At Peggy’s Cove

I love cruising the beautiful region of Atlantic Canada. And let be the first to tell you that Atlantic Canada offers much, much more than the blazing colors of the fall foliage. So don’t think of cruising this region only during the fall. Atlantic Canada is an exciting destination at any time.

Atlantic Canada is about much more than fall foliage: Beautiful Newfoundland scenery at Norris Point, in Gros Morne National Park, a call on cruise ship itineraries.

First and foremost, this is a region of extremely hospitable people. I was once told before disembarking a ship in Halifax that the people there were among the world’s friendliest. That sentiment was validated when I sneezed stepping off the ship and five people responded to my sneeze with “Bless you.”

Friendly people: Our crew with Bonnie at Lobster Cove Lighthouse in Gros Morne National Park in Newfoundland

The warmth and friendliest of the people in Atlantic Canada is only one reason to visit this beautiful region. Another reason to visit is that the region is rich in history, culture and scenic beauty — plus, it’s a fun place to explore.

On assignment: Chris Stanley and Ralph Grizzle harnessed and ready for their zipline adventure in Corner Brook, Newfoundland.

You can get your adrenalin going on ziplines, kayaks and jet boats. Or for a more relaxed adventure, board a boat for lobster excursions in Charlottetown or for sailing adventures from Sydney. I did all of this during my visit to Atlantic Canada and loved it.

Take a step back in time at Fortress Louisbourg.

You can relive history at sites operated by Parks Canada, such as the Fortress of Louisbourg, Carleton Martello Tower, or the Halifax Citadel, where you can dress up to be a soldier for a day. I put on the soldier’s uniform and even got to fire a vintage rifle.

Fire a vintage rifle at the Halifax Citadel.

Snap a photo of the lighthouse at Peggy’s Cove, reputed to be the world’s most photographed lighthouse.

Hike in beautiful forests, travel along scenic coastlines, witness the world’s highest tides and walk on the ocean floor at Hopewell Rocks. Ride through the rapids created by those tides on a jet boat in Saint John. You’ll never forget these experiences.

Walk on the ocean floor at Hopewell Rocks.

There’s much more. Marvel at majestic Gros Morne National Park. Watch eagles soar. Dine on delicious lobster. Eat a timbit. Don’t know what a timbit is? You need to go to Atlantic Canada.

Atlantic Canada comprises four provinces – Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, Newfoundland & Labrador, and Prince Edward Island. Plus, there are many other smaller ports in the region. All can be reached on an easy cruise from New York City or Boston. I love the idea of sailing past the Manhattan skyline or Boston’s cityscape to a place as picturesque as say, Corner Brook, Newfoundland.

Cruise past the Manhattan skyline to charming provinces of Atlantic Canada.

Warm and welcoming people, history, culture and breathtaking landscapes. Lots of fun activities — and all within easy reach from the gangway of your ship. This is Ralph Grizzle, encouraging you to visit one of my favorite cruise destinations. Atlantic Canada.