Canadian Connection Cruise: Kingston to Québec City with St Lawrence River Cruises
Canadian Connection Cruise: Kingston to Québec City with St Lawrence River Cruises
June 12-18, 2021
“What river is this?” asked Jacques Cartier of his Indigenous guide as he looked on the St. Lawrence River. “A river without end,” his guide replied. And so it seems, as this cruise explores the staggering breadth of one of the world’s great rivers. Along its course you’ll experience magnificent scenery and numerous historic attractions that tie together the historic of French and English North America. En route you will discover the magic of the Thousand Islands, the deep historical roots of “Loyalist Brockville” and the unique living community of Upper Canada Village. Between Montreal and Québec City there are the “grassy Battures”, rich mudflat home to myriad species of birds. Québec City provides the venue for the end of your cruise. Here you can experience the world charm and grace of “Old” Europe. You will encounter Québec City’s unparalleled joie de vivre (love of life) found nowhere else in North America. Enjoy Old Québec with its massive ramparts still bolstering the Plains of Abraham and behold the imperial green-roofed towers of the legendary Chateau Frontenac.
Tour Itinerary
Day 1
Depart Ottawa in the afternoon for Kingston.
Passenger boarding commences at 5:30pm and is followed by Captain’s Punch and Cheese Reception.
Your ship sails at 6:50pm starting with a Kingston Harbor tour.
Overnight 1000 Islands Anchorage.
Day 2
Ship sails at 7:30am to wander the 1000 Islands on its way to Gananoque. Disembark Gananoque later in the morning for a guided museum tour. After museum tour ship will depart Gananoque for Brockville.
Arrive in Brockville “City of the 1000 Islands” late afternoon and depart by bus for a guided tour of Fulford Mansion. Return to the ship after the tour.
There will be free time to relax or stroll along the park walkways.
Overnight Brockville.
Day 3
Depart by bus later in the morning for a tour of Aquatarium. Return to the ship after the tour for departure to Prescott.
Dock in Prescott for the afternoon for a guided tour of Fort Wellington National Historic Site. After the tour you will return to the ship.
Ship departs 4:00pm for Upper Canada Village and arrives early evening Crysler Park Marina (Upper Canada Village).
There will be free time to relax and stroll the marina and grounds.
Overnight Crysler Park Marina.
Day 4
After breakfast, your miniature train departs to meet horse-drawn wagon to tour Upper Canada Village.
Return to your ship from the village tour at noon.
Ship departs Crysler for Coteau Landing, Quebec. Early evening arrival in Coteau Landing.
Free time to relax or stroll along the park and old canal.
Overnight Coteau Landing.
Day 5
Depart early morning Coteau Landing for the Port of Montreal. Arrive late afternoon in Montreal.
Disembark Port of Montreal for a guided motor coach tour of Montreal. Return to your ship after the tour.
Free time after dinner to enjoy the unique character of Montreal.
Overnight Port of Montreal.
Day 6
Depart early morning from Montreal for Trois Rivieres Quebec. Afternoon arrival in Trois Rivieres.
Disembark the ship for a brief bus tour en route to visit the Shrine a Cap de la Madeleine or choose to visit the Borealis Industrial Museum for a self-guided tour.
Overnight Trois Rivieres.
Day 7
Depart early morning from Trois Rivieres to Quebec City. Witness the scenic approach to romantic Quebec City.
Sail past Montmorency Falls and view the city’s easterly approach from down the river (depending on tides and currents).
Disembarkation and farewells-Quebec City Louise Basin.
Itinerary Subject to Change without notice or incurring obligation. Currents, weather and seaway traffic may be modifying factors.
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 inquire with reservations staff about stateroom accessibility and potential accommodations.