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Québec/New Brunswick/Nova Scotia

On the Road: Québec City to the Canadian Maritimes

Program No. 21432RJ
Explore historic Québec City, visit the Maritime Museum of the Atlantic and learn the story of French Canada as you venture from Québec to the Maritimes by train and motorcoach.

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At a Glance

Embark on a journey through eastern Canada by train and motorcoach reveling in the charm of Québec and the Maritimes. Setting off from Quebec City aboard the “Ocean,” ride the rails overnight through the lower St. Lawrence River valley to Moncton, New Brunswick. There, disembark and venture by motorcoach through New Brunswick to Prince Edward Island and Halifax, experiencing the natural beauty of the Bay of Fundy and the unique culture of the Canadian Maritimes.
Activity Level
On Your Feet
While in Quebec City; walking up 3-4 miles over the course of the day on uneven surfaces, cobblestones and many steep hills. Stairs will be encountered throughout the program, some without railings, periods of standing. Sleeping arrangements on overnight train include bunk beds in close confines requiring the use of a ladder to reach the top bunk. Travel by motorcoach between 130-200 miles daily over the course of 2-4 hours.

Best of all, you’ll…

  • Discuss the history, settlement and cultural significance of French Canada with local experts while discovering 400-year-old Québec City.
  • Discover the dynamic nature of coastal sand dune ecosystems in Prince Edward Island National Park.
  • In the Maritime Museum of the Atlantic in Halifax, survey the maritime history of Atlantic Canada, from the age of steamships to the Royal Canadian Navy to Nova Scotia's role in the aftermath of the Titanic.

General Notes

Select dates are designated for small groups and are limited to 24 participants or less.
Featured Expert
All trip experts
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James White
James (Jay) White is an expert in history, having earned his PhD in Canadian History from McMaster University in 1994. After a two-year stint at Western Washington University, Jay migrated home to Nova Scotia where he has lived ever since, teaching a variety of historical subjects. He even instructed members of the Canadian Armed Forces in military history. In his free time, he enjoys hiking and photography, is a Toronto Blue Jays and Montreal Canadiens fan, and is of Loyalist and Acadian descent.

Please note: This expert may not be available for every date of this program.

Profile Image of James White
James White View biography
James (Jay) White is an expert in history, having earned his PhD in Canadian History from McMaster University in 1994. After a two-year stint at Western Washington University, Jay migrated home to Nova Scotia where he has lived ever since, teaching a variety of historical subjects. He even instructed members of the Canadian Armed Forces in military history. In his free time, he enjoys hiking and photography, is a Toronto Blue Jays and Montreal Canadiens fan, and is of Loyalist and Acadian descent.
Profile Image of Cameron MacDonald
Cameron MacDonald View biography
Cameron Bennett MacDonald was born in Charlottetown, as a 9th generation Islander. Being between the theatre and history of the Island his entire childhood, it only made sense that Cameron joined the Confederation players in 2013, a historical reenactment troupe. The troupe combined a knowledge of history and group leading experience, with a theatrical side as well, a job to honor both his parents. As the troupe’s artistic supervisor, he writes historical vignettes and shares his knowledge with those around him.
Profile Image of Francois Vidal
Francois Vidal View biography
François Vidal was born in Québec City, where he spent years studying theatre and travel. He frequently combines his education with his love for Québec City and its rich history, performing in numerous educational theatrical productions. François has been an educational interpreter in Québec City since 2009 and is well-known for his personification of historical figures including a recent production in which he portrayed General Montcalm from the French-Indian War. François displays a keen interest in the architecture, culture and lifestyle in Québec City.
Profile Image of Philippe Theriault
Philippe Theriault View biography
Philippe Theriault has been a group leader in India, the Middle East, Asia, Europe, and the Americas for 30 years. He has a background in anthropology and history, and is an expert in generalizing history to help people understand local cultures and traditions. When asked to comment on his experiences while traveling, Philippe quotes Marcel Proust: “helping people discover a new place or a new culture is also a way of opening their eyes to the joy of living and to the art of travel.”
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