Canada New England Discovery 2024

Dear Quilters and Friends,

We are excited to travel back to Canada and New England again in October of 2024 from Boston to Quebec City! Join us for this special seven day sailing where we will cruise on Holland America Line’s wonderful Vista Class ship, the Zuiderdam. You’ll be part of a warm group of fun-loving people sharing a common interest in quilting, and have an opportunity to make new friends, one quilter at a time!

Our classes are held during “at sea” days and we make every attempt to schedule classes outside of port time. There are a variety of classes from which to choose, taught by two renown instructors in the world of quilting: Chardel Blaine and Kathy K Wylie!

There’s something wonderful awaiting you in every port of call! You can play tourist, choosing your pleasure whether it be walking, touring or shopping! Onboard ship you will have the opportunity to perfect your quilting skills with our class choices from two fabulous teachers, as well as myriad opportunities for “SEWCIALIZING” with other people who all share your love of quilting!

Boston – Before you set out on your cruise from Boston, take in the city’s many attractions. Meander the streets to find historic wonders and modern neighborhoods; stores and restaurants with old-time character; and generous green spaces alongside a beautiful waterfront. See legendary figures come alive at buildings and attractions on the Freedom Trail, including the Paul Revere House and Old South Meeting House, and in Lexington and Concord just outside. Boston neighborhoods have big personalities. Catch street performers in Cambridge’s Harvard Square, do a food tour of the North End’s Little Italy, and then admire the 19-century architecture of Beacon Hill.

Eastport – Explore the shops and galleries along historic Water Street. Chat with a visiting artist-in-residence at StudioWorks. Enjoy a tasty sandwich and brew with a view at Horn Run Brewing. Work off that hearty breakfast with a scenic hike at Shackford State Park or take the water taxi to enjoy a hike on peaceful Treat Island, enjoying beautiful water views along the way.

Halifax – Nova Scotia’s provincial capital—is defined by its maritime geography. It’s a spirited mix of world-class history and nautical-themed museums alongside bunkers and fortresses that guarded the harbor, plus striking public art and sights, funky shops and excellent pubs serving up folk music (and good pints). Explore the Halifax waterfront where steamships once anchored to drop off arriving immigrants at Pier 21. Along Nova Scotia’s southern shores, the city is surrounded by lush greenery and charming villages that are worth the trip from downtown proper. Snap photos of attractions in the charming fishing village, Peggy’s Cove, with its picturesque lighthouse on a rocky outcropping. Or wander the streets of Lunenburg, whose colorful Old Town is designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site. You can also soak in the charms and sights of Mahone Bay, home to artists’ studios and a trio of steepled churches.

Sydney – Sydney’s attractions start at the harbor, where visitors can shop for locally made crafts and see the world’s largest fiddle, which towers beside the port’s cruise pavilion. Some of the city’s historic houses and churches date back to the 1700s and 1800s and are open for tours. Restaurants often provide live music (expect fiddles and sea chanteys) along with meals of seafood fresh-caught in nearby waters. Sydney’s galleries give visitors a chance to meet local artists and purchase their work. Cape Breton’s natural wonders include the spectacular scenic drive known as the Cabot Trail. Hikers in Cape Breton Highlands National Park will find stunning vistas around every turn, while a boat ride on massive Bras d’Or Lake, which is ringed by wild hills, offers a different perspective on the province. Explore the region’s past with a visit to the Fortress of Louisbourg National Historic Site, and learn about the area’s First Nations communities at Membertou Heritage Park.

Charlottetown – The capital of Canada’s smallest province, Prince Edward Island. This modestly sized city has an impressive number of Victorian houses. Sites within downtown Charlottetown include the lovely Victoria Row, which becomes a pedestrian mall each summer, and other historic buildings, some of which are now museums. Nearby Prince Edward Island National Park is home to white-sand beaches and hiking and biking trails—plus fans can see the house and farm that inspired the beloved book Anne of Green Gables. During your visit, you can also learn about the daily lives, past and present, of residents on lighthouse and boat tours.

Quebec City – A Québec City cruise is unforgettable. Amble up the St. Lawrence to Atlantic coastal splendors ablaze with color and alive with tales of the past. Discover its profusion of European-style bistros and boutiques. Start your adventure in Petite Champlain and ride the funicular to Old Quebec, a tangle of cobblestone streets nested inside fortifications. Have high tea or sip ice wine at the Château Frontenac and stroll its wide promenades for spellbinding views. Then get a heaping dose of history at the star-shaped Citadel of Quebec and the rolling Plains of Abraham

For all of you that have sailed with us before, welcome back! For those of you that are new to the fabulous experience of quilting at sea, we look forward to getting to know you and to sharing our Canada and New England Discovery Quilt Seminar at Sea 2024 with you! Bring a friend, your spouse or your family – non-quilters are welcome to join us and they get a special discounted rate! We will make them feel especially welcome and there’s plenty for them to do while you are quilting! We are really looking forward to experiencing Canada and New England on this Quilt Seminar at Sea, and we hope you can join us!

Sincerely,
Chardel Blaine and Kathy K Wylie

Alisa VandenBosch
Amy Ross
Group Coordinator
Quilt Seminars at Sea