Canadian Adventure Cruise ADVENTURE STARTS HERE
Montreal , Quebec | Saguenay , Quebec | St. Pierre and Miquelon, French Territory | St John's , Newfoundland | Sydney , Nova Scotia | Quebec City , Quebec | Quebec City , Quebec | Montreal , Quebec
EMPRESS OF THE SEAS
Get to know your ship
EMPRESS OF THE SEAS
ADVENTURE MAXING MEETS
ULTIMATE RELAXING
LEARN MORE
RISE &
DINE
LEARN MORE
BALLROOM STEPS &
BOLD SETS
LEARN MORE
Montreal, Quebec
Bonjour, Belle Montreal!
Montreal's top attractions are within walking distance from the city center, including Mount Royal (the city's namesake) and, in photogenic Old Montreal, Notre Dame Basilica and Bonsecours Market. Montreal effortlessly combines French delicacies with European architecture and Canadian friendliness.
Montreal's top attractions are within walking distance from the city center, including Mount Royal (the city's namesake) and, in photogenic Old Montreal, Notre Dame Basilica and Bonsecours Market. Montreal effortlessly combines French delicacies with European architecture and Canadian friendliness.
in Montreal
Holy Heights
Located in the city's heart, visit Mount Royal for the best city skyline, port and water views. Check out The Cross, which was first placed on Mount Royal in 1643. Today's installation is illuminated nightly. Mount Royal Park is popular year-round, and on Mount Royal's slope you'll find Saint Joseph's Oratory, Canada's largest church.
Meander Old Montreal
Old Montreal is the city's historic district. There's plenty to do within its boundaries, such as taking a spin on Old Port Montreal's observation wheel; shopping locally at Marche Bonsecours; or visiting Notre Dame Basilica, one of Canada's most stunning churches. Built by 1824, it has vaulted blue ceilings with gold stars, a gold-detailed main altar and ethereal stained-glass windows.
Go Green
Montreal Botanical Garden is one of the world's largest, with over 200 bird species and 22,000 plant, flower and tree varieties. This includes bonsai, maple trees and cactus. There are several gardens to visit during your Montreal cruise, including the Chinese, Japanese and First Nations Gardens. In the summertime, the Botanical Garden also hosts events, concerts and festivals.
Local Cuisine
Montreal is known for three things: smoked meats, bagels and poutine. For Montreal-style bagels, locals recommend visiting St-Viateur Bagel. Cruise to Montreal and check out La Banquise for poutine, as it's open 24 hours. Schwartz's Deli is Canada's oldest deli and serves world-famous smoked meats.
Shopping
Artpop Montreal and L'Empreinte Gallery-Boutique both have gifts, crafts and souvenirs from Quebec's most talented designers. L'Empreinte stocks things such as contemporary jewelry, handmade musical instruments and home wares from 85 artists. Meanwhile, Artpop has handmade children's toys, Montreal sweaters and an assortment of cards.
Saguenay, Quebec
Canadian Fjords
Besides touring the Saguenay Fjord, learn more about this natural attraction at the Musee du Fjord. Its purpose is to raise awareness about the fjord's national and historic heritage, through exhibitions and even an aquarium. Speaking of history, another unmissable attraction in Saguenay is La Pulperie de Chicoutimi, a regional museum that delves into the city's history as a mill town.
Besides touring the Saguenay Fjord, learn more about this natural attraction at the Musee du Fjord. Its purpose is to raise awareness about the fjord's national and historic heritage, through exhibitions and even an aquarium. Speaking of history, another unmissable attraction in Saguenay is La Pulperie de Chicoutimi, a regional museum that delves into the city's history as a mill town.
in Saguenay
Find the Fjord
Saguenay Fjord is the reason so many people visit Saguenay annually. See the fjord's soaring rocky and pine tree-lined cliffs on either a guided sea kayak tour or a local cruise. If you want to stay on dry land, the next best thing is learning more about the fjord's landscape and history through Musee du Fjord's exhibitions. The museum is also home to an aquarium, where you can handle starfish and sea cucumbers in the touch pool.
Pulp Fiction
La Pulperie de Chicoutimi Regional Museum is located in an old mill and surrounded by a large park. It houses over 26,000 objects. Its permanent exhibitions include displays on the Canadian painter, Arthur Villeneuve and the Chicoutimi Pulp Company. The latter features multimedia and interactive displays on the company that shaped Saguenay. During the summer, the museum also hosts theatrical and comedy performances, and free Music Monday concerts.
Blast From the Past
If this isn't enough, Saguenay has two other historical attractions. The Petite Maison Blanche (small white house) Museum is a Saguenay landmark that survived one of Canada's worst natural disasters — a flood in 1947. Today it's a museum with exhibitions on three floors, as well as a souvenir shop. Then there's Val-Jalbert Historical Village, which resembles a 1920s pulp mill town. It's complete with historic buildings, like a convent school and general store, as well as costumed townsfolk.
Local Cuisine
When exploring Quebec, you must try a crepe. Lambert Crêperie has both sweet and savory options, which include everything from homemade chocolate ganache to duck confit. Otherwise, build your own burger at Rouge Burger Bar. It also serves traditional French dishes like moules frites (mussels and fries) and tartare.
Shopping
Called the Route Des Artisans, you can follow a trail that includes 90 small businesses that sell products in nine different fields, including wood, ceramics and textiles. Any purchase would make a unique Saguenay souvenir during your Quebec cruise. Alternatively, stop by the gift shop when visiting La Pulperie de Chicoutimi.
INSIDER TIP
Always bring a jacket for exploring the fjord, no matter the season, winds can be strong here.
CRUISING
CAN'T-MISS FAVOURITES
THINGS TO DO
TURN UP THE TEMPO
First, we’ll kick off a Latin fiesta with a quick crash course on basic dance moves. Then, go head-to-head – or cheek to cheek – with your fellow steppers to the sounds of a live Latin band.
A BOLDER BOULDER
Rise to the occasion and take on the signature Rock Climbing Wall. From beginners to speed climbers, everyone can enjoy an unparalleled view from 12 metres (40 feet) above deck. Included in your fare, no reservation required.
St. Pierre and Miquelon, French Territory
St John's, Newfoundland
Discover St. John's
From the kaleidoscope of brightly painted houses on Jelly Bean Row to the dramatic coastline you can see from Signal Hill, St John's is a lively capital city on the edge of wild nature. Board a boat and keep your eyes peeled for puffins. Visit The Rooms for a closer look at the ancient history and modern culture of Newfoundland.
From the kaleidoscope of brightly painted houses on Jelly Bean Row to the dramatic coastline you can see from Signal Hill, St John's is a lively capital city on the edge of wild nature. Board a boat and keep your eyes peeled for puffins. Visit The Rooms for a closer look at the ancient history and modern culture of Newfoundland.
in St. John's
Hit the Bay
Icebergs, humpback whales, puffins... Get out onto the Bay for an exhilarating tour of aquatic life. Or tour the islands that make up the Witless Bay Ecological Reserve, where you'll see birds galore, including black-legged kittiwakes, common murres and the largest puffin colony in North America.
Put On Your Walking Shoes
It's a hilly affair, whether you choose to hike the trails or the streets – St John's boasts over 120 kilometres of walking trails within city limits. Marvel at the ancient rock cliffs that rise from the St John's harbour, or amble along the North Head Trail and pick wild blueberries at Signal Hill.
Quench Your Thirst
You're in for a toe-tapping good time if you head to historic city centre St John's. You'll find over two dozen pubs, clubs and bars on George Street. Locals keep the party alive while you get down to an Irish jig, the blues, dance music, country or good old rock n' roll.
Local Cuisine
Newfoundland cuisine is in a category of its own, with unique items like scrunchions (crispy pork rinds) and toutons (fried dough served with mollasses). Try braised rabbit fritters or local blue mussels. Head to the Quidi Vidi district, where you'll find a local farm-to-table restaurant and a brewery featuring lager made from 25-thousand-year-old icebergs.
Shopping
Head to Water Street and take a piece of St John's with you. Heritage Shop goodies include labradorite jewellery, carvings, knitwear and preserves. Get onboard Canada cruises and make your way to Quidi Vidi and check out the Plantation, a destination shopping experience where you can visit artisans in their studios as they work and sell their wares.
INSIDER TIP
Make sure you're on Newfoundland time, which is in one of the few half-hour time zones in the world.
CRUISING
FOR FOODIES
THINGS TO DO
A CUT ABOVE THE REST
For more than a decade, the chefs of Chops Grille have proudly presented quality, hand-cut prime steaks at this hallmark Royal Caribbean restaurant.
AS VIP AS CAN BE
Located in an intimate, exclusive spot onboard, this private epicurean experience for a limited number of guests, treats you to a five-course menu and wine tasting.
Sydney, Nova Scotia
Explore Nova Scotia
Come to Sydney, Nova Scotia, and immerse yourself in multi-cultural Cape Breton, informed by the influence of the French, the Scots and the native Mi'kmaqs. Hang out in the French Fortress of Louisburg, sample Gaelic culture at the Highland Village Museum, or take in the ancient art and history of the island at Membertou Heritage Park.
Come to Sydney, Nova Scotia, and immerse yourself in multi-cultural Cape Breton, informed by the influence of the French, the Scots and the native Mi'kmaqs. Hang out in the French Fortress of Louisburg, sample Gaelic culture at the Highland Village Museum, or take in the ancient art and history of the island at Membertou Heritage Park.
in Sydney
Answer the Call
Visit the Alexander Graham Bell Museum, which overlooks the inventor's summer home in Baddeck. Learn how Bell invented not only the telephone but also the world's fastest boat, Canada's first powered aeroplane flight and advanced recording technology. Marvel at his artefacts, films and family photographs.
Dance Like It's 1744
Visit the 18th century at the Fortress of Louisbourg. The largest reconstructed French fortified town in North America is alive with music, dancing, cooking and military drills. Don't leave without sipping the Fortress Rum, sold in traditional bottles and sealed in wax.
Celtic Sojourn
Gaelic may not be your first language, but it's worth the trip to Highland Village in the Bras d'Or Lakes region to hear the melodic sounds of Celtic culture. Traditional music, stunning vistas and friendly farm animals are the backdrop to 11 period buildings, a general store and a one-room school-house.
Local Cuisine
It's all about fresh and local. Head to one of the many pubs along the city centre waterfront for maple-glazed Atlantic salmon or a lobster dinner. Be sure to try the island's signature mussels before you go. Wash it all down with a mug of Sydney's favourite beer from Big Spruce Brewing.
Shopping
It's an artisan extravaganza in Sydney. Head to the Cape Breton Centre for Craft and Design for affordable hand-crafted lamb's wool apparel, leather, glass and art. Get on Canada cruises to pick up some raw local lambswool or sheep's wool to take home and work with yourself.
INSIDER TIP
The town center and Charlotte Street are only a five-minute walk from port.
CRUISING
LIGHTS OUT NIGHTS OUT
SHAKE IT LIKE A CAIPIRINHA
Night-time sizzles at Boleros, a Latin-themed club and hot spot. Try a variety of speciality drinks inspired by the music – like Cuban mojitos and Brazilian caipirinhas – and get down to the pulsating live music with a six-piece Latin band. This is one after-dinner party you don't want to miss.
THE SCHOONER THE BETTER
There's always a crowd gathered around the piano at The Schooner Bar, one of our signature bars and a guest favourite. Drop by to take in the nautical theme, and stay to join in with the piano sing-alongs while enjoying your favourite cocktail.
Quebec City, Quebec
STYLE: FORTRESS CHIC
Blink an eye, and you might think you're in a historic French city – but look a little closer, and you'll see there's nothing quite like Quebecois culture. Meander the cobblestoned streets, poke your head in a gallery, or shop for artisanal or antique treasures. Later, feast on poutine at a traditional bistro, or enjoy farm-to-table fare at one the city's trendy eateries.
Blink an eye, and you might think you're in a historic French city – but look a little closer, and you'll see there's nothing quite like Quebecois culture. Meander the cobblestoned streets, poke your head in a gallery, or shop for artisanal or antique treasures. Later, feast on poutine at a traditional bistro, or enjoy farm-to-table fare at one the city's trendy eateries.
in Quebec City
Take a Pilgrimage
Up for a miracle? Recreate the traditional pilgrimage to St Anne de Beaupre Basilica, a site renowned for healings and noted for its stunning architecture. Upon your return, pause and marvel at the thunderous rush of Montmorency Falls.
Find Your Inner Foodie
The Quebecois offer a feast of local fare complete with wine pairings. Sample traditional Quebec cuisine with a modern twist, organic rotisserie specialities, the famous Quebec poutine and steamy crepes. The delicious finish line is none other than the Chocolate Museum.
French Village Charm
The illuminated streets of Petit-Champlain and Place Royale let you travel back over 400 years to North America's first permanent French settlement. Jump on a cruise to Quebec City and venture up to the district by way of the staircase, or enjoy the views from atop the funicular, which has run since 1879.
Local Cuisine
The Quebecois are pioneers of farm-to-table cuisine, and you'll find gourmet experiences on every corner. Sample French specialities including pork and venison, or comfort foods like poutine – a plate piled high with chips, brown gravy and creamy cheese curds – and tourtieres, a savoury meat pie spiced with clove and all-spice and topped with a flaky crust. BYOB restaurants are popular in La Vielle Capital.
Shopping
In Vieux Quebec, seek out fine knits and cashmere, leather and suede clothing, Inuit art, speciality chocolates, maple syrup, and gourmet olive oils and vinegars. Along Petit-Champlain and Place Royale, you'll find artisan stone sculptures, boutique designer fashions, fudge and famous Quebec ciders.
INSIDER TIP
Although French is the official language here, English is widely spoken.
Quebec City, Quebec
STYLE: FORTRESS CHIC
Blink an eye, and you might think you're in a historic French city – but look a little closer, and you'll see there's nothing quite like Quebecois culture. Meander the cobblestoned streets, poke your head in a gallery, or shop for artisanal or antique treasures. Later, feast on poutine at a traditional bistro, or enjoy farm-to-table fare at one the city's trendy eateries.
Blink an eye, and you might think you're in a historic French city – but look a little closer, and you'll see there's nothing quite like Quebecois culture. Meander the cobblestoned streets, poke your head in a gallery, or shop for artisanal or antique treasures. Later, feast on poutine at a traditional bistro, or enjoy farm-to-table fare at one the city's trendy eateries.
in Quebec City
Take a Pilgrimage
Up for a miracle? Recreate the traditional pilgrimage to St Anne de Beaupre Basilica, a site renowned for healings and noted for its stunning architecture. Upon your return, pause and marvel at the thunderous rush of Montmorency Falls.
Find Your Inner Foodie
The Quebecois offer a feast of local fare complete with wine pairings. Sample traditional Quebec cuisine with a modern twist, organic rotisserie specialities, the famous Quebec poutine and steamy crepes. The delicious finish line is none other than the Chocolate Museum.
French Village Charm
The illuminated streets of Petit-Champlain and Place Royale let you travel back over 400 years to North America's first permanent French settlement. Jump on a cruise to Quebec City and venture up to the district by way of the staircase, or enjoy the views from atop the funicular, which has run since 1879.
Local Cuisine
The Quebecois are pioneers of farm-to-table cuisine, and you'll find gourmet experiences on every corner. Sample French specialities including pork and venison, or comfort foods like poutine – a plate piled high with chips, brown gravy and creamy cheese curds – and tourtieres, a savoury meat pie spiced with clove and all-spice and topped with a flaky crust. BYOB restaurants are popular in La Vielle Capital.
Shopping
In Vieux Quebec, seek out fine knits and cashmere, leather and suede clothing, Inuit art, speciality chocolates, maple syrup, and gourmet olive oils and vinegars. Along Petit-Champlain and Place Royale, you'll find artisan stone sculptures, boutique designer fashions, fudge and famous Quebec ciders.
INSIDER TIP
Although French is the official language here, English is widely spoken.
Montreal, Quebec
PETIT PARIS
Start your morning in Old Montreal, home to cobblestone streets and the Notre Dame Basilica. Then head up to Mount Royal for the best views in the city. Once you've worked up an appetite, it's time to choose between Montreal specialties, including smoked meats or bagels. Spend your afternoon exploring the Botanical Garden or the Montreal Museum of Fine Arts.
© 2019 Royal Caribbean International
{{GTKYSModal.data.subtitle}}
{{GTKYSModal.data.description}}
{{GTKYSModal.data.experiencessubtitle}}
INSIDER TIP