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PACIFIC PLEASURES
Canada's signature cruise is undoubtedly the
west coast one that traces the British
Columbian shoreline from mid-April
through October. Since it covers a hefty
portion of the so-called Alaska Route,
stunning vistas are guaranteed. Indeed, few
sea-going experiences can compare with
threading the island-studded Inside Passage,
where snow-crowned mountains, glacier-
carved fjords and abundant marine life vie
for attention. Luckily, the ports you visit en
route are as appealing as the sights you see
from your deck chair.
Take Vancouver, the nation's busiest
home port. This year, more than 300 cruise
ships are expected to call at the Port of
Vancouver, representing approximately an
eight percent increase in cruise ship visits
from 2019. New ships to Vancouver include
the National Geographic Orion, Norwegian
Spirit and Quantum of the Seas. However, this
vibrant city isn't just a convenient embarka-
tion point. It delivers a full slate of urban
Cruising
in Canada:
Bon Voyage
BY SUSAN MACCALLUM-WHITCOMB
TORONTO HARBOUR, ON • SHUTTERSTOCK/JAMES WHEELER
Instagrammable scenery? Check. Intriguing
ports of call that promise unique sites and
excursions? Check. How about a wide variety of
vessels and up-to-date facilities? Cruise ship
passengers in Canada can tick those boxes, too.
Factor in the endless on-the-water options
available in a country that boasts Great Lakes,
mighty rivers, plus three oceans and it's easy to
see why this place adds up to one incredible
cruising destination.
