Welcome to Halifax, a vibrant port city where maritime history and modern energy meet. As a cornerstone of Canada/New England itineraries, Halifax proudly hosts major lines like Holland America Line, Princess Cruises, and Royal Caribbean.
Passengers are drawn to its stunning natural harbour, easily walkable historic downtown, and the warm, welcoming spirit of Nova Scotia. From the iconic waterfront to its historic fortifications, Halifax offers a perfect blend of culture, scenery, and coastal charm right at your ship's gangway.
A must-see attraction is the Halifax Waterfront, located just steps from where your ship docks. Stroll the scenic boardwalk, browse unique shops, and visit the Maritime Museum of the Atlantic, which features a compelling exhibit on the Titanic and the Halifax Explosion.
For panoramic views of the city and harbour, take a short walk or taxi ride up to the Citadel Hill National Historic Site, a star-shaped fort that has stood guard over Halifax since the 18th century. Don't miss the firing of the noon-day gun.
A peaceful retreat from the city buzz can be found at the Halifax Public Gardens, a stunning example of a Victorian-era garden, also within walking distance from the port.
Last updated on July 6, 2025
One of the most popular day trips from Halifax is to the iconic fishing village of Peggy's Cove, located about a 45 to 60-minute drive away. Its world-famous lighthouse perched on massive granite rocks is a quintessential Nova Scotian scene.
Another fantastic option is a trip to the historic town of Lunenburg, a UNESCO World Heritage Site famous for its colourful waterfront architecture and the home of the Bluenose II schooner. The journey takes approximately 90 minutes by car.
For wine enthusiasts, a tour of the wineries in the Annapolis Valley offers a taste of the region's award-winning vintages, located about an hour's drive from the port.
Last updated on July 6, 2025
The Port of Halifax is ideally situated, with its cruise pavilions (20 and 22) located directly on the city's downtown waterfront. This prime location means that the heart of Halifax is literally at your doorstep the moment you disembark.
It is an easy and pleasant walk to the main downtown area, including the historic waterfront, shops, and restaurants, so shuttles are generally not necessary for exploring the immediate vicinity. The port area itself, known as the Halifax Seaport, features a farmers' market, artisan shops, and dining options. Cruise ships dock directly at the piers, so tendering is not required.
Last updated on July 6, 2025
The official currency in Halifax is the Canadian Dollar (CAD). While some tourist-focused shops may accept US dollars, it is often at an unfavorable exchange rate, so using local currency is recommended for the best value.
ATMs are widely available, including at the cruise terminal and throughout the downtown area, providing an easy way to withdraw CAD. Credit cards, particularly Visa and MasterCard, are accepted at almost all shops, restaurants, and attractions.
Last updated on July 6, 2025
Halifax is widely regarded as a very safe and friendly city for tourists. Visitors can feel comfortable exploring the main tourist areas, such as the waterfront and downtown core, independently on foot. As in any city, it is wise to practice standard safety precautions, like being aware of your surroundings and keeping personal belongings secure in crowded places.
There are no specific areas that tourists need to avoid. The city is well-policed, and locals are generally helpful and welcoming to visitors. Using guided tours is a great option for convenience and expert knowledge, but it is not necessary from a safety standpoint.
Last updated on July 6, 2025
The cruise season in Halifax runs from late spring through fall, offering pleasant weather for exploring. In late spring (May-June), expect cool to mild temperatures, typically ranging from 10-20°C (50-68°F). Summer (July-August) is the warmest time, with comfortable temperatures between 20-25°C (68-77°F).
Autumn (September-October) is a very popular time to visit for the spectacular fall foliage, with mild to cool weather similar to spring. Rain is possible at any time, so packing layers, including a sweater and a light waterproof jacket, is highly recommended. While the Atlantic hurricane season extends into the fall, direct impacts are infrequent but can occasionally affect cruise itineraries.
Last updated on July 6, 2025
Downtown Halifax is very walkable, and most major attractions are easily reached on foot from the cruise pier. For destinations further afield, taxis are readily available at the terminal, and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft also operate in the city.
Halifax Transit runs a public bus system, and a scenic trip across the harbour can be taken on the public ferry to Dartmouth. For a unique sightseeing experience, consider the popular Harbour Hopper Tour, an amphibious vehicle that tours both land and sea, or a hop-on-hop-off bus tour which provides a convenient way to see the city's highlights.
Last updated on July 6, 2025
Excellent shopping can be found along the Halifax Waterfront, particularly in the Historic Properties area, which features charming boutiques offering local crafts and souvenirs. For a wider selection, Spring Garden Road is the city's main shopping street, with numerous shops, boutiques, and a small mall.
Look for unique Nova Scotian products such as tartan clothing and accessories, handcrafted jewelry, and local art. Foodies will enjoy maple products, wild blueberry preserves, and spirits from local distilleries. Prices in stores are fixed. While there are some shops at the Seaport cruise terminal, extensive duty-free shopping is more common at the airport.
Last updated on July 6, 2025
A tour to Peggy's Cove showcases one of Canada's most iconic lighthouses, standing guard over a rugged granite coastline. You can explore the charming fishing village, watch the powerful Atlantic waves, and photograph classic maritime scenes.
The Wolfville Luxury Wine excursion takes you to the beautiful Annapolis Valley for a premium culinary journey. You will enjoy curated tastings at renowned vineyards, savoring local varietals often paired with gourmet bites in a scenic setting.
A general Wine tour offers a delightful journey into the heart of the Annapolis Valley, Nova Scotia's wine region. Guests can visit several local wineries to sample a variety of award-winning wines and learn about the unique grape-growing climate.
The South Shore tour is a scenic coastal drive to some of Nova Scotia's most charming towns. You'll visit Mahone Bay, famous for its three waterfront churches, and explore the colourful UNESCO World Heritage site of Lunenburg, a town steeped in maritime history.
For an adventurous outing, the Zodiac Coastal tour offers an exhilarating ride along the rugged shoreline in a high-speed boat. You'll get a unique, water-level perspective of the dramatic coast and historic lighthouses while looking for marine life like seals and seabirds.
Explore the South Shore in a heavy-duty expedition Zodiac, the only guided tour of its kind in the area. It is common to see numerous seals, osprey, mink, and deer as you cruise through Tanner’s Pass and Schooner Cove. Your expedition guide will also discuss the local flora, fauna, and geology on your way to Lunenburg.
Embark on a history and nature tour through Nova Scotia’s beautiful Annapolis Valley. You will visit three award-winning vineyards, Grand Pre National Historic Site, and Fox Hill Cheese. The tour also features stunning views of the Bay of Fundy from Blomidon Look-off and a visit to Halls Harbour to see the world's highest tides.
Discover Nova Scotia’s most iconic treasures on this fun and relaxed small-group sightseeing tour. Your day will feature visits to the famous Peggy's Cove Lighthouse and the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Lunenburg. You'll also explore three hidden gems, which may include charming coastal communities like Mahone Bay or Blue Rocks.
Enjoy the ultimate private sailing experience on the Reverie, a luxurious new catamaran with multiple lounging areas. This tour includes a hosted tasting of four Nova Scotia wines perfectly paired with a local cheese board. Relax on the classic catamaran nets while enjoying the water views and listening to music on the onboard sound system.
Take a one-hour bus excursion from the Lunenburg waterfront to the nearby fishing village of Blue Rocks. Often called ‘Little Peggy's Cove’ but without the crowds, this quaint and gorgeous village is an off-the-beaten-path gem. You'll be able to hop off the bus to capture beautiful photos of the natural vistas and ocean coastline.
Enjoy a private 1.5-hour happy hour sail aboard a luxurious 50-foot catamaran. You will be greeted with a pre-selected local beverage before your captain recommends the perfect sailing route through Halifax Harbour. Relax with friends and family as you enjoy the rush of the water from the catamaran's nets.
Soak in the sights of Halifax's coastline on a relaxing two-hour sail. After being greeted with a custom local cocktail or mocktail, you'll pass by landmarks such as George's Island, Pier 21, and Point Pleasant Park. You can simply unwind and let the crew do the work or get involved and learn the ropes yourself.
Experience an unforgettable coastal adventure with a unique sunset tour of Peggy’s Cove. Witness the "Golden Hour" as magical light reflects off the ocean and granite rocks, creating a surreal atmosphere. This tour is perfect for photographers and nature lovers, offering breathtaking photo opportunities at one of Canada’s most iconic locations.
Arrange for a first-class transportation experience with a reliable and professional luxury sedan or large van service. Operating 24/7, this service provides timely transfers to or from the Robert L. Stanfield Halifax International Airport. You can rest assured you will receive a VIP experience and get where you need to be on time.
Indulge in a laid-back luxury experience with a privately chauffeured tour of Nova Scotia’s wine country. This stress-free day includes guided tastings at three carefully selected wineries with picturesque vineyard views. Simply relax, sip, and savor as every detail is taken care of, allowing you to enjoy the region's local flavor.
Explore Halifax's stunning landmarks on an exclusive five-hour tour with a professional local guide in a small group. You'll learn about the city's Titanic connection at Fairview Lawn Cemetery and visit the iconic Peggy's Cove lighthouse. This relaxed excursion is timed to avoid large bus crowds and allows for flexible stops based on your interests.
Journey to the beautiful South Shore to discover the maritime heritage of Lunenburg and Mahone Bay. Stroll along Lunenburg’s UNESCO-listed historic waterfront to marvel at the Bluenose II and admire Mahone Bay’s iconic three-church skyline. This seamless discovery tour includes a certified guide, a sanitized vehicle, and bottled water for your comfort.
Experience Nova Scotia's wine country on a scenic tour through the Annapolis Valley. You'll enjoy guided tastings at three award-winning wineries: Grand Pre Wines, Lightfoot & Wolfville, and Benjamin Bridge. The tour also includes lunch at Lightfoot & Wolfville, featuring ingredients sourced directly from their family farm.
Indulge in a private, custom wine tour through the Annapolis Valley that is tailored completely to your preferences. Your personal guide will pick you up for a 6-7 hour day that includes tastings at three wineries you select from an extensive list. Coffee, snacks, and water are provided throughout your journey for a comfortable and personalized experience.
See the best of Nova Scotia's South Shore in a single day with this convenient, six-hour private transfer service. Your journey begins with a flexible pickup from the cruise terminal before heading to the world-famous Peggy's Cove lighthouse. Continue to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Lunenburg and the quaint seaside town of Mahone Bay.
Join a dynamic Certified Sommelier for an expertly guided tour of Nova Scotia’s premier wine destinations. Your day includes a delicious wine-pairing lunch at the Latin-inspired Fuego restaurant at Bent Ridge Winery. You will also enjoy intimate tours and tastings at Gaspereau Vineyards and the premier sparkling wine house, Benjamin Bridge.
Discover the charm of Peggy’s Cove on this 3.5-hour guided tour from Halifax. After a scenic drive through the stunning countryside, you will have a full hour to explore the picturesque fishing village and its iconic lighthouse at your own pace. This excursion also includes a visit to the Swiss Memorial with insightful commentary from your guide.
Discover the Halifax waterfront like never before on a fun, one-hour guided Segway tour. Glide along the boardwalk to view iconic sites such as the Maritime Museum of the Atlantic, the historic HMCS Sackville, and the lively Seaport. Perfect for beginners with all training included, this adventure blends history, culture, and stunning views.
Embark on an unforgettable Nova Scotia journey exploring three of the region's most famous sites. Discover Halifax's Titanic history at Fairview Lawn Cemetery, step into 19th-century military life at Citadel Hill, and marvel at Peggy’s Cove’s iconic lighthouse. Your adventure includes a certified guide and a sanitized vehicle for a seamless experience.
Shake up your happy hour with a two-hour cruise along the Halifax Harbour and into the scenic Northwest Arm. Enjoy live music and breathtaking city skyline views while taking advantage of great deals on beverages. This laid-back cruise is the perfect outing, with onboard snacks like popcorn and hotdogs available for purchase.
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