Newfoundland & Legendary Labrador (12 Days) 

     Your tour begins in St. John's, the capital city for the Province of Newfoundland and Labrador, and one of the oldest port communities in North America. Newfoundland and Labrador is a pristine region rich with native wildlife, significant history and distinct culture. Discover this eastern coast of Canada, with its dramatic shoreline abundant with puffins and whales and its fascinating stories of early explorers. A unique blend of nature, history and old-world charm combine to create an amazing learning experience. Humpback whales, a Viking village and warm-hearted people welcome you to this coastal delight.

     Set sail on a nature cruise to Witless Bay Ecological Reserve. Millions of Atlantic Puffins gather here, making it the largest Atlantic Puffin sanctuary in North America. Thousands of humpback and minke whales also make this their home. Continue with a sightseeing tour of St. John's and its harbor. Later, a staff member leads a special tour of the Geo Centre. Glimpse what lies beyond our planet, in the far reaches of outer space, where science reveals how our Earth's future is unfolding. (B,D)

     Travel along the Trans-Canada Highway to Grand Falls. This afternoon you will visit the Salmonid Interpretive Center and learn about the life cycle of the Atlantic Salmon. This evening you are welcome to participate in a traditional Newfoundland "Mug Up," where you join local residents and listen to folklore stories of Newfoundland. (B,D)

     Continue west on the Trans Canada Highway to Shallow Bay in the heart of Gros Morne National Park. Many natural vistas await you as you begin traveling through this most fascinating geological wonder. (B,D)

     Meet a Park Ranger at Gros Morne National Park and learn about the parks inclusion as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. See natural forces of glaciers and shifting continental plates and how they have shaped a landscape, creating mountains ten times older than the Canadian Rockies. Travel deep into the park and explore the hidden fjords, stark mountains and dense forest of Atlantic Canada's largest park. Enjoy a short cruise to Lobster Cove Head Lighthouse. (B)

     Travel along the Viking Trail to visit the point where Leif Erickson landed in 1000 AD at L'Anse aux Meadows. See how Newfoundlanders have tamed this stark, forbidding landscape. Experience first hand their unique solutions to living in this area of extreme weather conditions. (B,D)

     A morning ferry ride across the Straits of Belle Isle takes you to the mainland of Southern Labrador. Enjoy a picturesque ride past colorful fishing villages while learning the history and importance of whaling to this region. The Vikings were the first Europeans to land in North America, but a few centuries later the Basques arrived here for the whaling opportunities. Their Labrador port, now the community of Red Bay, is home to an interpretation center where you can explore this corner of the 16th century Basques world. With a population of just under 300, Red Bay offers visitors a unique glimpse into a bygone era. Tonight enjoy a group dinner of local cuisine. (B,D)

     Take the ferry back to Newfoundland this morning and embark on a drive along the scenic Viking Trail. Later today follow the route which James Cook took in 1770 when he created the "General Chart of the Island" which outlined the river systems of the Province. This evening, the "Sharecroppers", a well-known trio from the Corner Brook area, will delight you with songs about their Newfoundland & Labrador heritage. (B,D)

     This morning travel to beautiful Lark Harbour. Take in the beauty of Bottle Cove and visit the bustling fishing station at Little Port. From there you will travel through central Newfoundland to the Exploits Valley. This evening enjoy a traditional Newfoundland meal. (B,D)

     This morning you will visit the North Atlantic Aviation Museum of Gander before making your way to the Mary March Provincial Museum to learn about the Beothuck heritage. Later, visit the nearby Twillingate, a quaint town with a famous lighthouse that overlooks picturesque Notre Dame Bay. Be on the lookout - you may spot icebergs and whales as they move down Iceberg Alley. (B)

     Explore Terra Nova National Park, a National Historic Site, created to protect 250 square miles of boreal forest, coastline and Newfoundland's natural habitat. Later enjoy a visit to the quaint village of Petty Harbour where you will have the opportunity to view the colorful village and narrow streets. Arrive in Cape Spear, home to a lighthouse on "the most easterly point in North America." Tonight, enjoy a special farewell dinner. (B,D)

     Your tour ends, leaving you with many pleasant memories of a wonderful vacation.