We had planned three days in Montreal: arrive on the 28th, changeover day on the 29th with us continuing without change, and the final day on the 30th with departure in the evening. Didn't work out that way.
First there was a change due to weather, we'd stay overnight in Montreal, then depart 10am on the 31st (remnants of Melissa were driving winds that would make it difficult for a cruise ship to navigate the narrow waters at Quebec).
Next, there was a death onboard that delayed our 10am departure and forced us into another weather problem, so we'd leave on 6pm on Nov 1, extending our time in Montreal by two days. And just to make it even more fun, it was raining all day on the 30th and 31st. Two days spent "at sea" without moving. Five days and four nights at the same port.
For five days this was the view from our balcony.
And for two of those days, it looked more like this:
But our arrival day, the 28th, was beautiful and we went on a Montreal Highlights excursion, showing us much of Montreal via motor coach. We passed The Ring, a 30m stainless steel circle that frames Mount Royale, the centerpiece of Montreal.
Our first stop was St Joseph's Oratory, dedicated to Mary's husband
Inside was the votive chapel with what appears to be the obligatory display of crutches. No artificial limbs here wither.
In chapel specifically for Joseph, the statue him holding baby Jesus.
The main basilica, very modern styling
The view from the front doors of the basilica, which was eight floors above our entry point in the parking lot. And, yes, there was a gift shop.
We drove through the park on Mount Royale, and stopped to view the 1976 Oympic Stadium. Nadia Comaneci was the star of the 76 games.
Molson is THE Montreal beer
After lunch we did a short walkabout to see the neighborhood and get snacks at the local grocery. Frighteningly, these poles are used to find the sidewalk after the snow.
This train tried to kill me. I was crossing the tracks as the lights started flashing and gates came down.
Apartment buildings
We return to the Grand Quai at the port, and find our ride waiting
The next day, the 29th, was changeover day so leaving the ship was the best choice to stay out of everyone's way. Everybody has to have a big Ferris wheel now.
Market
Back side of the chapel, Our Lady of Good Help
Clock Tower
Another picture of the clock tower with a photo bomber
Front side of the chapel
Paul Chomedey, founder of Montreal 1642
Notre-Dame Basilica
