Explore Canada’s New River Cruises in 2025

Did you know Canada’s 2025 river cruises offer intimate settings, cultural richness, and special early bird discounts? Discover how to easily secure your spot for an unforgettable journey along the beautiful St. Lawrence River or Ontario’s stunning waterways with expert booking tips.

A Glimpse at 2025 River Cruises in Canada

In 2025, Canada’s river cruise lineup includes:

• St. Lawrence Cruise Lines, a well-established river cruise company in Eastern Ontario entering its 45th season.
• Ontario Waterway Cruises, operating in Ontario’s Thousand Islands and the Rideau Canal aboard the classic Kawartha Voyageur vessel.

Both emphasize Canadian history, cultural diversity, natural beauty, and personalized onboard experiences that smaller ships can provide.

St. Lawrence Cruise Lines: St. Lawrence River Cruises 2025

Cruise Offerings and Itineraries

St. Lawrence Cruise Lines offers small-ship cruises ranging from 4 to 7 nights along the St. Lawrence River and connecting inland waterways. Departures are from Kingston, Ottawa, and Quebec City. Their vessel, the M/V Canadian Empress, accommodates up to 64 passengers and features Victorian-style décor combined with modern onboard comforts, offering river views from every stateroom.

Highlighted 2025 cruises include:

• Celebration of Spring Cruise (May 31 - June 7, 2025): A 7-night cruise charged at the 6-night rate.
• Seaway Discovery Cruise: Covering waterways between Kingston and Montreal.
• Fall Harvest & Colour Cruise: Showcasing autumn foliage and local traditions.

Additionally, themed Discovery Cruises focus on historical and cultural experiences such as the 1000 Islands Discovery Cruise and Heritage Summer Cruise.

Pricing and Special Offers

• Pricing varies by stateroom type, with tiered rates available.
• A 10% Spring Savings discount applies to cruises departing between May 11 and June 22, 2025.
• The Celebration of Spring Cruise features a rate for 7 nights at the 6-night price.
• All staterooms include climate control and river views. Bathroom renovations on selected decks are planned to enhance comfort during 2025.

Detailed stateroom pricing and deposit details are available in the 2025 brochure on page 15. The brochure can be downloaded or requested by calling 1-800-267-7868. Prices depend on the specific cruise and cabin choice.

Booking Procedures and Additional Services

• Reservations can be made online, by phone, or via travel agents.
• SLCL assists with rail travel and hotel bookings to streamline travel arrangements.
• Combination packages, like the Confederation Cruise Package, offer consecutive cruises with discounts and hotel nights.

About SLCL

• With over 45 years of experience, SLCL emphasizes knowledgeable crews and culturally immersive voyages.
• Cruises take place solely in Canadian waters.
• Small passenger numbers ensure personalized service and a cozy atmosphere.

Additional details and the full 2025 brochure are available on the official website: St. Lawrence Cruise Lines

Ontario Waterway Cruises: Exploring Ontario’s Waterways on the Kawartha Voyageur

Cruise Experience and Vessel

Ontario Waterway Cruises provides multi-day river cruises in the Thousand Islands area and along the UNESCO World Heritage Rideau Canal aboard the Kawartha Voyageur, a classic riverboat crafted for calm and scenic travel.

These cruises highlight natural landscapes, canal lock systems, and historic sites, offering a distinctive alternative to larger, more commercial cruises.

Pricing and Availability for 2025

• The 2025 rate is approximately US$2,205 per person including taxes; final pricing may fluctuate with currency exchange.
• Cruises operate from mid-May to mid-October, aligning with open waterway seasons.
• Currently, 2025 cruises show strong demand with high booking activity. A waitlist is provided for those wishing to register without obligation.
• The company offers a cancellation refund program for valid reasons such as medical conditions.

Health and Safety Guidelines

• Although Transport Canada no longer mandates full COVID-19 vaccination for passengers or crew, Ontario Waterway Cruises recommends following provincial health protocols and considering booster shots.
• Health measures remain in place to protect passenger safety and comfort.

Booking and Itinerary Notes

• Cruises travel along the Trent-Severn Waterway, Rideau Canal, and Quinte routes.
• Schedules and uniform pricing details are published on the company website.
• Early booking inquiries are suggested due to limited space.

For detailed cruise dates, itineraries, and reservations, visit: Ontario Waterway Cruises

What to Expect Regarding Cruise Experience and Comfort

Both cruise lines prioritize:

• Small-ship cruising for a more personal atmosphere.
• Comfortable staterooms, many with climate control and river views.
• Attentive crews devoted to guest experience.
• Excursions focused on Canadian history, natural beauty, and city highlights.
• Onboard features blending classic and modern styles, such as Victorian décor on the Canadian Empress and traditional designs on the Kawartha Voyageur.

Planning and Booking Your 2025 Canadian River Cruise

Steps to Reserve

• Examine brochures and websites for information on dates, options, and pricing.
• Contact cruise providers directly via website or phone to request materials, verify availability, or join waitlists.
• Explore special packages, including SLCL’s Confederation Cruise Package, for extended travel.
• Coordinate transportation and lodging needs with cruise line representatives.
• Confirm deposit requirements and payment plans when booking.
• Stay updated on recommended health and safety protocols for 2025 river cruises.

Deposit and Cancellation Information

• Deposit amounts vary and will be communicated during the booking process.
• Ontario Waterway Cruises provides a cancellation refund plan subject to specific terms.
• SLCL offers flexible booking support; cancellation policies should be reviewed when reserving.

Summary of Pricing

Canada’s 2025 river cruises provide chances to explore scenic waterways and cultural heritage aboard smaller vessels on the St. Lawrence River and Ontario’s inland lakes and canals. Whether you prefer the historically themed itineraries and modernized amenities aboard St. Lawrence Cruise Lines’ Canadian Empress or the tranquil heritage journeys on Ontario Waterway Cruises’ Kawartha Voyageur, travelers can find options suited to their tastes.

Prospective travelers are encouraged to inquire early and review official brochures and websites to access current pricing, booking policies, and support directly from the cruise operators.

Sources

• St. Lawrence Cruise Lines 2025 Brochure and Offerings
• Ontario Waterway Cruises Official Website
• QuirkyCruise Report on St. Lawrence Cruise Lines 2025

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