certain time. Adventure Life came to our rescue as most of the other operators were sold out. We went with the website ad on Big Five Borneo Tour for 6 days 5 nights. Adventure Life was professional, timely and honest about the itinerary for small groups at a reasonable cost. This was our first time with Adventure Life. From the beginning to the end, they were supportive, responded to email immediately and provided emergency contacts through out our stay. As indicated, the deluxe accommodations were luxurious, there were 3 meals a day including early morning coffee was available before the 6am river cruises and evening tea. The itinerary was well laid out, to time and the guides/drivers though different after 2 days for river cruise and for the cave, were experienced, we felt safe. We were lucky to see the Big Four, except the orangutan on our tours at Sukau and the orangutan with the baby was at the poolside of the Sukau Rainforest Lodge. The meals were alright without variety. Wifi was in/near reception area. We stayed 3 nights at Sukau and 2 nights at Utan. The two lodges were different. Utan focused on animals and birds not seen at Sukau on plenty of nature walks, night safaris and river cruises. Utan is a new lodge started in July 2024, smaller, luxurious and intimate. The meals were excellent with a personal touch. Guide was very experienced and willing to take us on more nature walks to see our luck for the animals which were missed. Utan provided knee length rubber boots and binoculars can be rented (try it out before you take on tours). Initially we were disappointed not getting the accommodation at Danum Valley but after Utan experience we had it all. We will recommend Adventure Life to those looking for worry free adventures at a reasonable cost.
