Photo of the Week - August 5

Celebrity Summit docked at the Marco Polo Cruise Terminal

in Saint John, New Brunswick.

Photo © 2010 Aaron Saunders

Our Photo of the Week for August 5th showcases Celebrity Summit docked at the port of Saint John, New Brunswick on July 22, 2010.  We're pleased to announce our photograph is also featured on the ShipAlphabet page for Celebrity Summit - a unique feature that is part of the outstanding and highly regarded ShipParade website.

Saint John is experiencing something of a boom this year, thanks to increased demand for Canada & New England cruises, which in turn led to a longer-than-usual season for the friendly seaside town.  Past visitors to the city will find themselves greeted with a brand-new cruise terminal, dubbed the Marco Polo Cruise Terminal.  

Previously, guests disembarked via metal gangways that led to a concrete apron pier-side.  Now, guests are greeted by a very modern, yet classically designed, terminal - complete with tide-sensing gangways that can be positioned to suit any ship.  Bargain hunters will be happy to note the large white tent, previously the only thing on the pier and savior of the last-minute souvenir shopper, is still there - positioned in roughly the same spot, just outside the terminal.

Inside Saint John City Market.

Photo © 2010 Aaron Saunders

What to do in Saint John?  You might want to take a stroll through the Saint John City Market - the oldest continually operating farmer's market in Canada.  Completed in 1876 and constructed largely of wooden trusses resembling an inverted ship's hull, it is said to have been built by then-unemployed ship's carpenters.

The remarkable, free-standing spiral staircase

located in the Saint John County Courthouse.

Photo © 2010 Aaron Saunders 

Another unique architectural gem in Saint John is located in the historic Saint John County Courthouse, and is just a two-minute walk from the City Market, on Sydney Street.  Built between 1825 and 1830, the courthouse is notable for its free-standing spiral staircase - the only known example in all of Canada.  

Regardless of what you choose to do, it's hard not to enjoy yourself in this quiet, cozy, friendly town.