Montreal to Miami

French-speaking, thoroughly romantic and exquisitely cultured, Montreal definitely warrants a pre- or post-cruise stay. The Old Port is a hub of entertainment, while the Museum of Fine Arts is revered for its collection of more than 30,000 objects. For a respite from the vibrant city, stroll the Montreal Botanical Garden, a draw since 1931.

Surrounded by several miles of granite walls dating back hundreds of years, Quebec City’s fabulous Old Town exudes European character, exemplified in the iconic Château Frontenac. Another architectural gem is the fascinating Musée de la Civilisation, a treasure trove of items recreating the French-speaking city’s early days.

Head to La Baie and tour the Musée du Fjord, admire the frescoes covering every nook and corner of barber and painter Arthur Villeneuve’s home, tour a goat farm or travel the Craftsman Road to see artisans in their element creating cheeses, glass-blowing and soap-making. Don’t miss a hike through Saguenay National Park, which cradles the dramatic fjord that has enchanted travelers for centuries.

Sept-Îles is a city in the Côte-Nord region of eastern Quebec, Canada. It is among the northernmost locales with a paved connection to the rest of Quebec's road network. The population was 25,686 as of the Canada 2011 Census. The town is called Uashat, meaning "bay," in the Innu language.

Start by taking in the breathtaking view from the monument honoring Captain James Cook, the first to map the area in 1767. More history awaits you in the Corner Brook Museum and its marine artifacts, forestry exhibits and collections from aboriginal people.

Founded by the British in 1749, Halifax still has a British military air about it. Every day at noon, a ceremonial gun is fired at the Halifax Citadel, a star-shaped fortress where the guides wear military uniforms. The exhibits have a more seafaring slant at the Maritime Museum of the Atlantic and include the nearly 100-year-old Acadia.

The charming King’s Wharf and Heritage Wharf, also known as the Royal Naval Dockyard, is filled with shops, museums, pubs and restaurants and is only a short ferry ride from Hamilton and St. George.

Nassau is the capital of the Bahamas and has been the centerpiece of this island nation since the days of Blackbeard. The history has been wonderfully preserved in stately cathedrals and in Victorian mansions displaying elegant, noble architecture.

People-watchers will enjoy South Beach's Ocean Drive, while architecture buffs will love the Art Deco District. If you're looking for something a bit different, there are world-class museums and shopping venues too. In Miami, there really is something for everyone.