Top Nova Scotia On the Water

One of Atlantic Canada’s best national parks, Kejimkujik National Park and National Historic Site offers tremendous paddling opportunities—and chances to connect with nature and Mi’kmaw culture. Take a 2-hour guided tour of the Mersey River, the most beautiful spot in the park for a paddle, and you’ll get to hear the secrets of Keji between photographing turtles and swimming squirrels and taking in the majestic views.

Go sailing in Halifax with this small-group tour designed for families. Meet your captain for a morning sail on a 45-foot yacht to experience a wind-powered adventure. Learn new sailing skills and set out along the coastline. Kids can earn an official crew member certificate during the excursion.

Experience gold and pink-hued skies while escaping the hustle and bustle of the city on this sunset harbor cruise. Take in the views from the upper deck, snap photos of the city from a vantage point most travelers don’t get the chance to see, and relax on board with optionally purchasable wines, beers, and cocktails.

Enjoy spectacular waterfront views—and even help hoist the sails—as you take a ride on the Tall Ship Silva along the scenic Halifax Harbour. This schooner gives passengers the opportunity to join the crew in manning the sails, tying knots, or even taking a turn at the helm. If you prefer, you can sit and watch the action while admiring many of the region's top landmarks from the water's edge.

The waters off the coast of Halifax are home to a vast diversity of ocean life. Utilizing the experience of your angler guide, travel from the Halifax Waterfront out towards McNab’s Island to cast your reel into the ocean in the hopes of landing the big one on this small-group fishing experience.

Turn your trip to Georges Island into an interactive experience where you’ll learn far more than you could hope to alone on this round-trip ferry tour from Halifax. Hop aboard a vessel along the Halifax waterfront and take in views of the city skyline before disembarking on Georges Island. Learn about the region’s role in both World Wars and navigate historic underground tunnels before heading back to the city.

The rocky keyholes, archways, and sea stacks of the Cape Chignecto Provincial Park are most impressive when viewed from the water. On this tour, spend a full day kayaking the coastal wilderness of the Bay of Fundy and enjoy close-up views of the famous Three Sisters rocks. Learn more about the unique geology from your guide, and experience the rapidly transforming landscapes of the world’s highest tidal range.

Experience the Caribbean vibe on Halifax Harbour as you board a fully licensed Tiki Boat for a delightful two-hour cruise. Enjoy the ocean breeze while you glide past iconic sights like McNabs Island, Georges Island, and the vibrant Halifax Waterfront. This tour combines stunning views with local wildlife and a taste of Halifax’s rich maritime history. With state-of-the-art Tritoon vessels, you'll have access to amenities like karaoke, Bluetooth speakers, and a licensed bar, clean restrooms ensuring a fun-filled adventure on the water. - Two-hour Tiki Boat cruise showcasing Halifax's waterfront attractions - Depart from Halifax Waterfront, Alderney Marina, or Cable Wharf - Amenities including clean restrooms, karaoke, Bluetooth and a licensed bar. - Perfect for anyone looking to unwind and enjoy summer vibes on the water - Professionally trained and friendly crews - Delicious and refreshing specialty cocktails!

After a day of exploring the city on foot, enjoy Halifax by sea aboard a traditional tall ship with a DJ, dance floor, open deck, and pub. Order drinks from the fully stocked bar while taking in the city skyline and ocean breeze. Dance to live music under the night sky and soak up the salty sea air—a great way to party without having to hit multiple bars.

Soak up coastline views at the most scenic time of day on this small-group sunset cruise out of Halifax Harbour. Sail down the narrows of the Northwest Arm past George's and McNabs Islands as the sun sets over beautiful homes. Toast the experience with four included Nova Scotian wines—sparkling, Tidal Bay, rose, and red—paired with local cheese boards during a guided tasting.

Discover the beauty of Nova Scotia’s South Shore with a JFarwell sailing experience in St. Margarets Bay. Just a short drive from Halifax, this coastal paradise is known for its rugged shoreline, scenic islands, and as home to the iconic Peggy’s Cove Lighthouse. This 2-hour sail is all about slowing down and soaking it in. You'll be greeted with a Nova Scotia crafted beverage as you step aboard your Beneteau Oceanis 45. Glide through the calm, sheltered waters of the bay as the sea breeze carries you past quiet coves and picturesque shoreline homes. It’s the perfect outing for families, couples, or anyone wanting a peaceful break surrounded by nature. - Duration: 2 hours with flexible sailing options - Depart from Shining Waters Marina, 25 minutes from Halifax - Ideal for all skill levels, no sailing experience needed - Private charters available for up to 12 guests

Let the power of mother nature propel you as you cruise across the harbor on Halifax's only wind-powered sailing experience. This small-group tour is a great introduction to sailing: you can be as hands-on with the sailing process as you like, or simply sit back and enjoy the scenery.

Spend the day spotting seals on this tour of Pictou Harbour and its nearby seal colony. A small-group tour makes for a more focused experience as you learn about the history of the region from your guide, and cruise along a picturesque shore. Make the most of your time on this tour filled with marine wildlife and stunning ocean views.

Grab a kayak and get out on the water with this hassle-free kayak rental at Long Lake Provincial Park. Weave through inlets and islands located just outside the urban core of Halifax, exploring at your own pace on a self-guided excursion. All equipment is included, streamlining the rental and letting you safely enjoy your time out on the water.

Soak in the sights along Halifax's coastline with this scenic sailing yacht tour. The small group size offers a more comfortable experience than crowded boat tours, while offering more savings than a private hire. Sit back and relax, or get some hands-on experience sailing with the crew if you're interested in trying it out for yourself.

Shake up your typical happy hour on our Halifax Happy Hour Cruise - a 2-hour cruise along the Halifax Harbour and into the scenic Northwest Arm! Enjoy live music, breathtaking views, and great deals on beverages, all for an unbeatable ticket price. Pair your beverages with a selection of onboard snacks including popcorn, hotdogs and sausages - these can be pre-ordered or ordered when you arrive. This a laid-back, good times only cruise makes for the perfect outing for birthdays, staff get-togethers, or a casual night out with friends. Whether you're sipping your favourite drink on deck, soaking in the city skyline, or dancing along to live tunes, this cruise offers a completely different way to experience happy hour in Halifax. Join us aboard, raise a toast, and let the good times sail!

Discover the sights and sounds of Halifax as you sail along its coast on a moonlight cruise. Join a small group and board your yacht, taking in the illuminated skyline while you sail. Enjoy a relaxed evening with your friends and family paired with good music and some of Nova Scotia’s best craft beer, wine, and spirits (for purchase).

Step into the boots of a working lobster fisher and haul lobster traps for an educational, hands-on experience on the water. You’ll learn how to measure lobsters, identify egg-bearing females, and understand why conservation practices are vital to sustaining the fishery. Hear firsthand stories of coastal life and discover how tides and seasons shape each day’s work. What makes this adventure truly unique is your role in citizen science—helping collect real data that supports ongoing lobster research and ocean stewardship.

Set sail on a 3-hour journey through the stunning St. Margarets Bay, blending sailing excitement with the beauty of Nova Scotia’s coastline. Departing from Shining Waters Marina, this adventure invites you to take the helm or simply soak in the fresh ocean air. Midway, anchor near scenic islands for a swim or exploration. Ideal for families and nature lovers seeking both adventure and relaxation, this immersive experience connects you to the water and the landscape. Enjoy personalized service and breathtaking views on a private charter for up to 12 guests. - 3-hour sailing adventure with island anchoring - Opportunities to explore, swim, or relax on deck - Suitable for families and nature enthusiasts - Private charters available for up to 12 guests

Enjoy a kayaking experience conveniently located a short drive away from downtown Halifax. Explore Long Lake at your own pace as you and a partner kayak along the edge of the city and pass by inlets, islands, and even an old dam. Whether you’d like to kayak for a couple of hours or longer, choose the rental that works best for you.

The ultimate private sailing experience! The Reverie is the newest boat in our fleet. The Reverie is the perfect balance of luxury and space to enjoy a Halifax sunset along the Northwest Arm. This tour includes a hosted tasting of four glasses of Nova Scotia wines that are perfectly paired with a local cheese board. You'll get to enjoy a local sparkling, white, rose and red wine, and learn about the vineyards and people that make them. The deck layout has been optimized for maximum functionality and comfort. There are lounging areas at the bow, stern, top deck and interior. Enjoy taking in the water views from the classic catamaran nets! Equipped with on board electric flush toilets, bluetooth compatible music systems, full galley and beverage service, cushioned cockpits, foredeck seating. Want a longer sail, or have more guests? Let us know! We can customize charters for additional fees.

Hosting the headwaters of Nova Scotia’s two finest rivers, the Medway Lakes Wilderness Area boasts small ancient lakes, sandy summertime beaches tucked in quiet coves and pine and hemlock sheltered campsites. I don't want to shower you with superlatives and risk this sounding exaggerated and/or cheesy (maybe I already transgressed above) but there really is something special about this paddling region. The lakes are generally small and studded with scruggy (yep, I made that word up) little islands and there just seems to be more beaches than any other place we offer tours. I try not to make much fuss about the wildlife because it’s just not something we can guarantee on a trip, but every night we listened to coyotes singing or owls hooting or beavers splashing about. This trip strikes a fine balance between rugged adventure and relaxing bliss.

Set sail on a scenic journey through St. Margarets Bay, renowned for its rugged coastline and stunning islands. During this 2.5-hour Sunset Wine and Cheese sail, indulge in local wines and charcuterie as the sun sets over Nova Scotia's picturesque waters. This relaxing cruise offers the perfect backdrop for intimate gatherings or special occasions. Enjoy the calm evening breeze and take in the serene beauty of the bay while you unwind and embrace the coastal charm of Nova Scotia. - Duration: 2.5 hours, perfect for a delightful evening escape - Enjoy a curated selection of Nova Scotia wines and local charcuterie - Ideal for couples, special occasions, or a memorable night out - Private experiences available for up to 12 guests, ensuring intimacy and exclusivity