For decades, Uncommon Journeys has been celebrated for pairing scenic train travel with rare and distinguished voyages at sea. In the autumn of 2027, we are proud to present one of our most inspired journeys yet—an elegant and rewarding exploration of New England with the greatest ship afloat, Cunard’s RMS Queen Mary 2.

This remarkable holiday features a three-night stay in one of our most cherished destinations—Burlington, Vermont—along with time in nearby Stowe, where classic New England charm meets breathtaking mountain scenery. Thoughtfully designed and beautifully paced, the journey blends immersive sightseeing, a scenic rail adventure, and generous time to explore at your own rhythm.

Our journey begins in New York City or Albany, where we board Amtrak’s ‘Adirondack’ train for what is unquestionably one of the most beautiful rail journeys in North America. The route follows the majestic Hudson River before unveiling more than 90 miles of uninterrupted beauty along the shimmering shores of Lake Champlain—a day of travel that is nothing short of spectacular.

In Burlington, we settle in for a luxurious three-night stay—an increasingly rare indulgence that allows us to truly savor the destination. Two full days are devoted to exploring the very best of the region, from the pastoral splendor of Shelburne Farms to a delightful visit at the Vermont Teddy Bear Factory. We cruise the tranquil waters of Lake Champlain and, of course, enjoy a stop at the original Ben & Jerry’s for a taste of Vermont’s most famous treat.

Ample free time invites you to wander Burlington’s vibrant Church Street Marketplace, a lively pedestrian promenade lined with boutiques, cafés, and inviting wine bars—perfect for unhurried afternoons and relaxed evenings.

A highlight of our stay is a scenic excursion to Stowe, where the Green Mountains provide a stunning backdrop to one of New England’s most picturesque villages. Here we visit the famed Trapp Family Lodge, where a guided tour brings to life the story behind one of the world’s most beloved musical legacies. Our visit concludes with time at their acclaimed brewery, where you may sample their celebrated Austrian-style lagers.

After three wonderfully relaxed days, we journey north to enchanting Quebec City—one of the most atmospheric and culturally rich cities on the continent. It is here that our experience takes on an entirely new level of distinction.

We board the magnificent Queen Mary 2, our home for the next seven nights. With an overnight stay and a full day in port, we enjoy the rare privilege of exploring Quebec City in depth while using this grand ocean liner as our hotel—perfectly situated in the heart of the historic district.

Then, as a fitting finale, we embark on a remarkable voyage south to New York. Aboard Queen Mary 2, tradition, elegance, and modern comfort blend seamlessly to create an experience unlike any other at sea. Days unfold with refined leisure, exceptional service, and ever-changing coastal vistas—an unforgettable conclusion to a journey defined by beauty, balance, and timeless style.

RMS Queen Mary 2 is without question, the greatest ship of our time. Named by the late Queen Elizabeth II, this ship was designed as a high-speed Transatlantic liner that could function as a cruise ship in off-season and remains the largest Atlantic liner ever built. With acres of open deck space, elegant high-ceiling public rooms including the largest Ballroom and library afloat, the interior evokes the great Cunard ships of the past like the original Queen Mary and Queen Elizabeth and the later QE2. To sail aboard Queen Mary 2 is to sail in the wake of history and our voyage from Quebec City to New York City is a rare opportunity to sample this last great ocean liner on a short trip. Today, the famous Cunard slogan still rings true, “Getting there is half the fun”. Join us and see why.

All Aboard! Depart this morning aboard the 'Adirondack' train, a pretty ride along the Hudson River and later in the day along Lake Champlain, a day trip of great beauty. Disembarking this afternoon, a short drive brings us to our hotel in Burlington for our three-night stay. A casual welcome dinner is included this evening.

Burlington is a charming town situated on Lake Champlain, and you have all day to savor it with a visit to Shelburne Museum, the top attraction in Burlington, followed by a visit to the Vermont Teddy Bear Factory. Later, there is time to explore downtown Burlington and the acclaimed Church St Marketplace, where, naturally, we have included a visit to the original Ben & Jerry's Ice Cream shop. Later this afternoon, a beautiful cruise on Lake Champlain is a highlight. The evening is free to enjoy as you like at leisure.

A marvelous day as we drive to nearby Stowe at the foot of Mt Mansfield with time to tour its historic village, and we have even planned a stop at the von Trapp Family Lodge & Resort, inspired by the family in 'The Sound of Music'. It offers spectacular mountain vistas, and we have included a visit to the von Trapp Brewing Bierhall to sample their justly famed von Trapp Brewing Lagers. We return later to Burlington with the evening at leisure.

The Big day! After breakfast, we depart for the most famous ship afloat, but first, lunch in Quebec City, and a tour of this UNESCO World Heritage site, the only walled city in North America. This afternoon we board Queen Mary 2. Happily, the ship is your hotel tonight, docked in the shadow of the famous Chateau Frontenac Hotel.

All day to further enjoy Quebec City with a late afternoon departure for New York. Be sure to be on deck as the great liner leaves the pier with Quebec passing before us.

The Big day! We depart for the most fabled ship afloat. We enjoy bot breakfast with lunch in Quebec City and a tour of this UNESCO world heritage site; the only walled city in North America. This afternoon we board Queen Mary 2. Happily the ship is your hotel tonight docked in the shadow of the famous Chateau Frontenac Hotel.

Almost 400 miles northeast of Quebec City, Sept-Îles stands proud in the Côte-Nord region. It looks over the St. Lawrence River as it widens into the mighty Gulf of St. Lawrence. While this corner of Canada may be better known for its endless landscapes of forests, lakes, and mountains, there are in fact long stretches of sandy beach mere minutes from the center of town.

A star-shaped fortress welcomes you to this historic city. Halifax PubliGardens is a must-see , a tranquil tapestry of manicured lawns, winding paths and iron railings, crowned by an ornate Victorian bandstand. Nearby Peggys Cove and its iconic lighthouse is well worth taking in as well.

We dock in New York and disembark after breakfast.