Hurtigruten Expeditions Halifax to Boston - History, Seafood & Nature Reserves

9-day itinerary

Day 1: Halifax exploration

Your exhilarating North American expedition cruise begins with an overnight stay in the historic Halifax. An intriguing mix of red-brick heritage buildings, landmark Citadel Hill National Historic Site and epic 2.5-mile seafront boardwalk, Halifax is the ideal starting point on your unique adventure.

Halifax Common is home to Canada’s oldest park, dating back to 1763, and is easily accessible for travellers to walk to. Be sure to visit one of the city’s art galleries and museums to immerse yourself in the local culture, and check out the Titanic exhibition at the Maritime Museum of the Atlantic.

With there being so much to experience and with such little time to pack everything in, why not join an optional pre-programme to explore the city in greater depth.

Day 2: The Lighthouse Route

On the morning of the second day, you’ll be taken along the winding coastal highway known as the ‘Lighthouse Route’. Upon reaching journey’s end, you will be able to witness the remote mystique of Peggy’s Cove, capturing the world’s most photographed lighthouses during the course of your journey.

After discovering the beautiful sights while on the Lighthouse Route, you’ll then be heading back to Halifax to board the state-of-the-art MS Roald Amundsen cruise ship, ahead of your expedition. Get acquainted with the ship’s amenities and facilities upon boarding, whilst also meeting your friendly Expedition Team who will be with you on your adventure.

Day 3: Sable Island

The next destination on your cruise journey will be a visit to the crescent-shaped Sable Island. Sable Island, or ‘Sand Island’ in French, is an important National Park Reserve which protects the abundance of wild horses that live there – believed to be around 550 roaming the lands.

Although the waters surrounding the island have previously been very challenging to deal with, the pristine beaches provide excellent vantage points to view the island, and the Expedition Team will attempt to take passengers out in smaller expedition boats to land on these beaches.

Day 4: Colourful Lunenburg

Dating back to the 1700s when it was a British settlement, Lunenberg is now listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Its eye-catching waterfront is made up of vibrant buildings and houses which are immediately recognisable as you sail into the town, with this being yet another unique destination on your journey.

Immerse yourself in the maritime atmosphere in the Old Town, or rent a bicycle and enjoy the town’s scenic cycling trails.

Day 5: Historic Eastport

After discovering the colourful town of Lunenberg, you will then be crossing from Canadian waters into the United States to visit Eastport. Located on Moose Island, Eastport is widely recognised for having the deepest natural harbour on the eastern seaboard. it is believed that this town dates back a staggeringly long time, with many archaeologists suggesting that the Indigenous Passamaquoddy people lived here for at least 10,000 years before the first Europeans appeared in 1604.

Upon exploring the cafes, restaurants, and shops in the downtown district, take in the town’s cultural history and enjoy the local traditions. Depending on suitable weather, local lobster fishermen may be offering trips to see ‘Old Sow’. ‘Old Sow’ is referred to by many as being the biggest whirlpool in the western hemisphere, and was aptly named after the ‘squealing’ noise it makes when it spins.

Day 6: The Coastal Town of Boothbay

Boothbay Harbour is often referred to as ‘The Boasting Capital of New England’, with the town often overflowing with fishing vessels and pleasure crafts at regular intervals. The harbour’s flower-lined streets are home to a wide variety of art galleries, antique stores, and speciality shops, while many recommend taking a visit to see famous Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens.

Day 7: Provincetown: ‘P-Town’

A seaside town which has been attracting visitors since the 1940’s, Provincetown, Massachusetts offers a range of experiences to enjoy on your seventh expedition day.

Enjoy a unique perspective of the town while on a trolley tour, whilst also setting aside time to explore a few of Provincetown’s many galleries and restaurants. Why not take a leisurely stroll to the Cape Cod National Seashore to discover its pristine sand dunes, with travellers having the opportunity to take part in an exhilarating dune buggy ride while here. The Stellwagen Bank National Marine Sanctuary is also a must-visit on this stop, with the sanctuary being known to attract 17 different species of cetacean.

Day 8: Marthas Vineyard – The Noepe- Land between the Streams

Marthas Vineyard offers the opportunity to experience both the outstanding Massachusetts coastline, along with one of New England’s most historic ports. The idyllic sandy beaches of Marthas Vineyard provide a breathtaking backdrop, while isolated lighthouses and grand mansions can be found on the shores and streets respectively.

There’s so much to see and do in this area. Take a trip to see wildlife reserves, lush farmland, historic monuments, and fishing villages set against the rolling sand dunes. You’re never far from the sea here, with fishing boats, stylish marinas, and enticing seafood restaurants everywhere you look.

Day 9: Revolutionary Boston 

Your expedition adventure unfortunately concludes in the historic city of Boston, the capital of Massachusetts. If you have time while here, there is so much for you to experience. Visit the site of the famous Tea Party and walk the Freedom Trail to discover the city’s revolutionary role in shaping modern-day America.

Indulge in the city’s culinary classics including steaming bowls of seafood chowder and fried clams, while also making the most of the inviting bars which are scattered around the city. Experience the city’s outstanding colonial-era and revolutionary history, or alternatively visit some of the most respected and influential universities in the world.

Hotel

• Overnight in Halifax before the expedition cruise, including breakfast

Transfers

• Transfer from the hotel to the ship in Halifax, including an excursion, before the expedition cruise

Expedition Cruise

• A stay in a cabin of your choice
• Breakfast, lunch and dinner including beverages* in restaurants Aune and Fredheim
• À la carte restaurant Lindstrøm included for suite guests
• Complimentary tea and coffee
• Complimentary Wi-Fi on board†
• Complimentary reusable water bottle
• English-speaking Expedition Team who organise and accompany activities on board and ashore
• Range of included activities

Onboard Activities

• In-depth lectures and discussions hosted by experts on the Expedition Team
• Full use of our Science Centre, extensive library and advanced biological and geological equipment
• Citizen Science Programme where you can assist with ongoing scientific research
• Photography tips and techniques for capturing landscape and wildlife from our onboard professional photographer
• Use of ship’s hot tubs, infinity pool, panoramic sauna, outdoor and indoor gyms, and running track
• Informal gatherings with the crew for daily briefings

Landing Activities

• Escorted landings with small expedition boats
• Loan of trekking poles and all equipment for activities
• Complimentary wind- and water-resistant expedition jacket
• Expedition photographers on hand to assist you

Notes

• All planned activities are subject to weather and ice conditions
• Excursions and activities are subject to change
• Please make sure you meet all entry and boarding requirements
• No gratuities expected

What’s not included

• International flights
• Travel insurance
• Luggage handling
• Optional shore excursions with our local partners
• Optional small-group activities with our Expedition Team
• Optional treatments in the onboard wellness and spa area

MS Roald Amundsen