Official Thread For Upcoming Eastern Canadian Cruises

[Ted in Halifax]

Thanks. I was trying to pull it all up on the map and I see it is a good distance from port. We will do the museum for sure though...at least that's one port planned!

It's a 14 minute drive from your ship.

 

[Deemarch]

 

[ksloane]

I'm also finding Halifax easier to plan first!
The Titanic thing sort of freaks me out, though I think my teens would be intrigued by it. So here's what I'm thinking for my group:

Up, breakfast, off the boat.
Wander the attractions at the pier, then along the promenade/harbor walk.
Buy ice cream at COWS and/or a Beaver Tail treat, before and/or after the
Maritime Museum on our own. Opens at 9:30.
Afterwards, start uphill to candystore called Freak Lunchbox.
Depending on time/hunger ...etc ... options are:
*Go back to boat.
*Continue uphill to Citadel.
*Go back down to the port and catch a ferry-ride across to Dartsmouth and back, just to be on the water.
*Book a Tall Ship sailing ( 1 1/2 hours?)something like tall ship Mar
http://www.mtcw.ca/Schedules.php

Welcome any comments from those of you who know the city!!! Thanks!

Sounds like a great plan.

I think we'll do the excursion for the museum as it includes the kid rope typing activity that I think my daughter will enjoy.

From there I think we'll explore on our own including at least one round on the hop on hop off bus just because I think that will be a neat experience for my daughter (and the tickets are included with the excursion).

I have the Citadel, Cows, Beavertails, and Freak Lunchbox on my list as well for possibilities in the afternoon.


Now to figure out Saint John....

 

[joannalh]

I'm also finding Halifax easier to plan first!
The Titanic thing sort of freaks me out, though I think my teens would be intrigued by it. So here's what I'm thinking for my group:

Up, breakfast, off the boat.
Wander the attractions at the pier, then along the promenade/harbor walk.
Buy ice cream at COWS and/or a Beaver Tail treat, before and/or after the
Maritime Museum on our own. Opens at 9:30.
Afterwards, start uphill to candystore called Freak Lunchbox.
Depending on time/hunger ...etc ... options are:
*Go back to boat.
*Continue uphill to Citadel.
*Go back down to the port and catch a ferry-ride across to Dartsmouth and back, just to be on the water.
*Book a Tall Ship sailing ( 1 1/2 hours?)something like tall ship Mar
http://www.mtcw.ca/Schedules.php

Welcome any comments from those of you who know the city!!! Thanks!

All good options-I'd probably go with the Citadel over either of the last boat options. If you're at Freak Lunchbox you're halfway there. And agree that both ice cream AND a Beaver Tail are in order.

 

[annichan]

It would be great if someone living in (or familiar with) the area could help me a bit with my decision ...

Coming all the way from Europe and not sure when/if we will get another chance to visit Canada, we (2 adults, no kids) are trying to decide what to do in Saint John.

For Halifax, we are already pretty much decided on doing the Peggy's Cove excursion in the morning, and walking around Halifax in the afternoon.

For Saint John though, we are really torn between doing something that lets us see Saint John and the surrounding area, or doing the all-day whale watching tour. What would be more of a "not to be missed"? I know there is never a guarantee of seeing whales, but are chances high (in early September), and is the surrounding scenery pretty so the excursion would be worthwhie even if we end up not seeing any whales?
Or should we rather try to see as much as possible of Saint John and/or Saint Martins, and leave the whale watching for a possible future vacation?

I realize nobody can take the decision off me, but I would love some input!

 

[HermanTriplets+1]

All good options-I'd probably go with the Citadel over either of the last boat options. If you're at Freak Lunchbox you're halfway there. And agree that both ice cream AND a Beaver Tail are in order.

I'm glad you said that about the Citadel; that's what I'm thinking, too! I figure we'll do something boat-ish in Saint John. And of course we are arriving on a boat-ish vessel!
I think we'll be pretty high on the sugar at that point and that will help carry us uphill! Afterwards, rolling downhill toward the ship will be the easy part.

Thanks for the input!
I'm off for a few days away with my DH, so looking forward to catching up when I return!

 

[ksloane]

Enjoy your time away!

I think we are also going to do the Citadel that afternoon. My daughter isn't excited about it now, but I think she'll really enjoy it when she gets there.

 

[peachygreen]

In Saint John, does anyone have any experience with the Bay of Fundy Scenic Railway? Do you think that young kids would enjoy it?

I'm at a loss in Saint John of what to do with my 6 and 2 year olds.

 

[ksloane]

In Saint John, does anyone have any experience with the Bay of Fundy Scenic Railway? Do you think that young kids would enjoy it?

I'm at a loss in Saint John of what to do with my 6 and 2 year olds.

I feel the same way about my dd11. I am leaning towards the pancake brunch.

 

[Canadian Disney Mom]

For Saint John though, we are really torn between doing something that lets us see Saint John and the surrounding area, or doing the all-day whale watching tour. What would be more of a "not to be missed"?

I actually live in the burbs about 15 minutes from Saint John and work in the city. (my office actually overlooks the harbour where you will make port)

What are the available options for SJ? I will offer what advice I can

 

[Mom323]

St John Excursions

It's in our meet thread from a platinum cruiser....
St Johns:

Bay of Fundy Coastal Photography
$79.00 (ages 10 and up)
$59.00 (ages 3 to 9)
3 to 3.5 Hours
0:30am

Bay of Fundy Scenic Railway
$55.00 (ages 10 and up)
$29.00 (ages 3 to 9)
2 to 2.5 Hours
10am
10:45am
12:15pm
1pm

Bay of Fundy Whale & Wildlife Watching
$139.00 (ages 10 and up)
$119.00 (ages 0 to 9)
7 to 7.5 Hours
8:45am

Big Pink Sightseeing Hop On Hop Off — Saint John
$42.00 (ages 10 and up)
$22.00 (ages 3 to 9)
At leisure
All day

Big Pink Sightseing Hop On Hop Off & Bay of Fundy Scenic Railway
$75.00 (ages 10 and up)
$39.00 (ages 3 to 9)
2 to 8 Hours
10am
10:45am
12:15pm
1pm


Coastal Kayak & Lobster Cookout
$130.00 (ages 10 and up)
4 to 4.5 Hours
9:45am

Family Fun in Fundy — Critters & Creatures Catch & Release
$129.00 (ages 10 and up)
$89.00 (ages 3 to 9)
7 to 7.5 Hours
9:15am

Fundy by Land & Sea
$89.00 (ages 10 and up)
$69.00 (ages 0 to 9)
2.5 to 3 Hours
10:45am

Garden Tea Party Featuring Exclusive Disney Character Experience
$159.00 (ages 10 and up)
$139.00 (ages 3 to 9)
7 to 7.5 Hours
9:15am

Hike, Bike & Paddle
$85.00 (ages 10 and up)
3.5 to 4 Hours
1:15pm

History in Stone Walking Tour
$29.00 (ages 10 and up)
$19.00 (ages 3 to 9)
2 to 2.5 Hours
10:15am

Hopewell Rocks Tidal Discovery
$136.00 (ages 10 and up)
$99.00 (ages 3 to 9)
7 to 7.5 Hours
9:15am

Irving Nature Park Hike
$69.00 (ages 10 and up)
$55.00 (ages 5 to 9)
3 to 3.5 Hours
9:45am

Maple Sugar Shack & Brunch
$75.00 (ages 10 and up)
$59.00 (ages 3 to 9)
3.5 to 4 Hours
9:15am

Moosehead Beer Tasting & City Sights
$59.00 (ages 21 and up)
3 to 3.5 Hours
1:45pm

Ride the Rapids
$99.00 (ages 13 and up)
3 to 3.5 Hours
10:30am

SN02 TROLSJ
$0.00 per adult
9:45am
10:15am
11:30am
12pm
1:15pm
1:45pm
2:30pm
3pm
3:30pm

SN17 STMART
$0.00 per adult
10:15am

SN28 ADTROLSJ
$0.00 per adult
9:15am
11am

SN29 ADSTMART
$0.00 per adult
10:15am

Saint John Highlights
$45.00 (ages 10 and up)
$29.00 (ages 3 to 9)
3 to 3.5 Hours
9:15am

Saint John Hightlights – Adult Only Departure
$45.00 (ages 18 and up)
3 to 3.5 Hours
9:15am

Saint John River Cruise
$85.00 (ages 10 and up)
$65.00 (ages 0 to 9)
3.5 to 4 Hours
1:15pm

Saint John by Private Vehicle – 4 Hour Limo
$1,150.00 (up to 10 guests)
4 Hours
9am

Saint John by Private Vehicle – 4 Hour SUV
$599.00 (up to 6 Guests)
4 Hours
9am

Saint John by Private Vehicle – 4 Hour Towncar
$599.00 (up to 3 Guests)
4 Hours
9am

Taste of Saint John — Gourmet Lunch & Wine Tasting
$119.00 (ages 21 and up)
2.5 to 3 Hours
11:30am

Whale of a Time Featuring Exclusive Youth Activity
$109.00 (ages 10 and up)
$99.00 (ages 5 to 9)
2 to 2.5 Hours
9:45am
1:15pm

Wild Blueberry Tour & Tasting
$69.00 (ages 10 and up)
$59.00 (ages 3 to 9)
3.5 to 4 Hours
1:15pm

 

[Mom323]

I actually live in the burbs about 15 minutes from Saint John and work in the city. (my office actually overlooks the harbour where you will make port)

What are the available options for SJ? I will offer what advice I can

I did a quick cutand past of the descriptions, I hope this helps

Garden Tea Party Featuring Exclusive Disney Character Experience
Travel to St. Andrews By-the-Sea and discover the award-winning Kingsbrae Garden, where you'll join Disney Characters in a Garden Tea Party! Savor delicious treats as you create family memories that will last a life time.

Whale of a Time Featuring Exclusive Youth Activity
Join us for a "Whale of a Time!" at the New Brunswick Museum! Examine real whale bones and challenge yourself to put them together. Next, children can join a fun painting activity while parents enjoy free time or explore the rest of the museum.

Bay of Fundy Coastal Photography
Bring your camera and discover the scenic beauty of coastal New Brunswick following a professional photographer who will give you tips and techniques to get the best shots. This is a perfect tour for the photography aficionados!

Bay of Fundy Scenic Railway
All aboard! Ride the rails over the World famous Bay of Fundy and the world's highest tides! Even more incredible is that you will actually travel on the train and stop right over the spectacular Reversing Falls Rapids!

Bay of Fundy Whale & Wildlife Watching
Set sail on the Bay of Fundy for an unforgettable whale and wildlife watching tour. With interpretation by a Marine Biologist, you will find this expedition to be an excellent discovery of the marine life found among the world's highest tides.

Big Pink Sightseeing Hop On Hop Off — Saint John
Enjoy the freedom of exploring Saint John at your own pace with an all day pass to the Hop On, Hop Off Pink Buses. Choose from the 2 different routes or completed all of them, the day is yours to enjoy!

Big Pink Sightseeing Hop On Hop Off & Bay of Fundy Scenic Railway
Two tours for the price of one as you tour the City of Saint John on two exciting modes of transportation: an authentic London Double Decker, painted pink in support of Breast Cancer and the Bay of Fundy Scenic Tour by Rail!

Coastal Kayak & Lobster Cookout
Enjoy a guided family-style kayaking adventure that explores the calm waters of the Saint John River. Next, enjoy an authentic lobster cookout, where you'll learn how to crack and savor a chilled Bay of Fundy lobster.

Family Fun in Fundy — Critters & Creatures Catch & Release
Learn about the critters and creatures of Fundy National Park in this up-close, behind the scenes family adventure. Catch invasive green crabs, look for critters in a fresh water brook and check an eel trap. It's fun for everyone!

Fundy by Land & Sea
See the best of Saint John by land and sea! Enjoy a city tour overview from the comfort of your bus, see the world famous Reversing Falls Rapids and cruise the waters of the Saint John Harbour or Bay of Fundy while learning the history of the area.

Hike, Bike & Paddle
Get back to nature as you hike a wooded trail, bike around the shores of lakes, and paddle on a lake in your choice of a kayak or canoe at Rockwood Park, designed by Calvert Vaux, famous architect and landscape designer of New York's Central Park.

History in Stone Walking Tour
Walk the streets of Saint John and get up close to many fine architectural structures, ornate carvings, exquisite stained glass, wrought iron fences and fascinating gargoyles. Visit Trinity Royal, Loyalist Burial Grounds and the Old City Market.

Hopewell Rocks Tidal Discovery
Experience the world's highest tides as you explore a world-class attraction and a UNESCO-designated Biosphere Reserve. See Hopewell Rocks, the icon of New Brunswick and explore the Tidal Discovery site on this full-day adventure. Lunch is included!

Irving Nature Park Hike
Located just minutes uptown is the breathtaking Irving Nature Park. Set on an island, this nature area on the Bay of Fundy is home to the highest tides and offers one of the richest marine ecosystems in the world. Learn more about this Port Adventure.

Maple Sugar Shack & Brunch
Cross the Kennebecasis river on a cable ferry and visit a family-run maple sugar farm. Tag along an enlightening bush tour, following the syrup from tree to the table. End your experience savoring a homemade-style brunch with lots of maple syrup!

Moosehead Beer Tasting & City Sights
Celebrate a passion for beer and culture! Experience the sights of Saint John, sample the finest Moosehead beer products and enjoy live entertainment by a local east coast artist!

Ride the Rapids
The Reversing Falls jet boat ride is an adventure you won't want to miss! On this exciting thrill ride you'll get up close to one of the world's most unique phenomena: the Reversing Falls Rapids. You'll also have an opportunity to explore the heritage of Saint John.

Saint John by Private Vehicle – 4 Hour Limo
A private vehicle is the perfect solution for passengers who wish to tour privately or who want the flexibility of designing their own itinerary.

Saint John by Private Vehicle – 4 Hour SUV
A private vehicle is the perfect solution for passengers who wish to tour privately or who want the flexibility of designing their own itinerary.

Saint John by Private Vehicle – 4 Hour Towncar
A private vehicle is the perfect solution for passengers who wish to tour privately or who want the flexibility of designing their own itinerary.

Saint John Highlights
Follow your guide and trace over 400 years of history of Canada's oldest incorporated city through the highlights of Saint John. See the famous Reversing Falls Rapids, peruse the Old City Market and explore the Carleton Martello Tower.

Saint John Hightlights – Adult Only Departure
Follow your guide and trace over 400 years of history of Canada's oldest incorporated city through the highlights of Saint John. See the famous Reversing Falls Rapids, peruse the Old City Market and explore the Carleton Martello Tower.

Saint John River Cruise
Enjoy a city tour en route to the world famous Reversing Falls Rapids. Next, sail aboard a true Mississippi River Boat along the majestic Saint John River to see covered bridges and lighthouses, and learn the history of this incredible ecosystem.

Saint John Rocks!
Continents colliding, oceans closing and opening, volcanoes, earthquakes, ice ages and climate change& explore a billion years of Earth's history by visiting the sites that make up the Stonehammer Geopark, the first geopark in North America.

St. Martins & the Bay of Fundy
Perched on the shores of the Bay of Fundy is the picturesque fishing village of St. Martins, with its famous sea-carved caves, twin covered bridges, delicious seafood chowder and old fashioned hospitality. Discover New Brunswick at its best!

St. Martins & the Bay of Fundy – Adult Only Departure
Perched on the shores of the Bay of Fundy is the picturesque fishing village of St. Martins, with its famous sea-carved caves, twin covered bridges, delicious seafood chowder and old fashioned hospitality. Discover New Brunswick at its best!

Taste of Saint John — Gourmet Lunch & Wine Tasting
Enjoy scrumptious food, delicious wine, and warm hospitality hosted by Margret and Axel Begner, a charismatic couple originally from Germany. Hear their stories and dine at the Opera Bistro, one of the most renowned restaurants in Saint John

Trolley 'Round Saint John
Take a scenic drive around Saint John and see many of the highlights as your trolley drives by. Next, enjoy a quick photo stop at the famous Reversing Falls Rapids.

Trolley 'Round Saint John – Adult Only Departure
Take a scenic drive around Saint John and see many of the highlights as your trolley drives by. Next, enjoy a quick photo stop at the famous Reversing Falls Rapids.

Wild Blueberry Tour & Tasting
New Brunswick is renowned for its wild blueberries, ranked as one of nature's best antioxidants. On this unique excursion, your senses will come alive as you see, touch and taste this delicious fruit.

 

[jkpmac]

I actually live in the burbs about 15 minutes from Saint John and work in the city. (my office actually overlooks the harbour where you will make port)

What are the available options for SJ? I will offer what advice I can

Thanks so much for coming on board As you can see, many people are eager to plan their Saint John Adventure. If you stroll through the pages you will note that i have posted a fair number of links so far, but some local experience would be great!

Thanks again and welcome!!!

 

[Mom323]

For those of you who live in or near Halifax, it looks like we will be there on a Sunday. Will shops be open? We are planning on an excursion that starts around noon.. We were hoping to explore on our own in the am. We may have to rethink this if items of interest will be closed. Thanks!

 

[Ted in Halifax]

For those of you who live in or near Halifax, it looks like we will be there on a Sunday. Will shops be open? We are planning on an excursion that starts around non. We were hoping to explore on our own in the am. We may have to rethink this if items if interest will be closed. Thanks!

On Sunday, shops open at noon. Maritime Museum of the Atlantic at 9:30am after June 1st. You will find Sunday morning to be very peaceful. Any specific questions, feel free to post!

Ted

 

[Mom323]

On Sunday, shops open at noon. Maritime Museum of the Atlantic at 9:30am after June 1st. You will find Sunday morning to be very peaceful. Any specific questions, feel free to post!

Ted

So that means BeaverTails and the Freak Lunch box are out for the AM.
Do you think we can make it to the Citadel at 9am, and back to the port by noon? Will the Hop on Bus be running at that time or should we try for a cab?

Thanks

 

[drdelsol]

Thanks for checking on the Dr. Who stuff. I really had no idea how prominent that type of thing was there versus here. I appreciate your time on this and all of the other questions being answered. I am looking forward to this cruise more then the caribbean one over spring break

 

[Canadian Disney Mom]

There is a Freak Lunchbox in uptown Saint John now, so if you don't make it to the one in Halifax, you can still get your funky Candy fix.

 

[Mom323]

There is a Freak Lunchbox in uptown Saint John now, so if you don't make it to the one in Halifax, you can still get your funky Candy fix.

Great! Thanks. Where can we get the famous BeaverTail in Saint John?

 

[Canadian Disney Mom]

If I were to pick my favourites from the list of activities - I would pick the ones below. The Sugar Shack is the one that peaks my interest the most - I went to a few when I was younger and they are alot of fun.

No matter what you end up doing, make sure you take the time to visit the Saint John City Market which is just a few steps from the port!

BTW - I have done the Jetboat rides before - they are ALOT of fun!!!

Hopewell Rocks Tidal Discovery
Experience the world's highest tides as you explore a world-class attraction and a UNESCO-designated Biosphere Reserve. See Hopewell Rocks, the icon of New Brunswick and explore the Tidal Discovery site on this full-day adventure. Lunch is included!

Irving Nature Park Hike
Located just minutes uptown is the breathtaking Irving Nature Park. Set on an island, this nature area on the Bay of Fundy is home to the highest tides and offers one of the richest marine ecosystems in the world. Learn more about this Port Adventure.

Maple Sugar Shack & Brunch
Cross the Kennebecasis river on a cable ferry and visit a family-run maple sugar farm. Tag along an enlightening bush tour, following the syrup from tree to the table. End your experience savoring a homemade-style brunch with lots of maple syrup!

Moosehead Beer Tasting & City Sights
Celebrate a passion for beer and culture! Experience the sights of Saint John, sample the finest Moosehead beer products and enjoy live entertainment by a local east coast artist!

Ride the Rapids
The Reversing Falls jet boat ride is an adventure you won't want to miss! On this exciting thrill ride you'll get up close to one of the world's most unique phenomena: the Reversing Falls Rapids. You'll also have an opportunity to explore the heritage of Saint John.

St. Martins & the Bay of Fundy
Perched on the shores of the Bay of Fundy is the picturesque fishing village of St. Martins, with its famous sea-carved caves, twin covered bridges, delicious seafood chowder and old fashioned hospitality. Discover New Brunswick at its best!