Category Archives: Cruise

Double Cruise Ship Day

    What a beautiful fall day here in Saint John! 🍂 The crisp autumn air and golden hues made today even more special as we welcomed not one but TWO cruise ships into our picturesque port. The Norwegian Breakaway and the Zuiderdam both docked, bringing visitors eager to explore our historic streets, scenic coastline, and vibrant culture.  Whether it’s your first time here or you’re a regular visitor, Saint John always has something new to discover, especially on a gorgeous day like today!

Norwegian Breakaway

Norwegian Breakaway Cruise Ship | Norwegian Breakaway Deck ...

Zuiderdam

 

On This Day – November 13

On This Day – November 13

  • 2015 Terrorist attacks in Paris

    A series of coordinated terrorist attacks that included suicide bombs and mass shootings took place in France’s capital city. Venues attacked included the Stade de France and the Bataclan theater during a concert. The Islamic State of Iraq and Syria (ISIS), also known as the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant or Daesh (ISIL) took responsibility for the attacks that killed about 130 people.

  • 1994 Sweden votes to join EU

    The referendum passed with over 50% of Swedish citizens voting to join the European Union. The Nordic country officially joined the EU on January 1, 1995.

  • 1985 Armero tragedy

    The late evening eruption of the Nevado del Ruiz volcano in Colombia caused volcanic mudflows, called lahars, and flooded the city of Armero, killing 25,000 of its residents. The Armero tragedy is considered to be one of the deadliest volcano related disasters in the 20th century.

  • 1950 Assassination of Carlos Delgado Chalbaud

    The Venezuelan president and head of the military Junta was kidnapped and killed by rebels headed by Rafael SimĂłn Urbina. Chalbaud came to power after a coup against RĂłmulo Gallegos in 1948.

  • 1887 Bloody Sunday in London

    Protests by poor and unemployed Londoners over their hardships in Trafalgar Square took a violent turn when the police charged on those protesting with batons. By the end of the day, 2 or 3 people were killed and several hundred protestors were injured.

Cruise Ship Season Wraps Up

Saint John Cruise Ship Season Wraps Up with a Record-Breaking Total of 179,380 Passengers!

    As the crisp autumn breeze settles in and the leaves begin to change colors, we bid adieu to yet another remarkable cruise ship season here in Saint John. The bustling wharves, the vibrant energy, and the cheerful buzz of tourists from all corners of the globe have been the hallmark of the past few months. With the final departure on November 7, we’ve concluded the 2023 cruise ship season with an astounding total of 179,380 passengers, setting a new benchmark in our city’s maritime history!

  From the thrilling adventures on the Bay of Fundy to the breathtaking views of the Reversing Falls, the scenic beauty and the warm hospitality of our city have undoubtedly left an indelible mark on the hearts of our beloved visitors. The local businesses, artisans, and cultural attractions have all come together to create an unforgettable experience for our esteemed guests, showcasing the very best of what Saint John has to offer.

  But fear not, dear friends, for the spirit of festivity is just around the corner! As the cruise ship season draws to a close, we eagerly anticipate the upcoming Christmas season, when Saint John will once again be adorned with twinkling lights, festive decorations, and the enchanting melodies of holiday cheer. We invite you all to join us in celebrating the joyous festivities that await, as we embrace the magic of the season and spread warmth and merriment throughout our charming city.

  Stay tuned for the exciting lineup of events, special offers, and heartwarming community gatherings that will make this Christmas season in Saint John truly unforgettable. Let’s come together to create lasting memories and cherish the spirit of togetherness that defines the holiday season.

   We extend our heartfelt gratitude to all the passengers, crew members, and everyone who contributed to making this cruise ship season an extraordinary success. Here’s to a magnificent season behind us and an even more magical one ahead! 🎄✨

 

A Serendipitous Encounter

A Serendipitous Encounter: A Day in Saint John with the Wallaces from Rugby, England

It was a crisp autumn morning in the quaint port city of Saint John, and the bustling waterfront was alive with the excitement of the day. Amidst the flurry of tourists and locals, a chance encounter with the Wallaces from Rugby, England, aboard a docked cruise ship added an unexpected layer of warmth and familiarity to my day.

Engaging in a delightful conversation, Mr. and Mrs. Wallace shared their fondness for exploring new destinations, their eyes reflecting the wanderlust that had brought them to this vibrant corner of Canada. As they animatedly recounted their adventures in Rugby, their vivid descriptions painted a picture of a town steeped in history, surrounded by lush greenery and brimming with a strong sense of community.

Their curiosity about the local culture, coupled with an eagerness to uncover the hidden gems of Saint John, propelled us into an impromptu descritpion of the city. They strolled through the historic streets, marveling at the stunning architecture and rich maritime heritage that defined this coastal haven. From the iconic Reversing Falls to the charming boutiques along the waterfront, every corner seemed to unravel a new story, bridging the gap between our distinct backgrounds.

Over a leisurely chat at a quaint bistro table located in front of Keirsteads Flower Shop, we delved into deeper discussions about our shared love for travel, exchanging anecdotes of unforgettable experiences and cherished travel tips. Their enthusiasm for embracing diverse cultures and embracing the essence of every place they visited was truly inspiring, leaving an indelible mark on my own perspective.

As our time together  drew to a close, bidding adieu to the Wallaces felt like parting ways with newfound friends. The serendipitous encounter had not only enriched my understanding of the far-reaching impacts of travel but had also reinforced the remarkable bonds that can be forged through the simple act of sharing stories and experiences.

Reflecting on the day’s events, it became evident that in this ever-shrinking world, chance encounters like these serve as poignant reminders of the universal human connection that transcends geographical boundaries. The Wallaces had not just brought a piece of Rugby to Saint John, but they had also left behind an enduring reminder of the beauty of fostering meaningful connections in the unlikeliest of places.

As the sun dipped below the horizon, casting a golden glow over the tranquil waters, I couldn’t help but feel grateful for the unexpected encounter that had infused this ordinary day with extraordinary moments of camaraderie and shared wanderlust. The memories of my day with the Wallaces from Rugby, England, would forever be etched in my heart as a testament to the enduring spirit of exploration and the profound bonds that unite us all on this magnificent journey called life.