Itinerary

September 30 - Montréal, P.Q., Canada

October 1 - Cruising the Saguenay River

October 2 - Sept-Îles, Canada

October 3 - Magdalen Islands, Canada

October 4 - Saint-Pierre and Miquelon, France

October 5 - Cruising the Gulf of St. Lawrence

October 6 - Québec City, P.Q., Canada

October 7 - Montréal, P.Q., Canada

October 8 - Montréal, P.Q., Canada

October 9 - Québec City, P.Q., Canada

October 10 - Cruising the Saguenay River

October 11 - Cruising St. Lawrence River & Gulf of St. Lawrence

October 12 - Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada

October 13 - Bar Harbor, Maine

October 14 - Boston, Massachusetts (disembark)

HIGHLIGHTS:

Montréal, Canada: Cosmopolitan Montréal is Canada's second-largest city and cultural capital. It is the third-largest French-speaking city in the world and has been dubbed the "Paris of the North." Cultural contrasts are widespread as, although Montréal is predominantly French in culture, ethnic diversity abounds. This is a city of great charm, as you'll discover in its sympathetic blend of the old and the new, from the Place d'Armes and its beautiful 18th-century buildings to the ultra-modern downtown area. Montréal received international acclaim when it hosted Expo `67 and the 1976 Summer Olympic Games. Its exuberant vitality promises to keep it at the forefront of great world cities well into this century and beyond.

Sept-Îles, Canada: Named for the seven islands sitting off shore in the Gulf of Saint Lawrence, Sept-Îles captivates visitors with its stunning landscape and rich heritage. From sandy beaches to the meandering Moise River to a dense boreal forest, the scenic wonders of Sept- Îles constantly unfold before your eyes. The area has also become renowned as one of best places in the world for whale watching. Locals are particularly proud to call this region home to the Native Amerindian Innu people, whose culture and traditions have left an indelible mark on the islands.

Magdalen Islands, Canada: Having been isolated through most of its history, the Magdalen Islands offer a tranquil retreat from the outside world. Still largely unspoiled by urban trappings, life here is simple and relaxing. It’s actually possible to take a stroll along the beach and not encounter anyone or anything but birds and breezes. And you will see birds. Over 250 species of birds migrate to the islands to nest, including many that are on the endangered list. Also making their home here are harp seals, which draw eco-tourists to watch the winter births of baby harp seals in the adjacent Gulf of Saint Lawrence.

Saint-Pierre and Miquelon, France: Just south of Newfoundland, Saint-Pierre and Miquelon are not Canadian, but instead belong to the French Republic. In fact, they are the last vestiges of France’s colonization of the continent. As such, they are true French towns, making them a unique destination unlike anyplace else in North America. The more urban of the two is Saint-Pierre, with its landmark Pointe aux Canons Lighthouse greeting visitors who enter the harbor. Miquelon, on the other hand, is smaller, with just 600 inhabitants. Every year, the island hosts a Basque Festival, reflecting the Basque ancestry of many of the residents.

Québec City, Canada: Québec stands proudly beside the majestic St. Lawrence River, resembling no other city in the world. Its cuisine, language and traditions combine to make this a unique cradle of French civilization in North America. Within fortress walls high atop Cap Diamant, the old city is a sheer delight for lovers of history. Here, magnificent churches, cobbled streets, fragrant gardens and chic boutiques all vie for your attention. Just outside the city, you'll discover a veritable riot of fall colors, North America's largest shrine, picturesque villages and an impressive waterfall. At the end of the day, there is the tempting opportunity to discover the French art of good cooking at some of North America's finest restaurants.

Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada: As Crystal Symphony moors alongside the pier, bagpipers and the Town Crier bid a warm welcome to Halifax, capital of Nova Scotia, the most Scottish of all Canada's great cities. You will fall in love with Halifax's architectural blend of old and new. The mighty 150-year old Citadel fortress stands sentinel over the thriving downtown area where modern office and hotel blocks nestle alongside the exquisitely-restored Historic Properties waterfront shopping area. Halifax is a mecca for Titanic buffs visiting the museum with its original artifacts and the cemetery where those who perished off the shores are buried. Shoppers will delight in the tempting array of buys from colorful Scottish tartans to pewter and superb hand-knit woolens. Nova Scotians claim they have the freshest air and warmest smiles in Canada.

Bar Harbor, Maine: Cradled off the craggy coast of Maine lies Mount Desert Island and the charming seaport town of Bar Harbor. Earlier last century, when it was the summer retreat of millionaires, it boasted magnificent estate homes, or "cottages," many of which were completely destroyed by the fire of 1947. However, some things never change. The priceless asset of the island's scenic beauty remains untouched by time. Vistas of emerald-green forests and rugged valleys from the superb vantage point of Mount Cadillac remain just as spectacular, and the rugged shoreline scenery is still as awe inspiring as it ever was. The choice is yours. Take a scenic drive through some of Maine's most spectacular scenery or stroll along the picturesque main street with its inviting shops and galleries. Perhaps you will choose to sample some of North America's most delectable seafood at an authentic lobster bake, or cruise the fascinating coastal area.

Boston, Massachusetts: Stay on a few days in this very special city. Relive nearly four hundred years of history as you explore myriad sights of Boston, a city that exudes pride in its past and future. Superb shopping abounds and sightseeing attractions are legendary. You'll revel in exploring the Freedom Trail, the Old North Church and the Boston Common. A few miles away lie Lexington and Concord where the momentous events that began in 1775 come alive. Boston has not been content to rest on the laurels of its glorious past. Progress is everywhere. Glazed high-rises soar skyward and the colorful waterfront area has been artfully renovated. Not to be missed is a visit to the JFK Library and the incredible aquarium. Your visit to this thriving metropolis is bound to impress.