Eastern Canada & USA Explorer with Contrasts of Canada & the St. Lawrence River: 27 days Ottawa to Montreal

Welcome to Eastern Canada. Your journey begins in the elegant capital city of Ottawa, nestled along the Rideau Canal. Enjoy a two-night stay at the majestic Fairmont Château Laurier, located just steps away from Parliament Hill and get ready to embark on an unforgettable journey through Canada and the USA's captivating history and culture.

Discover the city on a guided tour and be delighted by Canada’s bilingual culture. Ottawa is the meeting point of several rivers, the area was an active transportation corridor for an astounding diversity of Indigenous groups and travellers. In fact, the city’s name is derived from the Algonquin word “Odawa,” meaning “to trade.”

Scenic Freechoice:
Choose to experience Ottawa's culinary scene with a tailored Micro Brewery Tour, or a guided culinary tour of the vibrant ByWard Market.

Scenic Enrich
This evening savour the finest in Ottawa cuisine through a progressive dining experience featuring the city's well-known established restaurants.

Scenic Enrich
Discover Canada’s wild animals: elk, bison, wolves, bears, foxes in their natural environment at Parc Oméga. Renowned for its immersive wildlife experience, the park allows visitors to drive through vast expanses of natural habitats and encounter native animals.

Québec City sits on the Saint Lawrence River in Canada's mostly French-speaking Québec province. Dating to 1608, it has a fortified colonial core, Vieux-Québec and Place Royale, with stone buildings and narrow streets.

Enjoy a two-night Special Stay at the Fairmont Le Château Frontenac. Dominating Québec's skyline, this is the world’s most photographed hotel, visible from almost anywhere in the city.

Explore the unique architecture of North America’s only walled city on a guided tour. Continue with a guided tour of the Huron-Wendat Museum.

Scenic Freechoice:
Later, choose to discover Old Québec’s cobblestoned streets on a guided walk, or ride through the Lower Town on an e-bike and Grand Market, or visit Montmorency Falls and Saint-Anne-de-Beauprès Basilica.

Today travel along the Chemin du Roy which connects Québec City and Montréal and past Sainte-Anne-de-la-Pérade known as the world capital of ice fishing.

The art of maple sugaring has been a cherished tradition in Québec for centuries. It began with the Indigenous people of North America, who discovered the sweet sap flowing from maple trees in early spring. As French settlers arrived, they adopted these techniques, giving birth to the beloved sugar shack tradition.

Scenic Enrich
Learn how maple syrup is made and dine on traditional Québécois fare at a local Sugar Shack while listening to live, local music.

Today, explore the city and the Canadian culture choosing from a range of activities included for your enjoyment.

Scenic Freechoice:
Discover from a different angle on an underground city tour, embark on a relaxed tour of the city in an iconic vintage convertible Cadillac or discover the best local delicacies on this walking tour of Jean-Talon market and explore the streets of Little Italy.

Travel to Kingston to cruise the beautiful Thousand Islands region. Enjoy a two-night stay at the Fairmont Royal York.

This morning see Toronto’s highlights, including the St. Lawrence Market, Toronto Harbour and Dundas Square.

Experience breathtaking views of the beautiful Lake Ontario from the iconic Toronto CN Tower. Step out onto the famous glass floor and outdoor observation area. Later enjoy the breeze, spectacular skyline, and harbour views on a relaxing harbour cruise.

Cruise to the base of Niagara Falls and experience the deafening roar of the cascading waters. This evening, enjoy a memorable dinner right next to the Canadian Horseshoe Falls at Table Rock Restaurant. Later, witness the Niagara Parks Power Station through an epic sight and sound night show. Your overnight Special Stay is at the Niagara Falls Marriott Fallsview Hotel & Spa, where you’ll marvel at the view from your Fallsview room.

Your exploration of the United States begins today in Lancaster, a picturesque city steeped in history and known for its charming countryside, Amish heritage, and vibrant community spirit. Savour a traditional home-style Amish feast in Lancaster, then settle into the Lancaster Marriott at Penn Square.

Embark on a journey of cultural discovery as you visit an authentic Amish farm, gaining profound insights into their rich heritage, faith, and way of life. Then, venture to the bustling metropolis of Washington D.C., where history and modernity converge. It’s defined by imposing neoclassical monuments and buildings – including the iconic ones that house the federal government’s 3 branches: the Capitol, White House and Supreme Court. It's also home to iconic museums and performing-arts venues such as the Kennedy Center.
Enjoy a two-night stay at the luxurious Fairmont Washington D.C.

Enjoy an immersive guided tour of Washington D.C., where you'll delve into the profound historical significance and enduring influence of the U.S. capital, unlocking its secrets and stories along the way. See the-famous memorials on the National Mall, and Arlington Cemetery.

On a guided tour of the US Capitol visit the Crypt, Rotunda and National Statuary Hall, also known as the Old Hall of the House.

Today journey to the cosmopolitan allure of New York City. Indulge in a luxurious two-night stay at the renowned New York Marriott Marquis.
After dark, experience the incredible sights and sounds of “The City That Never Sleeps” on a NYC Night Bus tour.

New York City is a food lover’s dream. Today, join a culinary walking experience and get to know the Lower East Side  just like a local.

Explore what was once an immigrant and working-class neighbourhood rich in ethnic diversity and culture. Learn about the history of the tenement buildings occupied by the poor. The neighbourhood is best known for having once been a centre of Jewish culture. We view historic synagogues and nosh on delicacies from the best kosher-style delis and bakeries in the city.

Scenic Enrich
Nothing epitomises the excitement of theatre more than a Broadway production. Tonight, you’ll be treated to an unforgettable show in this entertainment mecca.

Say Good-bye to the city that never sleeps and travel to Portland, Maine located on Casco Bay and rich in maritime history. Arrive in Portland for a one-night stay at the Portland Westin Harbourview Hotel.

Today board Scenic Eclipse, your journey into wonder begins with a warm greeting from the Captain and crew. Sip on a glass of Champagne and explore your luxurious suite, then join your fellow guests at the Sky Bar to toast the start of an unforgettable voyage.

Discover a charming small city with a protected harbour, nestled among rugged peninsulas, ancient forests and beautiful sandy beaches. This classic New England coastal town bursts with historic charm, vibrant art galleries, top-notch restaurants and the freshest lobster around, earning its well-deserved reputation as the ultimate lobster capital of the world.

Scenic Freechoice:
Mt. Battie Scenic Drive & Hike: Enjoy a scenic drive and guided hike to the summit of Mount Battie, one of Maine’s most iconic viewpoints. Take in sweeping views of Penobscot Bay and Camden Harbour while exploring forested trails and the historic stone tower.

Rockland Foodie Tour: Join a local guide for a flavourful walk through historic downtown Rockland, where maritime heritage meets a vibrant culinary scene. Savour fresh seafood, Maine craft beer, and local specialties as you explore the town’s art-filled streets and iconic landmarks.

Kayak in Camden Harbour: Explore Maine’s rugged coast on a guided sea kayaking adventure across Penobscot Bay. Paddle past rocky shores and forested islands, spot local wildlife and pause on a quiet beach to soak in the stunning views.

Schooner Sail in Penobscot Bay: Sail aboard a classic Maine windjammer through the scenic waters of Penobscot Bay. Take in coastal views, enjoy fresh local fare and experience the timeless charm of New England’s seafaring spirit.

Campobello Island is a popular summer getaway, with windswept beaches, hiking trails, fresh seafood, whale watching adventures, historic lighthouses, art galleries, shops, and an incredible history and culture. It is home to the Roosevelt Campobello International Park, where Franklin and Eleanor Roosevelt’s magnificent summer home is located and preserved as a museum with an outdoor nature park.

After discovering this captivating city, return to your Discovery Yacht and relax on board. Explore some of the indulgent spaces, from the welcoming Observation Lounge to the indulgent Senses Spa#.

Scenic Freechoice:
Campobello Island & Eleanor's Tea: Visit Campobello Island, the Roosevelts’ historic summer retreat, and tour the beautifully preserved Roosevelt Cottage. Enjoy tea with stories about Eleanor Roosevelt and take in the island’s scenic charm before returning to Eastport.

Whale Watching in Passamaquoddy Bay: Cruise from Eastport with a marine biologist to spot whales and seals and enjoy smoked salmon and champagne amid stunning coastal views.

Shackford Head State Park Hike: Hike through Shackford Head State Park to a 173-foot headland with stunning views of Cobscook Bay and Eastport harbour. Enjoy coastal scenery, wildlife and peaceful forest trails.

Taste of Eastport – Craft Beer Tour & Lobster Delight: Explore Eastport’s local culture and cuisine with stops at historic sites and a family-run brewery. Finish with a fresh Maine lobster roll paired with a handcrafted beer.

Spend the day in Halifax, Nova Scotia's dynamic capital. This historic port city has a Downtown district boasting a four-kilometre harbourside boardwalk filled with restaurants, shops, museums, beer gardens and public art. Argyle Street is another happening area with live theatres and pubs that spill out on to the streets.  

For a change of pace, Halifax Public Gardens occupy an entire block, complete with manicured lawns and floral displays. The hilltop fortress Halifax Citadel National Historic Site overlooks the city; a cannon has been fired here every day at noon since 1857 (except on Christmas Day).

Scenic Freechoice:
Coastal Drive to Peggy's Cove: Travel along Nova Scotia’s Lighthouse Route to the picturesque fishing village of Peggy’s Cove, famous for its lighthouse, rugged granite shores and charming seaside atmosphere.

Historic Halifax & Citadel: Experience Halifax’s heritage with a visit to the Citadel Fortress, scenic city views and the charming Public Gardens, along with historic landmarks like Province House and the waterfront Historic Properties.

Tall Ship Harbour Sail & Seafood Feast: Sail Halifax’s historic harbour, enjoy stunning waterfront views, a fresh seafood feast with local wine or beer, and lively fiddle music celebrating Nova Scotia’s maritime spirit.

Louisbourg’s well-preserved 18th-century fortress is a National Historic Site and allows visitors to experience French colonial life, from firing a cannon to tasting rum. Louisbourg was also the site of Canada’s first lighthouse on Cape Breton Island, but it was destroyed many times and the lighthouse there today was built in 1923.  

Wander along the Lighthouse Trail, a treacherous stretch that has seen many shipwrecks, watch as daily catches of lobster and crabs are offloaded from fishing boats at the waterfront and relax on one of its many beaches. 

Scenic Freechoice:
Fortress of Louisbourg: Travel back to 1744 at the Fortress of Louisbourg, explore historic streets and buildings, meet costumed characters, and enjoy a taste of Heritage Chocolate.

Heart of the Island: Explore Cape Breton’s Scottish heritage at the Nova Scotia Highland Village, meet costumed guides, and enjoy stunning views of the Bras d’Or Lakes on this immersive 3-hour journey.

Coal Miners of Cape Breton: Step inside the Cape Breton Miners Museum for a 30-minute underground tour of the Ocean Deeps Colliery with a retired miner and wander the historic miners’ village above ground.

Louisbourg - Sydney Highlights: Discover Sydney and its surrounding communities, including Whitney Pier, coastal mining towns and the Lingan wind farm, while learning about the area’s rich industrial and wartime history.

Cap aux Meules is the gateway to the Magdalen Islands, an archipelago in the Gulf of St. Lawrence. Made up of three villages, French-speaking Cap aux Meules has the biggest population of the islands, with a bustling port frequented by small ships, fishing boats and ferries. Visit Saint-Pierre-de-La Vernière Church, which was built in 1876 and is the second-largest wooden church in North America made from salvaged materials from shipwrecks. The islands are home to six charming 19th century lighthouses. 

Scenic Freechoice:
A Taste of Îles de la Madeleine: Discover the flavours of Îles de la Madeleine with visits to local producers, including Pied-de-Vent Cheese and Fumoir d’Antan smoked herring, while enjoying scenic stops at colourful traditional homes, Echouerie Lighthouse, and Dune-du-Sud beach.

Cycling Cap-aux-Meules: Explore Îles de la Madeleine by e-bike with a local guide, taking in red cliffs, sandy beaches, colourful houses and lighthouses, while learning about local life, wildlife and fishing traditions.

Fisherman & Acadian Settlement: Journey from Cap-aux-Meules to Havre Aubert to experience traditional fishing life at Le Site d’Autrefois. Explore historic Acadian villages like La Grave, and admire the island’s colourful houses, pebble beaches and dramatic red sandstone cliffs.

Discover Grosse Île: Witness the stunning scenery of Grosse Île with its red cliffs, sandy beaches and charming village. Meet local lobster fishermen, visit a lobster pond and sample freshly caught lobster while learning about the island’s maritime traditions.

Charlottetown is Prince Edward Island’s vibrant capital – a small city with an island lifestyle. Prince Edward Island played a significant role in the confederation of Canada but its original occupants, the Mi’kmaq, lived here for 12,000 years.  

One of its biggest claims to fame is being the hometown of Lucy Maud Montgomery, who penned the classic novel Anne of Green Gables. It’s also a huge fishing and seafood destination with some 1000 kilometres of coastline and white-sand beaches. Explore the city's well-preserved history and architectural treasures of Victoria Row, its bustling harbour and picturesque waterfront boardwalk. 

Scenic Freechoice:
Green Gables & Island Delights: Discover Prince Edward Island charm with visits to historic Charlottetown, Green Gables House, scenic red cliffs, and enjoy tea and local preserves at the Island Preserve Company.

Historic Lighthouses & Winery: Explore Prince Edward Island’s coastal charm with visits to Point Prim and Wood Island’s lighthouses, then sample wines and local cheeses at Rossignol Estate Winery while enjoying views of the Northumberland Strait.

Farm-to-Table Experience: Experience the flavours of Prince Edward Island on a culinary tour of local farms and fisheries. Taste fresh oysters, mussels, artisanal cheeses and seasonal specialties while learning about the island’s farm-to-table traditions.

Kayaking the Hillsborough River: Paddle a kayak along the peaceful Hillsborough River, surrounded by salt marshes and abundant wildlife. Pause at the riverside for a warm drink and enjoy the serene beauty of Prince Edward Island’s coastal landscape.

Discover the enchanting village of Percé in Quebec, named for Rocher Percé, the 85-metre-high sheer rock formation that is the tourism emblem for Quebec. Known as one of Quebec’s most beautiful villages, Percé is also a great whale-watching destination and home to a Global Geopark, which showcases 500 million years of the Earth’s history and geological wonders. Soak up the breathtaking landscapes of Percé and the nearby Bonaventure Island, blessed with more than 200,000 breeding birds from 11 different species – the largest migratory bird sanctuary in North America.

Scenic Freechoice:
Best of Percé: Experience the charm of Percé, from its iconic rock and stunning coastal panoramas to vibrant local art, galleries and artisan shops. Stroll along the shore at low tide, visit viewpoints, and enjoy the town’s rich culture, history and unique shopping opportunities.

Bonaventure Island & Percé Rock with Bird Watching: Admire the majestic Percé Rock and Bonaventure Island on a scenic boat tour, where thousands of seabirds, including the world’s largest accessible northern gannet colony, nest along dramatic cliffs.

Whale Watching: Set out by zodiac to observe the magnificent whales of the Bay of Gaspé. Enjoy spotting these gentle giants, along with dolphins, porpoises and seals, while learning about their natural habitat.

Coin du Banc with Sugar Shack Lunch: Relax along the stunning shores of Plage de Bridgeville and the tranquil Coin du Banc. Enjoy a scenic drive and savour a traditional ‘Sugar Shack’ lunch in this peaceful coastal setting.

Experience the splendour of scenic cruising along the St. Lawrence River today. This mighty waterway snakes for more than 1200 kilometres connecting Canada’s Great Lakes to the Atlantic Ocean. It is known for the 40-plus traditional lighthouses that have helped sailors navigate this river for centuries. 

Relax on board with a coffee on the private verandah of your spacious suite or dining with new friends in the casual Azure Bar & Café, as you pass quaint fishing villages. You may be lucky to view the riverside hardwood forests in their fiery autumnal glory at this time of year.

Considered the cradle of French America, Quebec City is a World Heritage-listed fortified city founded in 1608. Step through more than 400 years of history in its charming cobblestone Old Town set within gates, towers and ramparts complete with cannons. 

Perched atop the headland inside is the century-old Chateau Frontenac, which now houses the luxurious Fairmont Chateau Frontenac hotel and Notre-Dame de Quebec Cathedral. The 425-metre wooden boardwalk Dufferin Terrace, which is frequented by street entertainers, has views over St Lawrence River and the Lower Town. See the city lights twinkle as your ultra-luxury Discovery Yacht departs port tonight.

Scenic Freechoice:
Historic Quebec with Montmorency Falls: Explore Quebec City’s highlights, including Château Frontenac, Place-Royale and the Plains of Abraham, with scenic views of the St. Lawrence River. End with a visit to the dramatic Montmorency Falls.

Fortification National Historic Site Walking Tour: Stroll the cobblestone streets of North America’s only walled city, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. See Place-Royale, Petit-Champlain and take the funicular to Upper Town to explore Château Frontenac, Dufferin Terrace and Forts-and-Château-Saint-Louis with stunning river and city views.

Old Quebec Walk & Riedel Tasting at the Chateau: Walk Old Quebec’s charming streets, visit Château Frontenac and Dufferin Terrace, then enjoy a guided Riedel wine tasting with gourmet snacks.

Île of Orléans Food Tour: Discover the scenic villages of Île d’Orléans and sample local delights including fruit preserves, wine and hand-crafted nougat. Learn about traditional Quebecois craftsmanship and winemaking while enjoying breathtaking views of the St. Lawrence River and surrounding countryside.

Enjoy a leisurely morning exploring Scenic Eclipse's luxurious facilities. Curl up in a Sky Deck cabana and watch the world drift by, enjoy a workout in the state-of-the-art gym or a Pilates class.  

Montreal is known for its French culture, festivals and arts. Wander through atmospheric Rue Saint-Paul in Old Montreal, gaze inside the 19th-century Gothic Revival Basilique Notre-Dame, or sample Poutine (Montreal’s famous French fries, cheese curds and gravy). You may like to visit its Underground City of shopping plazas, wander through colourful blooms in the Jardin Botanique, or admire the works at Musée des Beaux Arts.

Scenic Freechoice:
Montreal Highlights Tour & Botanical Garden: Explore Montréal’s mix of history and modernity, from Old Montréal and the Golden Square Mile to Westmount. Visit the iconic Notre-Dame Basilica, take in panoramic views from Mount Royal and wander the lush Montreal Botanical Garden.

A Walk through Old Montreal: Stroll through the charming cobblestone streets and historic waterfront of Old Montréal, passing Victorian buildings, Place Jacques-Cartier and the city’s first financial district. Visit the iconic Notre-Dame Basilica, a Gothic Revival masterpiece with striking interiors and stained-glass windows.

Richelieu Valley & Countryside: Discover the scenic countryside of the Richelieu Valley, including a stop at a charming orchard for cider tasting. Enjoy a visit to a local farm before returning to Montreal.

Flavours & Aromas of Old Montreal: Walk the cobblestone streets of Old Montreal and discover its culinary, cultural and historical charms. Along the way, visit several gourmet venues to sample local specialties such as pastries, smoked meat, gelato and maple products.

Your voyage ends today in Montreal. Savour one last luxurious breakfast on board your 6-star Discovery Yacht before saying farewell to the crew and new friends who have shared this remarkable journey with you. As you disembark, know you have created unforgettable memories.   

Please book your flight to depart out of Montreal after 12:00 PM.

+All drinks on board, including those stocked in your mini bar, are included, except for a very small number of rare, fine and vintage wines, Champagnes and spirits. #Spa treatments at additional cost.   

Helicopter not operational in Canada. Sumbersible not operational in the USA.

Please note the itinerary is a guide and may be subject to changes for operational reasons. Please refer to our terms and conditions for further information.