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Archive for the ‘Cruises’ Category

23
Jul

The Ever Evolving Toronto Harbour

Posted in Cruises  by anoton1 on July 23rd, 2010

Many aspects of Toronto Harbour will appear new to residents and visitors as Canada’s largest city revitalizes its waterfront. Older establishments remain, including the amusement and entertainment park and large antique market. Now though, the are joined by even more fascinating destinations to draw people.

The waterfront area has been adapting to each new need as time goes on. From wetlands, to a dump for the growing population, and then a welcome spot for large container ships to dock. Once home to the world’s largest distillery and heavily used as a rail and ship port for industry. Now, the area is transitioning to a center for waterfront condominiums, theatre, and outdoor recreation.

Toronto follows the recent urban trend of revitalizing forgotten and ugly waterfront space. Allowing residents and tourists to view and play in or on the water by providing access adds to the quality of life.

The jump start came in the early 1970s when the province of Ontario helped the city build a waterfront amusement and entertainment center. Then the city followed shortly after by constructing the world’s tallest tower. The popular tourist destination now boasts the world’s highest wine cellar as part of a revolving restaurant offering 360 degree views of the city and water.

Newer projects honour the history and culture of Toronto and Canada. Buildings and parks are developed and constructed using the latest environmentally friendly designs and materials. The waterfront is improving life for all creatures, human, aquatic and animal.

The changes are the result of open forums and agreement between government officials, residents, architects and urban planners. The projects recognize the traditional activities of many areas while also allow for greater involvement by the public. One space creates a park or cruises where people can comfortably watch sugar being offloaded between tankers and the refinery.

Watching major sporting events or partaking in sports and fitness is now encouraged in the harbour area. A major league ballpark is located under the shadow of the world’s tallest tower. Several park spaces include a water feature that allows for winter ice skating and summer splashing or wading. Boardwalks that are shaped like waves have been constructed in several locations to allow access to the water, or to sandy or cobblestone beaches.

There is a ferry terminal that takes commuters to and from work and home on the Toronto Islands. Tourists can hop the ferry as well to spend a day biking or walking in the open spaces there. Peddle boats can be rented to play on the water.

Wharf areas are called quays in Toronto. Queen’s Quay offers a ton of activity in the central harbour area. However, each quay offers something unique. Some are known for their residences and hotels, while others offer shops to hunt for antiques and fine art, or to dine in casual or fancy atmospheres.

With the transformation of the city’s waterfront from one of drab and dreary to colorful and entertaining, Toronto is truly a world class destination. Residents enjoy a much improved quality of life and visitors now have even more to do and see.

Enjoy a luxurious vacationing experience on these Toronto Harbour boat cruises. Whether you are a tourist or adventure seeker, these Toronto fireworks cruises offer you with breathtaking scenery and boundless excitement.

22
Jul

Enjoy The Luxury Of Cruises, Boat Cruises

Posted in Cruises  by anoton1 on July 22nd, 2010

For many years the average person would not dream of going on cruises, boat cruises because only the wealthy could afford this luxury. That has now changed and, in today’s world, even those on a limited budget can enjoy such a trip. Seeing a vast number of entertainment offerings, eating fine food, being waited on is a luxury that is available for anyone. There is a charge for things such as bar drinks, tours and other extras but, otherwise, one price covers it all.

One might choose a cruise to Hawaii, Mexico, Europe or one of many other places where a cruise ship sails. Many of these trips cost less than a hotel room for the same period of time. Many different tours and other exciting adventures await one at each Port of Call. It may include feeding the sting rays, visiting special plantations or famous places, going on a sailing picnic and many other possibilities.

Food is one of the things many people talk about when they are relating their cruise experiences. One can enjoy a full meal, served with white linen, crystal and other amenities, presented in courses by an experienced waiter or take advantage of an upper deck buffet style meal. There is always an abundance of food which is prepared by well experienced chefs.

Whatever entertainment one enjoys it can be found on a cruise. Whether enjoying karaoke or just quiet piano music it can be found any evening. In addition, there is a Broadway type show presented with beautiful costumes and dancers and, on some liners, a theater with the latest movies as well.

A cruise can be a family affair as the cruises have facilities available for the entertainment of children. These areas are well supervised by efficient personnel, which relieves the parents of any worry of a possible mishap. The children are entertained by activities and games which hold their attention.

For the person who enjoys reading and just wants a quiet, relaxing cruise, there is a library on every ship. At this library one is able to check out any book and return it at their convenience. This allows one to sit, quietly, on deck in a deck chair and completely relax with a book of their choice.

Those who wish to do so can take part in deck activities which are held daily. These are always a lot of fun for the participants as well as the spectators. Other things are also available such as bridge, poker, a gym, a spa and other things. Bingo is particularly popular as, often, the prize is another cruise.

There are many shops located on the ship, which offer a wide variety of wares. In addition, there are a number of places to play games and do other things. One must not forget the casino that is on every ship. These include everything a land casino has but on a smaller scale. Having one’s portrait taken by one of the expert photographers allows one to take home a memory of the trip of a lifetime.

Enjoy a luxurious vacationing experience on these Toronto Harbour boat cruises. Whether you are a tourist or adventure seeker, these Toronto fireworks cruises offer you with breathtaking scenery and boundless excitement.

22
Jul

You Will Find So Many Attractions In Niagara Falls Ontario

Posted in Cruises  by anoton1 on July 22nd, 2010

Most people dream of seeing Niagara Falls one day. They are one of the most famous places and draw visitors from around the world. Now you and your family can visit and enjoy so many other attractions in Niagara Falls Ontario. The falls are just one of the many treats which await you.

First of all you will want to get up close and personal with all that water. There are several ways to enjoy the falls including boats and helicopters. There is the classic Maid of the Mist boat ride or you can indulge in the white knuckle thrill of a powerboat ride. There are also walking trails which take you right behind the falling water so that you can really feel the power of nature.

After you have enjoyed the waterfalls up close you could find a place to eat with a great view. Many of the restaurants and hotels have places where you can relax and look out over the whole scene. The falls are lit up at night and there are fireworks displays at the weekends.

The range of activities available at the Niagara Falls complex is truly amazing. You could go for a walk in the countryside or one of the gardens, play a round of golf, take a wine tour, indulge in a spa treatment, visit historical sites or see a show. There are also theme parks, shops, restaurants, cinemas and museums.

Opposite the waterfalls is the Falls Avenue entertainment complex. It is perfect for all the family to get together and have fun. There are arcades and rides and even two water parks. Other family entertainment includes the marine park which has lots of aquariums, shows and chances to get close to some awesome sea life. The zoo at Safari Niagara has over five hundred different animals and various activities such as feeding some of the exotic animals.

The kids really will not get bored at Niagara. The theme parks have tons of rides and thrilling adventure activities. At the MGM Experience they can live the movies. They can go skydiving indoors or be hoisted up into the air on outdoor rides. For the smaller ones there are lots of different play areas both indoor and outdoor so you do not need to worry about what to do if the weather is bad. There are rides dotted all over the place so you can always find something nearby to occupy children of all ages.

Once the kids have gone to bed there is plenty to keep adults having fun into the night. The range of restaurants is huge including; steak houses, Chinese food, grills and restaurants serving everything from homely food to chic cuisine. There are theatres, casinos, dinner shows, cinemas bars and nightclubs to entertain you all night. The Oh-Canada, EH? dinner show is held in a log cabin themed theatre and is a comedy, sin-along musical extravaganza. For something a bit more serious you could see a play at the Shaw Festival Theatre.

There are a great number of attractions in Niagara Falls Ontario which make it a great place to take the family. There is something for everyone.

Enjoy a luxurious vacationing experience on these Toronto Harbour boat cruises. Whether you are a tourist or adventure seeker, these Toronto fireworks cruises offer you with breathtaking scenery and boundless excitement.

20
Jul

Tips For Exploring Canada by Boat

Posted in Cruises  by anoton1 on July 20th, 2010

Canada is home to beautiful oceans, lakes, and rivers that make for wonderful boating excursions. In Canada, before you board any recreational watercraft that has a motor, including a motor boat, and explore the diverse and stunning country, you are required to have a Pleasure Craft Operator Card. The card is similar to a driver’s license that proves you are competent to safely operate a motor boat. One who operates a motor boat in Canada must keep the card on them at all times.

You can acquire a Pleasure Craft Operator Card by successfully passing a multiple choice exam which is given out by a private government accredited organization. Applicants must receive a score of at least 75% to pass the exam and receive their Pleasure Craft Operator Card.
There are private accredited organizations that help prepare applicants for the exam by offering classes which includes practice tests. There are also Home Study Guides that includes guides on CD Rom. Once you pass the test, you will be given your own Pleasure Craft Operator Card. This card is nontransferable and good for life. The price to take the exam is about $49.95 plus GST. The official Transport Canada accredited exam can be taken on the private organization’s website.

Once you have received your Pleasure Craft Operator Card, you can then to head out on Canada’s magnificent waters. Below are a number of Canada’s waterways where you can have a fantastic and memorable boating experience:

1. Muskoka and the Haliburton Highlands - Ontario: Located two hours north of Toronto, The Muskoka and the Haliburton Highlands is one of the most popular areas to have a fantastic boating experience. The scenery is absolutely beautiful and there are many communities where you can enjoy the sights, sounds, activities, attractions, restaurants, and night life. As well, there are a number of festivals, theatrical performances, music performance, concerts, and ballets. There are also great golfing places and shopping establishments.

2. Howe Sound - British Columbia: Not far from Vancouver, Howe Sound in British Colombia has a spectacular view of the coastal mountain range. The stunning mountains with the snow caps, beautiful water, magnificent scenery, immense forests, and delightful communities with beautiful shorelines and coves, makes this area very popular for avid boaters. There are also many places to stop for a picnic or hike a trail. Howe Sound is every nature lover’s dream.

3. Coastal Nova Scotia: Nova Scotia is a very popular place to enjoy a boating excursion. The shores of Nova Scotia are dotted with lighthouses, beautiful sandy beaches, wonderful communities, inlets, coves, islands, and saltwater marshes. Many wonderful towns reside along the shores where boaters can explore the culture and heritage and enjoy fine wine, fresh fish, lobster, chowder, and much more. There are also charming shops, theaters, picnic parks, entertainment, musical performances, recreational activities, fine dining, cultural attractions, and much more. As well, Halifax is a popular tourist city where there is much to see and do, including a number of Yacht Clubs.

4. Chaudiere-Appalaches, Quebec: Dating back 350 years, The Chaudiere-Appalaches region is popular boating region. Along the St. Lawrence River, boaters can visit a number of historic Quebec villages. Its beautiful scenery and waters along with historic Quebec charm makes the boating experience both enjoyable and memorable.

The above list is just a few of the popular Canadian boating destinations. Boating in Canada provides a great way for family and friends to get together and enjoy time away from life’s hectic activities.

Taking the boat on Lake Ontario this weekend? Don’t get caught without a valid Ontario boating license. Take time today to take a boat test. You can take the test online and have a PCOC License same day.

15
Jul

Making Tracks Southward: The Antarctic Ocean

Posted in Cruises  by davek123 on July 15th, 2010

There are over seventy thousand pairs of penguins in Antarctica, and they walk around looking like they’re dressed for dinner and they own this entire land you are about to check out.

They clean themselves constantly, and actively defend themselves, their territory and their chicks from skuas and seals that come too close. The parents will feed their little ones (who aren’t black and white yet, simply brown and fluffy) predigested food. The parents constantly feed these unruly chicks. Once the now-full mother returns from feeding, she and the father perform a ritualistic dance of bows and pecks. Then the father takes a turn in the ocean.

Contrary to our expectations, penguins are far from cute. Not only are they aggressive and argumentative, but they also have a very foul smell. Even so, we maintain our fascination with these birds. Our desire to visit them in their habitat has greatly increased the number of people visiting Antarctica.

You can plan on seeing many more animals in Antarctica than just the penguins. There is a slew of wildlife to witness, such as seals, whales, dolphins, and tons of other sea birds, and the landscape and seascape are breathtaking.

Some of the glaciers sport spires that put some of the European cathedrals to shame. You may be interested in traveling to a unique destination. There have been less people in Antarctica than it takes to fill a football stadium. The continent of Antarctic can be considered Earth’s last, pure frontier.

Getting to the continent is part of the adventure. The actual voyage, though expensive, will thrill you to the core, and isn’t one often taken. First, you’ll fly for 20 hours from the US to get to the Argentine port city of Ushuaia.

Punta Arenas, Chile; Cape Town, South Africa; and Christchurch, New Zealand also offer ships that have been specially rated for the trip. Once you leave out from the city you’ve chosen, it’s going to be several days of cruising the rough seas before you finally make it to Antarctica.

Antarctica is bigger than the US And Mexico combined, it also holds over 70 percent of the planet’s freshwater reserves and weighs so much that the earth indents there. Ice masses surround the continent that make the area larger than North America, Greenland and Europe put together.

When you start booking your cruise, you can choose an itinerary that will last anywhere from 10 days to 28 days. Almost all of the ships are smaller than the ones you think of when thinking of cruises. Don’t expect the same amenities as ships that sail in the Mediterranean or Caribbean. You’ll get lectures and slide shows about Antarctica instead of casinos.

These ships will put their passengers onto rafts so that they can approach the rookeries of penguins and colonies of seals, or to get them to research stations. At these stations, scientists investigate a wide variety of things, from the nature of the ozone layer to how life can sustain in Antarctic climates.

Only five countries have research facilities on the continent. They are the original countries who participated in signing the international agreement on Antarctica. This makes the continent a haven for scientific study by requiring it stay commerce, nuclear and border free.

There are those who fear that bringing tourists into Antarctica is an invitation to deadly accidents. Because of an airplane crash in 1979, the flyover tourism that was once offered is no more. Environmentalists worry that tons of tourists will endanger Antarctica’s fragile ecosystem.

They fear ski-wielding tourists visiting in droves to see the wildlife. Politicians, environmentalists, and scientists all debate tourism to Antarctica. Each wants to have a pristine Antarctica. Then they must consider how tourists who actually see Antarctica act for the betterment of the continent.

As of this moment, no restrictions are in place for touring Antarctica. When you do go there, you must be held to the basic ideals of eco-tourism. You can only take pictures, leave only footprints, and stay away from the natives. If you find yourself packing for a trip to the Antarctic, you should bring clothing that you can layer.

Although most of the ships will give you down filled parka jackets, you are going to have to bring your own waterproof boots and plenty of socks. Make sure to pack your camera, as well as sunscreen and sunshades, because you aren’t going to find anywhere to buy these things on the continent and the ship will charge ridiculous prices for them.

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