2 HR Kitchen Party Cruise on North America’s LARGEST Solar Boat!

Imagine cruising quietly across Charlottetown Harbour aboard North America’s largest solar-powered boat while enjoying lively local music and a taste of the island’s famed blue mussels. This tour, offered by Ride Solar, combines sustainability with authentic island flavor, making for a memorable evening—or night—on the water.

While some might wonder if a musical cruise and seafood snack truly count as a full adventure, we find this experience offers a charming blend of eco-conscious innovation, local culture, and stunning scenery. It’s a laid-back way to see the city’s waterfront, all while tapping your toes to live tunes. The price point of around $88 per person is reasonable, considering the unique combination of entertainment, scenery, and a hearty snack. The only caveat? It’s a short tour—about two hours—and it’s best suited to those looking for a relaxed, fun evening rather than a comprehensive sightseeing marathon.

If you enjoy music, scenic views, and local cuisine in a setting that’s easy to access and eco-friendly, this cruise could easily become a highlight of your Charlottetown stay.

Key Points

• Eco-friendly travel: The boat runs on solar power, making it a sustainable way to explore.
• Authentic local experience: Enjoy live island music and fresh blue mussels.
• Great views: Pass by Victoria Park, Fort Edward, and historic sites with a scenic backdrop.
• Informative narration: Knowledgeable commentary about local history and landmarks.
• Perfect for relaxed evenings: The tour is about two hours, making it ideal for an after-dinner activity.
• Limited group size: With a maximum of 34 travelers, it feels intimate and friendly.

An in-depth look at the 2-Hour Kitchen Party Cruise

This tour offers more than just a boat ride—it’s an evening of local culture, scenic beauty, and innovative technology. The boat itself is a marvel, being North America’s largest solar-powered vessel. That’s a point that sets this cruise apart from typical harbor tours; it’s a conscious choice that aligns with modern eco-values and provides a quiet, emissions-free way to explore.

The Itinerary: What to Expect

The tour begins at 1 Weymouth Street in Charlottetown at 9:00 pm, making it an excellent choice for an after-dinner outing. You’ll board the boat and set off into the harbor, where the first thing you’ll notice is how peaceful and quiet the ride is—there’s no noisy engine to disturb the serenity, thanks to the solar technology.

Live musical entertainment dominates the experience, with local musicians providing the soundtrack. The music, lively but not overpowering, encourages you to tap your toes and sing along. This element adds a warm, communal feeling that turns a simple harbor cruise into a festive kitchen party.

The Food and Drink

Included in the package is a generous serving of Island Blue Mussels, paired with basil cream dipping sauce and a fresh roll. This snack is a delightful taste of local cuisine, showcasing the island’s seafood bounty. The mussels are plenty for a snack and pair well with the relaxed, jovial atmosphere.

Cold drinks are available for purchase aboard, giving you the option to complement your seafood with a cold beer or soft drink. Keep in mind, drinks are not included in the price, which is typical for such tours but worth noting if you’re planning your budget.

The Landmarks and Scenic Highlights

As the boat glides through the harbor, you’ll pass several noteworthy sights:

• Victoria Park and Fort Edward: Historically significant sites that protected the harbour entrance in the 1700s and 1800s, with cannons still visible from the water.

• Port-la-Joye (Fort Amherst): The remnants of the French fortress that burned in the 1800s after English forces took control. It’s a memorable glimpse into the island’s colonial past.

• St. Dunstan’s Basilica: One of Canada’s 26 designated Basilicas, this stunning religious site stands out with its architecture and spiritual significance.

• Government House: The birthplace of Canadian Federation, where the first meetings took place in 1864, marking a pivotal moment in Canadian history.

The Experience: What Travelers Can Expect

Based on reviews, many find the crew to be very pleasant and the experience “nicely done”. One traveler praised it as a “great experience” with “good lunch” and expressed willingness to do it again. The intimate group size (up to 34 people) fosters a friendly atmosphere, perfect for socializing or simply relaxing and enjoying the scenery.

The views of Charlottetown at night are a highlight, especially as the city lights reflect on the water. The calm of the solar boat makes for a smooth ride, and the live music adds a lively, communal spirit to the outing.

Analyzing the Value

At $88.12 per ticket, this experience offers a combination of eco-consciousness, entertainment, and local flavor that’s hard to beat. It’s not a comprehensive sightseeing tour nor a dinner cruise, but rather a relaxed evening that provides a taste of Charlottetown’s waterfront, history, and musical heritage. The included mussels are a generous snack, and the live music lifts the experience beyond mere sightseeing.

The tour’s short duration (about two hours) is perfect for those who want a light, enjoyable activity without committing to a full day. Plus, the free cancellation policy offers peace of mind—if weather conditions spoil the experience, you’ll be offered an alternative date or a full refund.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This cruise suits travelers looking for a laid-back, culturally enriched evening. It’s ideal for those interested in local music, history, or simply peaceful harbor views. Families, couples, or solo travelers who enjoy a bit of live entertainment and good local food will especially find it appealing.

Final Thoughts

This Kitchen Party Cruise on Charlottetown Harbour offers a refreshing blend of sustainability, local culture, and scenic beauty. The quiet solar-powered boat provides an environmentally friendly way to see the harbor at night, while the live music and mussels create a lively, authentic island atmosphere. Its intimate size and relaxed pace make it an excellent option for travelers seeking a gentle, joyful evening that highlights the best of Charlottetown’s waterfront.

While it might not be the most comprehensive tour for those focused solely on sightseeing, it’s a unique experience that combines fun, flavor, and eco-consciousness. Perfect for anyone wanting to enjoy Charlottetown’s charm in a relaxed, friendly setting.

FAQ

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 2 hours, making it a perfect short evening activity.

Where does the tour start?
It begins at 1 Weymouth Street, Charlottetown, PE.

Is the tour suitable for all ages?
Most travelers can participate, and it’s a family-friendly activity, especially for those who enjoy music and scenic views.

What’s included in the price?
You get a serving of Island Blue Mussels with basil cream dipping sauce, a fresh roll, and live entertainment.

Are drinks included?
No, cold drinks are available for purchase on board.

Can I cancel if the weather’s bad?
Yes, cancellations are free if done at least 24 hours in advance, and poor weather might lead to rescheduling or full refunds.

What makes this boat different?
It’s North America’s largest solar-powered boat, offering an emissions-free, peaceful cruise experience.

Is the group size large?
No, with a maximum of 34 travelers, it feels intimate and friendly.

What landmarks will I see?
Victoria Park, Fort Edward, Port-la-Joye, St. Dunstan’s Basilica, and Government House.

How is the crew?
Reviews mention the crew as very pleasant, adding to the overall enjoyment of the experience.

Whether you’re a music lover, a history buff, or simply looking for a peaceful way to enjoy Charlottetown’s waterfront, this solar-powered kitchen party cruise offers a memorable, eco-friendly night out.