Explora Journeys: cruises in the heart of Canada


For travelers seeking an adventure in the heart of Canada amidst breathtaking landscapes, rugged coastlines, evergreen forests, history, and traditions, not to mention the bustling pace of New York, Explora Journeys offers a tailor-made itinerary to explore the culture of Quebec, the Canadian fjords, and New Amsterdam.

The journey, following in the footsteps of French explorers, comes to life by sailing up the St. Lawrence River, discovering the refined culture, steep landscapes, and islands of inexhaustible beauty in Quebec.

In the city of Quebec, the history of French colonialism began, and the adventures of Jacques Cartier then introduce guests to the picturesque Saguenay River, which is actually one of the ten largest fjords in the world and a breeding ground for beluga whales and humpback whales. Cliffs covered in pine and lichen lead to La Baie, celebrated as one of the “most beautiful villages in Quebec.” Here, guests can immerse themselves in nature by kayaking through a fjord and Montmorency Falls, riding the zipline, and engaging in paddleboarding, surfing, and mountain biking in serene settings.

Along the St. Lawrence River, lies the beautiful Baie-Comeau, the vibrant heart of the Manicouagan-Uapishka Biosphere Reserve, a UNESCO heritage site, and the circular Manicouagan crater, created by an asteroid impact around 215.5 million years ago and visible even from space!

Reaching Havre-Saint-Pierre, rejuvenation awaits in the Mingan Archipelago National Park Reserve. Visitors can explore historic sites scattered across a series of protected islands, enveloped in limestone sculpted by the sea. Discover fossils on Niapiskau Island and observe diverse flora and fauna on Quarry Island. Strolling inland towards the ecological boreal forest, majestic ancient limestone monuments can be spotted, calmly walk on pebble beaches and picturesque coastal settings to observe playful seals and soaring seagulls.

Stunning landscapes sculpted by time and ice create a fantastic scene to behold as you sail to Prince Edward Island, famous for mussels and red sandy beaches, as well as for being the backdrop to the renowned novel “Anne of Green Gables.”

Next, it’s time for Halifax. Here, over eighty wineries have perfected the art of viticulture in their 410 years of operation. Halifax, the capital of Nova Scotia, is a vibrant place rich in culture, historic sites, and museums. You can stroll along the farmer’s market, indulge in local cuisine, and even embark on a ferry towards Peggy’s Cove to catch sight of the unmistakable lighthouse.

The journey concludes with a visit to the city that never sleeps, New York. Thanks to an overnight stay, you can fully explore this fantastic city.

Here, you can helicopter over the Manhattan skyline to admire the fabulous Statue of Liberty, neon-lit Times Square, the vast Central Park, the Empire State Building skyscraper, and the Brooklyn Bridge. Observe the works of Picasso, Pollock, and other artists at the Museum of Modern Art. And still, create your own kitsch masterpiece from a blank canvas at a painting party in the Havana Emporium. Pay tribute to the valiant heroes at the 9/11 Memorial and Museum. Listen to backstage stories in the Broadway theater district, shop in the East Village, eat street hot dogs, sip cocktails in elegant bars, or attend a show. In the evening, a stroll on the Brooklyn Bridge will enchant the guests.

This fantastic journey with Explora Journeys, titled “The Culture of Quebec, Canadian Fjords, and New Amsterdam,” is an 11-day itinerary departing on October 3 aboard the new Explora I, which, in addition to providing unforgettable itineraries and experiences, will offer its guests luxury and comfort with top-notch service.

Don’t miss more updates, news and reviews about Explora Journeys on Cruising Journal.

Giorgia Lombardo

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