Itinerary and Pricing Small-Ship Expedition Cruise
Sable Island, Cape Breton, Newfoundland, and the Magdalen Islands: Atlantic Island Odyssey

Day 1: St. John’s, NL, Canada
Begin Your Adventure

Welcome to St. John’s—the vibrant capital of Newfoundland and Labrador.

Board the Ocean Endeavour for an evening departure and sail out of the historic port, looking out for Signal Hill as you exit the world-famous Narrows.

The charming houses of the Battery are always a hit with shutterbugs. Watch for icebergs, whales, and seabirds as you sail!

Day 2: At Sea
Learn On Board

Listen to stories of the fascinating history and ecology of Sable Island as you sail towards its sandy shores.

Enjoy workshops and presentations, watch a documentary, and get your binoculars ready to watch for marine mammals and seabirds in the rich waters of the northwest Atlantic.

Day 3–5: Sable Island, NS
See World-Famous Wild Horses

Be among the lucky few to set foot on Sable Island, a sandbar as long as Manhattan, but only about a kilometre wide.

See the world-famous Sable Island wild horses, the largest grey seal colony in the world, and its many varieties of birds—including the endemic Ipswich Sparrow.

Hike the island’s sand dunes, take a Zodiac cruise along its shores, and learn first-hand about its fascinating human history.

Due to the unique weather conditions here, we’ll maximize opportunities for you to explore.

Day 6: The Gully Marine Protected Area
Search for Whales and Dolphins

Sail through the Gully, a marine protected area where the sea floor plunges two and a half kilometres into a submarine valley; it’s one of the most prominent undersea features in eastern Canada.

Learn about the significant coral communities and diversity of shallow and deep-water fish here, which draw whales and dolphins.

Join our on board researchers out on deck to scan the waves for exciting sightings and to appreciate this abundance of marine life!

Day 7: Cape Breton Island & Bird Islands
Enjoy Birdwatching & Zodiac Cruising

Immerse yourself in Cape Breton Island's natural history, from its diverse habitats and wildlife to its rugged landscape formed by geological forces. Explore the island's unique cultural landscape, shaped by Mi'kmaq, Scottish, and Acadian people. Discover the island's boreal forests and wetlands, home to majestic moose, black bears, and bald eagles.

Take a Zodiac cruise around Bird Islands, a critical seabird nesting and breeding area with Canada's largest colony of great cormorants. Watch for black-legged kittiwakes, razorbills, Atlantic puffins, black guillemots, and even Leach's storm petrels.

Day 8: Chéticamp
Hike the Cape Breton Highlands

Call in at the fishing village of Chéticamp on the western shore of Cape Breton Island. Enjoy the busy fishing harbour, rug-hooking museum, shops, and restaurants that all offer a taste of true Acadian heritage.

Hike the spectacular Skyline Trail at nearby Cape Breton Highlands National Park, world-renowned for its wildlife and scenery of rugged highlands and wind-swept coasts.

Day 9: Charlottetown, PEI
Step into the Past and Savour the Present

Enjoy your free time while exploring Charlottetown. Wander through the historic downtown area, where the Charlottetown Conference took place and Canada's Constitution was born. Treat yourself to the best of local cuisine, including fresh seafood, produce, and craft beer, and experience the friendly charm of the locals.

You could also opt for a guided cultural tour at Lennox Island Mi’kmaq First Nation. Learn the art of crafting beaded jewellery and woven baskets, make traditional bannock bread, and listen to stories passed down through generations.

Day 10: Les Îles-de-la-Madeleine, QC
Revel in Acadian Culture

Spend the day exploring the robust Acadian heritage, culture, cuisine, and language of Les Îles-de-la-Madeleine (the Magdalen Islands).

Admire the striking red sandstone cliffs that, although a part of Québec, are in fact geographically closer to Nova Scotia and Prince Edward Island.

Meet some of the 12,000 or so friendly residents who call this archipelago home and be sure to browse the shops and restaurants for handicrafts, seafood, local wines, and beers!

Day 11: Francois, NL
Kick up a Jig at a Kitchen Party

Experience the warm hospitality and adventurous spirit of Francois, Newfoundland—a quaint and picturesque fishing village, with colourful homes and buildings that offer visitors a glimpse into Newfoundland's coastal lifestyle.

Explore the town, and hike to stunning lookout points and waterfalls. A day in Francois will stimulate your soul and remind you of the importance of good neighbours, stories, and music.

After a day of adventure, head to the community hall for an oversized kitchen party with treats, drinks, and dancing. Rediscover a bit of your own spirit, through the essence of Newfoundland's culture in this charming and resilient community.

Day 12: Saint-Pierre, France
Wave a Fond Farewell

Say your farewells to Atlantic Canada in the colourful town of Saint-Pierre, a delightful finale to your trip. Just off the shores of Newfoundland, lie the islands of Saint-Pierre and Miquelon—an official territory of the French Republic.

Take a glimpse at the charming colourful houses with wooden balconies and narrow cobblestone streets as you disembark and head on your bus tour to the airport for your charter flight to St. John's, NL.