Yesterday was Canada Day, and we’re celebrating by honoring some of our most popular and culturally rich itineraries: Canada & New England! From now through October, Maasdam, Rotterdam, Veendam and Zuiderdam feature an impressive collection of seven-, 10-, 11- and 13-day options that explore the key ports of this colorful region. There are dozens of reasons why a cruise to the northeast coast of North America should be on your bucket list, and we’re touting just a selection to entice you to join us this season as we explore this gorgeous part of the globe.

FALL FOLIAGE

Speaking as one of Canada’s most popular figures, L.M. Montgomery wrote, “I’m so glad to live in a world where there are Octobers,” and a Canada & New England cruise during fall foliage is the best way to discover what the Anne of Green Gables writer meant. When the leaves begin to turn in the northeast, their vibrant red, orange, brown and yellow hues contrast beautifully with the blue waters of the coast. And a dip in temperatures makes exploring the region even more pleasant. Explore along the Saint Lawrence River and the coast to see the trees transform into a picture-perfect postcard.

ACADIA NATIONAL PARK

Featuring one of the most scenic drives on the east coast, Acadia National Park is one of the most visited National Parks in the United States. Explore along the 27-mile Park Loop Road, which goes along the ocean’s edge past Sand Beach, Schooner Head Overlook and the High Seas mansion built by a wealthy gentleman whose wife perished on the Titanic. You might see moose, black bear and white-tail deer as you travel through pine forests and past the Jordan Pond House with a beautiful view of the Penobscot Mountains and Bubbles Hill. Not to be missed is a photo stop atop the 1,530-foot Cadillac Mountain, offering a 360-degree panoramic view of granite cliffs, coastal mountains, forests, lakes, and valleys.

PEGGY’S COVE

From Halifax guests can visit Peggy’s Cove, an authentic fishing village that has been an inspiration for artists and an irresistible lure for budding and seasoned adventurers for generations. The colorful houses and fishing shacks perched atop the rocky outcrop exhibit the wear and tear of the ocean and its punishing storms. Yet they endure, much like the small population of approximately 40 year-round residents. Don’t miss the opportunity to visit the most photographed lighthouse in the world and see a famous piece of artwork inspired by this harsh yet breathtaking landscape — a granite carving by local resident William deGarthe that beautifully depicts the life and the people of the area.

CULINARY TRADITIONS

In practically every port along the way, guests can indulge in the region’s cuisine on EXC Tours that explore the culinary traditions of that area. Of course, don’t miss one of the most popular culinary staples, lobster! Or, “lahbstah” if you’re a local. Learn the proper way to crack open a lobster, then savor it with a side of butter. Looking for something unexpected? In Boston, Holland America Line features a FOOD&WINE tour that beckons those with a passion for the food and wine of Italy. As seen on the Food Network’s The Best Of… series, foray on into the North End Market — home to the food traditions and marketplaces of the most authentic Little Italy remaining in America.

ANNE OF GREEN GABLES

Anne of Green Gables is one of the most beloved characters in literature. Published in 1908 by Canadian author Lucy Maud Montgomery (published as L. M. Montgomery), the novel tells the tale of Anne Shirley, an 11-year-old orphan girl who was mistakenly sent to two middle-aged siblings who were intending to adopt a boy to help them on their farm in the fictional town of Avonlea on Prince Edward Island. The novel recounts how Anne makes her way through life with the Cuthberts, in school, and within the town. Fans of Anne of Green Gables will relish in the opportunity to visit bucolic farmstead that inspired the book’s setting.

To all of our celebrating Canadian friends and fans, we hope you had a wonderful day honoring your nation.