The Silver Muse made its first journey to Canada during a fall foliage cruise, visiting Quebec City on Sept. 27 before its final stop in Montreal. This is Silversea Cruises’ flagship luxury vessel, the ninth and largest in its fleet, which was christened in April at its home base in Monaco.
1) Brad Ball, director of media relations for Silversea Cruises, took media on a tour of the ship in Quebec City.
2) The Silver Muse offers plenty of outdoor spaces, including a large pool deck, as well as a theatre, observation library, lounge areas, spa, gym and exercise studio.
3) Silversea is known for its all-suite vessels; even its entry-level suites have a walk-in closet, verandah and butler service.
4) The Silver Muse offers nine dining venues, including three new to the Silversea fleet. Pictured here: a lemon meringue tart with fresh basil, edible flowers, edible gold and pink rosewater sugar crystals.
5) For those extending a stay in Quebec City, Hotel 71 — located in a 19th century neo-classical building that was once the head office of the National Bank of Canada — is a few minutes’ walk from the cruise terminal.
6) This luxury boutique hotel offers a cozy lounge, self-serve wine bar and self-serve coffee bar (pictured), along with Il Matto, a restaurant featuring authentic Italian comfort food.
7) Hotel 71’s 60 contemporary rooms and suites offer 14-foot-high ceilings, plenty of natural light and mattresses made by local company Matelas Confort.
8) Another unique feature is its permanent art gallery, created in conjunction with the Vincent et moi program — an initiative dedicated to supporting artists with mental health challenges.
9) Hotel 71 is tucked away in the heart of Old Quebec, a historic neighbourhood and UNESCO World Heritage Site, where you can stroll charming streets lined with sidewalk cafes and art galleries.
10) The organic beetroot salad is a must-try at Chez Rioux & Pettigrew, an eatery in Old Quebec featuring seasonal dishes made with local seafood and artisanal meats.
11) Hotel 71 is a few minutes’ walk from the Old Port, where you can walk or bike alongside the St. Lawrence River, check out art installations (pictured) and pick up local products at the Quebec Public Market.
12) Montmorency Falls Park is a quick drive from downtown. Open year-round, you can ride a cable car to the top of the cliffs for a panoramic walking tour, get your heart pumping on one of three via ferrata routes or cross the falls on a 300-metre double zip-line.
