Four Provinces-Seven Days

Corner Brook, (Newfoundland) Îles de la Madeleine (Quebec), Brudenell (Prince Edward Island), Canso, Halifax. (Nova Scotia)
Trace the routes first charted by the British Captain, James Cook, during a voyage of captivating contrasts! After setting forth from the magnificent fjords of the Bay of Islands, Newfoundland the ship sails south, past the highest mountains in Eastern Canada. After crossing the Cabot Strait, you can relax on the sandy beaches of the Îles de la Madeleine of Quebec and later enjoy the dramatic scenery of Prince Edward Island stretching across the sea. We also visit Halifax, Nova Scotia a modern city teeming with culture and heritage.

The voyage will be highlighted by the stops in seaside towns, where pockets of traditional culture run as deep as the valleys cutting through the coastal mountains. This voyage will encompass four Canadian provinces so get ready to experience a bounty of distinct tastes, sights, sounds and folk.

Let the voyage begin… After flying into Deer Lake, boarding takes place in the city of Corner Brook. The landscape of the Corner Brook region is rugged and the scenery is spectacular. The surrounding coastline holds magnificent fjords, jagged headlands, thickly forested areas and many offshore islands. Wildlife, forest and water mingle with the City’s borders on all sides and mountains fill the horizon in all directions. It’s a perfect city to start our journey. This coastline was chartered by Captain James Cook in 1767 and not much has changed since then. The region enjoys spectacular natural scenery, isolated coves and islands yet to be settled. It is also famous for authentic cuisine, our Chef creates mouthwatering treats such as snow crab, caribou, succulent bake apples and wild berries. Before we start our afternoon voyage and are joined by a Park’s Canada guide giving enlightenment on the regions we are to encounter. It’s a time to learn more about sailing, take an opportunity to engage a friendly crewmember and “learn a few ropes”. (L,D)

DAY 2 – The day starts with an early morning arrival to Îles de la Madeleine. As you sail into the sunrise, you will enjoy the occasional sighting of whales and seabirds of various species. For visitors arriving to the island, the effect is immediate and a total change in scenery. As far as the eye can see, the islands and the dunes seem to blend, break apart, and then stretch out from view, as though deposited there by the whims of the sea. We dock in the historic town of Cap-aux-Meules, where your time ashore can start with a quiet and relaxing walk on the many sandy beaches which make up 60% of the coastal area on the islands. The wide variety of excursions being offered makes it possible for anyone to explore the seascapes, shores and cliffs of the archipelago. Whether you choose a boat tour, a zodiac tour, or a kayak excursion, experienced professionals will guide you safely while sharing their knowledge and their passion for the sea. Madelinots are also very proud of their culture, history and of their special environment, and are glad to share this with others. Music is very important to the Islanders, and many of them are musicians, folk singers and composers. In the evening we are entertained by the people of the island. To share with our guests, the Chef has prepared traditional dishes such as “pot-en-pot” using a combination of fresh local fish and seafood. It’s a evening celebrating new friendships. (B,L,D)

DAY 3 - This sailing day is a great time to become more acquainted with the ship, discover all the seafaring ways it takes to operate a traditional sailing ship. Sign up for one of the daily sailing activities ranging from historical lectures, sailing theory or taking the wheel. For adventurous ones, climb the rigging, it’s a great spot for viewing porpoises, humpbacks and minke whales that all frequent this area. Accenting the visual delights will be the sounds of folk tunes, intertwined with the warm breezes. The Chef has prepared an on-deck grill featuring specialties that encompass the four flavours of the coastal communities. (B,L,D)

DAY 4 - Early morning we arrive to Prince Edward Island, Canada’s smallest and greenest province. Embraced by the waves of the Gulf of St. Lawrence, the Island is known for the vivid colours of its gently rolling landscape. Golfers can enjoy a round at one of Canada’s top courses, the picturesque garden and river course of Brudenell River. For those not intent on hitting the links, other recreational activities include horse back riding, sea kayaking, and mountain biking. If your idea of a perfect day does not include active pursuits, optional spa tours and trips to the local winery are also available. The ship will be in the harbour for the night and there is a chance to enjoy local theatre. (B,L,D)

DAY 5 - Weighing anchor in the morning, Caledonia sets sail on a relaxing cruise across the Northumberland Strait. We arrive in the evening to the town of Canso, first discovered by Basque fishermen in 1604. A local historian greets us to tell the tales of this notable place. We end this sailing day with the Captain’s Dinner, providing us with a traditional evening of toasts to friends and song. (B,L,D)

DAY 6 - In the morning learn, more about the history of this region at the Grassy Island National Historic Site, an archaeological gem, with an interpretive centre depicting life in an 18th century trading and fishing village. A leisure walk around Fogarty’s Cove Wilderness Area will showcase the varied ecology of the region. We spend the afternoon sailing past century old lighthouses, and dramatic headlands en route to Halifax. The toe-tapping sound of the fiddle plays as we keep a look out for marine life. Cradled in a comfy deck chair relax and enjoy a sailor’s coffee, captivated by the sound of the sea and the glitter of the stars on this overnight sail. (B,L,D)

We arrive during sunrise, like many sailors before to Halifax, the gateway to Atlantic Canada. A flourishing and prominent port situated on the world’s second largest natural harbour. We’re greeted by friendly faces who welcome us at the end of our great voyage. We leave this day with a true “taste of Atlantic Canada—and wanting seconds”! (B)

B = Breakfast L = Lunch D = Dinner