CANADA & NEW ENGLAND DISCOVERY CRUISE
MS VOLENDON, HOLLAND AMERICA
MONTREAL TO BOSTON
Itinerary
Transfer to your hotel located in the heart of the city, not far from the banks of the Yukon River. Whitehorse is small and easy to explore on foot or by vehicle. Later in the evening we set out to the Aurora Centre where we’ll seek the sight of northern lights. Overnight at hotel in Whitehorse
The Northern Lights
The Northern Lights are the result of collisions between gaseous particles in the Earth’s atmosphere with charged particles released from the sun’s atmosphere. “Aurora borealis”, the lights of the northern hemisphere, means”dawn of the north”. In Roman myths, Aurora was the goddess of the dawn. Many cultural groups have legends about the lights. Many beliefs around the northern lights see the phenomena as a good omen.
Highlights
In the late morning you will discover the sights of Whitehorse, historic and yet trendy, on a 90 minute city tour with character. Visit the SS Klondike National Historic Site; among the last of the great paddle wheelers that plied the Yukon River system until the 1950’s, the Old Log Church; the oldest building in Whitehorse, the unique Log Cabin Skyscraper; a three story tower made completely out of logs. And when you’ve seen all these top sites, Main Street is perfect for strolling and shopping with its shops galleries and café’s.
The SS Klondike National Historic Site
Visit the SS Klondike, one of Canada’s few remaining steam-powered paddle wheelers, and learn how life on the rivers of the Yukon has changed over time. Long before and after the first steam-powered riverboat travelled up the Yukon River, Indigenous peoples have travelled the riverways of the Yukon. The arrival of paddle wheelers in the 1860s brought change to the territory, carrying
newcomers and their ways of life, and until 1950 the riverboats continued to serve as the main link between the Yukon and the outside world.
Afternoon is free for optional sightseeing and touring.
After a relaxed dinner in Whitehorse, you’ll be back on the road again, this time to seek views of the stunning Northern Lights. Relax in sheltered comfort, or under the starry sky beside a warm fire at one of our tailor-made aurora viewing locations. Overnight Hotel in Whitehorse.
Highlights
In the summer season you have the option to try one of the many Yukon SUMMER activities. Whitehorse offers a wide range of exciting summer activities that allow you to immerse yourself in the beauty and adventure of the Yukon. You have the option to hop on a wildlife, hiking or canoeing tour. Whether you’re looking for outdoor exploration, relaxation, or cultural experiences, there’s something for everyone. You may also enjoy the Hot spring pools both in the summer or winter
In the winter season you have the option to try one of the many Yukon WINTER activities. You’ll get the chance to experience Jack London’s Yukon while experiencing the region’s most popular sport, dog sledding! After a detailed safety briefing and hooking up the dogs, you’ll soon be on your way along the shores of a frozen alpine lake, surrounded by snowy mountains. Buck and White Fang will spring to mind as you feel the power and endurance of the loveable Alaskan huskies, with their steamy breath curling above their ears and the hiss of the sled whisking over the trail.
Day free for Optional sightseeing and touring.
Later in the evening we set out once more to the Aurora Centre where we’ll seek the sight of northern lights. Overnight Hotel in Whitehorse.
Highlights
Bid farewell to Whitehorse and transfer to airport for your flight to Vancouver for overnight
Highlights
Post breakfast, take a departure transfer from your Hotel to the Vancouver airport to fly to Yellowknife. Upon arrival at Yellowknife Airport, a designated vehicle will transfer you to the hotel for check-in, where a staff member will provide a brief introduction. You may rest at the hotel or choose to explore the city on your own.
After dinner, meet at the designated time in the hotel lobby to embark on your Aurora viewing tour.
The Northern Lights
The Northern Lights are the result of collisions between gaseous particles in the Earth’s atmosphere with charged particles released from the sun’s atmosphere. “Aurora borealis”, the lights of the northern hemisphere, means “dawn of the north”. In Roman myths, Aurora was the goddess of the dawn. Many cultural groups have legends about the lights. Many beliefs around the northern lights see the phenomena as a good omen.
The Arctic Ice House, designed to resemble an Eskimo igloo and made from 166 glass panels, offers a panoramic view of the starry sky. You can freely take photos of the breathtaking view.
You will also have the opportunity to try on warm clothing and snow boots in Winter (free rental).
In the cozy log cabin, you can enjoy coffee, tea, snacks, and more, while waiting for the Northern Lights to appear. Don’t forget to bring your camera to capture the dazzling dance of the Aurora when it appears! The cabin provides coffee, tea, hot soup, and other snacks.
Highlights
Today, we have arranged an approximately two hour city tour of Yellowknife
Highlights
Pilot’s Monument, Legislative Assembly, Museum of Indigenous People, Visitor Center
Pilots Monument is the highest point in Yellowknife, offering a bird’s-eye view of the city and Great Slave Lake. It was built in memory of the pilots who sacrificed their lives while flying over the vast Northwest Territories.
The Legislative Assembly is the political center of the Northwest Territories. This is where the chiefs of various Indigenous tribes meet. If a session is in progress, you can observe the meeting on the second floor.
This museum showcases the detailed lifestyle of the Indigenous people and offers an introduction to the environment and resources of the Northwest Territories.
And the Visitor Centre is the best place to purchase local souvenirs.
After dinner, meet at the designated time in the hotel lobby to embark on your Aurora viewing tour
Highlights
During the day, you have the following attractions to visit if you’re interested
Diamond Center – In addition to the Aurora, Yellowknife in the Northwest Territories is also a renowned diamond-producing area in Canada. We will take you to visit the mining exhibition hall to learn about the knowledge and artistry of diamond cutting.
Fur Exhibit – Hunting is a traditional lifestyle of the Indigenous people. This place showcases their hunting achievements.
Today is a free day for you to explore and choose to participate in Optional Summer or Winter activities. If you choose to participate in the Great Slave Lake fishing or canoeing activities (at your own expense), please gather at the hotel lobby at the designated time to meet with the local Indigenous guides and head to the lake. Board a boat to venture deep into the lake, where you can take in the vast landscape, see seagulls take flight, and watch wild ducks startled by the boat’s movement. Pay close attention to the islands you pass by, where sled dogs waiting for winter are seen on the island’s resorts. Take a break from the fast pace of city life and relax in the tranquil nature. Great Slave Lake is the second-largest lake in Canada and also the deepest lake in Canada The famous Great Slave Lake pike and whitefish are some of the most beloved foods for people living in Yellowknife. After the boat ride, you’ll reach an island, where you can join the optional activity of ice fishing (limited spaces, please book in advance).
Today, you may also explore the town at your leisure. The town has many unique shops, and Bullocks’ Bistro is a well-known, authentic restaurant in Yellowknife, similar to a home-style private restaurant. The most popular dish is their signature fried fish. Though the space is limited, it provides a cozy and intimate atmosphere. As a famous restaurant in town, Bullocks’ Bistro always attracts a large crowd. People love to savor their freshly caught and fried fish, and their unique sauce adds a distinct flavor. The presentation of the dishes is thoughtful and refined. You can also purchase local souvenirs or opt for snow activities at your own expense. If interested, you can visit the museum or the Legislative Assembly, both great places to learn about the local Indigenous culture.
After dinner, gather at the hotel lobby at the designated time and board the vehicle for your Aurora tour. In the warm log cabin, you can enjoy coffee, tea, snacks, and more while waiting for the Aurora to appear. Don’t forget to bring your camera to capture the dazzling dance of the Northern Lights when they appear! The cabin offers coffee, tea, hot soup, and other snacks.
Highlights
Bid farewell Yellowknife and transfer to airport for your flight to Calgary