Scenic: From Canadian Fortresses to the Charm of NY
Sailing from the Canadian coastline to that of the United States along the Atlantic Ocean is far more than a simple vacation—it is a deep immersion into the history, culture, and landscapes of two remarkable nations. Aboard Scenic Eclipse, this 11-night cruise, departing in September 2026, is a seamless blend of modern nautical elegance and the timeless allure of fortified cities, historic ports, windswept islands, and vibrant artistic enclaves.
From the French-speaking heart of Canada to the electrifying energy of New York City, every stop along this journey is designed to surprise, inspire, and enchant. The voyage begins in Montréal, the largest French-speaking city in the Americas. Its European flair comes alive as you wander the cobblestone streets of Old Montréal, admire the grandeur of the Basilique Notre-Dame, and savour local delicacies like poutine or the city’s iconic bagels.
Scenic Eclipse
Canada to new york_Scenic
The first port of call is Québec City, a fortress-town founded in 1608 and now a UNESCO World Heritage site. Enclosed by ancient ramparts and cobbled streets, this city tells the story of over four centuries of French colonial history. Towering above is the silhouette of Château Frontenac, while the Dufferin Terrace offers sweeping views of the St. Lawrence River. A stroll through its historic heart is like stepping back in time, surrounded by cathedrals, cannons, and street performers. As night falls, your ultra-luxury Discovery Yacht sets sail, the city lights twinkling in the distance. Cruising along the St. Lawrence River is a spectacle in its own right. This legendary waterway links the Great Lakes to the Atlantic Ocean and winds through landscapes steeped in history and natural beauty. From your private veranda or while enjoying a coffee at the onboard bar, you’ll spot quaint fishing villages, historic lighthouses, and—if it’s autumn—the fiery reds and golds of riverside forests. It’s a perfect moment to unwind, reflect, and let time slow down.
In Charlottetown, on Prince Edward Island, you’ll find a lively small city deeply tied to Canadian Confederation and the literary legacy of Anne of Green Gables. Inhabited for thousands of years by the Mi’kmaq people, the island boasts sandy shores, local markets, and a laid-back island lifestyle. Next comes Pictou, in Nova Scotia—often referred to as the “Birthplace of New Scotland” thanks to its strong Scottish heritage. The waterfront is vibrant and welcoming, with museums telling stories of immigration, fishing, and resilience. It’s also one of Canada’s lobster capitals, celebrated with an annual festival that draws visitors from across the country.
Halifax
Houses in Lunenberg_Scenic
In Halifax, Nova Scotia’s capital, the energy of a dynamic port city comes to life. From the historic hilltop Citadel, where a ceremonial cannon fires daily, to the modern waterfront lined with breweries, galleries, museums, and trendy eateries, there’s no shortage of discovery. The Public Gardens offer a quiet green retreat, while the city’s downtown pulses with live music and coastal culture. Lunenburg, the next stop, feels like a living postcard. A UNESCO World Heritage town, it preserves its seafaring, Protestant heritage in vivid detail—with colourful wooden houses, a 19th-century academy, and artisan shops lining its walkable streets. Here, time truly seems to slow down.
Crossing into the United States, the cruise arrives in Bar Harbor, Maine, gateway to Acadia National Park. Nature reigns supreme here: rugged cliffs, boreal forests, glacier-formed lakes, and wild beaches define the dramatic scenery. Once a retreat for 19th-century elites, the town still exudes charm, with seafood restaurants and elegant boutiques. In Provincetown, Massachusetts, you enter the artistic soul of the East Coast. A haven for creatives since the 1940s, this inclusive and free-spirited town is rich in character, filled with art galleries, shops, and vibrant eateries. A classic trolley tour offers insight into its unique past and bold personality. That evening, Scenic Eclipse transits the iconic Cape Cod Canal—an unforgettable moment of this maritime adventure.
Bar Harbor
Lighthouse, Provincetown_Scenic
Scenic Eclipse NYCity
Oak Bluffs, on Martha’s Vineyard, is a gem of diversity and heritage. Famous for its pastel-coloured gingerbread cottages and the oldest operating carousel in the U.S., the town also holds deep ties to African American culture and was the setting of The Wedding by Harlem Renaissance author Dorothy West.
Finally, the cruise culminates in New York City. Sailing past the Statue of Liberty and the Manhattan skyline is a stirring moment, filled with symbolism and wonder. With the afternoon at your leisure, explore the metropolis however you please—from world-class museums and sprawling parks to the fashion of Fifth Avenue and the creative pulse of the Village, every corner offers a new discovery.
This cruise from Montréal to New York is a voyage across both geographic and cultural frontiers, merging absolute comfort with authentic discovery. Each day opens a new chapter in a story that blends past and present, history and legend, natural wonders and urban elegance. Designed for curious, refined travellers seeking a new perspective on North America’s Atlantic coast, this is an itinerary that lingers in memory long after the journey ends.
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