There are so many reasons why I enjoy sailing with Viking Cruises. One is their choice of ports. Often, I find myself in a community not known to me, and I always experience new and interesting discoveries.
When I sailed with Viking Expedition Cruises' "Canadian Discovery," one of the ports included Trois-Rivières (Three Rivers), Quebec.
Located at the confluence of the Saint-Maurice and Saint Lawrence rivers, it is approximately halfway between Montreal and Quebec City. Established in 1634, it is the second community, after Quebec City, to become a permanent settlement in New France.
Viking always offers a selection of included and optional excursions. My shipmate Anne and I chose to visit Notre-Dame-du-Cap Sanctuary. Although I am not Catholic, I am always impressed with the beauty and architecture of great churches.
Opened in 1964, the Basilica can accommodate up to 1,660 people. It is Canada's national shrine to the Blessed Virgin Mary and one of five national shrines in Canada. Also, of interest here is the Old Shrine (formerly Sainte-Marie-Madeleine church), inaugurated in 1720.
Anne and I decided to set out independently after our visit and motor coach ride back to the ship.
We discovered the Musée POP featuring a unique identity of Québec's diverse and evolving society. Of all the excellent exhibits, my favorite was the works of artist François Bertrand, made from recycled materials, including the magnificent dress made of aluminum can pins, brass wire, a motor propeller, and a bell.
This work, La Reine-Mère—Hommage à Noëlla Gaumond, is part of the exhibit featuring 30 sculptures.
I thoroughly enjoyed my day in this community, which I had never heard of before and one I will now never forget.
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