Shores of Eastern Canada and New England - Southbound

Visit picturesque Quebec City, situated on the mighty St. Lawrence River, and become instantly mesmerized by this historic jewel in Canada’s French province. Replete with striking landmarks and stunning architecture, Quebec City is perfect for sight-seeing and deserves ample time for exploration.

The Vieux-Québec quarter, located in the heart of the Quebec City, boasts the city’s most iconic attractions and has been recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Here, you’ll find la Citadelle de Québec, la Place Royale, Musée de la civilisation, and most notably, the famous Château Frontenac, whose impressive structure towers over the St. Lawrence. Stroll Terrasse Dufferin for a spectacular waterfront view of this massive castle, or head just north of Frontenac to Notre-Dame de Québec Basilica and marvel at the cathedral’s gold-laden Baroque style.

The lush beauty of Quebec City’s nature parks, from the verdant Plains of Abraham park (once witness to the Battle of Québec) to the cascading waterfall of Parc de la Chute-Montmorency, complements the city’s man-made wonders. Adventurous travelers will love nearby Jacques-Cartier National Park, where hiking, skiing, canoeing, and kayaking are among the most popular day-time excursions. Venture across the St. Lawrence River to the Île d’Orléans, where local vendors offer the city’s best wines, cheeses, and culinary bites to savor.

With so much to see and do, Quebec City is guaranteed to astound you!

Visit picturesque Quebec City, situated on the mighty St. Lawrence River, and become instantly mesmerized by this historic jewel in Canada’s French province. Replete with striking landmarks and stunning architecture, Quebec City is perfect for sight-seeing and deserves ample time for exploration.

The Vieux-Québec quarter, located in the heart of the Quebec City, boasts the city’s most iconic attractions and has been recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Here, you’ll find la Citadelle de Québec, la Place Royale, Musée de la civilisation, and most notably, the famous Château Frontenac, whose impressive structure towers over the St. Lawrence. Stroll Terrasse Dufferin for a spectacular waterfront view of this massive castle, or head just north of Frontenac to Notre-Dame de Québec Basilica and marvel at the cathedral’s gold-laden Baroque style.

The lush beauty of Quebec City’s nature parks, from the verdant Plains of Abraham park (once witness to the Battle of Québec) to the cascading waterfall of Parc de la Chute-Montmorency, complements the city’s man-made wonders. Adventurous travelers will love nearby Jacques-Cartier National Park, where hiking, skiing, canoeing, and kayaking are among the most popular day-time excursions. Venture across the St. Lawrence River to the Île d’Orléans, where local vendors offer the city’s best wines, cheeses, and culinary bites to savor.

With so much to see and do, Quebec City is guaranteed to astound you!

Dotted with lighthouses along its shoreline, Portland, Maine is a coastal gem in the northeastern United States and a veritable paradise for lovers of fresh seafood, craft breweries, and small-town charm. At the center of downtown Portland, the Old Port neighborhood boasts a number of unique and historical buildings, trendy restaurants and bars, and picturesque views of the Portland Harbor. Take time to relish in Portland’s culinary scene and sample everything from lobster rolls, to clam bakes and chowder, to ceviche, to paella. Unwind in one of a variety of microbreweries and brew pubs throughout downtown, which give you access to the state’s best ales and lagers. Head to the Eastern Promenade or Bug Light Park for spectacular views of the ocean and passing boaters. Better yet, venture south of Portland proper to see the iconic Portland Head Lighthouse, whose warm glow beckons over the glittering waters of the Atlantic Ocean. Portland, Maine awaits you!

Newport, Rhode Island, is a charming coastal city steeped in history and elegance. Often referred to as the "Sailing Capital of the World," Newport offers stunning seaside views, rich colonial heritage, and Gilded Age grandeur. Stroll along the famous Cliff Walk, a 3.5-mile path that weaves between the crashing waves of the Atlantic Ocean on one side and the opulent Newport mansions on the other. These "summer cottages," such as The Breakers and Marble House, were built by American industrialist families like the Vanderbilts and Astors and serve as a testament to America's Gilded Age extravagance. Today, visitors can tour these meticulously preserved estates and marvel at their architectural splendor and lavish interiors.

Newport's historic Thames Street, lined with quaint shops, seafood restaurants, and cobblestone paths, provides a glimpse into the city’s colonial past. Newport was founded in 1639 and quickly became a significant trading port. Its history can be explored further at the Newport Historical Society Museum or the Touro Synagogue, the oldest synagogue in the United States, built in 1763. For those interested in military history, the nearby Fort Adams State Park offers guided tours of one of America's largest coastal fortresses, along with panoramic views of Newport Harbor and Narragansett Bay.

For maritime enthusiasts, Newport's allure is unparalleled. The city has hosted America's Cup, the renowned yacht race, for over 50 years. The Newport Yacht Club and the International Yacht Restoration School provide a fascinating look into this enduring tradition. During the summer months, visitors can experience the excitement of Newport Harbor on a sailing cruise or explore the annual Newport Jazz Festival and Newport Folk Festival, both of which attract top global artists and music lovers from around the world.

Fun fact: Newport is home to one of the oldest continuously operating taverns in the United States, the White Horse Tavern. Opened in 1673, this historic landmark has served meals to countless guests over the centuries, including George Washington himself! Today, the White Horse Tavern continues to offer New England classics in a setting that feels like a step back in time.