The Georgian Clipper is not large. In fact her total length is just 78 feet and she has the capacity to carry just 18 passengers at a time in nine deluxe staterooms. And that is the good part. Only a small ship can maneuver among the many small islands and give the passengers a really up-close view of the historical summer residences of many prominent Canadian and American families. Many of the islands are so small that the entire space is taken up by one residence. Some cottages are so miniature that you wonder why they were built until you realize that they have world-class views with water, sunsets, sunrises, birds and constantly changing seasons in every direction. But most are so large and elaborate that it prompts you to ask, “I wonder what their primary residence looks like?” Large or small, they all have one thing in common: location…location…location. And that is what the Georgian Clipper does for a select and privileged number of passengers. For four days it allows them to share in the magic of the 1000 islands and the million dollar views.

The cabins are surprisingly large, all 9 of them, for a ship so small. Each cabin has two lower beds, a shower, closet and a large window. They are serviced daily, usually while you are at breakfast, and again at night with a “turndown” service while you are at dinner.

A unique feature that I found particularly entertaining was the bridge. Many ships have what is known as an “open bridge policy”, where passengers are invited to inspect the bridge, but the Georgian Clipper gave new meaning to “open bridge.” One morning during a brief drizzle, about nine of us wandered up to the bridge to get out of the rain and still enjoy the view. We were still there two hours later, even after the rain stopped, listening to Captain Davis spin yarns and tell tales of the people and the area we were experiencing. After that, rain or shine, it was a favorite meeting place to look at maps, ask questions and listen to stories. I have never been on another ship where so many people were allowed to spend extended time on the bridge.

Our cruise began in Kingston, Ontario. With a population of over 116,000, it is the oldest city in Ontario and its first capital. Located at the gateway to the Thousand Islands and Lake Ontario, the city prides itself in being the Fresh Water Sailing Capital of North America. The nearby Rideau Canal was recently added to the World Heritage Sites. The sparkling waterfront of Confederation Basin is a backdrop for the historic city hall. Fort Henry dominates the hill above the city and Queen’s University and the Royal Military College help make it a center for education. Passengers should plan to spend a day before or after the cruise exploring the city.

As we sailed leisurely along the St. Lawrence River in the late afternoon towards Picton, we passed the magnificent limestone City Hall, Ft. Fortenac, Martello Towers and the impressive maximum security prison built in the 1830,s. Our entire group of passengers was assembled on the upon Horizon deck, watching the scenery go by, sipping a before dinner cocktail and getting to know each other.

Meals were, without exception, a sublime work of art and taste created by our chef, Michelle. On how many cruises have you been offered tenderloin of bison as a choice? Chicken, salmon, shrimp, scallops, trout or beef; all were outstanding.

Picton, in Prince Edward County,is steeped in 18th century history. We boarded a mini-van and drove through the countryside to visit the Waupoos Winery, the County Cider Company and the village of Bloomfield for a little shopping and a taste of old fashioned ice cream.

Reversing direction, we sail back past Kingston and by lunchtime we are entering Millionaire’s Row, a stretch of Islands that has been home to such luminaries as Mary Pickford, the Barrymores, Rand McNally, the Pullmans and the Boldts. Boldt Castle, on Hart Island, is the largest and most famous of the residences. George Boldt had the island reshaped into a heart and began building an elaborate castle as a valentines present for his wife. Unfortunately she died before the work was complete and George Boldt never lived in the castle. It is now maintained by the Bridge Authority. We sailed completely around the castle before continuing on to Brockville. That evening we were especially lucky to have a front row seat for the spectacular Canada Day fireworks which illuminated the harbor.

On we sailed through the 1000 islands (actually 1,800) to the small town of Gananoque. Kathleen Burtch of Parks Canada was with us throughout the day to describe the flora, fauna and real estate of the area. In Gananoque, we had ample time to explore and do a little shopping in the village. One store, an old fashioned hardware store, had more merchandise than I have ever seen crammed into one building.

Finally, departing in the early morning, we returned by the Bateau Channel to Kingston for a mid-morning disembarkation. It has been a magical few days and I know that many of the passengers have been inspired to return to the area to do more in-depth exploring.

Note: The Georgian clipper has no facilities for babies or small children.

Contact: telephone 1-888-271-2628
www.heritagecruises.com
E-mail: info@heritagecruises.com