Prince Edward Island The country’s smallest province is by no means diminished by its size. At slightly more than 200 km long, it’s a true gem in Canada’s crown filled to capacity with things to see and do. Cruise companies featuring P.E.I. in their Atlantic Canada itineraries typically include a port call at the historic island capital of Charlottetown, acknowledged as the Birthplace of Confederation for hosting the first meeting leading to the establishment of the nation. This postcard-pretty city is a hot spot for arts, culture, culinary experiences, historic walking tours and outdoor markets. Beyond the city, the island’s engaging landscape is punctuated by beaches, sand dunes, red sandstone cliffs and green rolling hills. This island that hums with Celtic music is known worldwide as the fictional home of Anne of Green Gables made famous in the book by P.E.I. author, L.M. Montgomery. The Green Gables Heritage Site is one of the island’s most-visited attractions among the plethora of others, such as historic wooden lighthouses, mussel farms, fishing villages and P.E.I. wineries. Island activities galore, including golf on premier courses, hiking and biking on Confederation Trail, deep-sea fishing and excursions hosted by local chefs, artisans, farmers and musicians who enjoy what they do and want to share it. Newfoundland Nicknamed “The Rock” for its ruggedly beautiful shoreline studded with dramatic rock cliffs, the country’s easternmost province bears a unique cultural identity shaped by distinctive dialects, traditions and music, specific to nowhere else in Canada. Also unmatched is its “down home” brand of Newfoundland hospitality, a feature that has earned the Atlantic province its reputation as the friendliest in the country. What awaits cruising visitors to this welcoming island is a treasure trove of unparalleled scenery and spellbinding activities. Several sail itineraries – including circumnavigation of the island’s 9,600-km coast – reveal the heart and soul of pure Newfoundland: quaint coves, deep fjords, provincial parks, ancient Viking sites, small fishing villages, remote lighthouses and the charming provincial capital of St. John’s. The Rock is renowned for whale-watching, iceberg viewing, deep-sea fishing and birdwatching trips to its famous Atlantic puffin colonies. Overall, those who “come from away” are exposed to the stuff of which memories are made – including the island tradition called a “Screech-in,” a welcoming ceremony that involves kissing a cod followed by knocking back a swig of rum. It’s a quirky, lighthearted custom that forever installs visitors who participate into “honorary Newfoundlanders.” CSANews | SUMMER 2025 | 17 Travel
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