Lobster, Lighthouses, & Luxury on Holland America

From Boston to Quebec

Cruising is one of my favorite ways to explore the world, blending relaxation, adventure, and discovery into one seamless experience. My 7-day cruise with Holland America from Boston to Quebec offered an unforgettable journey through the picturesque landscapes of the northeastern United States and eastern Canada. This journey was filled with fascinating ports, a plethora of onboard activities, exquisite dining options, and top-notch entertainment.

Pre-Cruise Luxury Stay: Fairmont Copley Plaza, Boston

Arriving in Boston the night before my cruise departure, I stayed at the iconic Fairmont Copley Plaza, conveniently located near the Boston cruise terminal. This exquisite hotel, situated in the heart of Boston, provided the perfect blend of luxury, comfort, and historic charm to kickstart my cruise adventure. The seamless transition from the hotel to the ship ensured that my vacation began with ease and elegance.

Day 1: Departure from Boston

After boarding the Holland America ship in Boston, I settled into my stateroom with a private veranda and separate seating area. The room was designed for comfort and relaxation, featuring modern amenities, elegant decor, and breathtaking ocean views. The cabin was the perfect size, with just enough space for my husband and me.

On-Board Activities

As the ship set sail, I dove into the wide array of activities offered on board. Holland America provided opportunities for enrichment and relaxation. I attended educational workshops, explored art exhibitions, unwound in the spa, and worked up a sweat in the fitness center. The spa offered a variety of rejuvenating treatments, from massages to facials, allowing me to unwind while onboard. Some of my favorite activities were playing board games and taking in the views from the Crow’s Nest or reading a book in the library.

On-Board Dining

Throughout the cruise, I indulged in exquisite dining experiences. Holland America is renowned for its exceptional culinary offerings. The main dining room served a diverse menu, featuring both traditional favorites and international cuisine. Specialty dining venues included Italian, steakhouse, and Asian fusion restaurants, each offering a unique culinary experience. I particularly enjoyed dining at the Pinnacle Grill and the Canaletto. The food and ambiance were impressive.

Day 2: Bar Harbor, Maine

The first port of call was the charming town of Bar Harbor, Maine, on Mount Desert Island. This destination is a delight for nature enthusiasts and those seeking a laid-back coastal experience.

Shore Excursion: Acadia National Park & Panoramic Bar Harbor

I chose the “Acadia National Park & Panoramic Bar Harbor” excursion which was perfect for immersing myself in the park’s breathtaking landscapes, including a visit to Cadillac Mountain where we stopped for a short hike. We then took a scenic drive along the Park Loop Road to admire the stunning coastline and take in the breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean.

Day 3: Halifax, Nova Scotia

The next port stop was in Halifax, Nova Scotia, a vibrant city with a rich maritime history. Its charming waterfront offers a blend of historical sites and modern attractions.

Peggy’s Cove and Double-Decker Hop-On, Hop-Off

Shore excursion options included city tours, coastal hikes, and visits to the Fairview Lawn Cemetery, where many Titanic victims are buried. I chose the “Peggy’s Cove and Double-Decker Hop-On, Hop-Off.” A visit to the iconic Peggy’s Cove, famous for its picturesque lighthouse perched on a rugged granite shoreline, was a highlight. Afterward, the bus was a convenient way to explore the city, allowing me to hop on and off at leisure to explore historic sites and local attractions, such as the Halifax Citadel National Historic Site, and wandering around the Queen’s Marque downtown, with shops, upscale waterfront restaurants, and public art.

Day 4: Sydney, Nova Scotia

The next port stop was in Sydney, Nova Scotia, a captivating port with a rich Celtic heritage, lively culture, and scenic beauty. Exploring the historic heart of Sydney and taking in the vibrant local music scene was delightful. A must-visit destination is the Cape Breton Highlands, renowned for its dramatic landscapes and the famous Cabot Trail. Sydney is home to the Alexander Graham Bell National Historic Site, as well as the world’s largest fiddle.

Baddeck on Your Own

I attended the “Baddeck on Your Own” excursion, which provided the freedom to explore this charming town at my own pace. Baddeck is the gateway to the Cape Breton Highlands, and I enjoyed visiting local shops and museums and savoring delicious local cuisine. This excursion allowed me to immerse myself in the local culture and experience the warmth of the people in this region.

Day 5: Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island

Stopping in the port town of Charlottetown, the capital of Prince Edward Island, was charming. It is a place of historical significance and natural beauty. Known as the birthplace of Canada, I explored the city’s rich history, visited the Anne of Green Gables Museum, and strolled along the picturesque waterfront.

Shore Excursions

Holland America offers a range of shore excursions, including visits to the Green Gables Heritage Place, exploring the island’s stunning beaches, and culinary experiences that showcase Prince Edward Island’s famous mussels and lobster. I did a private tour that included stops at Prince Edward Island Preserve Company (amazing homemade jams!), lunch at Fisherman’s Wharf Lobster Suppers, Green Gables Heritage Place walkthrough, Cavendish Scenic Look Out, and drinks and snacks at Fin Folk Food.

On-Board Entertainment

Evenings on the ship were filled with entertainment options. I enjoyed live music performances, comedy shows, and Broadway-style productions in the ship’s theater. The casino offered some gaming excitement, while the lounges provided a more relaxed atmosphere for sipping cocktails and socializing. I especially enjoyed dancing to the lively band at the Orange Party.

Day 6: Cruising the Gulf of St. Lawrence

On the sixth day, the ship cruised the Gulf of St. Lawrence, providing ample time to relax and take in the scenic views. Holland America offered a wide range of onboard activities to keep passengers entertained, from culinary workshops and wine tastings to live music performances and fitness classes. I also took advantage of the ship’s many amenities, including the casino, onboard shops, and the library.

Day 7: Quebec

The journey concluded with our last port stop in the historic city of Quebec, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a treasure trove of Canadian history and culture. I explored the charming Old Town, walked along the romantic Dufferin Terrace Street, strolled through the National Battlefields Park and Plains of Abraham, shopped at the quaint shops along Grande-Allée and Le Quartier Petit-Champlain, took photos in front of the Hotel du Parliament, had the most epic views of the city for the Observatoire de la Capitale, and grabbed a cocktail in the Place Royale public square. If you’re in Quebec in the evening, I highly recommend the Onhwa’ lumina, an immersive sensory experience.

Walking Tour of Old Quebec

While there, I took a “Walking Tour of Old Quebec,” which was the perfect way to immerse myself in the city’s unique charm and learn the history from a local. My guide provided fascinating insights into the city’s rich history and culture as we explored iconic landmarks.

Visit to Ile d’Orléans

One of my favorite parts of the trip was a private tour of Ile d’Orléans, a small island off Quebec City. While on the island, we visited Cassis Mona & Filles’ beautiful vineyard and tasted their artisanal blackcurrant vanilla soft serve. We also stopped at Tigidou Jam Factory, known for its innovative jam combinations, such as strawberry basil, and explored the St-Pierre vineyard.

Afternoon Tea at Fairmont Le Château Frontenac

To make my visit to Quebec even more memorable, I indulged in a refined experience with afternoon tea at the iconic Fairmont Le Château Frontenac. This stately and historic hotel, perched atop the city’s Old Town, offered a picturesque setting for an afternoon of relaxation and indulgence. With breathtaking views of the St. Lawrence River and an ambiance that exudes timeless elegance, Fairmont Le Château Frontenac provided the perfect backdrop for my tea experience.

Extended Stay at Auberge St-Antoine Relais & Châteaux

I extended my time in Quebec with an overnight stay at the luxurious Auberge St-Antoine Relais & Châteaux. This exquisite boutique hotel is renowned for its impeccable service, attention to detail, and distinctive charm. Located in the heart of Old Quebec, this historic property seamlessly blends modern comforts with the character of a bygone era. Each room is uniquely designed and showcases a collection of artifacts and treasures from Quebec’s rich history. The hotel is partially a museum with artifacts displayed throughout. Brunch at Chez Muffy was so impressive. Not only was the farm-to-fork food delicious, but the restaurant is in a beautifully restored historic maritime warehouse.