Steep cliffs, swirling currents and the capricious weather of the Southern Ocean make landings difficult on the subantarctic islands of Prince Edward and Marion. A South African research station on Marion studies local meteorology, climate and the marine life of the islands, which includes eight different species of albatross.

The rugged Gaspé Peninsula is one of the most beautiful landscapes in the Canadian Maritimes, and the waters off the coast are a whale watching hotspot. Highlights include Forillon National Park, home to wildlife including moose and bears, and Bonaventure Island, where you’ll find one of the world’s biggest gannet colonies.

Tadoussac is situated at the meeting of the St Lawrence and Saguenay rivers, and is famous as one of the best whale-watching spots in Québec. Species including fin, minke, beluga and blue whales are drawn here by the bountiful supply of krill where the salt and freshwater meet.

Québec City, the capital of French-speaking Canada, is one of the North American continent’s most beguiling cities. The pretty old town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a joy to behold; the cobbled streets and church spires are enclosed within the old city walls, and many of the buildings date back to the 17th century

Bilingual Montréal is Québec’s largest city, a vibrant island metropolis with a distinctive blend of old style European charm and thrusting modernity. Architectural highlights include the beautiful Basilique Notre-Dame-de-Montréal, and the city also boasts the world’s third largest botanical garden.

Toronto is the fourth largest city in North America, a dynamic and culturally rich metropolis that hugs the northwestern shore of Lake Ontario. The cosmopolitan foodie scene is a major attraction, and the city boasts some excellent museums and galleries. Toronto is also just two hours from Niagara Falls, and serves as a jumping off point for cruises around the Great Lakes.

Windsor is the southernmost city in Canada, and is situated just across the river from the city of Detroit, Michigan. Cross the busy Ambassador Bridge to the famous ‘Motor City’ and you’ll see how Detroit is bouncing back from decades of decline, with highlights including the Henry Ford Museum of American Innovation and the Motown Historical Museum

The little town of Parry Sound is situated within the Georgian Bay UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, sheltered behind 30,000 tiny islands that make up the world’s largest freshwater archipelago. It’s a laid back and tranquil place, surrounded by conifer forests and sandy beaches.

The charming, car-free Mackinac Island is situated on the straits between Lake Huron and Lake Michigan, and played a key role in the Great Lakes fur trade. The island was the site of several battles between the British and Americans, and is home to some elegant Victorian-style architecture.