Tours & Experiences in Halifax Nova Scotia
Experience Halifax by Land & Sea. Enjoy local craft beers & ciders, Nova Scotian wines, live entertainment and spectacular coastal scenery.
Harbour Hopper Tour
About This Tour:
Ribbit Ribbit! All aboard Atlantic Canada's most popular tour – a fun, fast-paced adventure that introduces you to the best of Halifax by land and sea! Sitting 10 feet high, you'll have an exclusive view of our vibrant city’s historic sights, such as Grand Parade and Citadel Hill National Historic Site. The adventure continues when you make your big SPLASH into the Halifax harbour! Your driver is now your Captain, and it’s time to explore. Prepare your camera for unique photos of George's Island, Cable Wharf, and the Halifax waterfront. This fully narrated amphibious tour is one you won’t soon forget!
Tour Includes:
55-minute guided tour
Schedule:
Tours begin May 21, 2022. View complete schedule online.
Ticket Prices (HST Extra):
Adult: $35.65
Senior 65+: $32.17
Youth (7-15): $20.83
Child (2-6): $12.74
Infant (0-1): $0.00
Family Rate*: $93.68
Additional Child for Family Rate (With purchase of family ticket): $11.39
*Family Rate is for 2 adults & 2 children under the age of 15
Where to Board:
This tour departs from the Salter Street Parking Lot on the Halifax waterfront
Tall Ship Silva Sailing Cruise
About This Tour:
A cruise aboard The Tall Ship Silva is the perfect way to fully appreciate a beautiful day on the Halifax Harbour. Your journey beings on the Halifax waterfront as you set off to view some of Halifax’s most notable landmarks, including Georges Island, the Halifax Waterfront, Historic Properties, and more. Our guides will share stories of the city’s rich history including accounts of Halifax Explosion, lesser-known stories of Halifax shipwrecks, and historical facts about the Silva. Help the crew hoist the Silva’s sails, enjoy a beverage or two from the onboard Murphy’s Pub, and sit back, relax and enjoy a beautiful day out on the water.
Tour Includes:
1.5 hour guided tour
Schedule:
Saturdays & Sundays, 4pm - June 5 - June 26th
Daily, 4pm - July 1 - September 30
Ticket Prices (HST Extra):
Adult: $37.61
Senior 65+: $34.39
Youth (7-15): $24.87
Child (2-6): $16.91
Infant (0-1): $0.00
Family Rate*: $103.64
Additional Child for Family Rate (With purchase of family ticket): $15.83
*Family Rate is for 2 adults & 2 children under the age of 15
Where to Board:
This tour departs from the Cable Wharf, 1751 Lower Water Street, Halifax
Image: Tourism Nova Scotia. Photographer: Acorn Art Photography
Peggys Cove Tour by Bus
About This Tour:
En route to this seaside village pass-by the Halifax Public Gardens, a quiet oasis amid a cosmopolitan city; see the Citadel National Historic Site, a fort perched high above the city; the Old Town Clock, a gift given to the city by Prince Edward the Duke of Kent in 1803; as well as other notable landmarks such as Province House, the naval dockyards and the famous Halifax waterfront boardwalk. As you travel along the winding coastal highway of the Lighthouse Route to the tiny fishing village of Peggy’s Cove, it is little wonder it has been an inspiration for artists and an irresistible lure for budding and seasoned adventurers for generation after generation. The colorful houses and fishing shacks perched atop the solid stone rocky outcrop that overlooks the restless waters of the Atlantic exhibit the wear and tear of the ocean and its punishing storms. Yet they endure, much like the small population of approximately 32 people who are year-round residents.
Tour Includes:
3.5 hour guided tour by bus
Schedule:
Daily, 9am - June 15 to October 31
Ticket Prices (HST Extra):
Adult: $65.60
Senior 65+: $59.05
Youth (6-15): $49.95
Where to Board:
Peggys Cove Tour by Bus departs from 1675 Lower Water Street, Halifax
Image: Tourism Nova Scotia. Photographer: Acorn Art Photography
Lunenburg & Mahone Bay Tour by Bus
About This Tour:
These quaint neighbouring towns located in Nova Scotia’s South Shore are brimming with histories that date back to the 18th century. Designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Lunenburg is a warm and welcoming host to guests eager to discover the many treasures and places of interest within the community. Guests may choose to learn more about the town the Bluenose II, while be accompanied by a local guide, or dive deeper into Lunenburg’s fishing industry during a visit to the Fisheries Museum of the Atlantic. A quick drive to Mahone Bay and you’ll be welcome to explore the scenic and hospitable community which offers a plethora of shopping, charming cafés, and copious photo opportunities of the town views and especially of the iconic Three Churches. Travel to, from, and between these towns will be provided by the accommodating team from Ambassatours Gray Line who will share informative and intriguing stories including the Oak Island mystery, rum running, privateers, and more.
Tour Includes:
6-hour guided tour by bus
Schedule:
Sundays, Tuesdays, Thursdays & Saturdays, 10am - June 16 to September 29
Ticket Prices (HST Extra):
Adult: $99.25
Senior 65+: $89.35
Youth (6-15): $69.50
Where to Board:
Lunenburg & Mahone Bay Tour by Bus departs from 1675 Lower Water Street, Halifax
Image: Tourism Nova Scotia. Photographer: Acorn Art Photography
Wine Enthusiast Tour
About This Tour:
We invite you to share our passion for Nova Scotian Wines by joining us on a Sommelier-guided tour of our local wine region. Travel by bus to visit three very distinct wineries, enjoy lunch, and discover for yourself why Nova Scotian wines have been awarded over 200 international and national awards. The Wine Enthusiast Tour is open to those 19+ with valid, government-issued photo ID.
Tour Includes:
7-hour tour
Sommelier guide
Transportation
Tours & tastings at three wineries: Bent Ridge Winery, Benjamin Bridge & Planters Ridge
Lunch at a local winery Bent Ridge: View lunch menu here
Schedule:
Saturdays, 10am - June 4 to October 29
Ticket Prices (HST Extra):
Adult: $140 (price includes gratuity for restaurant server)
Itinerary:
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Halifax Pick-Up: Departs at 10:15am from the Maritime Museum of the Atlantic,1675 Lower Water Street, B3J 1S3
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Dartmouth Pick-Up: Departs at 10:30am from the Zatzman Sportsplex, 110 Wyse Road, Dartmouth, B3A 1A2
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Bedford Pick-Up: Departs at 10:50am from the Atlantic Superstore, 1650 Bedford Hwy., Bedford, B4A 4J7
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Tour, Tasting & Lunch at Bent Ridge Winery: Arrive at 11:30am in Windsor, Nova Scotia
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Tour & Tasting at Planters Ridge Winery: Arrive at 1:30pm in Port Williams, Nova Scotia
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Tour & Tasting at Benjamin Bridge: Arrive at 3:00pm in Gaspereau Valley, Nova Scotia
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Tour & Tasting at Benjamin Bridge: Depart for home at 4:00pm from Benjamin Bridge
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Bedford Drop-Off: Arrives 5:00pm at the Atlantic Superstore, 1650 Bedford Hwy., Bedford, B4A 4J7
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Dartmouth Drop-Off: Arrives 5:15pm at the Zatzman Sportsplex, 110 Wyse Road, Dartmouth, B3A 1A2
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Halifax Drop-Off: Arrives 5:30pm at the Maritime Museum of the Atlantic,1675 Lower Water Street, B3J 1S3
Dinner Cruise
About This Tour:
Experience the sights and flavours that best represent the city while onboard Harbour Queen. Indulge on a three-course, locally sourced menu, as you travel through the Halifax harbour and along the scenic Northwest Arm. Take in the sights of notable landmarks including the Halifax waterfront, Georges Island, the Dingle Tower, and more. Enjoy wine, beer, and other beverages from our full-service bar. We look forward to welcoming you aboard.
Tour Includes:
2-hour cruise
3-course plated dinner
Live music by a Jazz soloist
Meal gratuity
Sample Dinner Menu:
Appetizer - Field greens, blistered cherry tomato, cucumber & feta cheese served with a cream balsamic dressing
Entrée - (choice of) Slow Braised Short-Rib with pan jus -or- Grilled Halibut with Lemon Butter Caper Sauce Served with roasted fingerling potatoes & baby carrots -or- Ratatouille with hummus, portobello mushroom, eggplant, tomato, onion & peppers
Dessert - Homemade tea biscuit with fresh strawberry compote, topped with whipped cream
Schedule:
Mother's Day, Sunday, June 12, 6pm; Thursday - Sunday, 6pm - July 1 to September 28
Ticket Prices (HST Extra):
Adult: $100
Senior 65+: $95.63
Youth (10-15): $53.48
Child (5-9): $21.74 (children's menu)
Where to Board:
The Dinner Cruise departs from the Cable Wharf, 1751 Lower Water Street, Halifax
Wines on the Water
About This Tour:
A local Sommelier leads guests through a five-course wine tasting, featuring the signature wines of Nova Scotia, each perfectly paired with menu items prepared onboard by our Executive Chef. A key ingredient for this tour is the musical stylings provided by our resident fiddler and guitar player, without which it would not be a true Nova Scotian Experience. Wine and food lovers agree that Wines on the Water is a must attend culinary adventure! Start the night a Nova Scotia Wine Enthusiast, end the night a Nova Scotia Wine Lover! Wines on the Water is open to those aged 19+ with valid, government issued ID.
Tour Includes:
2-hour cruise
Sommelier guide
4 tasting plates paired with 4 wine samples
Live music
Sample Menu:
Tasting Menu -
Citrus & Maple Grilled Digby Scallops
Butter Poached Atlantic Lobster Tail
Marinated Grilled Chicken Thigh
Beef Tenderloin with Compound Butter
Finish -
Handmade Truffle
Schedule:
Fridays, 7pm - July 8 to August 26
Ticket Prices (HST Extra):
$135
Where to Board:
Wines on the Water departs from the Cable Wharf, 1751 Lower Water Street, Halifax
Floating Beer Garden
About This Tour:
Halifax has a brand-new Beer Garden, and it’s unlike any other! Join us aboard the Harbour Queen for the first ever - and only - Halifax Floating Beer Garden. Choose from a selection of local craft beer and other favourites, chilled and ready to enjoy while relaxing on the open deck. Experience local, live music while sipping your favourite craft brews on this two-hour summer cruise. The Floating Beer Garden is open to those 19+ with valid, government-issued photo ID.
Tour Includes:
2-hour cruise
Live music
Schedule:
2022 Schedule coming soon.
Ticket Price (HST Extra):
$30
Where to Board:
The Floating Beer Garden departs from the Cable Wharf, 1751 Lower Water Street, Halifax
New Scotland Brews Cruise
About This Tour:
New Scotland Brewing is taking over the Harbour Queen every Thursday night for a concert series over the summer! The New Scotland Brews Cruise features artists performing original songs, and two craft brewing brothers showcasing original brews. Bands will vary weekly so be sure to keep an eye on our social channels for the featured artists. New for this year - several cruises will be departing from the Dartmouth Waterfront, just a stone’s throw away from New Scotland Brewery! Join the fun every Thursday night from 9pm-11pm! New Scotland Brews Cruise is open to those 19+ with valid, government-issued photo ID.
Tour Includes:
2-hour cruise
Live Music
Schedule:
2022 Schedule coming soon.
Ticket Price (HST Extra):
$30
Where to Board:
The New Scotland Brews Cruise departs from:
Halifax: The Cable Wharf, 1751 Lower Water Street, Halifax.
Visit Georges Island
About This Tour:
Plan your visit to Georges Island National Historic Site in the heart of halifax harbour, the place the Mi’kmaq called Kjipuktuk or “The Great Harbour.” Enjoy scenic views from a new perspective and immerse yourself in the rich history of Halifax! Take a self-guided tour of the fort or a guided tour of the historic tunnels!
Tour Includes:
Ferry service to and from the island.
Entry to Georges Island.
Service fees.
Schedule:
2022 Schedule coming soon.
Ticket Prices:
Adult (person 18 to 64 years of age): $25
Senior (person 65 years of age or over): $22.60
Youth (6 to 17 years of age): $14
Age 5 and under: Free
Discovery Pass Holder: $14
Family of 4 (2 kids over 5): $72.75
Parks Canada Discovery Pass:
Adult (person 18 to 64 years of age): $69.19
Senior (person 65 years of age or over): $59.17
Family Group: $139.40
Order your Discovery Pass here!
Where to Board:
The Ferry to Georges Island departs from the Cable Wharf, 1751 Lower Water Street, Halifax
Hot on the Harbour Country Cruise with Hot Country 103.5 FM
About This Tour:
Experience new country on the water, with Halifax’s HOTTEST country music radio station, Hot Country 103.5! Join one of Hot Country's DJs for this two-hour cruise on the Halifax harbour and take in today's hottest country under the stars. The team from Hot Country along with our captain & crew will be ready to help kick-off your weekend, country style! Hot on the Harbour Country Cruise is open to those 19+ with valid, government-issued photo ID.
Tour Includes:
2-hour cruise
Hot Country 103.5 DJ
Schedule:
Fridays, 9pm - June 17 to September 30
Ticket Price (HST Extra):
$31.50
Where to Board:
Hot on the Harbour Country Cruise departs from the Cable Wharf, 1751 Lower Water Street, Halifax
Cider on the Sea
About This Tour:
We’ve partnered with two of HRMs most sought-after cider houses. Evening departures from the Halifax Waterfront will feature Chain Yard Urban Cidery, and evening departures from Dartmouth will feature Lake City Cider House. Join us on a 2-hour evening cruise celebrating traditional ciders made from Nova Scotian apples paired with live, homegrown musicians. A representative from the host Cidery with share their passion for the craft while you enjoy unique ciders and scenery along Halifax Harbour. This brand-new cruise is one not to be missed! Cider on the Sea is open to those 19+ with valid, government-issued photo ID.
Tour Includes:
2-hour cruise
Live music
Schedule:
2022 Schedule coming soon.
Ticket Price (HST Extra):
$30
Where to Board:
Cider on the Sea departs from:
Live Music on the Silva
About This Tour:
Nova Scotia’s eclectic & flourishing music scene has long been centered around the city of Halifax. What better way is there to enjoy local, live music then while cruising on our beautiful harbour? On Saturday nights you'll find us out on the Harbour Queen with live music, cold drinks and great times, all against the backdrop of Halifax's summer sky. Live Music on the Queen is open to those 19+ with valid, government-issued photo ID.
Tour Includes:
2-hour cruise
Live music
Schedule:
2022 Schedule coming soon.
Ticket Price (HST Extra):
$30
Where to Board:
Live Music on the Queen departs from the Cable Wharf, 1751 Lower Water Street, Halifax
COVID-19 Public Health Protocols
Harbour Hopper: All Harbour Hoppers are operating with several COVID-19 protocols, including: plexiglass shields between seats, face shields or face masks for crew, shared surface sanitizing between tours, pre-boarding access to hand sanitizer for guests, physical distancing markers, and one-way routing. All Harbour Hopper tours are operating at reduced guest capacity.
Harbour Queen: For your comfort and enjoyment, the Harbour Queen is operating at limited capacity and its main deck has been laid out in marked 'Zones', to enable guests to have their own space aboard. Harbour cruises are operating with several additional COVID-19 protocols, including: pre-boarding hand sanitizing for all guests, face masks for crew, shared surface sanitizing between tours, physical distance markers, and one-way routing.
Accessibility
Harbour Hopper: We are committed to providing guests with the best tour experience so we recently introduced a new Harbour Hopper which is capable of accommodating one wheelchair user per tour. To ensure the schedule reflects the additional time required to load and unload, and that properly trained staff are scheduled for the tour, we require guests who require the service to provide us with 24 hours’ notice. Please contact us directly with any questions regarding accessibility on the Harbour Hopper at 902-490-8687.
Georges Island: Accommodating Persons with Special Needs aboard passenger vessels was identified as a focus area by Transport Canada Marine Safety in 2015. As a result, Murphy’s has developed and implemented a Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) for identifying and assisting such passengers. This SOP is part of the Murphy's Safety Management System (SMS) and includes procedures for assisting and accommodating passengers during boarding and disembarking, during emergencies, and while enjoying the onboard service delivery. While delivering the shuttle ferry service to Georges Island, Murphy’s operations will be guided by the Canadian Transportation Agencies Ferry Accessibility for Persons with Disabilities: Code of Practice. Vessel boarding arrangements will allow for convenient boarding for mobility impaired persons, including those in manual and powered wheelchairs.
Terms & Conditions
Please Note: Due to weather, demand, private charters and other circumstances beyond our control, schedule is subject to change • To confirm departures please call 902-420-1015 • 24-hour notice required to issue refunds • Family: 2 adults, 2 children (15 or under) Maximum two children for family rate • We accept the following methods of payment: Cash ($CDN, $USD), MasterCard, VISA, WeChat Pay, Alipay, Apple Pay and Debit card payments • Children under the age of one ride FREE • All prices subject to a surcharge of 6% per person + 15% HST • For further information call (902) 420-1015
Plan Ahead: We encourage all passengers to be sun-safe: apply sun protection, bring along a light layer (jacket, sweater), and a hat before traveling on any tour. Keep in mind that we do carry sun protection and clothing in our waterfront gift shops. On cooler days & evenings, we recommend you bring along an additional layer (jacket, sweater) as temperatures can be several degrees cooler on the water.
Parking: To ensure that you and guests have sufficient time to board your tour bus or vessel, please plan your parking accommodations in advance. For further information, please visit any one of these links: Downtown Halifax Parksmart | Waterfront Parking