Cruising the St. Lawrence Seawayby Richard Pennick
There are three cruises: Kingston to Montreal, a 4 night - 5 day cruise down the St. Lawrence through the 1000 islands (there are actually 1,870), and locks of the International Seaway. The Canada’s Capital Cruise from Kingston to Ottawa, 5 nights - 6 days, and The Canadian Connection Cruise between Kingston and Quebec City, 6 nights - 7 days.
There are four Stateroom classes on the Empress, and all are outboard with opening windows. They feature individual climate control, two-channel sound system, shower and private facilities. Passengers can select staterooms with either double or twin beds. Prices range from C$1118 per person for the 4 night cruise in the high season June 9 to October 15, and C$997 for the low season October 16 - 31. The season runs from June 2 through October 26. For more information contact St. Lawrence Cruise Lines 1-800-267-786 or 613-549-8091. Fax: 1-613-549-8410 or visit their website at courtesy of St. Lawrence Cruise Lines Inc. -Updated 7-7-99-
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A relaxing way to travel between Toronto, Ottawa, Montreal and Quebec City is along the St. Lawrence river - on a St. Lawrence river cruise - through the 1000 Islands, locks, past the fortresses, stately homes and ever changing scenery on a replica steamship, the Canadian Empress. This calm water cruise starts or ends in Kingston, just east of Toronto, and links with VIA Rail in all the port cities. The stations are all within a few minutes of each port.
All cruises feature numerous shore excursions along this historic waterway, and cruises can be mixed and matched so that you can leave the program wherever you choose, or return to Kingston. St. Lawrence Cruises also offer a selection of hotels in their port cities for those who want to linger a while. These can be booked with the cruises. 
The Canadian Empress has been in operations since 1981, and carries 66 passengers in 32 air-conditioned staterooms with daily maid service. The 33 metre craft has a crew of 14, some of whom labour day and night to prepare elaborate menus for breakfast, lunch, dinner, teas and treats in between, all served in a dining room and lounge which features nightly entertainment. 
The ships interior reflects its namesake. With early heritage style, elegant furnishings, brass handrails, and ornate ceilings, the ship recaptures the grace of a turn-of-the-century lifestyle.