st lawrence cruise lines reviews

Canadian Empress Review

Canadian Empress is a riverboat that, while built in 1981, attempts to replicate a Victorian era atmosphere. And it works, not just in decor but in onboard ambiance, ultimately offering a cruise experience that for most of us -- particularly big ship ocean-cruising aficionados -- could seem somewhat precious and quaint.

But wait. You may be in for a very pleasant surprise. True, Canadian Empress, which hails from the one-ship (and family-owned and -operated) St. Lawrence Cruise Lines, isn't fancy. Cabins have no balconies, marble bathrooms with fancy amenities (bring your own shampoo) or in-cabin televisions. In fact, you have to book pretty early just to get a cabin with a double bed (aside from a handful that are so equipped, otherwise, all cabins have single beds). Meals are a communal -- though casual -- affair; dining is at set hours and you order off a set menu (with at most two entree choices) though you can choose your tablemates. And entertainment is provided -- not by casino or elaborate lounge acts -- but, as befits the ship's laidback atmosphere -- by a series of performers, ranging from a musicians to a comedian/songster that hold forth for two hours each night in the grand salon (dining room-reading room-show lounge-bar).

On Canadian Empress, the real focus was on our destinations -- on our trip the ship sailed the venerable St. Lawrence Seaway, which straddles Ontario and Quebec, Canada, and New York State. There was much emphasis on educational touring. Beyond that, crew worked very hard -- and it must be said succeeded mightily! -- in creating a wonderful onboard camaraderie for people who genuinely want to mix-n-mingle. So while a trip on Canadian Empress might not be a great choice for solitude seekers or honeymooners (or young kids), it's a marvelous experience for those who really want to learn something from the cruise they take -- and make some lifelong friends in the bargain.

Canadian Empress sails two- to six-night itineraries between May - October along the St. Laurence Seaway cruise. Starting ports include Kingston, Montreal and Quebec City.

Fellow Passengers

Passengers by and large hailed from Canada or the U.S. (with a few Germans and Britons in the mix). Most were well traveled and, age-wise, well past retirement. Interestingly, many of them were devoted river cruisers who'd never even considered travel on a contemporary ocean-going cruise ship.

St. Lawrence Canadian Empress Dress Code

There's really no dress code - casual wear is the watchword. There are no formal nights though people did dress a bit more spiffy (business casual) on the cruise's last evening.

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Peak Colors

many 10+ Cruises

The St Lawrence River from Quebec to Kingston

Perfect for Very First Cruise Ever!

one First Time Cruiser

Beyond Expectations - Wonderful Journey!

few 6-10 Cruises

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Saint Lawrence River Cruises & Tours

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• Ponant   -  the sole French flagged cruise line, navigates the Saint Lawrence Seaway, a network of lakes, canals, and locks connecting Lake Ontario to the St. Lawrence River. Voyages include transports to and from the  Le Bellot ship, professional Smithsonian lectures and discussions on board, and a shore excursion in each port of call. 
• American Queen Voyages  - offers Saint Lawrence Seaway cruises that take you to the stunning Atlantic coast onboard Ocean Voyager .   Explore British Strongholds, New England colonies, tiny French Canadian villages, Victorian-era cities rich in marine history, and remote islands with outstanding wildlife watching and fascinating local cultures.
• Adventure Canada   - has been taking visitors to unique destinations like the Saint Lawrence River for over 30 years. Enjoy a Zodiac sail around Quebec's Percé Rock, learn about the region's French cultures, and sample the local cuisine aboard Ocean Endeavour  while meeting the fishermen and farmers who make it all possible.
• Halifax: A blend of modern and historic meet in the beautiful seaport capital of Nova Scotia. Visit the Public Gardens, walk to Citadel Hill, or simply enjoy its bustling streets.
• Montreal: French in style, this port city offers visitors the chance to explore trendy neighborhoods, and iconic architectural and urban features such as Mount Royal Park, St-Denis Street, and the gothic beauty of the Basilica of Notre Dame de Montreal. 
• Quebec: Marvel at this city’s skyline with the iconic Fairmont Le Chateau Frontenac at its heart, explore Quebec’s World Heritage Old Town and discover the city’s impressive 19th-century Citadelle.
• Trois-Rivieres: Advantageously located between Quebec and Montreal, this small city has a beautiful historic quartier and natural surroundings that make it a perfect place to go walking and sightseeing 
• Saguenay: A favorite spot for explorers as it is surrounded by three national parks, the famous Saguenay fjord, and an estuary inhabited by a large colony of whales such as blue, fin, and beluga. 
• Baie-Comeau: This beautiful town is known to be a port for luxury cruises that stop to discover its forestry, hydraulic dams, and touristic activities. 
• Sept-Iles: Rich in culture and nature, the home of the Innu people gives visitors the opportunity to learn about their traditions and to explore the breathtaking natural landscapes that surround it. 
• Tadoussac: This colorful town full of history and surrounded by rich forests is also home to one of the oldest holiday resorts in North America, 100-year old Hotel Tadoussac.
• Percé and Gaspé: Percé Rock and the Gulf of Saint Lawrence provide visitors with astonishing views that can be enjoyed through hikes and other activities. Explore this area’s cultural, natural,  and geological wonders, as well as the beautiful towns of Percé and Gaspé, considered some of the most beautiful in Quebec. 
• Charlottetown: The capital city of Prince Edward Island, also known as the “Birthplace of Confederation”, or modern-day Canada, will charm visitors with its picturesque streets and parks. Discover its thriving cultural scene and friendly community. 
• Cap-aux-Meules: Located in the island of the same name, this picturesque town surrounded by wonderful nature is also the archipelago’s commercial center and gateway to the region's most beautiful sites, such as the renowned town of Havre-Aubert. 
• Baddeck: A UNESCO Biosphere Reserve where explorers can admire endless forests, beautiful lakes, and impressive geological features such as gorges and cliffs. 
• Louisbourg: This charming town is home to the renowned Fortress of Louisbourg, a restored historical site that takes visitors back to how life was in 18th-century Canada. 
• Lunenburg: Known for its colonial architecture and colorful houses, the World-Heritage old town of Lunenburg will captivate those who visit it. 

Top Saint Lawrence River Travel Destinations

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