JOIN A SAILING EXPEDITION AND DISCOVER NEWFOUNDLAND 1,000 YEARS AFTER LEIF ERICKSON'S VIKINGS LANDED THERE

Newfoundland is the " Far East " of the western world. In fact, most Newfoundlanders live closer to Ireland than they do to, say, Manitoba or Minnesota .

Newfoundland and Labrador is a land of seafaring people who respect boat trips made under canvas. It was more than 1,000 years ago that the Vikings, led by Leif Erickson, landed along Newfoundland's shores in their long, narrow sailing ships and became the first Europeans to settle in North America. In the 1960s, archaeologists uncovered the remains of their settlement. Some 500 years after the Vikings landed, explorer John Cabot arrived, sailing under the English flag.

Today, you can travel Newfoundland coastal waters aboard the sailing ship, Caledonia . You'll spend six nights aboard and are invited"”should you be so inclined"”to participant while you are underway in a hands-on sail-training program.

Otherwise, there are onboard guest lecturers and entertainers to help make your voyage more enjoyable. You'll also have access to the ship's bicycles and sea kayaks and are invited to take advantage of a well-stocked library.

You'll quickly discover that this is a land like no other, with thousands of islands, coves, guts and bays that exude a strange and startling beauty. Adventures range from a gentle paddle around a sheltered bay to traveling alongside humpback whales. You may find yourself exploring a sea cave or treading a remote pebble beach.

For hikers and dedicated walkers, there are literally hundreds of trails. In a land as unpopulated and geographically ancient as Newfoundland , the hiking and walking opportunities are both endless and breathtaking.

"Fjords, Bays and Tickles "” Sailing Expedition" is a seven-day/six-night tour offered by Maxxim Vacations. With more than 30 years' experience, Maxxim has earned a solid reputation as the travel specialist for Atlantic Canada. It is one of Canada 's most respected travel suppliers.

Included in this package is round-trip airfare between U.S. gateways and Deer Lake , Newfoundland , six nights' accommodations aboard the Caledonia and gourmet local cuisine (with complimentary soft drinks, coffee and tea). Also included are sail training program (if desired) and use of ship's bicycles and sea kayaks.

Package price with departure from Boston , New York or Atlanta is $3,099; from Chicago $3,179; from Los Angeles $3,209; and from Miami $3,319. Prices are based on double occupancy and do not include federal and/or provincial taxes, airline imposed taxes and surcharges and departure taxes and transportation fees. Trip cancellation and car rental insurance are extra. Departure dates are August 3, 10, 17 and 24, 2008.