The brand-new Canadian firm, MS Croisières Jacques-Cartier, Inc. that announced in December 2016 plans to start up a cruise line for the St. Lawrence River Valley and the Great Lakes has revealed a sampling of 6-, 8-, and 10-day itineraries for its inaugural 2018 season. Cruises embark in Québec, Trois Rivières, Montréal, and Toronto.
One itinerary cruises the river’s islands and the Saguenay Fjord from Québec City, while another emphasizes lighthouse visits. A third route sails up the St. Lawrence Seaway, passing through locks into Lake Ontario with a call at Toronto.
Some excursions, many led by specialists, will be soft-adventure-style via kayaks and Zodiacs from the 68-passenger ship. Ashore nature hikes, geocaching and visits to historic heights will be offered. The former excursion vessel is owned by the Harvey family who is spending over $6 million to convert the MS Jacques-Cartier into an overnight cruise ship.
Outside cabins will measure 160, 201, 223, and 278 square feet with double occupancy and some rooms available for up to four. The ship will be equipped with massage treatments, a sauna and three on-deck hot tubs.
Category 3 cabin with French balcony.
Cruises will be French-speaking with what the website says is English language support. The Harvey family has owned and operated ships locally for over 100 years.
For more details: https://www.msjacquescartier.com/en/
HEIDI SARNA
