Excursion Info

[MALA]

What excursions are most recommended on a New England/Canadian cruise? We do not eat fish so any clambakes, etc.- not relevant.

[cb at sea]

I guess it will depend on what interest you! Get yourself a guidebook on that area...there may be things for which you may not even need excursions! After that, check on the "port of call" boards (I know, they're not very active) but there may be some suggestions from the past!

[cruiserking]

What excursions are most recommended on a New England/Canadian cruise? We do not eat fish so any clambakes, etc.- not relevant.

 

Most New England/Canada cruises visit the same ports. You most likely will stop at some of these:

 

Boston: You can easily take a cab into town somewhere near Boylston Street. You might consider walking the Freedom Trail. There is a great aquarium in the city as well as many museums. On Beacon Street you will find the Cheers Bar still a popular tourist magnet. Fenway Park is pretty close too if you want to head over there and pick up Red Sox cap.

 

Bar Harbor, Maine: Perhaps book an excursion that takes you into the Acadia National Park. It is very close to the cruise port. You will tender here and be dropped off right in the center of town. There is a terrific view from the top of Cadillac Mountain. It is always very enjoyable to browse around the shops in downtown Bar Harbor, if you have always had a pang to try lobster ice cream they sell it here. Nearby Northeast Harbor is another lovely village, great lunch stop, the Asticou Inn, beautiful New England spot.

 

Halifax, Nova Scotia: Many people seem to enjoy the bus trip that takes you out to Peggy's Cove. This is a traditional New England fishing town. There is also an interesting Maritime Museum nearby and only around a ten minute walk from the cruise pier. They have many old boats as well as some great exhibits on the Titanic and the Great Halifax Fire.

 

It is also quite enjoyable to stroll around the town of Halifax it is a really lovely city reminiscent of London. Don't miss the Citadel Fort it's a good hike up hill. But, the fort affords a wonderful view of the city and harbor. It's very interesting to roam around and ask the costumed workers questions about the history of the place. You can also have afternoon tea here, but, you'll need to book that in advance.

 

Saint John, New Brunswick: The major attraction here is the reversing falls, it's about a half hour walk from the ship, you can also cab it or take a bus. There is not much to see here really. We enjoyed browsing around the craft stalls in the village square and strolled over to the Market, which is rather famous. The ceiling is the hull of an old fishing boat or made to look like one.

 

You can easily google all of these ports. Read the guide books, browse at the tours offered by the ship and see what tickles your fancy.

 

Jonathan