Superior Stateroom
20% Ponant Bonus
226 ft²
3
Exploration along Saint Lawrence
Saint Pierre Island, Saint Pierre and Miquelon - Montreal
Dates:
17/09/2025
to
28/09/2025
Other available dates
days
nights on board
Flight Montréal/Saint-Pierre et Miquelon + Transfer
The river that turns into an ocean, sublime scenery inhabited by wild fauna, the echo of history that reverberates on the bend of a shore, during an all-new expedition cruise, PONANT invites you to sail up the Saint Lawrence aboard Le Lyrial. During 12 unforgettable days, the woodsy aromas of forests will embellish the panoramas of this unique region in the world.
Your journey starts in the heart of the peaceful Saint Pierre and Miquelon archipelago. In these distant lands, the hilly horizon is dotted with ponds, the forest blends with the peat bogs, and the coastlines alternate between lagoons and sheer cliffs. During a hike, attempt to get a glimpse of the wildlife that is found here, including white-tailed deer.
It is time to reach the shores of Nova Scotia and the Magdalen Islands and their exceptional landscapes, between the white sandy beaches and the red sculpted cliffs. Cap-aux-Meules, also known as Grindstone, will captivate you as much with its surrounding nature as with the hospitality of its inhabitants.
Newfoundland will welcome you in the heart of the Gros-Morne National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The mountains here plunge into the clear sea while the fjords slip inland. Although it appears inhospitable, this territory was nonetheless one of the first sites in the New World to become known in Europe. Basque whalers took up residence here in the 16th century, and the Vikings had settled here as of 1000; these multiple influences make it an essential historic site.
As you continue your cruise, the rocky landscapes gradually make way for more fertile wooded expanses. North of the Gulf of Saint Lawrence, the sugar maple, yellow birch and American beech trees make up a unique and splendid forest, and the islands punctuate these rich waters in which many cetaceans frolic. Along these little-known shores, visit exciting historical sites and dive into the discovery of Innuit and Innu civilisations.
The salt water gradually becomes fresh water as you enter what is known as “the Walking Path”, the renowned Saint Lawrence River. The soul of an entire people runs through its waters, and nature is breath-taking throughout it. Open your eyes to see, from land or from sea, the many species of birds and the marine mammals, including blue whales and the resident population of beluga whales. You will soon enter the heart of the Saguenay River, whose shores rise up as cliffs, sometimes more than 500 metres (1,640 feet) high. After discovering the city of Saguenay, you will visit incredible Quebec City. Founded by Samuel de Champlain in the 17th century, the capital of the Belle Province ("beautiful province”) is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its magnificent historic centre.
Your journey will end in the warm and cosmopolitan Canadian city of Montreal.
Subject to ice and weather conditions. The expedition highlights and itineraries described above illustrate possible experiences only and cannot be guaranteed.
Ref : SM114 - LY170925
Your itinerary
An all-new expedition cruise from discreet Saint Pierre and Miquelon to the warm city of Montreal, along the Saint Lawrence River, discovering fascinating nature and history. Outings and shore visits with a...
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Included in your cruise
For more peace of mind, PONANT organizes your trip before or after the cruise. This package is included in the price of your cruise.
Additional services
For more peace of mind, PONANT selects stays and flights then takes care of your transfers for your trip as well as shore visits before and after the cruise.
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L'AUSTRAL
LE LAPÉROUSE
02/04/2026 to the 12/04/2026
LE CHAMPLAIN
03/12/2025 to the 13/12/2025
LE BORÉAL
14/05/2026 to the 24/05/2026
LE COMMANDANT CHARCOT
*Price is per person, based on double occupancy, based on availability, and subject to change at any time. The category of stateroom to which this price applies may no longer be available.
Discover all destinations
Services provided
- 24-hour room service
- Inclusive Wifi internet access (availability dependent on navigation and latitude)
- Individually-controlled air conditioning
- Dressing room with shelves and closet
- Dressing table and hairdryer
- Dyptique Paris top-of-the-line bath products
- Minibar
- Nespresso coffee maker and boiler
- Electronic safe
- Direct line telephone
- Bose Bluetooth speaker
- Flat screen TV, international channels (availability dependent on navigation) and videos on demand
- 110V American (two flat pins)/220V European (round sockets with two round pins)
- Three ADA staterooms
Select your stateroom category
This cruise include activities such as zodiac outings and landings (sometimes with "wet landing"), moderate walks to more active hikes, all accompanied naturalist guides.
Ports of call, visited sites, outings and landings will depend on weather conditions, position of ice, winds and the state of the sea. These can force a change of plans at any time. The Captain and the Expedition Leader may at any time cancel or stop any activity, or even modify the itinerary. The final itinerary will be confirmed by the Captain, who will take into account the touristic quality of the sites and above all, the safety of the passengers. His decision will be based on advice from experts and authorities.
Travelling to polar/isolated regions is an exhilarating experience in remote areas: please remember that you are far from modern hospitals with full medical facilities, thus evacuation is extremely expensive. Without adequate medical coverage, all expenses will have to be immediately paid with your personal funds. We urge you to subscribe to full coverage insurance, choose your insurance company very carefully, be extremely vigilant and ensure your insurance is fully comprehensive, especially if you are insured by your credit card. PONANT offers an insurance contract with extensive guarantees, please contact us for more information.
Clothing tips:
- A PONANT polar water-resistant parka is offered on board (no children sizes, in case of consecutive cruises, only one complimentary parka).
- Half calf rubber boots with non-slip soles, which will allow you to go ashore in 20 cm of cold water, keeping your feet dry for walks and visits on steep paths. Boot rental will be offered onboard (for adults only).
- Comfortable trousers: classic Winter trousers, warm cotton tracksuit, wool leggings
- Waterproof and windproof over-trousers – MANDATORY
- Winter trousers with waterproof over trousers are the ideal combination: water-resistance and comfort of trousers are essential
- Pullover, sweat-shirt or fleece jacket
- Woollen or thermolactyl Thermal underwear
- A warm hat, woollen ear muffs or fleece ear muffs, fleece or woollen neck warmer (avoid scarves that do not stay in place)- MANDATORY
- Wool or silk glove liners, water-resistant and supple gloves
- Thick warm socks (ideally woollen)
Accessories:
- Small waterproof backpack (to protect your camera from water).
- Binoculars (strongly recommended for wildlife viewing).
- Highly protective sunglasses.
- Walking poles (highly recommended).
Ideal clothes for life on board:
During the days spent on board, you are advised to wear comfortable clothes or casual outfits. The entire ship is air-conditioned, so a light sweater, a light jacket or a shawl may be necessary. When moving about in the public areas of the ship and the decks, light but comfortable shoes are recommended.
Informal evening:
In the evening, you are advised to wear smart-casual attire, especially when dining in our restaurants where wearing shorts and tee-shirts is not allowed.
For women:
- Simple dress
- Skirt or trousers
- Blouse
- Polo
For men:
- Pleated trousers or chinos
- Sports jacket
- Shirt
- Polo
Officer’s evening:
For all cruises longer than 8 nights, an Officer’s Evening with a white dress code may be organized. Therefore, we encourage you to bring a stylish white outfit for the occasion (otherwise black and white).
Gala evening:
During the cruise, two gala evenings will be organised on board. Thus, we recommend that you bring one or two formal outfits.
For women:
- Cocktail attire
- Evening dress (if you wish to)
For men:
- Dark suit
- Tie recommended, possibly bow tie (if you wish to)
SHOP:
A small shop is available on board offering a wide range of outfits, jewellery, leather goods and many accessories.
A laundry service (washing/ironing) is available on board, but unfortunately there are no dry cleaning services. For safety reasons, your cabin is not equipped with an iron.
INSULATED BASE LAYER:
- Wool or thermolactyl technical underwear
- Polar or technical jacket
- Polar sweater or sweatshirt
- Silk or wool glove liners
- Wool leggings
- Warm hiking socks
WATERPROOF OUTER LAYER:
- Waterproof over-trousers - Mandatory
- Waterproof parka - Offered on board (not available in children’s sizes)
- Windbreaker – Mandatory
- A warm woollen hat covering your ears
- Polar or woollen neck warmer
- Waterproof technical gloves
- Hiking shoes
HEALTH CARE:
- Sunscreen
- Lip protection balm
- Mosquito repellent, anti-itch balm and mosquito head net (Greenland)
- Medications and prescriptions
OUTFITS ON BOARD:
- Casual outfits for the day
- Smarter outfits for dinners
- Elegant outfits for Gala evenings
- White or black and white outfit
ACCESSORIES:
- Highly protective sunglasses
- Binoculars
- Walking poles
- Small waterproof backpack
- Swimsuit (for the spa on board)
- Gym wear (fitness)
- Battery charger and memory cards for your camera
- Mobile phone charger
PONANT activities
Highlights
- An all-new expedition cruise from discreet Saint Pierre and Miquelon to the warm city of Montreal, along the Saint Lawrence River, discovering fascinating nature and history.
- Outings and shore visits with a team of experienced naturalist guides.
- Possibility of hiking in the heart of abundant nature.
- Ports of call on the Lower-North-Shore of the St. Lawrence River, on Providence Island, in Harrington Harbour and at La Romaine in the Gulf of St. Lawrence, to discover the panoramas provided by the tundra and granite rock, learn more about this little-known region and head off to meet the island populations as well as Innu people.
- The exploration of the Gulf of Saint Lawrence with its fishing villages, its territories planted with forests, its historical vestiges and the possibility of observing many sea mammals.
- Sailing on the Saint Lawrence, an ocean-like river and home to a rich ecosystem.
- Visiting the city of Quebec and discovering its historic centre, a UNESO World Heritage Site.
- Landscapes: peat bogs, jagged mountains, sheer cliffs, majestic fjords and boreal forests.
- Wildlife: white-tailed deer, bald eagles, razorbills, grey seals and harbour seals, blue whales, beluga whales, minke whales.
Ports of Call & Excursions
17 September 2025 - Saint Pierre Island, Saint Pierre and Miquelon
Embarkation 17/09/2025 from 16:00 to 17:00
Departure 17/09/2025 at 18:00
Off the Canadian coast, discover Saint Pierre Island, one of the two main islands of the Saint Pierre and Miquelon archipelago, the only French territory in North America. Endowed with a natural harbour, the island, whose name is a reference to the patron saint of fishermen, developed around the fishing industry and still has many traces of its past today. Whale hunting, cod fishing, alcohol smuggling during the Prohibition: all of these memories are still very much alive in the capital, Saint-Pierre. The island is also renowned for the observation of exceptional fauna including, among others, whales, fin whales, dolphins, seals, puffins and petrels.
18 September 2025 - Miquelon Island, Saint Pierre and Miquelon
Arrival 18/09/2025
Departure 18/09/2025
At the entrance of the Gulf of Saint Lawrence, not far from the Grand Banks of Newfoundland, Miquelon is one of the two main islands of the Saint Pierre and Miquelon archipelago and will delight those with a love of wide open space. Connected by a sand isthmus, with Miquelon in the north and Langlade to the south, this wild land is famous as the home to France’s only boreal forest and has sublime scenery of hills, dotted with ponds, woods and bogs, and ringed by lagoons and steep cliffs. The rich and varied wildlife will guarantee fine encounters, whether inland, which is populated with white-tailed deer and bald eagles, or on the coast, refuge to many seabirds and common seals.
19 September 2025 20 September 2025 - Cap-aux-Meules, Magdalen Islands
Arrival 19/09/2025
Departure 20/09/2025
Although it is the administrative and economic centre of the Magdalen Islands archipelago, in the Gulf of Saint Lawrence, the village of Cap-aux-Meules remains a peaceful location and is ideal for exploring preserved nature. Located on the eponymous island, in reference to the sandstone rocks of the cape that were used in the past to make grindstones, the location is above all considered to be the maritime gateway to the archipelago. In this respect, it offers privileged access to many sites renowned for their natural and historic heritage, such as the village of Havre-Aubert which is a member of the Most Beautiful Villages of Quebec.
21 September 2025 - Woody Point, Gros Morne National Park
Arrival 21/09/2025
Departure 21/09/2025
Located in the heart of Gros Morne National Park, the small town of Woody Point has the typical charm of territories found at the end of the world. From there, you will set off to discover the national park, listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site because of the beauty of its landscapes, whose geology unveils the evolution of continental drift through its extraordinary rock formations. Sculpted by glacial activity, the park is home to coastal lowlands, alpine plateaux, hemmed-in fjords, immense valleys, jagged cliffs and several preserved lakes: you will marvel at every moment!
22 September 2025 - Providence Island
Arrival 22/09/2025
Departure 22/09/2025
After riding in an inflatable dinghy around granite tabular islands that are highly characteristic of Basse-Côte-Nord, you will land on an island once occupied by fishermen from Tête-à-la-Baleine and now the summer village of some twenty families. Your guide will take you to a cairn from which you will be able to enjoy a spectacular view over the tundra scattered with a few bushes, moss and white lichen. You will visit the Sainte-Anne Chapel, a beautiful wooden church built in the late 19th century, and taste some local products made from berries.
22 September 2025 - Harrington Harbour
Arrival 22/09/2025
Departure 22/09/2025
This small fishing village on Canada's North Shore is unique in more ways than one: it has very few inhabitants, no cars and a network of wooden pavements linking all the houses together. Lying three kilometres from the coast, the island has extraordinary wild landscapes. It is also home to the Jacques Cartier monument, commemorating the famous French explorer's visit to the region in 1535. The main activities include walking through the town and strolling along the wooden pavements among the typical village houses. According to legend, the explorer Jean-François de La Rocque de Roberval abandoned his niece Marguerite here in the 1540s when she fell in love with a sailor. She supposedly took refuge in a cave on the island before being rescued by fishermen. The cult Quebec film, Seducing Doctor Lewis, was also shot here.
23 September 2025 - La Romaine
Arrival 23/09/2025
Departure 23/09/2025
La Romaine is an Innu First Nations reserve in the Côte-Nord region of Quebec, with a population of 1,500. Nestling at the mouth of the Olomane River, this fishing village has a spectacular view of the Gulf of St. Lawrence, dotted with islets and wild forests. The name La Romaine means red ochre in Innu, and evokes the reddish colour of the run-off waters in spring. Here you will discover a fascinating history, regional economy and traditions, halfway between past and present. You can also enjoy a stroll along its charming bay.
24 September 2025 - Havre-Saint-Pierre
Arrival 24/09/2025
Departure 24/09/2025
Located on the Northern Shore of Quebec, Havre St Pierre is the gateway to the amazing natural heritage that surrounds it. This Quebecois town provides an excellent base for exploring the string of islands sprinkled off the coast. From Havre St Pierre, you can visit the Mingan Archipelago National Park Reserve. This is a land forged by the sea and elements, where nature still rules. This chain of islands is renowned for its spectacular limestone formations.
25 September 2025 - Tadoussac
Arrival 25/09/2025
Departure 25/09/2025
The Quebec village of Tadoussac stands at the confluence of the Saguenay River and the Gulf of Saint-Lawrence, in south-east Canada. The village is bright with multicoloured houses nestling in an emerald-green pine forest. From the waterfront, it’s easy to spy out Tadoussac Chapel, thanks to its bright red roof. Not far from this church built of wood, one of the oldest in North America, stands a century-old village holiday resort, Hotel Tadoussac. Treat yourself to tea on the terrace overlooking the shoreline. In addition, at the marine mammal interpretation centre, you can hone your knowledge of the cetaceans that regularly frequent Tadoussac bay.
26 September 2025 - Saguenay
Arrival 26/09/2025
Departure 26/09/2025
The city of Saguenay nestles in a valley through which flows the eponymous river, one of the region’s treasures. As it joins the Saint-Lawrence, the Saguenay River forms a spectacular fjord boasting extraordinarily differing landscapes. From Saguenay, you can explore the attractive Saguenay-Lac-Saint-Jean region, which is a paradise for those who love the great outdoors. You can combine country walks with boat trips within the various national parks studded throughout this extraordinary natural kingdom.
27 September 2025 - Québec
Arrival 27/09/2025
Departure 27/09/2025
The capital of "La Belle Province" sits at the confluence of the St Charles River and the Gulf of St Lawrence in south-east Canada. Founded in the 17th century, the city still has an encircling wall, a historic civil engineering work and the only one of its kind remaining in North America. You will love the postcard-perfect stone houses of Old Quebec, the historic district listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site. Shopping is a pleasure in pedestrian streets such as Petit-Champlain Street, or you can relax over a spruce beer, seasoned with pine buds. Dufferin Boardwalk, an esplanade near the emblematic Château Frontenac, is the perfect place for views of the river and old city.
28 September 2025 - Montreal
Arrival 28/09/2025 early morning
Disembarkation 28/09/2025 at 08:00
Famous for its gentle way of life, Montreal, Canada’s second-largest city, is a warm and cosmopolitan metropolis. Situated on the eponymous river island, it is home to a multitude of districts, each as unique as the other. Set off to discover Old Montreal, most of which is declared a historic area, Little Italy, where you’ll be able to stroll around the largest open-air market in North America, or the Golden Square Mile, the luxurious district located on one of the hills of Mount Royal and which has sumptuous Victorian-style residences. Simultaneously marked by the influences of the Old Continent and North-American gigantism, Montreal will never cease to amaze you.
Hike in the Cormorandière Valley
The Cormorandière Valley provides an ideal playground for those who love wide open spaces and hilly paths. Jagged cliffs, pristine nature, small lakes visited by white-tailed deer, and breathtaking views are all on the programme for this hike in what the region’s inhabitants call the “most beautiful” valley in the archipelago.
-
This excursion involves walking around 3.5 km (2.2 miles) of uneven and sometimes rocky ground. We recommend you wear comfortable walking shoes and clothing.
Included
Subject to availability, rate per passenger.
Ponant/ Paul Gauguin cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 2 months up to 7 days prior to departure through your travel advisor or by calling your cruise specialist.
Smithsonian cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 4 months prior to departure through your Guest Services Specialist. Excursions are subject to availability on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Visit to a goat farm
Explore know-how and the love of good food as you discover “Les Saveurs Fermières” goat farm and its delicious local products.
During the farm visit, go behind the scenes of goat cheese production, then taste some of the farm’s creations.
-
This tour involves some walking on some uneven terrain. We recommend that you wear comfortable walking shoes and clothing.
Included
Subject to availability, rate per passenger.
Ponant/ Paul Gauguin cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 2 months up to 7 days prior to departure through your travel advisor or by calling your cruise specialist.
Smithsonian cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 4 months prior to departure through your Guest Services Specialist. Excursions are subject to availability on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Hike to the summit of the Tête Pelée
Set off to ascend the summit of the Tête Pelée (139 metres or 456 feet) and enjoy stunning views over the isthmus and the Anse du Gouvernement beach, featuring vast plateaux, subarctic summits and wet and peaty plains.
The path leading to one of the most emblematic summits on the island of Miquelon opens before you, winding its way through a dense forest, where the leafy trees stretch up towards the sky. Each step resonates on the soil, accompanied by the soothing whisper of nature as it awakens around you. The heady fragrances of the wild plants and maritime pines perfume the air, adding a sensorial dimension to your journey.
As you advance towards the Tête Pelée, there is less and less vegetation, which makes way for jagged cliffs and breathtaking panoramas. The salty sea spray of the ocean will caress your face as you reach spectacular viewpoints, where the infinite horizon encounters the tumultuous waves of the Atlantic.
Once you arrive at the summit of the Tête Pelée, a majestic silence reigns, only interrupted by the noise of the wind which forges the rocky crests. A unique moment during which time seems to stand still between a feeling of absolute freedom and total wonderment.
· This excursion involves walking 8 kilometres (5 miles) on steeply sloping rocky paths. We recommend you wear comfortable clothes and hiking shoes. This excursion is not recommended for guests suffering from physical problems and/or not trained for physical exertion.
Included
Subject to availability, rate per passenger.
Ponant/ Paul Gauguin cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 2 months up to 7 days prior to departure through your travel advisor or by calling your cruise specialist.
Smithsonian cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 4 months prior to departure through your Guest Services Specialist. Excursions are subject to availability on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Yoga and meditation session
Make the most of the idyllic setting of the Miquelon-Langlade Isthmus to attend a yoga session.
Both a physical activity and a mental discipline, yoga relaxes the mind and makes the body more flexible. By learning breathing techniques and adopting various postures, you will strengthen your body and your balance while reducing stress.
· We recommend bringing a beach towel.
Included
Subject to availability, rate per passenger.
Ponant/ Paul Gauguin cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 2 months up to 7 days prior to departure through your travel advisor or by calling your cruise specialist.
Smithsonian cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 4 months prior to departure through your Guest Services Specialist. Excursions are subject to availability on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Culinary heritage of the Magdalen Islands
Renowned for its stunning scenery and rich cultural history, the Magdalen Islands archipelago can also claim a fine culinary heritage, constantly renewed by passionate artisans, like the dairy, smokehouse and the brewery that await you here.
First stop: the Pied-de-Vent dairy, a delicious example of Madelinot perseverance and craftmanship. In just a few years, the artisans working here have successfully developed cheeses that are popular all over the country. Their secret is their great love for their terroir combined with a savvy blend of tradition and modernity, as you will discover during your visit of the farm, followed by a tasting.
Then, after coming along the lovely Chemin de la Pointe Basse, scattered here and there with typical painted houses and farms – with small closed porches, consoles and corbels, verandas but also painted or stained cedar shingles which are reminiscent of the Acadian and French origins of their first inhabitants -, you will discover the Fumoir d’Antan. Now an eco-museum dedicated to herring smoking, this typical smokehouse brings to life this last vestiges of what was a very important industry in the past. It has been used for three generations to smoke herring, mackerel, salmon and scallops; you will find out all about its history before tasting some specialities.
Then go along the northern coast of the island and the aptly named Cap-Hérissé, which is home to spectacular sheer and rugged cliffs that have been sculpted by the sea, before your final port of call: the À l’abri de la Tempête brewery. Here, local ingredients reign supreme. The brewers started using locally malted barley, then moved on to harvesting and using fresh flowers, marine algae and herbs from the area, to brew unique full-flavoured beers that you will have the pleasure of tasting.
· There are no difficulties involved with this excursion. Participants must have a minimum age of 18 to take part in this visit.
Included
Subject to availability, rate per passenger.
Ponant/ Paul Gauguin cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 2 months up to 7 days prior to departure through your travel advisor or by calling your cruise specialist.
Smithsonian cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 4 months prior to departure through your Guest Services Specialist. Excursions are subject to availability on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Acadian culture & heritage
From the cider works to the designers’ workshop, via the Sea Museum and Cap Hérissé, discover the various faces of the Magdalen Islands and its inhabitants.
Le Verger de Poméloi orchard is planted on the heights of the Magdalen Islands, overlooking the sea, and will plunge you into a kingdom ruled by the apple. Éloi Vigneau has been passionate about agriculture since his teenage years and started to plant his first apple trees in 1990 as part of an experimental project. From year to year, he followed the growth of the saplings in the local climate, as they faced the wind and sea air. 18 years later, he runs a small cider works and distillery producing excellent beverages while respecting the environment.
Then you will head for the Sea Museum. The permanent exhibition, called Laboureurs du Golfe, recounts the archipelago’s history, which is of course connected to the evolution of maritime practices. Objects and photographs tell stories of fishermen and shipwrecks, the development of ships and lighthouses, seal hunting, etc.
Not far from there is the Atelier Côtier workshop, a creative space coupled with a store where “8 friends and 1 dog have fun making beautiful things”. Here, the sand of the islands is transformed into singular sculptures, and the landscapes inspire the creation of design or decoration objects, clothing or jewellery.
To finish, you will head to the north of the island to admire the incredible jagged cliffs of Cap Hérissé.
· There are no particular difficulties with this excursion. We recommend you wear comfortable clothing.
Included
Subject to availability, rate per passenger.
Ponant/ Paul Gauguin cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 2 months up to 7 days prior to departure through your travel advisor or by calling your cruise specialist.
Smithsonian cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 4 months prior to departure through your Guest Services Specialist. Excursions are subject to availability on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Culinary heritage of the Magdalen Islands
Renowned for its stunning scenery and rich cultural history, the Magdalen Islands archipelago can also claim a fine culinary heritage, constantly renewed by passionate artisans, like the dairy, smokehouse and the brewery that await you here.
First stop: the Pied-de-Vent dairy, a delicious example of Madelinot perseverance and craftmanship. In just a few years, the artisans working here have successfully developed cheeses that are popular all over the country. Their secret is their great love for their terroir combined with a savvy blend of tradition and modernity, as you will discover during your visit of the farm, followed by a tasting.
Then, after coming along the lovely Chemin de la Pointe Basse, scattered here and there with typical painted houses and farms – with small closed porches, consoles and corbels, verandas but also painted or stained cedar shingles which are reminiscent of the Acadian and French origins of their first inhabitants -, you will discover the Fumoir d’Antan. Now an eco-museum dedicated to herring smoking, this typical smokehouse brings to life this last vestiges of what was a very important industry in the past. It has been used for three generations to smoke herring, mackerel, salmon and scallops; you will find out all about its history before tasting some specialities.
Then go along the northern coast of the island and the aptly named Cap-Hérissé, which is home to spectacular sheer and rugged cliffs that have been sculpted by the sea, before your final port of call: the À l’abri de la Tempête brewery. Here, local ingredients reign supreme. The brewers started using locally malted barley, then moved on to harvesting and using fresh flowers, marine algae and herbs from the area, to brew unique full-flavoured beers that you will have the pleasure of tasting.
· There are no difficulties involved with this excursion. Participants must have a minimum age of 18 to take part in this visit.
Included
Subject to availability, rate per passenger.
Ponant/ Paul Gauguin cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 2 months up to 7 days prior to departure through your travel advisor or by calling your cruise specialist.
Smithsonian cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 4 months prior to departure through your Guest Services Specialist. Excursions are subject to availability on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Acadian culture & heritage
From the cider works to the designers’ workshop, via the Sea Museum and Cap Hérissé, discover the various faces of the Magdalen Islands and its inhabitants.
Le Verger de Poméloi orchard is planted on the heights of the Magdalen Islands, overlooking the sea, and will plunge you into a kingdom ruled by the apple. Éloi Vigneau has been passionate about agriculture since his teenage years and started to plant his first apple trees in 1990 as part of an experimental project. From year to year, he followed the growth of the saplings in the local climate, as they faced the wind and sea air. 18 years later, he runs a small cider works and distillery producing excellent beverages while respecting the environment.
Then you will head for the Sea Museum. The permanent exhibition, called Laboureurs du Golfe, recounts the archipelago’s history, which is of course connected to the evolution of maritime practices. Objects and photographs tell stories of fishermen and shipwrecks, the development of ships and lighthouses, seal hunting, etc.
Not far from there is the Atelier Côtier workshop, a creative space coupled with a store where “8 friends and 1 dog have fun making beautiful things”. Here, the sand of the islands is transformed into singular sculptures, and the landscapes inspire the creation of design or decoration objects, clothing or jewellery.
To finish, you will head to the north of the island to admire the incredible jagged cliffs of Cap Hérissé.
· There are no particular difficulties with this excursion. We recommend you wear comfortable clothing.
Included
Subject to availability, rate per passenger.
Ponant/ Paul Gauguin cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 2 months up to 7 days prior to departure through your travel advisor or by calling your cruise specialist.
Smithsonian cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 4 months prior to departure through your Guest Services Specialist. Excursions are subject to availability on a first-come, first-serve basis.
The Tablelands, a geological oddity
Located in Gros Morne National Park, the Tablelands are a geological rarity. Here, a fragment of mantle emerges from the Earth’s centre, revealing an almost supernatural orangey desert. Discover the story of this unique landscape along the trails and at the heart of the Discovery Centre.
To understand how this unique place resembling a faraway planet was formed, nothing beats a visit to the Discover Centre. The exhibits on display will allow you to discover the different geological episodes that led to this rock being exposed, when it is generally buried kilometres deep. But hiking along the trails is the best way to truly grasp just how unique this portion of Earth is.
Accompanied by a guide/interpreter, hike along the Tablelands, observe the site’s unique geology and enjoy exceptional views of the UNESCO-listed Gros Morne National Park.
· This excursion involves walking for approximately 2 km (1.2 miles) along an uneven trail with a gentle incline. We recommend wearing walking shoes and comfortable clothing suitable for the temperatures of the season.
Included
Subject to availability, rate per passenger.
Ponant/ Paul Gauguin cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 2 months up to 7 days prior to departure through your travel advisor or by calling your cruise specialist.
Smithsonian cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 4 months prior to departure through your Guest Services Specialist. Excursions are subject to availability on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Ponant Kayak
Enjoy a kayak trip with a naturalist from the ship.
Total : €150
Subject to availability, rate per passenger.
Ponant/ Paul Gauguin cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 2 months up to 7 days prior to departure through your travel advisor or by calling your cruise specialist.
Smithsonian cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 4 months prior to departure through your Guest Services Specialist. Excursions are subject to availability on a first-come, first-serve basis.
ÎIe de la Passe and the Maison Jos Hebert
The Île de la Passe is a picturesque island located in the serene and rugged region of Quebec’s Lower North Shore. Known for its pristine natural beauty, Passe Island is characterized by northern landscapes where trees are sparse, with vegetation adapted to the harsh conditions of the area.
Explore the island with a local guide. As you walk along the trail, you’ll appreciate the wild beauty of the surroundings, including rocks, mosses, and typical northern plants. End your excursion with a visit to the Jo Hébert House, a faithful reproduction of the home where this legendary figure spent his final years.
· Jos Hébert, famous for being the first postal carrier on the Lower North Shore, left a lasting mark on local history by delivering mail by dog sled along the entire coast for many years, embodying the community’s spirit of resilience and solidarity.This excursion involves walking around 1 kilometre (0.6 miles) on uneven ground with rocks and climbs. We recommend you wear good walking shoes and several layers of clothing, depending on the weather.
Included
Subject to availability, rate per passenger.
Ponant/ Paul Gauguin cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 2 months up to 7 days prior to departure through your travel advisor or by calling your cruise specialist.
Smithsonian cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 4 months prior to departure through your Guest Services Specialist. Excursions are subject to availability on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Hike on Ile de la Providence
Nestled in the calm waters of Quebec’s Lower North Shore, Providence Island invites you to discover its preserved natural beauty and fascinating local history. Your journey begins with a short crossing to this little-visited island. Upon arrival, a guide will welcome you and lead you across its northern landscapes of open tundra and rugged terrain.
As you explore this remote setting, you’ll learn about the island’s past, shaped by fishing families who settled here during the summer season to stay close to their work environment during the fishing months. Blending stories of resilience, seasonal life, and connection to the land, this visit will appeal to both nature lovers and those interested in the region’s coastal heritage.
· This excursion includes walking approximately 1 kilometre (0.6 miles) on uneven ground with pebbles and a steep slope. We recommend you wear comfortable clothes and suitable shoes. This excursion is not recommended for persons who have difficulties walking.
Included
Subject to availability, rate per passenger.
Ponant/ Paul Gauguin cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 2 months up to 7 days prior to departure through your travel advisor or by calling your cruise specialist.
Smithsonian cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 4 months prior to departure through your Guest Services Specialist. Excursions are subject to availability on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Walking tour of Harrington Harbour
Harrington Harbour, a pretty village renowned for its brightly coloured residences, its wooden boardwalks and its striking coastal panoramas, stands out thanks to its picturesque charm and preserved authenticity. This coastal village, nestling in the Gulf of Saint Lawrence, is recognised as one of the thirty most beautiful villages in Quebec. Accessible only by sea or air, this village offers a unique window onto the existence of an isolated community.
Wander along the boardwalks of Harrington Harbour, where you will be initiated into the particularities of its residents’ insular way of life. This excursion will reveal the very essence of what gives Harrington Harbour its exceptional character. The absence of roads and motorised vehicles conjures up the atmosphere of a traditional Newfoundlander fishing port and lends this place a rare calmness, where people get around mainly on foot or by bike. During this 90-minute walk, you will visit the emblematic spots immortalised in the film “Seducing Doctor Lewis”. Your trip will continue at the Rowsell House Interpretation Centre, a cultural and historic site offering an in-depth immersion into the existence and events of this isolated little town. The high point of your visit will take place at the community centre, the veritable social and recreational heart of the village. There you will taste some local seafood accompanied by hot beverages. It will also be an opportunity to meet local artisans and appreciate their creations. At the end of the guided tour, you will have some free time to stroll around the centre and the surrounding area before going back to your ship.
· This excursion involves walking for approximately 1.5 kilometres (0.9 miles) on uneven ground and elevated paths We recommend you wear several layers of clothing along with suitable shoes. As Harrington Harbour is a small community, the island visit can only be done in small groups and as a guided tour, with staggered departures. Visitors will have some free time to make the most of the community centre and its surroundings, but it is not possible to walk on the island alone.
Included
Subject to availability, rate per passenger.
Ponant/ Paul Gauguin cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 2 months up to 7 days prior to departure through your travel advisor or by calling your cruise specialist.
Smithsonian cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 4 months prior to departure through your Guest Services Specialist. Excursions are subject to availability on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Ponant Kayak
Enjoy a kayak trip with a naturalist from the ship.
Total : €150
Subject to availability, rate per passenger.
Ponant/ Paul Gauguin cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 2 months up to 7 days prior to departure through your travel advisor or by calling your cruise specialist.
Smithsonian cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 4 months prior to departure through your Guest Services Specialist. Excursions are subject to availability on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Harrington Harbor hike & Marguerite's Cove
Harrington Harbour is an insular enclave of rare authenticity standing majestically on Quebec’s Lower North Shore. This coastal village is free of roads and motorised vehicles, and offers a striking picture of brightly coloured residences, connected by a network of wooden boardwalks, bearing witness to a singular way of life shaped by geographic isolation and age-old maritime traditions.
Your excursion will be a captivating adventure into the very essence of Harrington Harbour. It begins with a guided walk winding its way through the port, culminating at the highest point of the island. During the climb, a local guide will reveal the subtleties of insular existence, shedding light on its everyday challenges and ingenuities, from fishing to hunting to supplying freshwater. A stop at Marguerite’s Cave will offer a striking historic interlude. This evocative place commemorates the tragic odyssey of 16th-century French noblewoman Marguerite de La Rocque. Her story, steeped in resiliency, recounts her being marooned on the island following an argument with her future husband, her miraculous survival during two harsh winters, and her fortuitous rescue by Basque fishermen. The itinerary will continue towards the Rowsell House Interpretation Centre, a veritable sanctuary of collective memory. This cultural institution offers a deep dive into the heritage and evolution of this insular community, revealing the various strata of its rich and complex history. The excursion finishes at the Community Centre, the epicentre of Harrington Harbour’s social and cultural life. This meeting place will propose an authentic gastronomic experience, giving pride of place to local delicacies from the sea, accompanied by comforting beverages. Visitors will also have the privilege of interacting with local artisans, the guardians of traditional know-how, and will be thus able to look through an intimate window into the creative soul of the community. To finish, there will be some free time so the participants may extend these enriching discussions with the artisans, deepen their understanding of the local crafts, and fully immerse themselves in the singular atmosphere of this insular haven.
· This excursion involves walking for approximately 3.5 kilometres (2.2 miles) on uneven ground and elevated paths We recommend you wear several layers of clothing along with suitable shoes. As Harrington Harbour is a small community, the island visit can only be done in small groups and as a guided tour, with staggered departures. Visitors will have some free time to make the most of the community centre and its surroundings, but it is not possible to walk on the island alone.
Included
Subject to availability, rate per passenger.
Ponant/ Paul Gauguin cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 2 months up to 7 days prior to departure through your travel advisor or by calling your cruise specialist.
Smithsonian cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 4 months prior to departure through your Guest Services Specialist. Excursions are subject to availability on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Hike on Dos de Cheval Island
A little-known gem nestling in the heart of the lower northern coast, Dos de Cheval Island is remarkable for its striking panoramas, abundant biodiversity and preserved nature. Set off on a singular and memorable odyssey into the heart of this natural setting, exceptionally accessible for the time of the port of call.
When the tides are lenient, a lucky few will enjoy a limited time window to access an insular sanctuary and have a truly unique experience. After a brief maritime crossing, you will be warmly welcomed by a local guide, who will give you a succinct presentation of the island and the treasures to discover. This exceptional land, with unique geological, floristic and faunistic characteristics, is of significant cultural importance to the indigenous Innu community. Begin your journey alongside your guide, contemplating a mosaic of landscapes going from lush forests to jagged shores, via bucolic meadows and belvederes offering commanding views. At the end of this enriching exploration, you will come back to the jetty where you will be able to savour local delicacies from the sea, accompanied by a comforting beverage, before beginning your boat journey back to La Romaine.
· This excursion involves walking approximately 1 kilometre (0.6 miles) on uneven ground. We recommend you wear suitable shoes and appropriate clothing for the weather.
Included
Subject to availability, rate per passenger.
Ponant/ Paul Gauguin cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 2 months up to 7 days prior to departure through your travel advisor or by calling your cruise specialist.
Smithsonian cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 4 months prior to departure through your Guest Services Specialist. Excursions are subject to availability on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Ponant Kayak
Enjoy a kayak trip with a naturalist from the ship.
Total : €150
Subject to availability, rate per passenger.
Ponant/ Paul Gauguin cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 2 months up to 7 days prior to departure through your travel advisor or by calling your cruise specialist.
Smithsonian cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 4 months prior to departure through your Guest Services Specialist. Excursions are subject to availability on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Escapade in La Romaine
Set off to discover the fishing village of La Romaine, anchored on the shores of the emblematic Gulf of Saint Lawrence and explore its bewitching nature, witness to rich history.
Nestling at the mouth of the Olomane River, La Romaine is an Innu First Nations reserve with spectacular views over the Gulf of St. Lawrence, between islets and wild forests. During this exploration, set off to discover a rich heritage and visit its most emblematic sites. Head for the “Nique à Goéland” open-air site. Here, stroll the walking trails and enjoy this unique natural environment, while observing the birds that populate the area.
Then, visit the Museum and Interpretation Centre, a veritable cultural jewel that will plunge you into the fascinating history of the Innu, the indigenous community that has lived in this region for millennia. As soon as you cross the threshold of the museum, you will be welcomed by captivating exhibitions recounting the region’s history through ancient artifacts, photographs and vibrant testimonies.
After this historic immersion, head for the Olamen School, a vibrant place where the Innu culture is celebrated on a daily basis. The educational framework here is one in which ancestral traditions meet modern pedagogical methods. Among other things, discover the programmes designed to preserve and promote the Innu language and culture among the young generation.
Finally, finish your escapade at the local cemetery. Walk among the tombs, often marked with symbols and objects recounting the history of the deceased and their links with the land.
· This excursion involves walking approximately 1 km (0.6 miles) on uneven paths with gradients. We recommend you wear warm clothing and walking shoes.
Included
Subject to availability, rate per passenger.
Ponant/ Paul Gauguin cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 2 months up to 7 days prior to departure through your travel advisor or by calling your cruise specialist.
Smithsonian cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 4 months prior to departure through your Guest Services Specialist. Excursions are subject to availability on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Immersion with the Innu
During a unique moment, learn about and dive into the culture and traditions of the Innu, an indigenous North American community, originating from the east of the Quebec-Labrador Peninsula.
Nestling at the mouth of the Olomane River, La Romaine is an Innu First Nations reserve with spectacular views over the Gulf of St. Lawrence, between islets and wild forests. On these ancestral lands, join the Innu community for an immersive experience in the heart of their traditions and culture.
From your arrival, you will be enveloped by the community’s warmth and hospitality, which will make you feel like a member of the family. The welcome tent, decorated with ancestral patterns and permeated with a warm atmosphere, invites you to discover the soul of the Innu community. Here, every word tells a story, every face reflects a precious heritage.
The journey will continue the discovery of Innu handicrafts. You will be able to see these unique pieces of art up close and understand the techniques and meaning behind each piece. On these lands, each movement, each note is a vibrant tribute to the spirituality and resilience of the Innu community. You will be able to talk with the inhabitants at length to continue finding out about their traditions, through performances.
· This excursion involves walking approximately 1 kilometre (0.6 miles) on uneven paths with gradients. We recommend you wear warm clothing and walking shoes.
Included
Subject to availability, rate per passenger.
Ponant/ Paul Gauguin cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 2 months up to 7 days prior to departure through your travel advisor or by calling your cruise specialist.
Smithsonian cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 4 months prior to departure through your Guest Services Specialist. Excursions are subject to availability on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Encounter and lunch with the Innu
In the northern confines of Quebec, there where the Saint Lawrence River widens to embrace the ocean, lies La Romaine, a singular little village where history and culture intermingle very gracefully.
Immerse yourself in the age-old heritage and vibrant culture of the Innu community during a two-hour exploration of La Romaine village. This place, where the French language rubs shoulders with Innu-aimun in a fascinating linguistic dance, embodies the quintessence of intercultural coexistence, while preserving the millennial traditions of its indigenous inhabitants in the face of growing modernity. This privileged encounter offers a rare and authentic insight into Innu ancestral traditions, promoting the establishment of a profound and personal link with this millennia-old indigenous community.
After a brief crossing, you will land in La Romaine, where your Innu guide will welcome you. The excursion begins with a walking tour through the heart of the village, followed by an encounter with a local artisan, who will give you a demonstration of their know-how. You will then head towards the restaurant area for an Innu culinary tasting. Give your taste buds a treat with the authentic savours of traditional dishes made according to ancestral recipes. Enjoy specialities such as bannock, smoked fish and wild game. You will enjoy a special moment in the company of an Innu elder, who will share captivating accounts and wisdom inherited from the traditional life, history and heritage of his community. This intimate exchange will enable you to learn in depth about the Innu’s symbiotic relationship with their territory, their customs and their spiritual beliefs. Engage in enriching dialogue, ask questions and discover the subtleties of the Innu way of life directly from someone who embodies it. To finish this immersive experience, you will be invited to visit a converted cottage, a veritable showcase for the talent of Innu artisans, highlighting the richness of their craftmanship.
· This excursion involves walking for approximately 400 metres (1,312 feet) on uneven ground. We recommend you wear several layers of clothing, depending on the weather.
Subject to availability, rate per passenger.
Ponant/ Paul Gauguin cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 2 months up to 7 days prior to departure through your travel advisor or by calling your cruise specialist.
Smithsonian cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 4 months prior to departure through your Guest Services Specialist. Excursions are subject to availability on a first-come, first-serve basis.
The surprising monoliths of Minganie
Beyond the 50th parallel, along the Gulf of Saint Lawrence, there stretches a unique landscape made up of around 30 limestone islands and over a thousand granite islets: the Mingan Archipelago. Listed as a National Park Reserve in 1984, it is teeming with exceptional geological structures, as well as unique boreal vegetation.
Head to sea from Havre-Saint-Pierre to discover Quarry Island accompanied by a Canadian National Park guide. You will walk the trails that cross the forest, moors and peat bogs, where beavers, red foxes, black bears and moose all flourish.
Posed near the water and looking as if they are frozen in time, impressive monoliths called “flowerpots” await you. Colonies of Atlantic puffins and other seabirds nest on the cliffs while, out at sea, you may encounter seals, dolphins, whales or porpoises.
· This excursion involves approximately 3 km (1.9 miles) of walking on sometimes uneven ground. We recommend you wear comfortable walking shoes and several layers of clothing so you can adapt to the weather conditions.
Included
Subject to availability, rate per passenger.
Ponant/ Paul Gauguin cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 2 months up to 7 days prior to departure through your travel advisor or by calling your cruise specialist.
Smithsonian cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 4 months prior to departure through your Guest Services Specialist. Excursions are subject to availability on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Petite île au Marteau and Niapiskau Island
From Petite île au Marteau Island to Niapiskau Island, between the monoliths sculpted by the sea and surprising Arctic-Alpine flora, go on a hike to discover the geological history of these ends of the earth, in the company of an expert on the region.
On the Petite île au Marteau, which you will reach by boat and where a Parks Canada interpreter will be waiting for you, stroll along the coastal path and observe the many treasures this unique place has to offer. From the lighthouse, erected in 1915 to prevent shipwrecks, to the belvedere leading to incredible views over the limestone cliffs on Grosse Île au Marteau Island, via the moors, home to unique Arctic-Alpine flora, the Petite île au Marteau will unveil all its secrets and its history.
Next, Niapiskau Island and its surprising geological formations beckon you. During a looped walk, admire the strange cliffs and monoliths sculpted by the sea. With your Parks Canada interpreter, discover these limestone faces which have crossed the centuries and today tell a geological history that is 500 million years old. From the impressive “Dame de Niapiskau”, named by the poet Roland Jomphe, to the “Petite Chouette Diplômée”, they are all invitations to take the measure of time and contemplate this stunning scenery.
· This excursion involves walking for approximately 5 kilometres (3.1 miles) on dirt tracks. We recommend wearing walking shoes and several layers of comfortable clothing, appropriate for hiking and the season’s temperature.
Included
Subject to availability, rate per passenger.
Ponant/ Paul Gauguin cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 2 months up to 7 days prior to departure through your travel advisor or by calling your cruise specialist.
Smithsonian cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 4 months prior to departure through your Guest Services Specialist. Excursions are subject to availability on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Encounter with whales
Set off aboard a Zodiac that will take you to encounter whales in the estuary of the Saint Lawrence River. A magical moment!
A naturalist-guide captain will take you to where the river meets the ocean, an ideal spot to observe these giants of the sea as well as other marine mammals such as blue whale, fin whale, minke whale, beluga, humpback whale and grey seal. Indeed, the gulf and the estuary of the Saint Lawrence are a veritable kingdom for whales and a formidable natural laboratory for biologists passionate about these emblematic species. During these two hours on the river, you will appreciate all the wild beauty of the Saguenay fjord.
Back on shore, you will visit the information centre run by the Group for Research and Education on Marine Mammals (GREMM), a non-profit organisation dedicated to education for the sake of marine conservation and scientific research on the marine mammals of the Saint Lawrence.
· Participants must be in good physical condition. This excursion is not suitable for children aged under 10 years old. Each guest will be equipped with a waterproof clothing. We recommend you wear warm and waterproof clothing. The order of the visits may be reversed.
Included
Subject to availability, rate per passenger.
Ponant/ Paul Gauguin cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 2 months up to 7 days prior to departure through your travel advisor or by calling your cruise specialist.
Smithsonian cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 4 months prior to departure through your Guest Services Specialist. Excursions are subject to availability on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Exploring Tadoussac on foot
Possessing one of the world’s lost beautiful bays, flanked by its large hotel with its characteristic red roof, Tadoussac is a picture-postcard village. Walk around this superb territory located at the confluence of the Saint Lawrence River and the Saguenay fjord.
Life goes by peacefully in this village of 800 souls lulled by the whisper of the waves and the salty air. While the history of the village of Tadoussac goes back to the arrival of Europeans on the American continent, the site itself was occupied by native communities from prehistoric times. Moreover, the origin of the word “tadoussac” finds its roots in Indian vocabulary. Tadoussac experienced the fur trade from the 17th to the 19th century, then the timber industry, before becoming a popular holiday destination.
Walk the Trail Pointe-de-l'Islet, which offers incredible views of the St. Lawrence River and the Saguenay River, as well as the chance to spot whales and belugas!
You will then visit the Chauvin Trading Post, a recreation of Canada’s very first fur trading post, with an exhibition focused on first contacts, the trading post and trading.
Visit the Marine Mammal Interpretation Centre (CIMM), presenting an exhibit on the whales of the St. Lawrence and related scientific research. Return to the marina and end of the tour.
Before leaving, you will visit the Little Chapel located on the property, also called the Indian Chapel. It is the oldest wooden church in North America, having been constructed in 1747 by Jesuit missionaries who came to convert the local population to Christianity. It houses religious objects that were used over two and a half centuries ago.
· This excursion involves walking around 2 km (1.2 miles). We recommend you wear comfortable walking shoes. The order of visits may change.
Included
Subject to availability, rate per passenger.
Ponant/ Paul Gauguin cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 2 months up to 7 days prior to departure through your travel advisor or by calling your cruise specialist.
Smithsonian cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 4 months prior to departure through your Guest Services Specialist. Excursions are subject to availability on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Hike in the Saguenay Fjord National Park
The Saguenay Fjord was sculpted by the power of glaciers and is renowned for its beautiful landscapes. Walking the Point de Vue du Soupir trail, you will discover the striking panoramas over the cliffs, boreal forests and bays of this grandiose fjord, where hundreds of migratory birds nest.
With more than 110 kilometres (68 miles) of hiking trails amidst magnificent scenery, the Saguenay Fjord National Park is best discovered on foot. This 7.6-kilometre (4.7-mile) path is the most popular because of its many viewpoints. You will climb many wooden or stone steps before coming back down to the Notre-Dame-du-Saguenay statue, which has been keeping an eye on the fjord since 1881.
After the hike, you will visit the Interpretation Centre to learn more about the fjord or make some purchases in the souvenir shop.
· Transportation is via local bus. This intermediary-level excursion involves walking around 2.5 kilometres (1.6 miles) and climbing 500 or so steps. We recommend your wear comfortable clothing, good walking shoes and protect yourself from the wind and the sun.
Included
Subject to availability, rate per passenger.
Ponant/ Paul Gauguin cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 2 months up to 7 days prior to departure through your travel advisor or by calling your cruise specialist.
Smithsonian cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 4 months prior to departure through your Guest Services Specialist. Excursions are subject to availability on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Trail on Mars River banks
Discover the beauty of Quebec’s great Boreal Forest and culture during this unique and authentic experience at the Contact Nature Ecotourism site.
From the pier, you will board your coach for a 20-minute scenic drive.
Once on site, you will be greeted by a naturalist and you will start your trail by the Mars River. This area is famous for its fishing activity for Atlantic salmon and sea trout. You will reach the amazing Bec-Scie canyon with many different belvederes where you will see breathtaking landscapes.
Your guide will give you information about the natural environment, the site’s sampling activities, its fauna and flora as well as the animals that inhabit it.
During your stroll, you will have the opportunity to discover the lifestyle and land use practices of the indigenous people.
Finally, after enjoying a snack and a refreshment, you will take an easy walk through the forest and board your coach back to your ship.
· Please note that this tour is a trail of approximately 1.6 mile on uneven surfaces and involves some stairs (40 in total). We recommend you wear comfortable walking shoes and clothes. This tour is not recommended for guests with limited mobility or walking difficulties. This tour is limited to 40 participants.
Included
Subject to availability, rate per passenger.
Ponant/ Paul Gauguin cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 2 months up to 7 days prior to departure through your travel advisor or by calling your cruise specialist.
Smithsonian cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 4 months prior to departure through your Guest Services Specialist. Excursions are subject to availability on a first-come, first-serve basis.
The Craftsman Road
Step back in time and discover the artisans of a by-gone era.
From the pier, board your bus for a short scenic drive to the Touverre Workshop. Glass blowing is one of the oldest forms of art, and one of the most difficult to master. The technique was used in Egypt and Syria thousands of years ago. Nowadays in Saguenay, Guiseppe Benedetto, glassmaker and sculptor, performs this highly sophisticated technique for visitors to his workshop. The glass-maker’s goal is to develop top-of-the-line decorative objects such as whales, blueberries, fruits, lamps, perfumers, and more.
You will then cross the street to visit the Fine Stone Cutting Economuseum and discover the fascinating transformation steps of lapidary work. This workshop will transport you in a world of highly original handmade jewelry. Magnificent amethyst geodes, local and worldwide minerals and fine stones awaits to spark your eyes and wonder your minds. Be privileged by assisting a live stone polishing demonstration in this newly built workshop attached to one of the first Saguenay’s building, the Saint-Alexis presbytery (1868) where contemporary and history harmonize perfectly.
Your next visit will be at the Alpaga Bersi farm. During this visit you will learn about the characteristics of the Alpaga, this friendly natured animal from the collection of his fibre to the finish product. Also known as the Gold of the Andes, this luxurious natural fibre has much to offer. It is light, warm, resistant, not prickly, hypoallergenic, and extremely soft. Combined with the expertise of our craftsman, you will find unique treasures that results such as sweaters, scarf, hats and mittens. At the end of your visit, you will enjoy a tasty and local snack made of a haskap (honeysuckle) crisp and maple syrup.
Finally, you will board your coach and drive back to your ship.
· This excursion involves few walking distance (500m maximum) but sometimes on uneven surfaces. We recommend you wear comfortable walking shoes. You will find giftshops at every venue and all major credit cards are accepted. This tour is limited to 50 participants.
Included
Subject to availability, rate per passenger.
Ponant/ Paul Gauguin cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 2 months up to 7 days prior to departure through your travel advisor or by calling your cruise specialist.
Smithsonian cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 4 months prior to departure through your Guest Services Specialist. Excursions are subject to availability on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Quebec Half day tour
Discover the charm of the old town by exploring its historic and natural sites, then go along the Saint Lawrence River to admire the spectacular scenery of Montmorency Falls. Without forgetting the unmissable gourmet break at a maple farm.
Walk in the magnificent Battlefields Park, which is on the site of the historic battle at which the French surrendered to the British in 1759. Also known as the Plains of Abraham and nestling on the cliffs overlooking the Saint Lawrence River, it is now a stunning park featuring hills, gardens, monuments and artillery artefacts.
You will then go along the Grande-Allée, a vast avenue edged with shops and café-terraces, to the Parliament Building (Hôtel du Parlement), an impressive Second Empire-style building overlooking the city.
Then, you will travel into the Quebec countryside. A few minutes from the fortified town of Old Quebec, Montmorency Falls offers breathtaking landscapes. You will feel the full power of nature when the water from the Montmorency River tumbles over the cliff to fall into the Saint Lawrence River.
At a maple farm, taste maple taffy - maple syrup boiled and poured onto snow; left to cool down, it is then wrapped around a stick to make a sticky treat.
Finally, you will discover the recently expanded Quebec National Museum of Fine Arts, where art, architecture and nature come together. You will discover the history of art in Quebec via its exhibitions of local artists from all eras.
· We recommend you wear comfortable clothing and shoes.
Included
Subject to availability, rate per passenger.
Ponant/ Paul Gauguin cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 2 months up to 7 days prior to departure through your travel advisor or by calling your cruise specialist.
Smithsonian cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 4 months prior to departure through your Guest Services Specialist. Excursions are subject to availability on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Old Quebec Walk & Guided visit of the Chateau Frontenac
Dive into Quebec’s history by strolling the cobbled streets of the Old Town. Founded by the French explorer Champlain at the beginning of the 17th century and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it is the only fortified city in North America that still has its ramparts.
First of all, you will go to the Place Royale. The stone buildings surrounding this square were once the homes of wealthy merchants. Built and rebuilt several times, the square remains the heart of the Lower Town as well as the home of North America’s oldest stone church, Notre-Dame-des-Victoires.
At the corner of the square, discover the charming pedestrian district of Petit-Champlain. Scattered along its narrow cobblestone streets are an array of quaint boutiques, speciality shops and outdoor cafés with strolling musicians and street performers.
You will then board the funicular that connects the Lower Town to the Upper Town. Perched on a hill overlooking the St. Lawrence River, Château Frontenac is Quebec’s best-known landmark. Franklin D. Roosevelt, Winston Churchill and William Mackenzie King met here to discuss the Allied strategy during the Second World War. Now a luxury hotel, this château inspired by the French Renaissance and the châteaux of the Loire Valley is designated a National Historic Site of Canada. You will be able to make the most of a guided tour.
Adjoining the château, the Dufferin Terrace forms a belvedere overlooking the waterway. Enjoy the spectacular views over the St. Lawrence River, the town of Lévis on the opposite bank, the Ile d'Orléans and the Laurentian Mountains. You will then explore the fortress district passing Place d’Armes, the Quebec Seminary, the Ursuline Convent, Place de l’Hôtel de Ville, and the Artists Alley.
· We recommend you wear comfortable clothing and shoes.
Included
Subject to availability, rate per passenger.
Ponant/ Paul Gauguin cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 2 months up to 7 days prior to departure through your travel advisor or by calling your cruise specialist.
Smithsonian cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 4 months prior to departure through your Guest Services Specialist. Excursions are subject to availability on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Le Lyrial
First introduced in 2015 and the fourth ship in the Sisterships series, Le Lyrial is the very embodiment of this new generation of intimately sized cruise ships. Its exterior and interior lines, all sober understatement and refinement, make it a yacht of a rare and innovative kind.
For the interior decoration, we took inspiration from the tones and colours of our destinations and used a palette made up of blues, from the soft, luminous grey-like tones of the polar ice to the vivid notes and turquoises of Mediterranean inlets and coves.
Decks
Flight Montréal/Saint-Pierre et Miquelon + Transfer
For your serenity, PONANT selects a flight and organises the transfer between the airport and the port. This package is included in your cruise fare.
Embarkation day - Montreal/Saint-Pierre and Miquelon
Flight Montreal/Saint-Pierre and Miquelon selected by PONANT.
Approximate flight duration: 4 h 30.
We highly recommend you arrive in Montreal the day before this flight.
We suggest you to be at the check-in counter 2 hours before departure.
Meet & greet at the airport by our local English-speaking representative.
Transfer to the pier for embarkation.
- Cruise aboard your cruise ship -
This programme includes:
- Flight Montreal/Saint-Pierre and Miquelon selected by PONANT in economy class.
- Transfer mentioned in the programme.
- English-speaking assistance.
This programme does not include:
- Personal expenses.
- Any other service not mentioned in the programme.
Please note:
- Flight included in the programme is as of today, operated in economy class.
- Due to limited local transportation resources, waiting might be generated.
- For passengers in transit in Montreal, we recommend staying one night in Montreal before this flight.
- Programme and flight schedule are subject to change without prior notice.
- PONANT will adapte the content of the transfer offer from airport according to your flight schedule.
Discoveries
Embark on a journey where every destination is approached with fresh wonder and refined curiosity. Included excursions (one per day, per guest) and carefully curated optional experiences alternate with outings led by your team of expert naturalist guides. A bespoke approach to exploration, ensuring every stopover is as enriching as it is unforgettable.
- Activities: One included excursion per day and per guest. Optional paid excursions are also available depending on the port of call. Activities guided by our team of naturalists (depending on the destination) are included and organised directly on board.
- Landings (depending on the destination): By dock, tender boat, local boats, or Zodiac.
- Your experts on board: The team of naturalist guides.
- Children: Children from 6 years of age are welcome on board (from 8 years old on Le Commandant Charcot).
The full program of all excursions, both included and optional, is available eight months prior to departure. Reservations open approximately two months before departure.
Shore excursions, Pre/Post & Overlands
16/09/2025 - FLIGHTS FROM/TO PARIS + OVERNIGHT IN MONTREAL 1N (PRE) + EXPERIENCE A CANADIAN SUGAR SHACK AND OVERVIEW OF MONTREAL (POST)
16/09/2025 - FLIGHTS BUSINESS FROM/TO PARIS + OVERNIGHT IN MONTREAL 1N (PRE) + EXPERIENCE A CANADIAN SUGAR SHACK AND OVERVIEW OF MONTREAL (POST)
16/09/2025 - FLIGHTS FROM/TO PARIS + OVERNIGHT IN MONTREAL 1N (PRE) + EXPLORE THE LAURENTIDES AND MONTREAL 4N (POST)
Hike in the Cormorandière Valley
The Cormorandière Valley provides an ideal playground for those who love wide open spaces and hilly paths. Jagged cliffs, pristine nature, small lakes visited by white-tailed deer, and breathtaking views are all on the programme for this hike in what the region’s inhabitants call the “most beautiful” valley in the archipelago.
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This excursion involves walking around 3.5 km (2.2 miles) of uneven and sometimes rocky ground. We recommend you wear comfortable walking shoes and clothing.
Included
Subject to availability, rate per passenger.
Ponant/ Paul Gauguin cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 2 months up to 7 days prior to departure through your travel advisor or by calling your cruise specialist.
Smithsonian cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 4 months prior to departure through your Guest Services Specialist. Excursions are subject to availability on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Visit to a goat farm
Explore know-how and the love of good food as you discover “Les Saveurs Fermières” goat farm and its delicious local products.
During the farm visit, go behind the scenes of goat cheese production, then taste some of the farm’s creations.
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This tour involves some walking on some uneven terrain. We recommend that you wear comfortable walking shoes and clothing.
Included
Subject to availability, rate per passenger.
Ponant/ Paul Gauguin cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 2 months up to 7 days prior to departure through your travel advisor or by calling your cruise specialist.
Smithsonian cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 4 months prior to departure through your Guest Services Specialist. Excursions are subject to availability on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Hike to the summit of the Tête Pelée
Set off to ascend the summit of the Tête Pelée (139 metres or 456 feet) and enjoy stunning views over the isthmus and the Anse du Gouvernement beach, featuring vast plateaux, subarctic summits and wet and peaty plains.
The path leading to one of the most emblematic summits on the island of Miquelon opens before you, winding its way through a dense forest, where the leafy trees stretch up towards the sky. Each step resonates on the soil, accompanied by the soothing whisper of nature as it awakens around you. The heady fragrances of the wild plants and maritime pines perfume the air, adding a sensorial dimension to your journey.
As you advance towards the Tête Pelée, there is less and less vegetation, which makes way for jagged cliffs and breathtaking panoramas. The salty sea spray of the ocean will caress your face as you reach spectacular viewpoints, where the infinite horizon encounters the tumultuous waves of the Atlantic.
Once you arrive at the summit of the Tête Pelée, a majestic silence reigns, only interrupted by the noise of the wind which forges the rocky crests. A unique moment during which time seems to stand still between a feeling of absolute freedom and total wonderment.
· This excursion involves walking 8 kilometres (5 miles) on steeply sloping rocky paths. We recommend you wear comfortable clothes and hiking shoes. This excursion is not recommended for guests suffering from physical problems and/or not trained for physical exertion.
Included
Subject to availability, rate per passenger.
Ponant/ Paul Gauguin cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 2 months up to 7 days prior to departure through your travel advisor or by calling your cruise specialist.
Smithsonian cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 4 months prior to departure through your Guest Services Specialist. Excursions are subject to availability on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Yoga and meditation session
Make the most of the idyllic setting of the Miquelon-Langlade Isthmus to attend a yoga session.
Both a physical activity and a mental discipline, yoga relaxes the mind and makes the body more flexible. By learning breathing techniques and adopting various postures, you will strengthen your body and your balance while reducing stress.
· We recommend bringing a beach towel.
Included
Subject to availability, rate per passenger.
Ponant/ Paul Gauguin cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 2 months up to 7 days prior to departure through your travel advisor or by calling your cruise specialist.
Smithsonian cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 4 months prior to departure through your Guest Services Specialist. Excursions are subject to availability on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Culinary heritage of the Magdalen Islands
Renowned for its stunning scenery and rich cultural history, the Magdalen Islands archipelago can also claim a fine culinary heritage, constantly renewed by passionate artisans, like the dairy, smokehouse and the brewery that await you here.
First stop: the Pied-de-Vent dairy, a delicious example of Madelinot perseverance and craftmanship. In just a few years, the artisans working here have successfully developed cheeses that are popular all over the country. Their secret is their great love for their terroir combined with a savvy blend of tradition and modernity, as you will discover during your visit of the farm, followed by a tasting.
Then, after coming along the lovely Chemin de la Pointe Basse, scattered here and there with typical painted houses and farms – with small closed porches, consoles and corbels, verandas but also painted or stained cedar shingles which are reminiscent of the Acadian and French origins of their first inhabitants -, you will discover the Fumoir d’Antan. Now an eco-museum dedicated to herring smoking, this typical smokehouse brings to life this last vestiges of what was a very important industry in the past. It has been used for three generations to smoke herring, mackerel, salmon and scallops; you will find out all about its history before tasting some specialities.
Then go along the northern coast of the island and the aptly named Cap-Hérissé, which is home to spectacular sheer and rugged cliffs that have been sculpted by the sea, before your final port of call: the À l’abri de la Tempête brewery. Here, local ingredients reign supreme. The brewers started using locally malted barley, then moved on to harvesting and using fresh flowers, marine algae and herbs from the area, to brew unique full-flavoured beers that you will have the pleasure of tasting.
· There are no difficulties involved with this excursion. Participants must have a minimum age of 18 to take part in this visit.
Included
Subject to availability, rate per passenger.
Ponant/ Paul Gauguin cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 2 months up to 7 days prior to departure through your travel advisor or by calling your cruise specialist.
Smithsonian cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 4 months prior to departure through your Guest Services Specialist. Excursions are subject to availability on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Acadian culture & heritage
From the cider works to the designers’ workshop, via the Sea Museum and Cap Hérissé, discover the various faces of the Magdalen Islands and its inhabitants.
Le Verger de Poméloi orchard is planted on the heights of the Magdalen Islands, overlooking the sea, and will plunge you into a kingdom ruled by the apple. Éloi Vigneau has been passionate about agriculture since his teenage years and started to plant his first apple trees in 1990 as part of an experimental project. From year to year, he followed the growth of the saplings in the local climate, as they faced the wind and sea air. 18 years later, he runs a small cider works and distillery producing excellent beverages while respecting the environment.
Then you will head for the Sea Museum. The permanent exhibition, called Laboureurs du Golfe, recounts the archipelago’s history, which is of course connected to the evolution of maritime practices. Objects and photographs tell stories of fishermen and shipwrecks, the development of ships and lighthouses, seal hunting, etc.
Not far from there is the Atelier Côtier workshop, a creative space coupled with a store where “8 friends and 1 dog have fun making beautiful things”. Here, the sand of the islands is transformed into singular sculptures, and the landscapes inspire the creation of design or decoration objects, clothing or jewellery.
To finish, you will head to the north of the island to admire the incredible jagged cliffs of Cap Hérissé.
· There are no particular difficulties with this excursion. We recommend you wear comfortable clothing.
Included
Subject to availability, rate per passenger.
Ponant/ Paul Gauguin cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 2 months up to 7 days prior to departure through your travel advisor or by calling your cruise specialist.
Smithsonian cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 4 months prior to departure through your Guest Services Specialist. Excursions are subject to availability on a first-come, first-serve basis.
The Tablelands, a geological oddity
Located in Gros Morne National Park, the Tablelands are a geological rarity. Here, a fragment of mantle emerges from the Earth’s centre, revealing an almost supernatural orangey desert. Discover the story of this unique landscape along the trails and at the heart of the Discovery Centre.
To understand how this unique place resembling a faraway planet was formed, nothing beats a visit to the Discover Centre. The exhibits on display will allow you to discover the different geological episodes that led to this rock being exposed, when it is generally buried kilometres deep. But hiking along the trails is the best way to truly grasp just how unique this portion of Earth is.
Accompanied by a guide/interpreter, hike along the Tablelands, observe the site’s unique geology and enjoy exceptional views of the UNESCO-listed Gros Morne National Park.
· This excursion involves walking for approximately 2 km (1.2 miles) along an uneven trail with a gentle incline. We recommend wearing walking shoes and comfortable clothing suitable for the temperatures of the season.
Included
Subject to availability, rate per passenger.
Ponant/ Paul Gauguin cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 2 months up to 7 days prior to departure through your travel advisor or by calling your cruise specialist.
Smithsonian cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 4 months prior to departure through your Guest Services Specialist. Excursions are subject to availability on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Ponant Kayak
Enjoy a kayak trip with a naturalist from the ship.
Total : €150
Subject to availability, rate per passenger.
Ponant/ Paul Gauguin cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 2 months up to 7 days prior to departure through your travel advisor or by calling your cruise specialist.
Smithsonian cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 4 months prior to departure through your Guest Services Specialist. Excursions are subject to availability on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Walking tour of Harrington Harbour
Harrington Harbour, a pretty village renowned for its brightly coloured residences, its wooden boardwalks and its striking coastal panoramas, stands out thanks to its picturesque charm and preserved authenticity. This coastal village, nestling in the Gulf of Saint Lawrence, is recognised as one of the thirty most beautiful villages in Quebec. Accessible only by sea or air, this village offers a unique window onto the existence of an isolated community.
Wander along the boardwalks of Harrington Harbour, where you will be initiated into the particularities of its residents’ insular way of life. This excursion will reveal the very essence of what gives Harrington Harbour its exceptional character. The absence of roads and motorised vehicles conjures up the atmosphere of a traditional Newfoundlander fishing port and lends this place a rare calmness, where people get around mainly on foot or by bike. During this 90-minute walk, you will visit the emblematic spots immortalised in the film “Seducing Doctor Lewis”. Your trip will continue at the Rowsell House Interpretation Centre, a cultural and historic site offering an in-depth immersion into the existence and events of this isolated little town. The high point of your visit will take place at the community centre, the veritable social and recreational heart of the village. There you will taste some local seafood accompanied by hot beverages. It will also be an opportunity to meet local artisans and appreciate their creations. At the end of the guided tour, you will have some free time to stroll around the centre and the surrounding area before going back to your ship.
· This excursion involves walking for approximately 1.5 kilometres (0.9 miles) on uneven ground and elevated paths We recommend you wear several layers of clothing along with suitable shoes. As Harrington Harbour is a small community, the island visit can only be done in small groups and as a guided tour, with staggered departures. Visitors will have some free time to make the most of the community centre and its surroundings, but it is not possible to walk on the island alone.
Included
Subject to availability, rate per passenger.
Ponant/ Paul Gauguin cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 2 months up to 7 days prior to departure through your travel advisor or by calling your cruise specialist.
Smithsonian cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 4 months prior to departure through your Guest Services Specialist. Excursions are subject to availability on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Ponant Kayak
Enjoy a kayak trip with a naturalist from the ship.
Total : €150
Subject to availability, rate per passenger.
Ponant/ Paul Gauguin cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 2 months up to 7 days prior to departure through your travel advisor or by calling your cruise specialist.
Smithsonian cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 4 months prior to departure through your Guest Services Specialist. Excursions are subject to availability on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Harrington Harbor hike & Marguerite's Cove
Harrington Harbour is an insular enclave of rare authenticity standing majestically on Quebec’s Lower North Shore. This coastal village is free of roads and motorised vehicles, and offers a striking picture of brightly coloured residences, connected by a network of wooden boardwalks, bearing witness to a singular way of life shaped by geographic isolation and age-old maritime traditions.
Your excursion will be a captivating adventure into the very essence of Harrington Harbour. It begins with a guided walk winding its way through the port, culminating at the highest point of the island. During the climb, a local guide will reveal the subtleties of insular existence, shedding light on its everyday challenges and ingenuities, from fishing to hunting to supplying freshwater. A stop at Marguerite’s Cave will offer a striking historic interlude. This evocative place commemorates the tragic odyssey of 16th-century French noblewoman Marguerite de La Rocque. Her story, steeped in resiliency, recounts her being marooned on the island following an argument with her future husband, her miraculous survival during two harsh winters, and her fortuitous rescue by Basque fishermen. The itinerary will continue towards the Rowsell House Interpretation Centre, a veritable sanctuary of collective memory. This cultural institution offers a deep dive into the heritage and evolution of this insular community, revealing the various strata of its rich and complex history. The excursion finishes at the Community Centre, the epicentre of Harrington Harbour’s social and cultural life. This meeting place will propose an authentic gastronomic experience, giving pride of place to local delicacies from the sea, accompanied by comforting beverages. Visitors will also have the privilege of interacting with local artisans, the guardians of traditional know-how, and will be thus able to look through an intimate window into the creative soul of the community. To finish, there will be some free time so the participants may extend these enriching discussions with the artisans, deepen their understanding of the local crafts, and fully immerse themselves in the singular atmosphere of this insular haven.
· This excursion involves walking for approximately 3.5 kilometres (2.2 miles) on uneven ground and elevated paths We recommend you wear several layers of clothing along with suitable shoes. As Harrington Harbour is a small community, the island visit can only be done in small groups and as a guided tour, with staggered departures. Visitors will have some free time to make the most of the community centre and its surroundings, but it is not possible to walk on the island alone.
Included
Subject to availability, rate per passenger.
Ponant/ Paul Gauguin cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 2 months up to 7 days prior to departure through your travel advisor or by calling your cruise specialist.
Smithsonian cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 4 months prior to departure through your Guest Services Specialist. Excursions are subject to availability on a first-come, first-serve basis.
ÎIe de la Passe and the Maison Jos Hebert
The Île de la Passe is a picturesque island located in the serene and rugged region of Quebec’s Lower North Shore. Known for its pristine natural beauty, Passe Island is characterized by northern landscapes where trees are sparse, with vegetation adapted to the harsh conditions of the area.
Explore the island with a local guide. As you walk along the trail, you’ll appreciate the wild beauty of the surroundings, including rocks, mosses, and typical northern plants. End your excursion with a visit to the Jo Hébert House, a faithful reproduction of the home where this legendary figure spent his final years.
· Jos Hébert, famous for being the first postal carrier on the Lower North Shore, left a lasting mark on local history by delivering mail by dog sled along the entire coast for many years, embodying the community’s spirit of resilience and solidarity.This excursion involves walking around 1 kilometre (0.6 miles) on uneven ground with rocks and climbs. We recommend you wear good walking shoes and several layers of clothing, depending on the weather.
Included
Subject to availability, rate per passenger.
Ponant/ Paul Gauguin cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 2 months up to 7 days prior to departure through your travel advisor or by calling your cruise specialist.
Smithsonian cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 4 months prior to departure through your Guest Services Specialist. Excursions are subject to availability on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Hike on Ile de la Providence
Nestled in the calm waters of Quebec’s Lower North Shore, Providence Island invites you to discover its preserved natural beauty and fascinating local history. Your journey begins with a short crossing to this little-visited island. Upon arrival, a guide will welcome you and lead you across its northern landscapes of open tundra and rugged terrain.
As you explore this remote setting, you’ll learn about the island’s past, shaped by fishing families who settled here during the summer season to stay close to their work environment during the fishing months. Blending stories of resilience, seasonal life, and connection to the land, this visit will appeal to both nature lovers and those interested in the region’s coastal heritage.
· This excursion includes walking approximately 1 kilometre (0.6 miles) on uneven ground with pebbles and a steep slope. We recommend you wear comfortable clothes and suitable shoes. This excursion is not recommended for persons who have difficulties walking.
Included
Subject to availability, rate per passenger.
Ponant/ Paul Gauguin cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 2 months up to 7 days prior to departure through your travel advisor or by calling your cruise specialist.
Smithsonian cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 4 months prior to departure through your Guest Services Specialist. Excursions are subject to availability on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Hike on Dos de Cheval Island
A little-known gem nestling in the heart of the lower northern coast, Dos de Cheval Island is remarkable for its striking panoramas, abundant biodiversity and preserved nature. Set off on a singular and memorable odyssey into the heart of this natural setting, exceptionally accessible for the time of the port of call.
When the tides are lenient, a lucky few will enjoy a limited time window to access an insular sanctuary and have a truly unique experience. After a brief maritime crossing, you will be warmly welcomed by a local guide, who will give you a succinct presentation of the island and the treasures to discover. This exceptional land, with unique geological, floristic and faunistic characteristics, is of significant cultural importance to the indigenous Innu community. Begin your journey alongside your guide, contemplating a mosaic of landscapes going from lush forests to jagged shores, via bucolic meadows and belvederes offering commanding views. At the end of this enriching exploration, you will come back to the jetty where you will be able to savour local delicacies from the sea, accompanied by a comforting beverage, before beginning your boat journey back to La Romaine.
· This excursion involves walking approximately 1 kilometre (0.6 miles) on uneven ground. We recommend you wear suitable shoes and appropriate clothing for the weather.
Included
Subject to availability, rate per passenger.
Ponant/ Paul Gauguin cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 2 months up to 7 days prior to departure through your travel advisor or by calling your cruise specialist.
Smithsonian cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 4 months prior to departure through your Guest Services Specialist. Excursions are subject to availability on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Ponant Kayak
Enjoy a kayak trip with a naturalist from the ship.
Total : €150
Subject to availability, rate per passenger.
Ponant/ Paul Gauguin cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 2 months up to 7 days prior to departure through your travel advisor or by calling your cruise specialist.
Smithsonian cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 4 months prior to departure through your Guest Services Specialist. Excursions are subject to availability on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Escapade in La Romaine
Set off to discover the fishing village of La Romaine, anchored on the shores of the emblematic Gulf of Saint Lawrence and explore its bewitching nature, witness to rich history.
Nestling at the mouth of the Olomane River, La Romaine is an Innu First Nations reserve with spectacular views over the Gulf of St. Lawrence, between islets and wild forests. During this exploration, set off to discover a rich heritage and visit its most emblematic sites. Head for the “Nique à Goéland” open-air site. Here, stroll the walking trails and enjoy this unique natural environment, while observing the birds that populate the area.
Then, visit the Museum and Interpretation Centre, a veritable cultural jewel that will plunge you into the fascinating history of the Innu, the indigenous community that has lived in this region for millennia. As soon as you cross the threshold of the museum, you will be welcomed by captivating exhibitions recounting the region’s history through ancient artifacts, photographs and vibrant testimonies.
After this historic immersion, head for the Olamen School, a vibrant place where the Innu culture is celebrated on a daily basis. The educational framework here is one in which ancestral traditions meet modern pedagogical methods. Among other things, discover the programmes designed to preserve and promote the Innu language and culture among the young generation.
Finally, finish your escapade at the local cemetery. Walk among the tombs, often marked with symbols and objects recounting the history of the deceased and their links with the land.
· This excursion involves walking approximately 1 km (0.6 miles) on uneven paths with gradients. We recommend you wear warm clothing and walking shoes.
Included
Subject to availability, rate per passenger.
Ponant/ Paul Gauguin cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 2 months up to 7 days prior to departure through your travel advisor or by calling your cruise specialist.
Smithsonian cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 4 months prior to departure through your Guest Services Specialist. Excursions are subject to availability on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Immersion with the Innu
During a unique moment, learn about and dive into the culture and traditions of the Innu, an indigenous North American community, originating from the east of the Quebec-Labrador Peninsula.
Nestling at the mouth of the Olomane River, La Romaine is an Innu First Nations reserve with spectacular views over the Gulf of St. Lawrence, between islets and wild forests. On these ancestral lands, join the Innu community for an immersive experience in the heart of their traditions and culture.
From your arrival, you will be enveloped by the community’s warmth and hospitality, which will make you feel like a member of the family. The welcome tent, decorated with ancestral patterns and permeated with a warm atmosphere, invites you to discover the soul of the Innu community. Here, every word tells a story, every face reflects a precious heritage.
The journey will continue the discovery of Innu handicrafts. You will be able to see these unique pieces of art up close and understand the techniques and meaning behind each piece. On these lands, each movement, each note is a vibrant tribute to the spirituality and resilience of the Innu community. You will be able to talk with the inhabitants at length to continue finding out about their traditions, through performances.
· This excursion involves walking approximately 1 kilometre (0.6 miles) on uneven paths with gradients. We recommend you wear warm clothing and walking shoes.
Included
Subject to availability, rate per passenger.
Ponant/ Paul Gauguin cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 2 months up to 7 days prior to departure through your travel advisor or by calling your cruise specialist.
Smithsonian cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 4 months prior to departure through your Guest Services Specialist. Excursions are subject to availability on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Encounter and lunch with the Innu
In the northern confines of Quebec, there where the Saint Lawrence River widens to embrace the ocean, lies La Romaine, a singular little village where history and culture intermingle very gracefully.
Immerse yourself in the age-old heritage and vibrant culture of the Innu community during a two-hour exploration of La Romaine village. This place, where the French language rubs shoulders with Innu-aimun in a fascinating linguistic dance, embodies the quintessence of intercultural coexistence, while preserving the millennial traditions of its indigenous inhabitants in the face of growing modernity. This privileged encounter offers a rare and authentic insight into Innu ancestral traditions, promoting the establishment of a profound and personal link with this millennia-old indigenous community.
After a brief crossing, you will land in La Romaine, where your Innu guide will welcome you. The excursion begins with a walking tour through the heart of the village, followed by an encounter with a local artisan, who will give you a demonstration of their know-how. You will then head towards the restaurant area for an Innu culinary tasting. Give your taste buds a treat with the authentic savours of traditional dishes made according to ancestral recipes. Enjoy specialities such as bannock, smoked fish and wild game. You will enjoy a special moment in the company of an Innu elder, who will share captivating accounts and wisdom inherited from the traditional life, history and heritage of his community. This intimate exchange will enable you to learn in depth about the Innu’s symbiotic relationship with their territory, their customs and their spiritual beliefs. Engage in enriching dialogue, ask questions and discover the subtleties of the Innu way of life directly from someone who embodies it. To finish this immersive experience, you will be invited to visit a converted cottage, a veritable showcase for the talent of Innu artisans, highlighting the richness of their craftmanship.
· This excursion involves walking for approximately 400 metres (1,312 feet) on uneven ground. We recommend you wear several layers of clothing, depending on the weather.
Subject to availability, rate per passenger.
Ponant/ Paul Gauguin cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 2 months up to 7 days prior to departure through your travel advisor or by calling your cruise specialist.
Smithsonian cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 4 months prior to departure through your Guest Services Specialist. Excursions are subject to availability on a first-come, first-serve basis.
The surprising monoliths of Minganie
Beyond the 50th parallel, along the Gulf of Saint Lawrence, there stretches a unique landscape made up of around 30 limestone islands and over a thousand granite islets: the Mingan Archipelago. Listed as a National Park Reserve in 1984, it is teeming with exceptional geological structures, as well as unique boreal vegetation.
Head to sea from Havre-Saint-Pierre to discover Quarry Island accompanied by a Canadian National Park guide. You will walk the trails that cross the forest, moors and peat bogs, where beavers, red foxes, black bears and moose all flourish.
Posed near the water and looking as if they are frozen in time, impressive monoliths called “flowerpots” await you. Colonies of Atlantic puffins and other seabirds nest on the cliffs while, out at sea, you may encounter seals, dolphins, whales or porpoises.
· This excursion involves approximately 3 km (1.9 miles) of walking on sometimes uneven ground. We recommend you wear comfortable walking shoes and several layers of clothing so you can adapt to the weather conditions.
Included
Subject to availability, rate per passenger.
Ponant/ Paul Gauguin cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 2 months up to 7 days prior to departure through your travel advisor or by calling your cruise specialist.
Smithsonian cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 4 months prior to departure through your Guest Services Specialist. Excursions are subject to availability on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Petite île au Marteau and Niapiskau Island
From Petite île au Marteau Island to Niapiskau Island, between the monoliths sculpted by the sea and surprising Arctic-Alpine flora, go on a hike to discover the geological history of these ends of the earth, in the company of an expert on the region.
On the Petite île au Marteau, which you will reach by boat and where a Parks Canada interpreter will be waiting for you, stroll along the coastal path and observe the many treasures this unique place has to offer. From the lighthouse, erected in 1915 to prevent shipwrecks, to the belvedere leading to incredible views over the limestone cliffs on Grosse Île au Marteau Island, via the moors, home to unique Arctic-Alpine flora, the Petite île au Marteau will unveil all its secrets and its history.
Next, Niapiskau Island and its surprising geological formations beckon you. During a looped walk, admire the strange cliffs and monoliths sculpted by the sea. With your Parks Canada interpreter, discover these limestone faces which have crossed the centuries and today tell a geological history that is 500 million years old. From the impressive “Dame de Niapiskau”, named by the poet Roland Jomphe, to the “Petite Chouette Diplômée”, they are all invitations to take the measure of time and contemplate this stunning scenery.
· This excursion involves walking for approximately 5 kilometres (3.1 miles) on dirt tracks. We recommend wearing walking shoes and several layers of comfortable clothing, appropriate for hiking and the season’s temperature.
Included
Subject to availability, rate per passenger.
Ponant/ Paul Gauguin cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 2 months up to 7 days prior to departure through your travel advisor or by calling your cruise specialist.
Smithsonian cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 4 months prior to departure through your Guest Services Specialist. Excursions are subject to availability on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Encounter with whales
Set off aboard a Zodiac that will take you to encounter whales in the estuary of the Saint Lawrence River. A magical moment!
A naturalist-guide captain will take you to where the river meets the ocean, an ideal spot to observe these giants of the sea as well as other marine mammals such as blue whale, fin whale, minke whale, beluga, humpback whale and grey seal. Indeed, the gulf and the estuary of the Saint Lawrence are a veritable kingdom for whales and a formidable natural laboratory for biologists passionate about these emblematic species. During these two hours on the river, you will appreciate all the wild beauty of the Saguenay fjord.
Back on shore, you will visit the information centre run by the Group for Research and Education on Marine Mammals (GREMM), a non-profit organisation dedicated to education for the sake of marine conservation and scientific research on the marine mammals of the Saint Lawrence.
· Participants must be in good physical condition. This excursion is not suitable for children aged under 10 years old. Each guest will be equipped with a waterproof clothing. We recommend you wear warm and waterproof clothing. The order of the visits may be reversed.
Included
Subject to availability, rate per passenger.
Ponant/ Paul Gauguin cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 2 months up to 7 days prior to departure through your travel advisor or by calling your cruise specialist.
Smithsonian cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 4 months prior to departure through your Guest Services Specialist. Excursions are subject to availability on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Exploring Tadoussac on foot
Possessing one of the world’s lost beautiful bays, flanked by its large hotel with its characteristic red roof, Tadoussac is a picture-postcard village. Walk around this superb territory located at the confluence of the Saint Lawrence River and the Saguenay fjord.
Life goes by peacefully in this village of 800 souls lulled by the whisper of the waves and the salty air. While the history of the village of Tadoussac goes back to the arrival of Europeans on the American continent, the site itself was occupied by native communities from prehistoric times. Moreover, the origin of the word “tadoussac” finds its roots in Indian vocabulary. Tadoussac experienced the fur trade from the 17th to the 19th century, then the timber industry, before becoming a popular holiday destination.
Walk the Trail Pointe-de-l'Islet, which offers incredible views of the St. Lawrence River and the Saguenay River, as well as the chance to spot whales and belugas!
You will then visit the Chauvin Trading Post, a recreation of Canada’s very first fur trading post, with an exhibition focused on first contacts, the trading post and trading.
Visit the Marine Mammal Interpretation Centre (CIMM), presenting an exhibit on the whales of the St. Lawrence and related scientific research. Return to the marina and end of the tour.
Before leaving, you will visit the Little Chapel located on the property, also called the Indian Chapel. It is the oldest wooden church in North America, having been constructed in 1747 by Jesuit missionaries who came to convert the local population to Christianity. It houses religious objects that were used over two and a half centuries ago.
· This excursion involves walking around 2 km (1.2 miles). We recommend you wear comfortable walking shoes. The order of visits may change.
Included
Subject to availability, rate per passenger.
Ponant/ Paul Gauguin cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 2 months up to 7 days prior to departure through your travel advisor or by calling your cruise specialist.
Smithsonian cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 4 months prior to departure through your Guest Services Specialist. Excursions are subject to availability on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Hike in the Saguenay Fjord National Park
The Saguenay Fjord was sculpted by the power of glaciers and is renowned for its beautiful landscapes. Walking the Point de Vue du Soupir trail, you will discover the striking panoramas over the cliffs, boreal forests and bays of this grandiose fjord, where hundreds of migratory birds nest.
With more than 110 kilometres (68 miles) of hiking trails amidst magnificent scenery, the Saguenay Fjord National Park is best discovered on foot. This 7.6-kilometre (4.7-mile) path is the most popular because of its many viewpoints. You will climb many wooden or stone steps before coming back down to the Notre-Dame-du-Saguenay statue, which has been keeping an eye on the fjord since 1881.
After the hike, you will visit the Interpretation Centre to learn more about the fjord or make some purchases in the souvenir shop.
· Transportation is via local bus. This intermediary-level excursion involves walking around 2.5 kilometres (1.6 miles) and climbing 500 or so steps. We recommend your wear comfortable clothing, good walking shoes and protect yourself from the wind and the sun.
Included
Subject to availability, rate per passenger.
Ponant/ Paul Gauguin cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 2 months up to 7 days prior to departure through your travel advisor or by calling your cruise specialist.
Smithsonian cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 4 months prior to departure through your Guest Services Specialist. Excursions are subject to availability on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Trail on Mars River banks
Discover the beauty of Quebec’s great Boreal Forest and culture during this unique and authentic experience at the Contact Nature Ecotourism site.
From the pier, you will board your coach for a 20-minute scenic drive.
Once on site, you will be greeted by a naturalist and you will start your trail by the Mars River. This area is famous for its fishing activity for Atlantic salmon and sea trout. You will reach the amazing Bec-Scie canyon with many different belvederes where you will see breathtaking landscapes.
Your guide will give you information about the natural environment, the site’s sampling activities, its fauna and flora as well as the animals that inhabit it.
During your stroll, you will have the opportunity to discover the lifestyle and land use practices of the indigenous people.
Finally, after enjoying a snack and a refreshment, you will take an easy walk through the forest and board your coach back to your ship.
· Please note that this tour is a trail of approximately 1.6 mile on uneven surfaces and involves some stairs (40 in total). We recommend you wear comfortable walking shoes and clothes. This tour is not recommended for guests with limited mobility or walking difficulties. This tour is limited to 40 participants.
Included
Subject to availability, rate per passenger.
Ponant/ Paul Gauguin cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 2 months up to 7 days prior to departure through your travel advisor or by calling your cruise specialist.
Smithsonian cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 4 months prior to departure through your Guest Services Specialist. Excursions are subject to availability on a first-come, first-serve basis.
The Craftsman Road
Step back in time and discover the artisans of a by-gone era.
From the pier, board your bus for a short scenic drive to the Touverre Workshop. Glass blowing is one of the oldest forms of art, and one of the most difficult to master. The technique was used in Egypt and Syria thousands of years ago. Nowadays in Saguenay, Guiseppe Benedetto, glassmaker and sculptor, performs this highly sophisticated technique for visitors to his workshop. The glass-maker’s goal is to develop top-of-the-line decorative objects such as whales, blueberries, fruits, lamps, perfumers, and more.
You will then cross the street to visit the Fine Stone Cutting Economuseum and discover the fascinating transformation steps of lapidary work. This workshop will transport you in a world of highly original handmade jewelry. Magnificent amethyst geodes, local and worldwide minerals and fine stones awaits to spark your eyes and wonder your minds. Be privileged by assisting a live stone polishing demonstration in this newly built workshop attached to one of the first Saguenay’s building, the Saint-Alexis presbytery (1868) where contemporary and history harmonize perfectly.
Your next visit will be at the Alpaga Bersi farm. During this visit you will learn about the characteristics of the Alpaga, this friendly natured animal from the collection of his fibre to the finish product. Also known as the Gold of the Andes, this luxurious natural fibre has much to offer. It is light, warm, resistant, not prickly, hypoallergenic, and extremely soft. Combined with the expertise of our craftsman, you will find unique treasures that results such as sweaters, scarf, hats and mittens. At the end of your visit, you will enjoy a tasty and local snack made of a haskap (honeysuckle) crisp and maple syrup.
Finally, you will board your coach and drive back to your ship.
· This excursion involves few walking distance (500m maximum) but sometimes on uneven surfaces. We recommend you wear comfortable walking shoes. You will find giftshops at every venue and all major credit cards are accepted. This tour is limited to 50 participants.
Included
Subject to availability, rate per passenger.
Ponant/ Paul Gauguin cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 2 months up to 7 days prior to departure through your travel advisor or by calling your cruise specialist.
Smithsonian cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 4 months prior to departure through your Guest Services Specialist. Excursions are subject to availability on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Quebec Half day tour
Discover the charm of the old town by exploring its historic and natural sites, then go along the Saint Lawrence River to admire the spectacular scenery of Montmorency Falls. Without forgetting the unmissable gourmet break at a maple farm.
Walk in the magnificent Battlefields Park, which is on the site of the historic battle at which the French surrendered to the British in 1759. Also known as the Plains of Abraham and nestling on the cliffs overlooking the Saint Lawrence River, it is now a stunning park featuring hills, gardens, monuments and artillery artefacts.
You will then go along the Grande-Allée, a vast avenue edged with shops and café-terraces, to the Parliament Building (Hôtel du Parlement), an impressive Second Empire-style building overlooking the city.
Then, you will travel into the Quebec countryside. A few minutes from the fortified town of Old Quebec, Montmorency Falls offers breathtaking landscapes. You will feel the full power of nature when the water from the Montmorency River tumbles over the cliff to fall into the Saint Lawrence River.
At a maple farm, taste maple taffy - maple syrup boiled and poured onto snow; left to cool down, it is then wrapped around a stick to make a sticky treat.
Finally, you will discover the recently expanded Quebec National Museum of Fine Arts, where art, architecture and nature come together. You will discover the history of art in Quebec via its exhibitions of local artists from all eras.
· We recommend you wear comfortable clothing and shoes.
Included
Subject to availability, rate per passenger.
Ponant/ Paul Gauguin cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 2 months up to 7 days prior to departure through your travel advisor or by calling your cruise specialist.
Smithsonian cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 4 months prior to departure through your Guest Services Specialist. Excursions are subject to availability on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Old Quebec Walk & Guided visit of the Chateau Frontenac
Dive into Quebec’s history by strolling the cobbled streets of the Old Town. Founded by the French explorer Champlain at the beginning of the 17th century and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it is the only fortified city in North America that still has its ramparts.
First of all, you will go to the Place Royale. The stone buildings surrounding this square were once the homes of wealthy merchants. Built and rebuilt several times, the square remains the heart of the Lower Town as well as the home of North America’s oldest stone church, Notre-Dame-des-Victoires.
At the corner of the square, discover the charming pedestrian district of Petit-Champlain. Scattered along its narrow cobblestone streets are an array of quaint boutiques, speciality shops and outdoor cafés with strolling musicians and street performers.
You will then board the funicular that connects the Lower Town to the Upper Town. Perched on a hill overlooking the St. Lawrence River, Château Frontenac is Quebec’s best-known landmark. Franklin D. Roosevelt, Winston Churchill and William Mackenzie King met here to discuss the Allied strategy during the Second World War. Now a luxury hotel, this château inspired by the French Renaissance and the châteaux of the Loire Valley is designated a National Historic Site of Canada. You will be able to make the most of a guided tour.
Adjoining the château, the Dufferin Terrace forms a belvedere overlooking the waterway. Enjoy the spectacular views over the St. Lawrence River, the town of Lévis on the opposite bank, the Ile d'Orléans and the Laurentian Mountains. You will then explore the fortress district passing Place d’Armes, the Quebec Seminary, the Ursuline Convent, Place de l’Hôtel de Ville, and the Artists Alley.
· We recommend you wear comfortable clothing and shoes.
Included
Subject to availability, rate per passenger.
Ponant/ Paul Gauguin cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 2 months up to 7 days prior to departure through your travel advisor or by calling your cruise specialist.
Smithsonian cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 4 months prior to departure through your Guest Services Specialist. Excursions are subject to availability on a first-come, first-serve basis.
EXPERIENCE A CANADIAN SUGAR SHACK AND OVERVIEW OF MONTREAL
Enhance your cruise and extend your trip with a carefully designed programme.
Montreal
You will be greeted at the port by our local representative and you will be transferred to the city centre.
First you will visit the majestic Notre-Dame Basilica, the first Gothic Revival church in Canada. From there, continue your exploration of Old Montreal’s rich architectural and historical legacy with a short walking tour.
Then you will enjoy a drive through the Golden Square Mile, a downtown neighborhood in constant effervescence where luxury, art and gastronomy are a daily part of its inhabitants’ thrilling lifestyle. Upon arrival on the Mont-Royal, depart for a small walk so you will enjoy a panoramic view of the city.
Next, head to an authentic sugar shack located about an hour’s drive from Montréal. In Quebec, when winter comes to an end, it announces sugaring-off time. Boiling maple sap to transform it into syrup is a typically French-Canadian tradition. The hosts recreated the rural setting of the last century, the perfect surrounding to taste and learn about the sugar-making and its history.
Enjoy lunch at the shack.
You will then be transferred to Montreal Airport to take your flight selected by PONANT.
Your programme includes:
· Transfers and visits as mentioned in the programme.
· Meals as mentioned in the programme.
· Beverage package during meals (bottled water + 1 soft drink or 1 glass of wine and 1 coffee or tea).
· The services of a local English-speaking guide.
Your programme does not include:
· Tips for the driver and local guide.
· Personal expenses.
· Other services not mentioned in the programme.
Please note:
· The local currency is the Canadian dollar. International credit cards are accepted almost everywhere, and you can withdraw money from banks and currency exchange offices.
Duration of the visits are given as a guide only. The order of the visits may be reversed. For the times of your PONANT flight, please contact your travel agent; they are also shown on your electronic ticket included in your travel documents.
Total : £290
Price is per person, based on double occupancy, based on availability.EXPLORE THE LAURENTIDES AND MONTREAL (4 NIGHTS)
Enhance your cruise and extend your trip with a carefully designed programme.
Spend five days exploring the Laurentian region, its wide-open spaces and its rich history. Round off this nature-focused experience with a three-day stay in Montreal, to discover the largest French-speaking city on the American continent.
Day 1 – Montreal/Mont Tremblant
You will be greeted at the port by our local representative and you will then set off for the magnificent Laurentian region, located to the north of Montreal. After an hour on the road, you will make a first stop at a local cider works. The cider tradition in the Montreal region dates back to the early 19th century. Today it represents a mix of French influence, through the use of special apple varieties and fermentation techniques, and British influence, since in that part of the world cider is considered to be a refreshing beverage. Your host will walk you through the orchard and explain the different methods for growing and ripening the apples. As your visit continues you will have the opportunity to taste local products, including ice cider, a local speciality with a high sugar content.
You will get back on the road for 30 minutes and head to a local sugar shack for a typical culinary experience. After visiting the grounds, you will sit down to a lunch featuring rich, local flavours, served in a homely atmosphere.
After lunch, you will be transferred to your hotel Quintessence Mont Tremblant 5*.
Dinner at leisure.
Day 2 – Mont Tremblant
Breakfast at the hotel.
You will start your day by visiting the small village of Mont-Tremblant on foot. In winter, Mont-Tremblant is a ski resort that is popular with the locals and the village attracts skiers to the local restaurants, cafés and shops. In summer, the village turns into a peaceful haven where nature lovers can unwind. You will head for the heights by taking a gondola to the top of Mont-Tremblant.
Lunch will be served at a local restaurant.
After a 30-minute transfer aboard your bus, you will arrive at the Treetop Walk (Sentier des Cimes). There, you will be met by a French-speaking naturalist guide who will accompany you on your walk up this 40-metre tall panoramic tower with a maximum incline of 6%, built right in the middle of the Laurentian forest. Your naturalist guide will tell you about the local flora and fauna that make this region so rich. Once at the top, enjoy a cocktail as you admire the uninterrupted 360-degree view of the forest.
Way back to your hotel.
Dinner will be served at the hotel’s restaurant.
Day 3 – Mont Tremblant/Montreal
Breakfast at the hotel and check-out.
There will be a 45-minute transfer to the Laurentian forest, where you will meet a Canadian trapper who has taken up residence there. You will have the chance to converse with him about his way of life, his environment, his connection with nature and with the indigenous tribes. He will take you into the surrounding forest where you will encounter bison he gets to see every day. He will then take you to the river where you can experience trout fishing by hand if you wish.
Back at the cabin, you will have the opportunity to taste these freshly-caught trout, cooked simply over a wood fire, and continue your conversation with your host.
After lunch, you will be transferred to Montreal after a 2h drive.
Check-in at the hotel Four Seasons Montreal 5*.
Dinner will be served at a local restaurant.
Day 4 – Montreal
After breakfast, start your day by visiting one of Montreal’s most emblematic neighbourhoods, the Golden Square Mile. In the early 20th century, the Golden Square Mile was home to some of the biggest fortunes in Canada. Wealthy merchants, industrialists and notables chose this green part of the city as the location for their great Victorian-style mansions, some of which are still standing today. Now a bustling neighbourhood combining luxury, gastronomy and art, it is part of the everyday life of Montreal residents.
Lunch will be served at a local restaurant.
Next, you will wander through Old Montreal and visit the dazzling Notre-Dame Basilica, Canada’s first basilica in the Neo-Gothic style.
The rest of the day and the dinner will be at leisure.
Day 5 – Montreal
Breakfast at the hotel and check-out.
You will then be transferred to the airport in time for check-in of the PONANT selected flight, or any other flight (please make sure to previously communicate your flight schedule to your travel agent).
Your hotels :
The 5* Four Seasons Hotel Montreal is ideally located in the city centre. This hotel with a chic and modern décor is an institution in Montreal’s lively Golden Square Mile neighbourhood. It boasts a restaurant serving refined and local dishes, a wine and cocktail bar, and a Guerlain spa. All the Carré Doré rooms feature a floor-to-ceiling window offering views of the city and are located on the upper floors of the hotel.
The 5* luxury boutique hotel Hôtel Quintessence sits on the edge of Lake Tremblant. It is a tranquil establishment conducive to relaxation. All suites face the lake and feature a private balcony. Boasting a surface area of 65 square metres (700 sq. ft.), the suites also feature a king bed, a living area with fireplace, plus a bathroom with a rain shower and a spa tub.
Superior category rooms may also be requested, based on availability. Extra charges will apply. Please contact your travel agent for more details.
Your programme includes :
· 2-nights accommodation in Deluxe Golden Square room at the Four Season Montreal 5* (or similar), local standards, including breakfast.
· 2-nights accommodation in a suite at the Quintessence Mont Tremblant 5* (or similar), local standards, including breakfast.
· Meals as mentioned in the programme.
· Beverage package during meals (mineral water + 1 glass of wine or 1 soft drink or 1 local beer + 1 coffee or tea), except for the lunch on day 3 as alcohol won’t be available.
· Transfers, visits and entrance fees as mentioned in the programme.
· Services of a local English-speaking guide.
· Hospitality desk at the hotel, the day of your arrival and departure.
Your programme does not include :
· Dinners on day 1 and day 4.
· Tips for the driver and local guide.
· Personal expenses.
· Visa if necessary.
· Early check-in at the hotel.
· Other services not mentioned in the programme.
Please note :
· It is imperative that the details of your departure flight are provided to your travel agent, no later than 30 days before the start date of your cruise, to secure the proper private transfer.
· The official time of check-out is noon.
· If you wish to stay in your room after the official check-out time, you can request it at the hotel (subject to availability).
· This programme is not suitable for people with reduced mobility.
· This programme involves outdoor walking. We recommend dressing accordingly by wearing comfortable walking shoes and clothing.
· The Treetop Walk is 2.7 km (1.7 miles) long in total, with a maximum incline of no more than six degrees.
· For the lunch with the trapper on Day 3, it is important to inform your travel agent of any food allergies to ensure that a suitable meal is available. Cheese fondue is possible as an alternative to the trout.
Contact of your hotels :
Four Season Montréal
1440 Rue de la Montagne
Montréal, QC, Canada, H3G 1Z5
Telephone : +514 8432500
Quintessence Mont Tremblant
3004 chemin de la Chapelle
Mot Tremblant, QC J8E 1E1
Telephone : +819 425 3400
Duration of the visits are given as a guide only. The order of the visits may be reversed. For the times of your PONANT flight, please contact your travel agent; they are also shown on your electronic ticket included in your travel documents.
Total : £3,520
Price is per person, based on double occupancy, based on availability.PRE CRUISE OVERNIGHT IN MONTREAL
Travel with peace of mind as PONANT organizes your day of transit in Montreal. This programme will be a pleasant prelude to your embarkation.
Day 1 - Montreal
Meet and greet at the airport arrival hall. Look for PONANT sign. You will be greeted by our local representative off the flight selected by PONANT or any other flight (provided that you have previously communicated your flight schedule to your travel agent).
You will be transferred to the hotel Fairmont Queen Elizabeth Montreal 5*.
Dinner at leisure.
Overnight at the hotel.
Day 2 - Montreal
Breakfast and check-out.
You will be transferred by coach to the airport for your Ponant flight to Saint Pierre and Miquelon.
Your hotel:
The Fairmont Queen Elizabeth Montreal 5* is ideally located in the city centre. This hotel with a chic and modern décor is an institution in Montreal's lively Golden Square Mile neighbourhood. It boasts a restaurant serving refined and local dishes, a wine and cocktail bar, and a Guerlain spa. All the Carré Doré rooms feature a floor-to-ceiling window offering views of the city and are located on the upper floors of the hotel.
Your programme includes:
· 1-night accommodation in a Deluxe Golden Square Mile room at the Fairmont Queen Elizabeth Montreal 5* (or similar), including breakfast.
· Transfers as mentioned in the programme.
· Services of a local English-speaking guide
Your programme does not include:
· Dinner on Day 1 and the other meals not mentioned in the programme.
· Tips for the driver and local staff.
· Personal expenses.
· Other services not mentioned in the programme.
Please note:
· The local currency is the Canadian dollar. International credit cards are accepted almost everywhere, and you can withdraw money from banks and currency exchange offices.
· It is imperative that the details of your departure flight are provided to your travel agent, no later than 30 days before the start date of your cruise, to secure the proper private transfer.
Contact of your hotel:
Fairmont Queen Elizabeth Montreal 5*
1440 Rue de la Montagne
Montreal, QC, H3G 1Z5
Telephone: +1-514-843-2500Duration of the visits are given as a guide only. The order of the visits may be reversed. For the times of your PONANT flight, please contact your travel agent; they are also shown on your electronic ticket included in your travel documents.
Total : £490
Price is per person, based on double occupancy, based on availability.FLIGHTS FROM/TO PARIS + OVERNIGHT IN MONTREAL 1N (PRE) + EXPERIENCE A CANADIAN SUGAR SHACK AND OVERVIEW OF MONTREAL (POST)
FLIGHTS BUSINESS FROM/TO PARIS + OVERNIGHT IN MONTREAL 1N (PRE) + EXPERIENCE A CANADIAN SUGAR SHACK AND OVERVIEW OF MONTREAL (POST)
FLIGHTS FROM/TO PARIS + OVERNIGHT IN MONTREAL 1N (PRE) + EXPLORE THE LAURENTIDES AND MONTREAL 4N (POST)