By
Jacqui Griffiths |
This article was first published in the Itinerary Planning Special Report. All information was correct at the time of printing, but may since have changed.
Prince Edward Island is located on the east coast of Canada and offers cruise passengers an authentic island experience, world-class cuisine and a lively and diverse culture. The charming island is now a regular port of call on New England and Canadian itineraries and will have a second berth in autumn 2019, increasing capacity and accessibility for cruise visitors.
Charlottetown is the island’s major port and is known as the birthplace of Confederation; the talks to form Canada took place here in 1864. The historic downtown area starts at the port. Boutiques, restaurants and cafes are abundant, and the colourful Victorian buildings and tree-lined streets are the pride and joy of local residents. Strolling the streets with an ice cream cone in one hand and a camera in the other is an enjoyable way for cruise guests to reconnect with what really matters in life.
“Charlottetown is one of the most popular ports on the east coast because it has a rich blend of culture, history, cuisine and beautiful sightseeing routes,” says Bill Kendrick, owner of local shore excursion provider Experience PEI. “Prince Edward Island is home to the popular fictional character Anne of Green Gables and many of our shore excursions offer experiential activities such as falconry, oyster tonging and seafood cooking classes.”
Known as Canada’s ‘Food Island’, culinary creations and experiences are a highlight at this port of call. Just steps away from the cruise terminal passengers can find plenty of restaurants serving fresh local flavours. One of the most popular shore excursions for cruise passengers is Experience PEI’s Taste the Town, a three-hour culinary walking tour through the historic downtown area. Participants get to taste seafood and local craft beer and learn how traditional fishing and farming industries are supplying chefs with the freshest ingredients.
The island is well known for one character: Anne. Lucy Maud Montgomery’s famous novel, Anne of Green Gables, was published in 1908 and has since sold over 50 million copies and been translated into more than 30 languages. Anne of Green Gables has been adapted as plays, animated series, movies and in 2017, a TV series called Anne with an E was produced by CBC in Canada and released internationally on Netflix. This has brought new and old fans alike to the Prince Edward Island National Park, where the book is based. The site is currently undergoing renovations that will be unveiled in spring 2019. This C$9.5 million (US$7.3 million) upgrade will improve visitor experience, add a new exhibit hall and make the site more accessible.
Prince Edward Island has something for everyone. Cruise passengers can play one of the many seaside golf courses, splash in the ocean, catch a local show, explore historic Charlottetown, paddleboard, cycle the Confederation Trail, take a helicopter ride, try fresh seafood, and visit Anne at Green Gables all in one day. That’s why the island is a favourite stop for cruise passengers and crew alike.
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