Journey to Canada’s Enchanting Coast
As Fall 2023 unfolded, the mesmerizing charm of Canada’s coast beckoned. This journey carried personal significance, aligning with the celebration of my 60th birthday. At its heart was a long-awaited return to the Bay of Fundy, located near Halifax, Nova Scotia—a place we had planned to visit years earlier but had been forced to postpone due to the unforeseen disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. This time, the trip held even more meaning as we made up for what we had missed!
Montreal: The Ideal Beginning to Our Seafaring Quest
Before embarking on the main leg of our sea voyage aboard the Holland America Zaandam, we spent time exploring the lively and historic city of Montreal. With its rich cultural heritage and undeniable charm, the city provided an experience that was just as memorable as the cruise that lay ahead.
A Luxurious Interlude at The Fairmont Queen Elizabeth
Located in downtown Montreal, The Fairmont Queen Elizabeth offered a perfect blend of luxury and convenience. Its close proximity to the bustling Sainte-Catherine Street allowed us to easily explore the city’s vibrant culture and indulge in urban adventures throughout our stay.
Delving Deep: Montreal’s Subterranean Secrets
Our journey took an unexpected and fascinating turn beneath the streets of Montreal. Thanks to the hotel’s direct access to Place Ville Marie, we explored the city’s famous underground network. This vast subterranean world was filled with restaurants, shops, and attractions, offering a unique side of Montreal. One hidden gem we discovered was Station Gare Centrale, located in the second sub-basement of the hotel. Not only is this station the starting point for the iconic Ocean train route to Halifax, but it also offered distinctive options for breakfast and lunch, adding to the charm of our detour.
Montreal’s Blend of Timeless and Modern Designs
Adjacent to our hotel, the majestic Cathedral of Marie-Reine-du-Monde stood as a testament to Montreal’s grandeur. A grand wedding there showcased elegant attire, luxury vehicles, and beautiful decorations. Across the street, The Ring, a modern art installation by renowned artist Claude Cormier, added a contemporary touch. This radiant circle embodied Montreal’s international connections, highlighting the city’s blend of history and modernity.
A Night to Cherish
No visit to Montreal is complete without savoring its renowned culinary scene, and our experience at Rueben’s Deli & Steakhouse certainly lived up to expectations. The French Dip, expertly prepared, became even more enjoyable with a front-row view of the city’s vibrant nightscape from our window seat.
However, it wasn’t just the food that left an impression—it was the lively energy of the city and the welcoming nature of its people that made the moment special. Every part of our time in Montreal, from its bustling streets to the harmonious mix of old and new, felt almost surreal. As I headed to board the ship, I couldn’t help but wish for a little more time to soak in the city’s charm, thinking it might have been the perfect place to linger. Still, as the cruise set sail, it quickly revealed its own special allure.
Cruise Itinerary: Newfoundland and New England Discovery
Sunday, September 3
Embarkation – Montreal, QC, Canada
Departure: 5:00 PM
Our journey begins as we set sail from the vibrant city of Montreal. The iconic skyline slowly fades into the distance as we cruise along the St. Lawrence River, marking the start of our adventure through Canada’s captivating coastal regions.
Monday, September 4
Port: Quebec City, QC, Canada
Arrival: 7:00 AM | Departure: 5:00 PM
Event: Ste-Anne-de-Beaupre & Montmorency Falls
Our first stop is the historic Quebec City. With its cobblestone streets and European charm, the city offers a perfect backdrop for exploring nearby attractions like Ste-Anne-de-Beaupre and the dramatic Montmorency Falls, both rich in beauty and history.
Tuesday, September 5
Port: Baie-Comeau, QC, Canada
Arrival: 7:00 AM | Departure: 4:00 PM
Event: Parc Nature Pointe-aux-Outardes | Manicouagan Farm & Local Beverage Makers
Today, we dock at Baie-Comeau, where nature lovers can experience the serene beauty of Parc Nature Pointe-aux-Outardes. From there, visit Manicouagan Farm and enjoy tastings from local beverage makers, immersing yourself in the region’s natural splendor and artisanal craftsmanship.
Wednesday, September 6
Port: Havre Saint-Pierre, QC, Canada
Arrival: 7:00 AM | Departure: 4:00 PM
Event: Ile Niapiskau | Petite Ile au Marteau
We arrive at Havre Saint-Pierre, a gateway to the stunning Mingan Archipelago. Discover the rugged landscapes of Ile Niapiskau and Petite Ile au Marteau, where dramatic rock formations and serene coastal views create an unforgettable experience.
Thursday, September 7
Port: Corner Brook, NL, Canada
Arrival: 10:00 AM | Departure: 5:00 PM
Event: Gros Morne National Park Interpretive Walk
In Newfoundland, our stop at Corner Brook offers the chance to explore Gros Morne National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Take a guided interpretive walk through this striking landscape, known for its fjords, dramatic cliffs, and unique geology.
Friday, September 8
At Sea – Gulf of St. Lawrence
A relaxing day at sea as we sail through the Gulf of St. Lawrence. We enjoy the ship’s amenities, participate in onboard activities and, simply take in the stunning views as we cruise toward Newfoundland.
Saturday, September 9
Port: St. John’s, NL, Canada
Arrival: Noon | Departure: 10:00 PM
Event: Old St. John’s & Cape Spear
Arriving in the historic city of St. John’s, we spend the day exploring its charming streets and landmarks. Visit Old St. John’s, steeped in history, and venture to Cape Spear, the easternmost point in North America, for panoramic views of the rugged coastline.
Sunday, September 10
At Sea – The Atlantic Ocean
A peaceful day at sea as we journey across the Atlantic. We take this opportunity to unwind, enjoy the ship’s entertainment, and reflect on the experiences so far as we sail toward Halifax.
Monday, September 11
Port: Halifax, NS, Canada
Arrival: 7:00 AM | Departure: 4:00 PM
Event: The Bay of Fundy: Explore the Ocean Floor
We dock in Halifax for a day filled with natural wonder. Explore the world-renowned Bay of Fundy, famous for its dramatic tides, and walk along the ocean floor during low tide—a breathtaking experience that makes Halifax one of the highlights of the trip.
Tuesday, September 12
At Sea – The Atlantic Ocean
Our final day at sea as we make our way toward Boston. We relax on board, savor the last stretch of open ocean, and enjoy one last day of ship activities as our journey nears its end.
Wednesday, September 13
Disembarkation – Boston, MA
Arrival: 7:00 AM
We arrive in Boston, marking the end of our incredible voyage through Canada’s coastlines and across the Atlantic. After disembarkation, we say farewell to the Holland America Zaandam.
Setting Sail on Holland America Zaandam
Aboard the Holland America Zaandam, the ship’s intimate atmosphere and thoughtful decor were immediately inviting. With only 716 passenger cabins, it felt cozy and exclusive, enhanced by vibrant flower arrangements, wall hangings, and beautiful artwork that made the ship’s spaces feel welcoming.
From the outset, we embraced a wellness approach, opting for the stairs over the elevator, turning daily exploration of the ship into a rewarding workout.
Stateroom Comforts and Quirks
We settled into Large Oceanview Stateroom 2606, located centrally on Deck 2. The room had a calming ambiance, but a few features felt outdated by modern standards. The air conditioning proved to be inconsistent, and power access was limited, with only one outlet each for US and European plugs, and no USB ports near the bed, making phone charging inconvenient. Additionally, the absence of a refrigerator stood out, although we could rent one for a reasonable $2 per day. Despite these shortcomings, the room did surprise us with its spacious shower, a welcome feature that added comfort to the stay.
Tip: If you’re heading eastbound on the St. Lawrence River during autumn, choose a Port side room for cooler views. For a sunnier panorama, go with the Starboard side.
A Glimpse into Onboard Entertainment
As we sailed along the St. Lawrence River, our evenings were often highlighted by the comedic brilliance of Steven Scott. His impressive vocal range, from spot-on celebrity impersonations to mimicking musical instruments, kept the audience in fits of laughter, earning him enthusiastic applause night after night. Scott’s dynamic stage presence shone as he shared stories from his career, combining the sharp observational humor of Jerry Seinfeld with the lively physical comedy reminiscent of Jim Carrey.
Nature’s Splendor on the St. Lawrence
Evenings on board were lively with entertainment, but the days held their own charm. Navigating the St. Lawrence in autumn was a treat, and the magic intensified on our second day departing from Baie-Comeau. The waters around us came alive, with porpoises and whales weaving an aquatic ballet alongside our ship. This mesmerizing spectacle was a first for us, setting it apart from all our past cruises.
An Unexpected Musical Treat
As our voyage progressed, we were treated to an unexpected musical delight. Hyperion Knight, who had been delayed by flight complications, joined the ship as we departed from Corner Brook, Newfoundland. His incredible talent at the piano captivated the audience, effortlessly blending classical compositions with modern favorites. We found ourselves attending multiple performances, mesmerized as he seamlessly transitioned from Beethoven to the Beatles. Each recital was a captivating experience, leaving us eagerly anticipating the next and drawing us back for encore performances.
Navigational Challenges and Surprises
Our journey aboard the Zaandam soon took an unexpected turn. We had been eagerly looking forward to exploring L’Anse aux Meadows, the legendary Viking settlement, but rough seas forced a change of plans. The turbulent conditions led to the cancellation of our stop at St. Anthony, Newfoundland, leaving us disappointed but understanding of the unpredictable nature of the sea.
Adapting to Setbacks
Despite the initial setback, the ship’s crew quickly adapted, organizing spontaneous activities to lift our spirits. One such event was an intimate Q&A with the Captain in the main theatre, offering insights and bringing us closer to understanding the heart of our maritime journey. As we later departed from St. John’s, Newfoundland, we were treated to a serene and picturesque evening, with the city’s lights casting a beautiful reflection on the calm waters, creating a memorable close to the day.
Technical Delays and Detours
The journey had its ups and downs, and after some bright moments, more challenges emerged. In Halifax, a technical problem with the ship’s Azipod caused significant delays—what started as a few hours stretched into an entire day. The delay forced us to miss our next scheduled port of call, heading straight to Boston instead.
A Blend of Taste and Tranquility
During our cruise, we were consistently drawn to the diverse culinary offerings onboard. We found ourselves especially enticed by the Mexican Taco Bar set up near the Dive In at lunchtime and the nightly offerings of Indian Cuisine in the Lido. These gastronomic options provided a refreshing deviation from the standard menu, delivering both convenience and delectable dining experiences.
Amidst these, Club Orange stood out as our sanctuary. Though it didn’t possess its own exclusive space onboard, its unmatched service and culinary masterpieces never wavered in quality. This exclusive club, in tandem with the cozy atmosphere of our small ship experience, ensured that, regardless of unexpected events, our journey remained unparalleled in excellence.
Final Thoughts
After narrowing down my favorite Port of Call to two—Havre Saint-Pierre and Halifax, Nova Scotia—I ultimately chose Halifax. The deciding factor was the awe-inspiring Bay of Fundy, a natural wonder that had long been on my bucket list.
Its vast beauty and powerful tides exceeded every expectation. Halifax earned its place as my favorite, not just for its beauty, but for the way it fulfilled a journey I had been waiting years to experience.
© OceansAfoot
