St. John, Canada
Welcome to St. John, New Brunswick, Canada's oldest incorporated city and a highlight of any Canada & New England cruise itinerary. Situated on the world-famous Bay of Fundy, St. John offers a unique blend of maritime history, natural wonders, and urban charm, all within steps of the cruise terminal. Major lines like Royal Caribbean International, Carnival Cruise Line, and Holland America Line frequently call here, drawn by the city's walkability and the dramatic spectacle of the highest tides on Earth.
One of the most famous sights is the incredible Reversing Falls, where the mighty Bay of Fundy tides force the Saint John River to flow backward. This natural wonder is just a short taxi or bus ride from the port. For a taste of local life and history, visit the Saint John City Market, the oldest continuing farmer's market in Canada, easily walkable from your ship. You can also explore the historic Trinity Royal Preservation Area, with its stunning Victorian architecture, or visit the Carleton Martello Tower, a national historic site offering panoramic views of the city and harbor.
Last updated on February 18, 2026
A highly recommended day trip is to the charming fishing village of St. Martins, located about a 45-minute drive from the cruise port. Here you can explore sea caves at low tide, see covered bridges, and enjoy fresh seafood. St. Martins is also the gateway to the Fundy Trail Parkway, a magnificent coastal drive offering breathtaking lookouts over the Bay of Fundy. These destinations are often combined in popular shore excursions that showcase the region's rugged coastal beauty.
Last updated on February 18, 2026
Cruise ships in St. John dock at terminals located directly in the heart of the city, an area known locally as 'Uptown'. This prime location means that passengers can walk off the ship and be in the main shopping and historic district within minutes. No shuttles are necessary to explore the city center. The port area is well-equipped with a visitor information center, and the city's best shops, galleries, and restaurants are just a short stroll away along Water Street and King Street.
Last updated on February 18, 2026
The official currency is the Canadian Dollar (CAD). While many shops and restaurants in the tourist-heavy areas may accept US Dollars, the exchange rate offered will likely not be favorable, and your change will be given in Canadian currency. Major credit cards like Visa and MasterCard are widely accepted throughout the city. For cash, ATMs are readily available in banks and shops near the port for withdrawing Canadian Dollars.
Last updated on February 18, 2026
St. John is considered a very safe destination for tourists. The Uptown area, where the cruise ships dock, is well-patrolled, clean, and accustomed to visitors. It is perfectly safe to explore independently on foot. As in any city, it's wise to practice standard safety precautions such as being aware of your surroundings and keeping personal belongings secure. There are no specific areas that tourists need to avoid near the port.
Last updated on February 18, 2026
The cruise season in St. John runs from late spring to fall, with the most popular months being August through October. Summers are pleasantly mild, with average daytime temperatures between 20-22°C (68-72°F). Fall is cooler but brings the spectacular colours of the changing leaves, a major attraction for autumn cruises. The weather on the Bay of Fundy can be unpredictable, so it is always advisable to dress in layers and bring a waterproof jacket, even on a sunny day.
Last updated on February 18, 2026
The central part of St. John is very walkable, and most major attractions like the Saint John City Market are easily reached on foot from the cruise terminal. For destinations further afield, such as the Reversing Falls, taxis are readily available at the port. The city also has a public bus system, Saint John Transit. For a comprehensive overview, many passengers opt for a narrated sightseeing tour, with options like hop-on, hop-off buses often waiting right at the pier.
Last updated on February 18, 2026
Excellent shopping opportunities are just steps from the cruise port in the Uptown district. The Saint John City Market is a must-visit for local flavour, offering everything from fresh dulse (a local seaweed delicacy) to artisanal crafts and souvenirs. King Street and the Brunswick Square shopping mall feature a variety of boutiques and national retailers. Look for authentic Canadian souvenirs like maple syrup products, locally made jewelry, and artwork inspired by the beautiful Bay of Fundy coastline.
Last updated on February 18, 2026
Discover Saint John, Canada’s first city, located on the Bay of Fundy, home of the world’s highest tides. This walking tour uses an indoor pedway system to avoid Canada's steepest main street, making the route mostly flat with a downhill section near the end. Your guide uses rare photos to share historical facts from 1783 to the present day, focusing on hidden gems and points of interest. The tour concludes on Prince William Street, once known as the Wall Street of Canada.
Explore the historic Bay of Fundy seaport with the city's only e-bike tour company on an off-road fat tire e-bike. This soft adventure ride progresses safely from an easy introduction through the quiet streets of the Uptown and along the Harbour Passage. With a minimum age of 16, this popular tour has an optimum group size of four guests and often sells out months in advance.
Enjoy a personalized, small-group experience in comfortable, customized transportation with an expert guide who brings Saint John to life. The unique itinerary blends must-see highlights, such as the dramatic Reversing Falls Rapids, with the region's hidden gems. This tour is committed to customer satisfaction, ensuring a memorable journey through the coastal beauty and rich heritage of New Brunswick.
Embark on an exciting 6-hour tour of southern New Brunswick, designed for small groups in a 6-passenger van. The itinerary includes easy walking on nature trails, so wearing comfortable sneakers or walking shoes is advised for your comfort. Please note that this tour is available exclusively for cruise ship passengers.
Explore Saint John, Canada's oldest incorporated city, founded in 1785 along the Bay of Fundy. The city is known for its stunning natural beauty, historic charm, and a vibrant arts scene. Throughout your visit, you can experience its rich maritime heritage, which has been shaped for centuries by its bustling port.
Discover the local history of the Wolastoqey and Mi’kmaq peoples from a unique Indigenous point of view. Meander along the harbor and a historical portage route over archeological sites to become acquainted with timeless ancestral wisdom. Learn about earth stewardship and celebrate traditions through the stories and art of traditional and modern artisans.
Join a nationally certified expert guide for a 2-hour walking tour that brings Saint John's history to life through vivid stories. This tour covers about 1.5 miles with some hills to showcase the historical highlights and famous landmarks of this coastal treasure. For your comfort during the walk, comfortable footwear and warm clothes are recommended.
Experience the Bay of Fundy on a personal, immersive tour aboard a comfortable 30-passenger minibus or van. A passionate local guide will bring the region’s wonders to life, highlighting the Reversing Falls, the village of St. Martins, and views along the Fundy Trail Parkway. Enjoy in-depth storytelling and flexible photo stops, with a guaranteed on-time return to your ship.
Explore the beauty and history of Saint John illuminated at night with friendly local guides. Your evening begins with a narrated drive past dazzling points of interest, including the famous Reversing Falls Rapids. You will then step back in history with visits to Fort La Tour, a 17th-century archaeological site, and the Carleton Martello Tower, dating back to 1812. The tour concludes with your guide taking you back to your downtown Saint John hotel.
Embark on a 6+ hour bus tour available exclusively for cruise ship passengers, operating between March 1st and November 15th. This tour involves some easy walking, so comfortable shoes are recommended for your journey on one of our 20 to 33-passenger buses. Please note pickup is within one hour of your ship's arrival, and the tour departs once all guests in the group are boarded.
Join a 6-hour tour of southern New Brunswick in a 4-passenger, completely wheelchair-accessible van, exclusively for cruise passengers. Your guide provides assistance as you explore the historic City Market, the Martello Tower, and the phenomenal Reversing Rapids. The tour also features easy walking trails, so comfortable shoes are advised.
Visit the seaside community of St. Martins to see its fishing boats, twin covered bridges, and learn about its shipbuilding industry. You will also witness the world-famous Reversing Falls Rapids and explore wave-carved sea caves if the tide is low. Before returning to the ship, the tour stops at the Old City Market, a local favorite since 1876.
See Saint John’s natural wonders and historical attractions in just a few hours on this comprehensive tour. You will visit Canada’s oldest continuously operated farmers market and learn about city history at Place Fort LaTour. Catch amazing views of the world's highest tides from the SKYWALK and look out over the city from the Carleton Martello Tower viewpoint.
Enjoy a small-group experience to see the world's highest tides and quaint historical fishing villages. This tour offers the chance to visit wave-carved sea caves if the tide is low and an opportunity to purchase world-famous seafood chowder. Your time ashore also includes a stop at Canada's oldest farmers market, dating back to 1876.
Enjoy a personal and immersive tour in a comfortable 24-passenger mini-bus or 15-passenger van. A knowledgeable local guide shares engaging stories while showcasing highlights like the Reversing Falls, St. Martins, and the Fundy Trail Parkway. Benefit from flexible photo stops to capture the unforgettable coastal scenery, with a guaranteed on-time return to your cruise ship.
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Overall cruises that visit St. John are somewhat expensive compared to other itineraries. Sailings visiting St. John during the the peak season of fall are much more expensive than the low seasons of spring and summer. Check out the illustration below for the monthly average cost per day.
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