The Cruise Explorer

Cruises on eastern Canada’s Saint Lawrence River are quite limited at the moment, but a new group aims to change that. Cruise the Saint Lawrence, a non profit association with 25 members representing 9 ports of call, is marketing primarily to cruise lines, travel agents and media representatives. The group’s initial efforts are focused on creating the Cruise the Saint Lawrence brand; promoting the St Lawrence River as an untouched, unmatched, unforgettable destination; and, marketing a network of ports which boast a diversity of tourist experiences. Their key marketing points include: the Saint Lawrence River as a unique waterway with a complex ecosystem, glacier-carved landscapes, numerous parks, journey into history, remarkable cities, French-language culture, First Nations presence, ecotourism, captivating excursions and a tradition of hospitality.

The ports of call included in this promotion are:

• Québec
• Montréal
• Saguenay
• Trois-Rivières
• Baie-Comeau
• Havre-Saint-Pierre
• Sept-Îles
• Gaspésie
• the Iles de la Madeleine

This year, the busy “Fall Colours” cruise season on the Saint Lawrence River begins on September 9th with the arrival of the Queen Mary 2 at Québec. The Crystal Symphony is the last ship, leaving Québec on October 24th.

Royal Caribbean International is putting the “Marry” in Maritime, as hundreds of couples re-pledge their love for one another simultaneously onboard a romantic Mexican Riviera cruise vacation.

Join a bevy of blushing brides and gorgeous grooms onboard Radiance of the Seas as Royal Caribbean attempts to break the record for the largest ever vow renewal at sea. Enjoy couples workshops; compete against other husbands and wives in fun, interactive contests like no other; take dance classes and learn to ignite the dance floor and your passions once again with your long-time lover.

This is all happening on a 7-Night Mexican Riviera sailing of the Radiance of the Seas, departing from San Diego on March 5, 2010. You’ll visit Puerto Vallarta, Mazatlan and Cabo San Lucas before returning to San Diego, and fares for balcony staterooms start at just $679! For more information, see this poster.