Shore Excursions for North Atlantic Cruises
Optional tours will be available for purchase locally on board or through Hurtigruten directly (Telephone: 1-888-412-3059). Some optional tours require a minimum number of participants and may not be operated. The ship reserves the right to rearrange the order of tours in the event a site is not open, or a performance is not available on the scheduled day.
- The following tour descriptions and prices are based on 2019 rates and are provided for information purposes only.
- Excursions may not be available for all departures.
- Payment for shore excursions can be added to your on board account or paid for in cash.
- All information contained in this document is subject to change without notification due to unforeseeable circumstances such as weather, vessel itinerary or local conditions
- All rates are per person and are subject to change without notice
- Due to obligations to shore side operators, Shore Excursions are non refundable
Physical Level: For all guests
Port: Baddeck
Begin with a scenic drive through the heart of the Bras d'Or Lake region of Cape Breton. The Bras d'Or Lake, is one of the largest saltwater lakes in Canada, and sits right in the middle of the island. Keep an eye out for bald eagles as the surrounding area serves as their nesting ground. Visit Highland Village, a living history museum and cultural center that celebrates the Gaelic experience in Nova Scotia. Stroll the 43-acre hillside studded with period buildings, enter a replica of a Scottish block house, view authentic artifacts, discover Nova Scotia's rich Scottish Gaelic cultural history. Cape Breton is the only place in North America where Gaelic is still spoken. After a buffet-style lunch at the Inverary Resort, continue to the charming village of Baddeck where you will visit the Alexander Graham Bell Museum. Later, spend free time to walk among the many souvenir shops. Or you can walk along the boardwalks of Baddeck Harbor for views of the lighthouse on Kidston Island, and the Alexander Graham Bell estate which sits majestically on a hill above Baddeck Bay before returning to your ship.
Physical Level: For most guests, requires some physical effort
Port: Baddeck
In the foothills of the famous Cabot Trail lies Uisge Ban Falls – Gaelic for "white water". This 2.5-mile trail is the showcase hike of Baddeck, that will bring you close to wonderful nature, as you pass through a hardwood forest comprised of sugar maple, yellow birch, and beech woods. At the end of the trail is the stunning 50-foot high waterfall where the sheer walls of the gorge tower 500 feet on either side.
Physical Level: For all guests
Port: Baddeck
The famed Cabot Trail is described as one of the most enchanting drives in North America. This excursion will take you up and down verdant peaks and valleys, and past magnificent views of the ocean, giving you a chance to spot wildlife such as moose, whales, bald eagles, and owls. Travel through the Margaree Valley, settled by Scottish Highlanders at the beginning of the 19th century and over mountains, past meandering rivers. Arrive in Cheticamp, a busy fishing village with a thriving Acadian culture. Spend free time in this bustling community to stroll through the town, visit quaint shops, and take photos of the harbor with its shanties and wharves. Stop for lunch at LeGabriel, where you hear the lively sounds of Acadian being spoken. Continue the drive on the Cabot Trail, traversing French Mountain and Cape Smokey, seeing Ingonish Beach and quaint Englishtown. Enjoy several photo stops en route, as you marvel at the amazing landscape and expansive ocean vistas along the rugged and craggy coastline.
Physical Level: For all guests
Port: Baddeck
Visit the Alexander Graham Bell Museum, overlooking the scenic Bras d’Or Lake, to learn of the many accomplishments of this famous inventor, teacher, and humanitarian. Alexander Graham Bell was attracted to Baddeck’s natural beauty when he arrived in the summer of 1885 en route to a vacation in Newfoundland. Take a walking tour of the museum with your knowledgeable guide, to see original artifacts, films highlighting his scientific and humanitarian work as well as family photographs. The museum overlooks Bell's summer home Beinn Bhreagh - meaning "Beautiful Mountain" in Gaelic, still privately owned by his descendants. Afterward, visit picturesque Baddeck with its quaint shops and heritage buildings.
Physical Level: For most guests, requires some physical effort
Port: Halifax
The city of Halifax has undergone many changes since it was founded in 1749 as a British military garrison. The downtown, still retains many examples of both Victorian and Georgian architecture, charming vestiges of the city's history and seaport culture. Explore the city with a walking tour that begins at Halifax's famed Public Gardens, a 17 acre paradise in the middle of the city. Stroll the pathways past trees planted by visiting Royalty, the traditional Victorian bandstand, statues depicting Greek goddesses and bubbling fountains. Then stroll along to Citadel Hill where you can gaze over this modern port city. The tour winds its way downhill past the 200-year Old Town Clock, the Metro Center, City Hall and Grand Parade, historically a military parade square and now home to Halifax's oldest building, St. Paul's Anglican Church. The tour concludes at Historic Properties, where massive ironstone warehouses once stored Privateer's Booty. Today, it is the home of charming shops and waterside restaurants. Spend time on your own, or return back to the pier.
Physical Level: For most guests, requires some physical effort
Port: Halifax
Today, explore the breathtaking eastern shores of Nova Scotia’s Peggy’s Cove, a charming coastal region with an iconic white lighthouse overlooking the sea. Departing Halifax, view some of the city's highlights as you travel to Peggy’s Cove. Along the way, hear fascinating stories of Nova Scotia’s rich history and vibrant culture. Just outside of this famous village is the Peggy’s Cove preservation area. Here, take a guided coastal hike with your experienced naturalist guide. Marvel at spectacular scenic ocean vistas, and enjoy postcard perfect photo opportunities. After your hike, spend time exploring Peggy’s Cove on your own. Or if you wish, join your guide to learn about lobster fishery and see different styles of traps. Later, return to Halifax.
Physical Level: For most guests, requires some physical effort
Port: Louisberg
Embark on a scenic hiking tour, that begins at the Coxhealth Mountain Trail and discover the best views this area has to offer. The 6-mile trail (round- trip) includes a steady hike up the face of the mountain. At the first rest stop, there is a cascading waterfall. The trail levels off at the top with panoramic views of the surrounding communities and Cape Breton Highlands. From this point, you can return the way you came, or continue on the northern loop to experience old-growth forest with large eastern hemlocks, yellow birch, and sugar maple trees. On your hike, keep an eye out for wildlife such as porcupine, racoon, fox, moose, white-tailed deer, and bald eagles!
Physical Level: For all guests
Port: Louisberg
Season: All Year
Begin the tour with a photo stop at the first lighthouse in Canada, and the second in North America! The remnants of the lighthouse's foundation, built by the French in 1734, are still visible today. The existing lighthouse has been standing on this site since 1924 and offers one of the most picturesque coastal views in Nova Scotia. The journey then continues to Fortress Louisbourg. Take a brief guided tour and learn about its history. Later, explore this fascinating historic site on your own. Then, experience a trio of rotating workshops that offer opportunities to explore events of the past. Revel in the magnificence of the king's bastion while you hear stirring tales of soldiers testing their mettle in an unfamiliar, new environment. Participate in a chocolate demonstration and experience first-hand the making of hot chocolate the 'old-fashioned' way before returning to the ship.
Physical Level: For most guests, requires some physical effort
Port: Magdelan Islands
Exploring the Îles de la Madeleine by bicycle is the best way to feel the local rhythm, meet its people, see the wildlife, and listen to the real sounds of the Islands. Your guide shares insights about local life, wildlife, birding, geology, and history. The pace of the tour is adapted to the group's ability and weather conditions. View La Vernière, a wooden church built in 1876 that is now classified as a historical monument. It's the second largest wooden church in North America and has been struck by lightning several times. The wood used to rebuild the church each time, was taken from shipwrecks and blessed before construction ensued - reflecting Madelinot cultural heritage. Discover the north coast of the island, which has spectacularly steep, jagged cliffs that are especially vulnerable to erosion. Sample various local foods, including smoked fish, cheese, salad, and sweets during your picnic lunch.
Physical Level: For all guests
Port: Magdelan Islands
The Îles de la Madeleine archipelago is a place where the warmth and generosity of its inhabitants are legendary. It is also a treasure trove of tasty, locally produced foods. During the 'flavors-circuit' tour, meet with several local producers and discover the passion and love for their work. Visit Pied-de-Vent Cheese Factory, a small cheese factor that produces delicious Pied-de-Vent and Tomme des Demoiselles cheeses, semi-hard cow's milk cheeses. Taste their different products and tour the museum. Continue to the smoked herring museum, Fumoir d’Antan, a typical smokehouse that has been used for three generations to smoke herring, mackerel, salmon, and scallops. Conclude the visit with a tasting of their smoked herring products. Afterward, stop at the Cap Alright Lighthouse, offering spectacular views of the Plaisance Bay. During the drive, view many examples of traditional local architecture, including simple houses and barns painted in various bright colors. The Acadian and French origins of many islanders – as well as the New England influences – are reflected in the architecture of the homes. Conclude with a stop at Dune-du-Sud, which provides access to a beautiful beach with red cliffs and caves to explore.
Physical Level: For all guests
Port: Magdelan Islands
Drive towards the north end of Magdalene Island, called the Grand-Entree. Experience stunning scenery of golden-sand beaches, ever-changing sand dunes, and emerald hills contrasting with red cliffs. Your guide enlightens you on the history of the Islands and the Acadians who colonized the archipelago. At the village of Grosse-Île, a settlement of 500 Irish descendants, visit a salt mine. Later, proceed to East Point National Wildlife Reserve, where half of the group embarks on a 2 mile hike. Discover East Point's unique ecosystem of forests. Depending on the season, you can taste some of the reserve's plants and berries. Marvel at vast Old Harry Beach, a former gathering place for walrus. This is an unforgettable hike through great natural beauty that sheds light on the fragility of the Magdalen Islands. The other half of the group continues to the wharf at Grande-Entrée, the largest lobster-fishing pier in Québec. Here, encounter fishermen and learn about their daily life connected to the sea. In the afternoon, after lunch at La Salicorne Inn, each each group switches activities.
Physical Level: For all guests
Port: St Pierre
St. Pierre's history dates back to 1500, when French and Basque fishermen used the islands as an important stopover. Take a tour of this picturesque French fishing town. Listen to tales of Al Capone, prohibition, shipwrecks and more as you explore this last piece of New France. After spending some time in the town of St. Pierre, continue with an exploration of the beautiful coastline and countryside. At the conclusion of the tour, stop at a scenic lookout for whale watching and later visit a French-style graveyard.
Physical Level: For all guests
Port: St Pierre
Embark on a walking tour of the scenic 19th century fishing village of Ile aux Marins. Your guide will provide an overview of the history of the island and the sites to see. Then, you are free to join the guide, or explore independently. Experience the fascinating North Atlantic culture of New France, as you take in the impressive community museums, old church, fishermen’s homes, and Town Hall. The island is beautiful, with spectacular coastal vistas, colorful wildflowers and unusual architecture. There are several walking paths throughout, and most sites are easily reachable on foot. The dramatic views offer amazing photo opportunities. Plan on spending two hours wandering through the village.
Physical Level: For all guests
Port: Yarmouth
Yarmouth is known for some of the most exuberant examples of Victorian architecture in the Maritimes, a legacy of the wealthy captains and ship owners of the town’s seafaring Golden Age. Join a fascinating walk in Yarmouth´s Heritage District with several blocks of beautiful residences. Visit the Fuller Brush Home, featuring period-furnished rooms, glassware, silver and memorabilia of the “Fuller Brush Man” and his company. At the Yarmouth County Museum, housed in a lovely granite church, enjoy refreshments and sweets prepared especially for your visist. View historic waterfront warehouses, such as the Killam Brothers Building, Canada's oldest shipping office. Explore the town at your leisure, before returning to the ship, docked a short walk away from the waterfront.
Physical Level: For all guests
Port: Baie Comeau
Explore the historic Baie-Comeau on a guided walking tour that begins at Place La Salle. In this cultural hub, find souvenir stores, art galleries, fine restaurants and a microbrewery. Visit the amazing St. Amélie’s Church, featuring Quebec’s North Shore pink granite. Admire its 16,000 square feet of frescoes, five times more than the Sistine Chapel! It also features 30 stained-glass windows representing characters from the Bible. Following your visit, view St. Andrew Anglican Church (a stop will be made if church is open). This remarkable and unique Anglican Church built in 1937 was the first church in the Baie-Comeau area. It was built in the Tudor style, with imposing oak trim and lovely stained-glass windows. Proceed to Champlain Street, where the former prime minister of Canada, Brian Mulroney, spent his childhood. Stop at the famous French colonial hotel, the Manoir of Baie-Comeau, where you delight your taste buds with cake and tea and dazzle your eyes with spectacular views of the Saint Lawrence River.
Physical Level: For all guests
Port: Cheticamp
This full-day Cabot Trail excursion provides a taste of the scenic beauty of Cape Breton Island. This spectacular, world-renowned circuit of modern highway is named after John Cabot, the great navigator and explorer who first sighted Cape Breton Island in 1497. Drive into the Cape Breton Highlands National Park, to experience the unparalleled beauty of the Highlands. Relish a hot lunch at the Keltic Lodge in Ingonish before continuing on your journey back along the Cabot Trail to Cheticamp. Several photo stops offer the opportunity to capture the panoramic views and gorgeous colors of this magnificent island.
Physical Level: For all guests
Port: Cheticamp
Enjoy one of the most scenic drives in North America along the Cabot Trail, that takes you up and down verdant peaks and valleys, past magnificent views of the ocean. Chance to spot some of the area’s wildlife such as moose, whales, bald eagles, and owls. Visit Les Trois Pignons (Rug Hooking Museum) for a first-hand look at these wonderful pieces of art. Get an insight into Acadian culture in the town of Cheticamp, a busy fishing village. During your time in this bustling community, visit Flora's gift store - renowned for it's traditional hooked rugs along with Acadian hospitality. Head to Le Gabriel Restaurant for lunch where you hear the lively sounds of Acadian being spoken before continuing your adventure. Later, return to the ship.
Physical Level: For most guests, requires some physical effort
Port: Cheticamp
Enjoy amazing and expansive views from the famed Cabot Trail in Eastern Canada. Scout for a wide variety of wildlife along this beautiful walking trail. A dramatic headland cliff overlooks the rugged coast from the end of this level trail. Enjoy an eagle's view of the Cabot Trail as it winds its way down the mountain. Watch for whales in the Gulf of St. Lawrence from the viewing decks. Moose, bald eagles, bears and numerous boreal birds live in this environment.
Physical Level: For all guests
Port: Halifax
Halifax is one of the most sophisticated cities in Eastern Canada, that combines modern skyscrapers alongside historic colonial buildings. During this tour, hear the riveting story of the Halifax Explosion and why a huge Spruce tree is given to Boston every year as a thank you from its people! Learn about the Royal Canadian Mounted Police, the Royal Canadian Naval dockyards and their link to the British Monarchy. View the Halifax Citadel National Historic Site, perched high above the capital. As you journey through the city, see the Historic Properties, the Victorian Public Gardens and Province House. Continue with a visit to the famed Peggy’s Cove with its 30,000+ glacial rock deposits and the UNESCO town of Lunenburg, world renowned as the home of the famous sailing schooner Bluenose. The highlight of this tour is a visit to the Acadian Maple facility where their specialty is pure Nova Scotia maple syrup and other maple delicacies. A lunch of local haddock is also included on this south shore adventure.
Physical Level: For all guests
Port: Saguenay
Begin the tour with a scenic drive through La Baie, where you discover the importance of the Saguenay Fjord to the development of this area. Visit the Fjord Museum with its interactive exhibits on the Saguenay Fjord's ecosystem. Afterward, pass by the Ha! Ha! Pyramid, a contemporary art monument commemorating the great flood of 1996, one of Canada’s worst natural disasters that devastated the region. Continue with a visit to Arthur Villeneuve House, located in the historic paper mill. View the impressive frescoes painted by him, a local barber turned painter, that cover his home from top to bottom. Conclude the tour at Le Chevrier du Nord (goat farm), a small family business that produces goat mohair wool.
Physical Level: For most guests, requires some physical effort
Port: Saguenay
Discover the magnificent, Saguenay Fjord National Park on an easy 1.5 mile hike along the Point de Vue du Soupir trail. The area is rugged, filled with craggy mountains, 1,150-foothigh cliffs, and dense forests. The Fjord du Saguenay majestically encased in the hollow of two mountain massifs, flows for 64 miles before emptying into the Saint-Laurent estuary. What’s most remarkable, is that the glacier-cut fjord is not only navigable but also the only one in North America that is inhabited on both sides, dotted with charming villages. The area's biodiversity, beauty and richness will leave you with captivating and unforgettable moments. Following your hike, spend some free time at the Interpretation Center to enjoy the excellent exhibits, or browse the local gift shop.
Physical Level: For most guests, requires some physical effort
Port: Saguenay
Explore the Saguenay wilderness area featuring rich marine life and amazing scenery in a kayaking excursion. From the pier in La Baie, take a scenic drive to Parc National du Saguenay Interpretation Center where you will be given a safety briefing before boarding your kayak. As you paddle along impressive Cape Trinity's sheer cliffs and sand beaches, you’re sure to fall under the spell of this breathtaking environment. Marvel at the striking beauty of the Saguenay Fjord. If you’re lucky you may encounter some of the marine life including seals sun tanning on emerging rocks or a whale frolicking in the water. Following your kayak tour, spend some free time at the Interpretation Center to enjoy the excellent exhibits of the Fjord, or shop in the trendy gift shop.
Physical Level: For all guests
Port: Saguenay
Enjoy the beauty and tranquility of Saguenay Fjord National Park at a leisurely pace, beginning with a scenic drive from the ship to the Parc National du Saguenay Interpretive Center. Gain knowledge of what created this fjord and how it was shaped, and why the waters of the Saguenay river are so dark and salty. Learn about the sand dunes and which species can be regularly sighted in the park. Hear also about the habits of the St. Lawrence’s beluga whales. After this introduction to the park, join your guide for an easy one-hour stroll along the Meandres-à- Falaises trail and discover the Eternity River Delta. During your walk, learn about the creation and characteristics of the Saguenay Fjord, that was sculpted by glaciers 10 million years ago. At the conclusion of your walk, spend time on your own to explore the Interpretative Center as it reveals the hidden mysteries of this exceptional ecosystem, or shop for souvenirs in the gift shop.
Physical Level: For all guests
Port: Saguenay
La Fabuleuse is an exhilarating live stage show that features 200 local actors and actresses, a host of animals, and dazzling sound and light effects. This fantastic odyssey highlights the history of the Saguenay Lac St Jean Kingdom from 1603 to the present. Come and relive the important events that marked the history of the region, starting with the discovery of the area by Jacques Cartier, the Colonization, the Great Fire of 1870, and the Flood of 1996. Following the show, you have an opportunity to view the backstage area before returning to the ship
Physical Level: For all guests
Port: Saguenay
Embark on a guided tour of this charming harbor village. Located on the bank of the Ha Ha Bay, La Baie was the first colony built in the Saguenay-Lac-St-Jean region. Once inhabited by Saguenay's nomadic Inuit tribes, La Baie was an important part of an 18th century commercial route used by the Hudson's Bay Company's fur traders. During the 19th and 20th centuries, logging, pulp and paper mills have been the main sources of the economic development. After leaving the pier, a short walk takes you to a studio-boutique of a local textile craft artisan. Here, attend a short demonstration and learn how this artist creates fashion accessories and decorations. The tour continues to an art gallery to learn about local artist’s work and craft techniques. The final stop takes you to a Soap Factory, where wonderful fragrances fill the air. Get a hands-on lesson in the basics of making goat milk soap. On the way back to the ship, take a walk along the shores to discover Mars Park and admire the views of the scenic mountains surrounding the bay.
Physical Level: For all guests
Port: Baie Comeau
Enjoy the best the Saguenay region has to offer on your tour today. Begin with a scenic drive through La Baie, where you discover the importance of the Saguenay Fjord to the development of this area. Visit the Fjord Museum with its interactive exhibits on the Saguenay Fjord's ecosystem. Afterward, pass by the Ha! Ha! Pyramid, a contemporary art monument commemorating the great flood of 1996, one of Canada’s worst natural disasters that devastated the region. Continue with a visit to Arthur Villeneuve House, located in the historic paper mill. View the impressive frescoes painted by him, a local barber turned painter, that cover his home from top to bottom. Conclude the tour at Le Chevrier du Nord (goat farm), a small family business that produces goat mohair wool.
Physical Level: For all guests
Port: Baie Comeau
This tour provides an overview of life in Baie-Comeau. Begin with a stop at the magnificent Havre St. Pancrace lookout, a fjord 1,968 feet high. During Prohibition in the 1930’s, this isolated spot was a popular delivery point for contraband liquor. Continue on to a typical lumberjack village and a forest interpretation centre known as Village forestier d’Antan to experience the lumberjack’s living conditions and way of life. Sample a typical lumberjack meal with a little shot of the locally brewed caribou. Afterward, take a short walk in Baie-Comeau heritage area with its beautiful natural setting. Start with Place LaSalle, to discover this quaint commercial artery. In this cultural hub, find souvenir stores, art galleries, fine restaurants and a microbrewery. Admire the magnificent scenery and Champlain Street where the former prime minister of Canada, Brian Mulroney, spent his childhood before returning to the ship.