Summer specials by the sea in seductive Atlantic Canada

May 06, 2007|REAL DEALS, Richard Carpenter, Globe Correspondent

All of Canada is a delight in summer, but the provinces of Atlantic Canada -- New Brunswick, Nova Scotia, Prince Edward Island, and Newfoundland and Labrador -- exert the most powerful pull on me. Maybe it's the friendliness, or the seascapes, or the scrumptious seafood. Or maybe it ' s simply that each province offers something special. Here is a sampling:

One of the most charming towns in Canada is St. Andrews by - the - Sea , New Brunswick. The people are friendly, the shops are unique, and activities range from whale watching to visiting fascinating sites such as nearby Ministers Island and Campobello Island , where Franklin Delano Roosevelt's family had a summer home. Lodging ranges from quaint bed-and-breakfasts to the upscale Kingsbrae Arms to the landmark Fairmont Algonquin hotel .

The Algonquin's Bay of Fundy Sea Kayaking Package includes a night's accommodation and a three-hour sea kayaking excursion on the bay . The package, valid through Sept. 30, begins at about $270 . For a similar price the Fundy Bay Watch Package includes accommodations, a whale and wildlife expedition on the bay, and a buffet breakfast, including tip. The package, valid June 1-Sept. 12, is per couple with an additional price of about $32 a night for children under 12 and $65 for older children.

Visit fairmont.com/algonquin or call 866-540-4403 .

Halifax, Nova Scotia, is enjoyable almost any time, with historic sites such as the Citadel , waterfront pubs , craft shops and galleries , casino gambling, and outdoor adventures . But from July 11 to 16, the Tall Ships will be visiting, with public boarding beginning July 13 and a Parade of Sail on July 16. The Cambridge Suites Hotel Halifax has an Early Bird Special beginning at about $145 a night if booked by June 1 for a minimum of two nights. Parking and continental breakfast are included.

Meanwhile, Massachusetts-based Serendipity Traveler , which specializes in small-group travel for women, has a Nova Scotia and Prince Edward Island trip July 14-21 that begins in Halifax while the regatta is in port. The tour, including many meals, costs $2,295 .

For early bird rates, visit cam bridgesuiteshalifax.com or call 800-565-1263 . For the women's trip, visit serendipitytraveler.com or call 800-975-2357 . For Nova Scotia information, go to novasco tia.com . For Tall Ships details, visit tallshipsnovascotia.com .