Issue link: http://read.canadatravelguides.ca/i/1520274
36 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. In 2023, a new arrival record was made, as the Port of Vancouver welcomed an average 1.25 million passengers. The cruise season started with the first ship of the season, the Disney Wonder, which entered the port on March 11 th in Vancouver. The Norwegian Bliss, the largest ship to visit Canada Place arrived soon after. However, this vibrant city isn't just a convenient embarkation point. It delivers a full slate of urban enticements: top-rated restaurants, theatres and oh-so- trendy shops among them, along with easy access to the area's parks and peaks. Victoria, meanwhile, mixes a "high tea" tradition with high adventure opportunities. If you really want to go wild, eco-oriented outfits like Maple Leaf Adventures, Bluewater Adventures, and Outer Shores Expeditions all have sailings that include Haida Gwaii, "The Galápagos of the North." ATLANTIC IDYLLS On the opposite side of the country, historic communities, towering tides and legendary Maritime hospitality make the Canada/New England Route another classic choice from mid-April to early November. The scenery does not disappoint, especially in autumn when forests blaze with brilliant foliage; nor do the distinctive ports. Leading the list in passenger traffic is Halifax (coincidentally, Cruising in Canada: Bon Voyage BY SUSAN MACCALLUM-WHITCOMB SYDNEY, NS • TOURISM NOVA SCOTIA/CINQ FOURCHETTES, NANCY BORDELEAU 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.