St Lawrence Cruise Lines has celebrated its 40-year history of river cruising with a special anniversary cruise for just 40 people, most of whom had previously travelled with the cruise line.
The five-day voyage from 27 September to 1 October passed through the Thousand Islands and St Lawrence Seaway with an itinerary that celebrated the rich history of the company and the launch of the small ship Canadian Empress, pictured, in 1981.
“We believe that it is important to pay tribute to the origins of the company, including the construction of the Canadian Empress in Gananoque, as well as our first voyages through the Thousand Islands on the St Lawrence River. This anniversary cruise gives us a chance to do that,” said company president, Jason Clark.
The Ontario voyage from home port Kingston to Morrisburg featured unique stops for afternoon tea at Cosies Tea Room in Brockville, a celebratory dinner at the Harvest Barn at Upper Canada Village and a dedication ceremony for the Canadian Empress on 1 October at the Islands Boat Museum in Gananoque.
Her classic riverboat style is combined with modern technology to provide all of the safety, comfort, and amenities expected by today’s travellers.
St Lawrence Cruise Lines operates calm water overnight cruises on the St Lawrence and Ottawa Rivers, with departures from Kingston, Ottawa and Quebec City.
Canadian Empress, which can carry up to 66 guests, travels exclusively in Canadian waters, making overnight stops at select ports in Ontario and Quebec.