Golden Autumn on North America’s East Coast Cruise

Trois-Rivieres is located at the confluence of the Saint-Maurice River and the might St Lawrence River, roughly halfway between Montreal and Quebec City. The name “Three Rivers” refers to the three branches of the Saint-Maurice River – and to a city that looks back with pride on its long history. In the old town, several buildings dating from before 1650 bring past centuries to life. Rue des Ursulines, one of the oldest paved streets in Trois-Rivieres, exudes the charm of the early colonial era. La Maurice National Park is found only a few kilometres away from the city. The primal idyll of dense forests and sparkling lakes invites you to observe wildlife and forget everyday life in unspoilt nature on numerous hiking trails.

Set amidst breathtaking coastal scenery, Gaspe welcomes you at the eastern end of the Gaspe Peninsula. The cliffs rise steeply from the Gulf of Saint Lawrence while miles of sandy beaches and hidden coves into you to while away some time. The small town features colourful houses, maritime charm and a lively harbour, from which the beauty of the region can be particularly well appreciated. The surrounding nature is spectacular: dense forests, rushing waterfalls and the expansive sea characterise the landscape. One highlight is Forillon National Park, where hiking trails lead along the coast, bald eagles and seals can be observed and the view of the rocky cliffs is unforgettable.

The “birthplace of Canada” is located on Prince Edward Island: in 1864, a conference of the founding fathers in the charming capital city of Charlottetown gave the impetus for Canadian Confederation. As the sound of horse-drawn carriages rings through the streets, the centre offers fascinating discoveries. The smallest Canadian province is just as important to the country’s history as it is large for its fishing tradition – there are said to be more than 1,000 licensed lobster fishermen in the region. Lobster was once considered a poor man’s meal, but today the shellfish not only tops menus, but is also the focus of adventure tours both on and off the island.

Cap-aux-Meules, the heart of the Iles de la Madeleine, is beautifully situated by the sea and is also the economic and cultural centre of the archipelago. The surrounding Magdalene Islands form a unique natural backdrop: red cliffs, wide sandy beaches, dunes and marshlands. Take a stroll along the seashore and observe the interplay of the tides, breathe in the salty air and enjoy the endless horizons over the Gulf of Saint Lawrence.

Halifax, the capital of the Canadian province of Nova Scotia, combines the atmosphere of a lively big city with impressive coastal landscapes. At its centre, on top of Citadel Hill, the city’s landmark stands – the star-shaped citadel. The rugged coastline, crashing waves and fishing boats reveal the connection to the sea, while Halifax itself invites visitors to stroll around and explore its cafes, boutiques and parks. Gain fascinating insights into the past at historic Pier 21, Canada’s Ellis Island, where the stories of immigrants are preserved. Just a short drive away is Peggy’s Cove with its famous lighthouse, which stands picturesquely guarding the cliffs by the sea.

The first thing many sailors see on their way to the United States is the light of a lighthouse in Maine. The US state impresses with a rugged coastline stretching around 5,500 km (3,417 mi.), picturesque beaches and a panorama of sea and mountains. Over 60 lighthouses line the coastline, some of them several centuries old. In the south-east lies Portland, Maine’s largest city. In its 400-year history, it has developed from a colonial port into a modern, lively metropolis – today it is considered one of the most exciting cities on America’s East Coast. Between historic warehouses, hip cafes and waterfronts, the former port city has blossomed into a real insider tip. Take your time to soak up the impressions – thanks to the long lay time.

Boston is one of the oldest, most elegant and culturally significant cities in the United States, and has played a formative role throughout its long history: On 16 Dec 1773, the Boston Tea Party took place here, a protest against British tax policy that sparked the American War of Independence. If you want to trace this period, follow the 4 km (2.5 mi.) Freedom Trail – the red line of paving stones begins in Boston Common, the oldest public park in the USA, and leads through the city to Charlestown. Along the way are 16 historic sites, including the Old State House, from whose balcony the Declaration of Independence was proclaimed in 1776. Today, Boston is a vibrant metropolis with a striking skyline, where colonial heritage and the present day blend impressively. Neighbouring Cambridge boasts an unmistakable academic flair – two excellent educational institutions are located here: the world-famous Harvard University and the Massachusetts Institute of Technology. Boston is also worth a visit after sunset, with numerous bars, music clubs, jazz bars and theatres promising a varied nightlife.

In the charming town of Provincetown, colourful houses line narrow streets and galleries and small cafes invite you to while away some time. The picturesque harbour basin and the historic Pilgrim Monument are reminders of the region’s first settlers. Today, Provincetown is known for its active art scene. The dunes of Cape Cod National Seashore, white sandy beaches and salt marshes stretch around the town – ideal for walks, bird watching or admiring the Atlantic Ocean.

Newport, Rhode Island, delights visitors with its historic centre full of charm: restored buildings from the 18th and 19th centuries line the cobbled streets while elegant colonial houses and magnificent villas such as The Breakers shape the town. As you wander through the lanes, the many cafes, boutiques and restaurants along the lively Thames Street invite you to while away some wonderful time. Nature lovers are drawn to Cliff Walk, which takes a spectacular path along the coastal cliffs and offers impressive views of the Atlantic Ocean, the beaches and the surrounding countryside.

The Big Apple, on the East Coast of North America, is the most populous city in the United States, with over eight million inhabitants. World-famous landmarks and towering skyscrapers such as the Empire State Building or One World Trade Center characterise the Manhattan skyline, while Central Park offers a green oasis and plenty of space for recreation. The city that never sleeps also boasts a vibrant cultural scene: around 1,500 art galleries, approximately 100 museums, countless theatres and more than 23,000 restaurants make New York one of the most exciting travel destinations in the world.