Next year two Holland America Line ships –– ms Maasdam and ms Eurodam –– will explore the historic seaports and scenic beauty of Canada and New England, offering guests the opportunity to sample some famous Maine lobster, walk Boston’s Freedom Trail and sail along the St. Lawrence River.
The 2011 itineraries range from seven to 13 days and will feature 24 sailings between May and October. The region’s beautiful jewel-toned foliage will be on display as summer turns to autumn, a favorite time of year to cruise Canada and New England.
“Holland America Line’s extensive sailings in Canada and New England are perfect for families, nature lovers and history buffs,” said Richard D. Meadows, CTC, executive vice president, marketing, sales and guest programs. “Whether enjoying a summer vacation or one of several special fall foliage cruises, our in-depth itineraries highlight the unique history, stunning beauty and diverse cultures of this exceptionally interesting and diverse part of the world.”
Maasdam kicks off the 2011 season on April 24 with a special 13-day cruise from Fort Lauderdale, Fla., to Montréal, Québec, Canada. During this longer voyage, guests will visit Newport, R.I.; Gloucester (Boston), Mass.; Bar Harbor, Maine; Halifax, Nova Scotia; Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island; and Gaspé and Baie-Comeau, Québec, before arriving at Montréal.
From May 7 to Oct. 8, Maasdam offers 18 seven-day sailings between Boston and Montréal, with calls at Bar Harbor; Halifax and Sydney, Nova Scotia; Charlottetown; Québec City, Québec; and scenic cruising along the St. Lawrence River. Guests can combine two sailings for an extended 14-day roundtrip journey, allowing extra time ashore to hunt for antiques, explore the charming fishing towns, learn about the history and sample the region’s fresh seafood.
Maasdam concludes the season with a 13-day sailing Oct. 15 from Montréal to Fort Lauderdale. Ports of call include Québec City, Saguenay, Baie-Comeau and Gaspé, Québec; Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island; Sydney and Halifax, Nova Scotia; Bar Harbor, Maine; and Saint John, New Brunswick.
During the height of the fall foliage season, Eurodam will sail three 10-day cruises in September 2011 between New York and Québec City, with calls at Newport, Boston, Bar Harbor, Halifax, Sydney and Charlottetown. That itinerary also features an overnight stay at Québec City and scenic cruising along Saguenay Fjord.
On Oct. 10 Eurodam will depart on a 12-day itinerary from Québec City to Fort Lauderdale. Ports of call include Saguenay, Gaspé, Charlottetown, Sydney, Halifax, Bar Harbor, Gloucester (Boston) and Newport.
