Venturing into uncharted territories was once fraught with hesitation and plenty of heart palpitations. Should you happen to be lucky enough to hop aboard a Canada and New England cruise with Princess Cruises this year, do spare a thought for the ancestors of modern America, who did the same all those years ago.
Granted, it may be hard to channel the early explorers...what with all those superlative activities and services on offer; but we’re sure with a little imagination you may just be able to sympathise with them nonetheless.
Granted, it may be hard to channel the early explorers...what with all those superlative activities and services on offer; but we’re sure with a little imagination you may just be able to sympathise with them nonetheless.
Crossing the Atlantic, and discovering the charms of North America’s most precious attractions aboard a luxury cruise liner is certainly a once in a lifetime experience. Combining that with an even longer stay in either New York or Boston (the most popular embarkation ports) is enough to make grown men weak at the knees!
Between the effusive natural attractions, and the myriad of cultural and historical sites to visit, a seven or 10 night round trip cruise in North America proves to be one of the most rewarding cruising adventures in the world.
Want to know what awaits you in this neck of the woods? Then read on fellow intrepid sailors and come discover the hidden gems on the other side of the Atlantic.
Boston
Between the effusive natural attractions, and the myriad of cultural and historical sites to visit, a seven or 10 night round trip cruise in North America proves to be one of the most rewarding cruising adventures in the world.
Want to know what awaits you in this neck of the woods? Then read on fellow intrepid sailors and come discover the hidden gems on the other side of the Atlantic.
Boston
Often regarded as the birthplace of America, or at the very least the ‘cradle’ of its independence, Boston is a resplendent city; bursting at the seams with historical, cultural and natural attractions. Somewhat bohemian, and most definitely cosmopolitan, Boston is a brilliant place to spend some quality time in either before, or after, your Canada and New England cruise.
Should you happen to book a cruise which includes Boston as a stopover (as opposed to the embarkation point), don’t fear! Your choice of land excursions are numerous, making it ever so easy for you to take in the best of the city, even in just a single day.
A fantastic full day trip around Boston is ideal for those who prefer the comfort of a fully escorted tour. You’ll visit Boston Commons, the oldest park in town; as well as Copley Square, home to some of the most striking architectural gems in Boston. The incredible eccentricity of two differing architectural styles of the historic Public Library, and the ultra-modern Hancock Tower, highlights the true spirit of the city.
It may be one of America’s oldest, but it is nonetheless avant-garde and unsurpassed as a modern hub. A step back in history through the Salem Witch hunt, and a leisurely afternoon spent exploring the town of Lynn and Salem, complete this grand day’s adventure.
Princess Cruises also offer highlights-tours which only run for a couple of hours, and these are ideal for anyone who may wish for some help orientating, yet have the freedom to explore further at their own pace.
Bar Harbour, Maine
Should you happen to book a cruise which includes Boston as a stopover (as opposed to the embarkation point), don’t fear! Your choice of land excursions are numerous, making it ever so easy for you to take in the best of the city, even in just a single day.
A fantastic full day trip around Boston is ideal for those who prefer the comfort of a fully escorted tour. You’ll visit Boston Commons, the oldest park in town; as well as Copley Square, home to some of the most striking architectural gems in Boston. The incredible eccentricity of two differing architectural styles of the historic Public Library, and the ultra-modern Hancock Tower, highlights the true spirit of the city.
It may be one of America’s oldest, but it is nonetheless avant-garde and unsurpassed as a modern hub. A step back in history through the Salem Witch hunt, and a leisurely afternoon spent exploring the town of Lynn and Salem, complete this grand day’s adventure.
Princess Cruises also offer highlights-tours which only run for a couple of hours, and these are ideal for anyone who may wish for some help orientating, yet have the freedom to explore further at their own pace.
Bar Harbour, Maine
The most eastern nook of New England is a delectable introduction to the natural wonders that await you on your Canadian cruise adventure. The ruggedness of the coastline, complemented by the coarse mountainous interior, is simply surreal.
Bar Harbour, about an hour out of Maine’s city centre is the perfect base for a little adventure into the stark wilderness this area is renowned for. Hikers and mountain climbers can dive straight into the over 4000m2 Acadia National Park, one of New England’s prized travel destinations.
List-tick lovers will also have the option of climbing to the top of Mount Cadillac (the tallest point on the US’ eastern coast), while true cruise aficionados can spend even more time at sea, with a leisurely bay cruise to the Porcupine Islands. It is not uncommon to spot whales on this cruise, adding even more excitement to an already awesome excursion.
We’ve got to hand it to Main: their infrastructure is really something to be envied. When visiting Bar Harbour on your cruise, you’ll be happy to know that all of the above attractions are completely accessible to wheelchair-bound passengers. Now how’s that for service?
Quebec
Bar Harbour, about an hour out of Maine’s city centre is the perfect base for a little adventure into the stark wilderness this area is renowned for. Hikers and mountain climbers can dive straight into the over 4000m2 Acadia National Park, one of New England’s prized travel destinations.
List-tick lovers will also have the option of climbing to the top of Mount Cadillac (the tallest point on the US’ eastern coast), while true cruise aficionados can spend even more time at sea, with a leisurely bay cruise to the Porcupine Islands. It is not uncommon to spot whales on this cruise, adding even more excitement to an already awesome excursion.
We’ve got to hand it to Main: their infrastructure is really something to be envied. When visiting Bar Harbour on your cruise, you’ll be happy to know that all of the above attractions are completely accessible to wheelchair-bound passengers. Now how’s that for service?
Quebec
One of the things we love most about Canada and New England cruises would have to be the amazingly varied attractions offered. History buffs will be enthralled by Quebec City’s UNESCO world heritage listed Old Town, the only one of its kind in North America to still boast preserved city walls! Besides the cultural sites, a stopover in Quebec also proved to be rather amusing: experiencing a bit of ‘France’ this side of the Atlantic is quite delightful!
It is when exploring the Old Town Centre that we may suggest you skip the organised tour and go it alone. Getting lost in its myriad of narrow, cobblestone alleys is pure magic! The walled city is a pedestrian dream, and discovering the best boutiques, cafes and restaurants rather adds to the allure. The town is basically divided in two sections, the Lower and Upper town connected by a very steep street or, for the more energy conserving visitor, a wonderful cable car.
Whatever you do, don’t miss visiting the Château Frontenac! The pride and joy of Quebec City is a hotel built in the late 1800s, which is still operational today. Pop in for an afternoon tea and take your time admiring this splendid example of European architecture in the States. Regarded as the single most photographed building in Quebec, this awe inspiring castle is certainly not to be missed.
If it’s a little of the glorious country side you wish to explore, then by all mean do book a guided tour. The added bonus of private transport is more than worth the expense!
Just outside Quebec City is where you’ll find Montmorency Falls which are actually taller than Niagara, and quite a breathtaking sight to behold. The countryside tour also includes visits to the Laurentian Mountains and Lake Beauport, and is just the cup of tea for anyone who wants to indulge more in the unspoiled gems of North America.
It is when exploring the Old Town Centre that we may suggest you skip the organised tour and go it alone. Getting lost in its myriad of narrow, cobblestone alleys is pure magic! The walled city is a pedestrian dream, and discovering the best boutiques, cafes and restaurants rather adds to the allure. The town is basically divided in two sections, the Lower and Upper town connected by a very steep street or, for the more energy conserving visitor, a wonderful cable car.
Whatever you do, don’t miss visiting the Château Frontenac! The pride and joy of Quebec City is a hotel built in the late 1800s, which is still operational today. Pop in for an afternoon tea and take your time admiring this splendid example of European architecture in the States. Regarded as the single most photographed building in Quebec, this awe inspiring castle is certainly not to be missed.
If it’s a little of the glorious country side you wish to explore, then by all mean do book a guided tour. The added bonus of private transport is more than worth the expense!
Just outside Quebec City is where you’ll find Montmorency Falls which are actually taller than Niagara, and quite a breathtaking sight to behold. The countryside tour also includes visits to the Laurentian Mountains and Lake Beauport, and is just the cup of tea for anyone who wants to indulge more in the unspoiled gems of North America.
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