Eastward Ho

We’ll begin today with a brief tour of the capital city of Charlottetown, known as the birthplace of Canada.  While in Charlottetown, we’ll get to see some of the many historic homes (including Province House) and, with the help of a re-enactor, we may see Sir John A. MacDonald, first prime minister of Canada, sitting on a bench pondering the question of Confederation back in the day in 1864.

Eastern Coastal Drive

This excursion will take you along the Eastern Coastal Drive, a roadway dotted with lighthouses, secluded beaches and natural beauty. As we leave Charlottetown behind, we’ll cross the Hillsbourgh River on our way to Montague which is a delightful town (pop. 2,000) that straddles the Montague River.

The surrounding area is also quite picturesque and has been termed the "Hills and Harbours" area by the Province's Tourist Authority.  It is characterized by rolling countryside, peaceful rivers, picturesque beaches and vibrant colours.  This area has something special for every season; the pristine white of winter snow, the brilliant violet of the Lupins that line the roadways in spring, the green of the summer grass and fields, and the multitude of hues in the autumn leaves. It’s a kaleidoscope of colour against the backdrop of the famous, rich, red mud that PEI is famous for! While much of the land is used for agricultural purposes,  there is a substantial amount of woodland which allows for hiking, camping and bird-watching.

Historic Panmure Island

Next, we’ll make our way to historic Panmure Island, an area surrounded by three rivers: the Brudenell, Montague and Sturgeon.  Panmure Island is home to PEI’s oldest wooden lighthouse which was built in 1853.  It has gabled windows and four stories crowned by the warning beacon, and sits on the northeast shore warning ships of the dangerous shoal, which unfortunately, has claimed more than a few ships.  You may tour this historic structure and be rewarded with spectacular views of the surrounding area.  In fact, from this vantage point, you can even see Nova Scotia’s Cape Breton Island off on the horizon.

We’ll follow the coastline and drive through various fishing ports where we may have an opportunity to meet and chat with local fishermen who will tell you about their day spent plying their trade at sea.  Be sure to check out the well-equipped boats that sail these waters in search of the many and varied marine species that provide the foundation of this important industry of PEI.

Old General Store in Murray River

We’ll visit the Old General Store in Murray River whose inventory appears to be comprised of almost everything and anything a person could hope to purchase.  Next, it’s on to Cape Bear where local legend says that it’s radio (wirelesss) land station was the very first to receive distress signals from the Titanic on the night of April 12, 1912.

Rossignol Winery

We’ll stop at PEI’s only winery, Rossignol Winery, and perhaps sample some of their genuine, bonafide island wines.  The winery has a nine acre vineyard with a panoramic overlook of the Northumberland Straits, and an art gallery on the premises.  As an added bonus, when we go ‘behind the curtains’, we’ll get to see just what goes in the vats and the oak barrels.

Up until 1997 when the Confederation Bridge was opened, the only transport on and off Prince Edward Island was via ferry.  At Wood Islands, we’ll get to see the last remaining ferry link to mainland Canada (Nova Scotia).  We’ll stop at the Mini Mills in Belfast where loom’s process rare fibers from around the world.

During our travels today, there will be time for lunch and your driver/guide, Florence, will outline your options.  As with all our excursions, lunch is at your own expense.
 
After our stop at Mini Mills, we’ll head back to Charlottetown and your ship.  We know you’ll leave PEI savoring the memories of your time spent on this magical island.

This Private Pre-BookeD tour is fully narrated by your guide and will take an estimated 6 to 7 hours (+/-) to complete.