St. Lawrence River

Scenic treasures await on a cruise along the St. Lawrence River. Discovered in 1535 by French explorer Jacques Cartier, this North American waterway reveals a rich and diverse history, flowing from the Great Lakes to the Atlantic Ocean past picturesque villages, cosmopolitan cities and stunning natural scenery.

St. Lawrence River cruises often begin or end in vibrant Montreal, where Old Montreal, Notre-Dame Basilica, Olympic Park, Mount Royal Park and St. Joseph’s Oratory are highlights. In the French metropolis of Quebec City, see well-preserved buildings from the 17th and 18th centuries in charming Old Town and the Petit Champlain quarter. Many cruises sail through the Thousands Islands, an archipelago of more than 1,800 islands featuring forested shorelines, iconic lighthouses and tranquil bays.

Sailings on the St. Lawrence are typically part of longer itineraries that also visit destinations on the Great Lakes, as well as ports in the northern Atlantic and Canada’s Maritime Provinces. Enjoy a horse-drawn carriage tour of Mackinac Island, explore the rich native history of the Ojibwe people on Manitoulin Island, take in the abundant natural beauty of Acadia National Park in Bar Harbor or visit hilltop Fort George in Halifax.

Cruises are particularly good values, because your stateroom, onboard meals and many activities are included in a single rate that you pay upfront.