In Charlottetown on Prince Edward Island, you will explore the birthplace of Canada. The history of the Confederation is domineered by the glories of nature on a scenic tour* or a visit to an oyster farm*. On the Iles de la Madeleine, red cliffs and long sandy beaches provide breathtaking island impressions*. Alternatively, a culinary tour* combines cheese, fish and the art of brewing.

The local charm of the small town of Gaspe is defined by the surrounding picturesque bays and cliffs. Autumn shows its vibrant guises once again on a scenic tour of the peninsula and the Forillon National Park*. You can also explore this paradise for amateur ornithologists actively on a hike*.

As you travel along the river, your team of experts on board will tell you all about the region’s great history – from the early Woodland period and the First Nations to the current economic significance. With a little luck, you’ll spot beluga, blue, humpback or fin whales whilst whale watching* off Tadoussac.

Indian summer hues will colour your route with accents of reds and yellows. The exact period and intensity of the natural phenomenon are difficult to predict, but the timing of your cruise is favourable for enjoying profoundly vibrant impressions. One of the largest side branches of the St Lawrence River, the Saguenay, is also particularly picturesque at this time of year. Experience the wilderness actively on a hike* or by seaplane*. Cruising on the Saguenay Fjord, you may be lucky to spot belugas, which can be found hunting for fish and plankton here all year round.

French savoir vivre and Canadian zest for life invite you to explore the historic quarter in Quebec. Explore the many sights on a city tour*. On a trip to Montmorency Falls and Ile d’Orleans,* you will pass some of Canada’s oldest French settlements.

Afterwards, Montreal welcomes you with its European charm as the second largest francophone city in the world. A city tour* combines picturesque town houses and wide boulevards with a walk in the underground city. Alternatively, the wineries in the Eastern Townships* will awaken the sommelier in you.

An extraordinary passage follows during a lock adventure on the St Lawrence River. This is a nautical masterpiece that only a few ships can manage. The open deck areas are the ideal place from which to watch the ship negotiate the seven locks and the height differences.

In Toronto, a city tour by tram* shows how skyscrapers, parks and trendy districts complement each other well. As Canada’s largest city, Toronto is Canada’s economic centre and one of the world’s leading financial centres, after decades during which Montreal had held that role. The city is located on the north-western shore of Lake Ontario, the smallest of the five Great Lakes. From Toronto it is also not far to the most famous waterfalls in North America – the Niagara Falls*.

The next stage of your cruise is a lock adventure on the Welland Canal. Follow the challenging passage on the deck tour at the bow or the ship’s many open deck areas. Through eight locks, your small ship overcomes almost 100 m (328 ft) of height, corresponding to a lock lift the height of Niagara Falls. This is only possible thanks to the ship’s retractable bridge wings.

Behind you lies vast Lake Erie and the route takes you on to Windsor in Canada. From the ship, you’ll have the best view of the skyline of America’s former “Motor City” on the other bank of the river. Visit Detroit* to discover the roots of automotive history and the varied architecture of this city that is once again on the up. Follow in the footsteps of Henry Ford* at the museum that bears his name and see masterpieces of the road and rails. The stunning passage on the Detroit River takes you towards Lake Huron.

Maritime charm awaits you on your cruise on Lake Huron to the fishing town of Tobermory in Georgian Bay. Let your impressions be shaped by limestone coastlines, small bays and Canadian flora on a hike along the Bruce Trail at your own pace.

The small coastal municipality of Killarney reveals its Irish roots in its name. The “emerald isle” of George Island can be reached by ferry and will show off its colourful side in autumn. Many outdoor activities and a great sense of freedom define your explorations of the uninhabited island. Discover Killarney independently and enjoy a Zodiac ride with beautiful scenery and good chances of seeing wildlife. With a bit of luck, you will spot cormorants, Canada geese and bald eagles.

The small HANSEATIC inspiration is in its element as it charts a course through a scenic labyrinth of water to reach Parry Sound. Explore the town and the nearby lake shore on the marine walking trails or take a boat trip of the Thirty Thousand Islands*. The varied archipelago scenery is filled with islands emerging from the water, narrow channels and imposing cliffs. Alternatively, you can soak up the unforgettable panoramas in Killbear Provincial Park*, where pink granite banks and autumnal forest blend to create majestic scenery.

On a walk through Sault Sainte Marie, you can immerse yourself in the fascinating stories of immigrants at the museum or marvel at the enormous lock system that separates Canada and the USA here.

Mackinac Island is a natural jewel of the Great Lakes and is one of the most beautiful islands in the USA. Discover the small car-free idyll independently by bicycle or on a carriage ride. Whilst Victorian villas and the Grand Hotel recall the 19th century, Fort Mackinac serves as a reminder of the American Revolutionary War.