Prince Edward Island/Nova Scotia/New Brunswick
The Best of the Canadian Maritimes
Program No. 3788RJ
Explore Cape Breton Highlands National Park, learn about maritime history at the Maritime Museum of the Atlantic and discover the dynamic coastal sand dunes of Prince Edward Island.
Program
At a Glance
Duration
12 days
Program Begins
Halifax, Nova Scotia
Program Concludes
Halifax, Nova Scotia
Meals
28 (
11B, 9L, 8D
)
Activity Level
Embrace the colorful history of the Canadian Maritime provinces on this journey to Nova Scotia, Cape Breton, Prince Edward Island and New Brunswick. Delve into the history of the port city of Halifax and the old town of Lunenburg. Gain insight into the intriguing Celtic and Acadian cultures including their music and customs. Discover the historic seaport of Charlottetown and absorb the natural beauty that awaits in the Maritimes.
Best of all, you'll...
- Discover the dynamic nature of coastal sand dune ecosystems in Prince Edward Island National Park.
- Step back in time to 1744 at the Fortress of Louisbourg and learn about the battle between the French and the English for control of North America.
- Enjoy local delicacies such as lobster and mussels, and revel in East Coast traditional music and entertainment at a local cèilidh.
General Notes
Select dates are designated for small groups and are limited to 24 participants or less.
Featured Expert
All Experts
James White
James (Jay) White is an expert in history, having earned his PhD in Canadian History from McMaster University in 1994. After a two-year stint at Western Washington University, Jay migrated home to Nova Scotia where he has lived ever since, teaching a variety of historical subjects. He even instructed members of the Canadian Armed Forces in military history. In his free time, he enjoys hiking and photography, is a Toronto Blue Jays and Montreal Canadiens fan, and is of Loyalist and Acadian descent.
Please Note:
This expert may not be available for every date of the program
Please Note:
These experts may not be available for every date of the program
James White
James (Jay) White is an expert in history, having earned his PhD in Canadian History from McMaster University in 1994. After a two-year stint at Western Washington University, Jay migrated home to Nova Scotia where he has lived ever since, teaching a variety of historical subjects. He even instructed members of the Canadian Armed Forces in military history. In his free time, he enjoys hiking and photography, is a Toronto Blue Jays and Montreal Canadiens fan, and is of Loyalist and Acadian descent.
Don Belec
Don Belec has gone from teaching to student-life animation and administration, from selling education-rated products to fund-raising and marketing and much more during his nearly fifty-year career. Over the years, he has had the opportunity to work and travel in Asia, explore parts of Australia and visit 95% of Canada’s expansive regions. He looks forward to engaging with new people as they explore the diversity of Quebec and fully appreciate its contribution to Canada and beyond.
Tammy Pickering
With over 15 years in educational travel, Tammy Pickering has seen it all, and is excited to share those experiences with others. She loves nature, living on Prince Edward Island and has a passion for art which she indulges in by painting, taking pictures, throwing pottery, and creating leather and stained glass crafts. Don’t let her appearance fool you, Tammy also loves riding her motorcycle through the countryside. Tammy also runs her own cottage rental business and volunteers with Girl Guides, Make-A-Wish, and her church.
Cameron MacDonald
Cameron Bennett MacDonald was born in Charlottetown, as a 9th generation Islander. Being between the theatre and history of the Island his entire childhood, it only made sense that Cameron joined the Confederation players in 2013, a historical reenactment troupe. The troupe combined a knowledge of history and group leading experience, with a theatrical side as well, a job to honor both his parents. As the troupe’s artistic supervisor, he writes historical vignettes and shares his knowledge with those around him.
Routes Adventures Mobile Phone
Please call the toll free line at 1-866-745-1690 during regular business hours or for non-urgent matters (Mon - Fri 8:30 - 4:30 EST). The mobile phone #1-613-331-5777 is for after hours and weekends for emergency use only. The phone is carried by a staff member.
Philippe Theriault
Philippe Theriault has been a group leader in India, the Middle East, Asia, Europe, and the Americas for 30 years. He has a background in anthropology and history, and is an expert in generalizing history to help people understand local cultures and traditions. When asked to comment on his experiences while traveling, Philippe quotes Marcel Proust: “helping people discover a new place or a new culture is also a way of opening their eyes to the joy of living and to the art of travel.”
Kate MacQuarrie
Kate MacQuarrie is an award-winning botanist, naturalist, and author who has been eating wild foods, tracking wild animals, and interpreting the natural history of Prince Edward Island for more than 30 years. She holds undergraduate and graduate degrees in biology, has conducted research in PEI’s upland hardwood forests and coastal sand dunes, found plants not previously known to exist on the Island, published papers in national and international peer-reviewed journals, and released a book on the Wild Foods of PEI.
Jocelyn Bethune
Jocelyn Bethune is a storyteller at heart. She is a writer, researcher, and local historian. She has been a reporter, an interpretive guide, and is the best-selling author of 'Historic Baddeck.'
Cheryl Bray
Cheryl Bray's work is deeply rooted in Cape Breton's rich history, weaving ancestral tales of resilience and hope. From the French era at Louisbourg to the journeys of Highland Gaels and Irish immigrants who shaped the island's identity, their stories are a testament to the land's enduring spirit. As a Gaelic learner, singer, and active member of the island’s theatre community, Cheryl serves as a set designer for Cape Breton University’s Boardmore Theatre.
Margo Starr
Margo Starr was born and raised in rural Nova Scotia, the same place her Scottish ancestors settled eight generations ago. In her free time, she runs a philanthropic organization that gives back to those less fortunate in her community. Following the pandemic, Margo moved back home where she remains passionate about sharing the beautiful East Coast with the world. With deep roots in the area, Margo is thrilled to share her knowledge, experiences, and stories with her guests.
Activity Level
Keep the Pace
Walking up to two miles per day; some uneven terrain and stairs. Getting on/off busses and ferries. Some days are full 12 hour days, including bus rides of 4-5 hours.
Suggested Books and Resources
View Full List
You can also find many of the books we recommend at the Road Scholar store on bookshop.org, a website that supports local bookstores.
HAVE QUESTIONS?
Prefer to enroll or inquire by phone?
We can help. Give us a call, and we can answer all of your questions!
Call
800-454-5768
Enroll with Confidence
Peace of Mind
We want your Road Scholar learning adventure to be something to look forward to—not worry about. That’s why we go to the ends of the earth to give you peace of mind, from the moment you enroll until the day you return home.
Assurance Plan
Road Scholar is committed to the well-being of every participant, whether on a program in the United States or abroad. That’s why all participants are covered under our Road Scholar Assurance Plan, which provides 24-hour assistance in the event of an emergency during your program, as well as insurance for emergency medical evacuation.
Want to Protect Your Investment?
Road Scholar is pleased to offer its Trip Protection Plan as a way to protect your program investment. You may purchase this optional trip protection plan when enrolling in your program.
Sustainable Travel
We offset a portion of the emissions created by your travel. Read about our commitment to a more sustainable planet.
- Peace of Mind
We want your Road Scholar learning adventure to be something to look forward to—not worry about. That’s why we go to the ends of the earth to give you peace of mind, from the moment you enroll until the day you return home.
- Assurance Plan
Road Scholar is committed to the well-being of every participant, whether on a program in the United States or abroad. That’s why all participants are covered under our Road Scholar Assurance Plan, which provides 24-hour assistance in the event of an emergency during your program, as well as insurance for emergency medical evacuation.
- Want to Protect Your Investment?
Road Scholar is pleased to offer its Trip Protection Plan as a way to protect your program investment. You may purchase this optional trip protection plan when enrolling in your program.
- Sustainable Travel
We offset a portion of the emissions created by your travel. Read about our commitment to a more sustainable planet.