Private Shore Excursion

A Personalized Adventure Along the Bay of Fundy Coast in Saint John

Our review focuses on a private shore excursion in Saint John, New Brunswick—an experience designed to combine comfort, storytelling, and genuine local charm. If you’re visiting the area via cruise, this tour offers a chance to explore some of the region’s most iconic sights in a relaxed, tailored manner.

What we love about this tour? First, the personalized approach means your guide will focus entirely on your group, making the journey feel more like exploring with a knowledgeable friend than a generic bus ride. Second, the emphasis on authentic experiences—from tasting regional flavors to uncovering local legends—brings a warmth and depth to the trip that many group tours can’t match.

One point to consider is the duration—at nearly 7 hours, it’s a full day out, so it’s best suited for travelers eager to see a lot without rushing. If you prefer short, quick visits, this might feel a bit packed, but for those who want to truly absorb the area, it offers excellent value.

This tour is perfect for travelers who want a comfortable, private experience that balances sightseeing, storytelling, and relaxation. It’s especially suited for those who enjoy natural beauty, historic sites, and local flavor, all delivered in a flexible, intimate setting.

Key Points

• Private and Personalized: Your own guide makes the experience feel like exploring with a local friend.
• Authentic Highlights: From historic forts to natural sea caves, the stops showcase Saint John’s true character.
• Flexible and Relaxed: No rushing—ample time to enjoy each site, take photos, and soak in the scenery.
• Comfortable Transportation: Door-to-door service in a private vehicle ensures convenience and ease.
• Breathtaking Views: Especially at the Bay of Fundy and Saint Martins, scenery is the star.
• Cost-Effective for Groups: Up to six people for $888—splitting the cost offers good value for a tailored experience.

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Itinerary

Reversing Falls Rapids

The tour kicks off with one of Saint John’s most famous natural phenomena—the Reversing Falls Rapids. Here, the massive tides of the Bay of Fundy collide with the Saint John River, creating a swirling spectacle of rapids and whirlpools. This is an iconic site that’s both fascinating and photogenic. The rapids change direction with the tides, making it a dynamic show of nature’s power.

Spending about 30 minutes here allows plenty of time to marvel at the swirling waters and perhaps snap some memorable photos. Best of all, there’s no admission fee, which keeps the experience straightforward and accessible.

Moosehead Breweries

Next, a quick stop at Moosehead Breweries, Canada’s oldest independent brewery. Founded in 1867, it’s a spot that combines local pride with a taste of history. While the tour here is brief—just 15 minutes—the focus is on the brewery’s heritage and tradition. You won’t sample beer on this visit, but learning about its origins, especially from the founder Susannah Oland, adds a personal touch to this historic stop.

It’s a good opportunity to appreciate local craftsmanship and possibly pick up a souvenir from their gift shop. The free admission makes this a low-cost, high-value cultural stop.

Carleton Martello Tower

This National Historic Site offers a glimpse into Saint John’s military past, especially from the War of 1812 era. Built between 1813 and 1815, the Carleton Martello Tower served as a defensive point and is now an informative site where visitors can learn about the area’s strategic importance.

With around 30 minutes allocated, you’ll have enough time to explore the tower, enjoy panoramic views of the city, and absorb some local history. Entrance is free, and the experience provides context for Saint John’s historic importance in regional defense.

Fort Howe National Historic Site

Another key military landmark, Fort Howe, was constructed during the American Revolution to defend Saint John from raids. Visiting this site gives insight into the area’s colonial past and strategic defenses.

A half-hour stop allows for a quick walk around the fort and surrounding viewpoints, making it a worthwhile stop to get a sense of the city’s early history. Like others, admission is free, reinforcing the tour’s value.

Rockwood Park

Transitioning from history to nature, Rockwood Park offers a peaceful break amid scenic lakes and green spaces. Originally created around Lily Lake in the late 19th century, it’s one of Saint John’s most beloved outdoor areas.

Spending 30 minutes here lets you walk around, enjoy the lakeside views, and perhaps capture some photos of the natural landscape. It’s a relaxing contrast to the historic sites and a good chance to breathe in fresh air.

St. John Stone Anglican Church

The Stone Church is an impressive example of historic architecture and religious heritage in Saint John. Its stunning stonework and prominent location make it a memorable visual highlight.

A 30-minute visit provides enough time to admire the exterior, learn about its significance, and enjoy the atmosphere of this longstanding religious site. It’s an authentic slice of local culture that adds depth to the tour.

Saint John City Market

No visit to Saint John would be complete without a stop at the City Market, Canada’s oldest continually operated farmer’s market. Established in 1876, this vibrant marketplace offers local produce, artisanal goods, and a lively atmosphere.

In 30 minutes, you can walk through, soak up the sights and sounds, and imagine the bustling life of the city’s residents. It’s a great spot for photography and perhaps picking up a snack or souvenir.

Saint Martins Sea Caves

The highlight of the day for many is the visit to St. Martins Sea Caves, a natural wonder accessible at low tide. These impressive sandstone caves are carved by the relentless action of the tides, creating a dramatic coastline.

Spending about 3 hours here allows ample time for exploring the caves, walking along the rugged shoreline, and soaking in the stunning scenery. If weather permits, this could be a memorable highlight, especially for nature lovers.

Return to Reversing Falls

The tour wraps up with a second visit to the Reversing Falls Rapids, allowing for a different perspective as the tide changes once again. This symmetrical schedule offers a chance to see the rapid transformation of the waters, making it a fitting bookend to the day.

This final 30-minute stop reinforces the natural spectacle that defines Saint John’s unique landscape.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour provides a licensed guide, bottled water, and light snacks—simple yet thoughtful touches to keep you comfortable during the long day. It’s a private experience, meaning your group gets undivided attention, which adds to the relaxed atmosphere.

Lunchtime isn’t included, so you might want to bring your own or plan for a stop in Saint John’s downtown afterward. The tour begins early, at 6:00 am, which ensures you hit many key sites before they get crowded or the weather shifts.

The Value of This Tour

At $888 for up to six people, this private experience offers a lot of flexibility and personalized attention. When split among your group, the cost becomes quite reasonable considering the full day of sightseeing, storytelling, and the comfort of private transportation.

Many travelers appreciate the chance to go at their own pace, linger at favorite spots, and avoid the hustle of larger group tours. It’s particularly appealing for those who value authentic, local experiences and want to see a wide variety of highlights in one day.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This private excursion is ideal for travelers seeking a tailored, intimate adventure. It suits those who enjoy natural beauty, historic sites, and a relaxed pace. If you have a cruise stop in Saint John and want to make the most of your limited time, this tour provides a balanced mix of sightseeing and local flavor.

It’s also perfect for groups or families who want to avoid crowded buses and instead experience Saint John with a guide who treats you like guests, not just passengers.

The Sum Up

This private shore excursion stands out for its thoughtful itinerary, flexible pacing, and focus on authentic experiences. It’s well-suited for travelers who want to see Saint John’s top sights without feeling rushed, all while soaking in stunning views of the Bay of Fundy and engaging with local history.

The guide’s personalized approach elevates the experience, making it more memorable than a standard bus tour. You’ll enjoy the natural wonders, historic landmarks, and vibrant local culture—delivered in comfort and with a warm Maritime welcome.

While it’s a full-day commitment, the comfort, flexibility, and focus on meaningful experiences make it a trip worth considering for anyone eager to truly connect with Saint John’s charm.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, almost all travelers can participate, and the tour’s easy pace makes it accessible for most ages.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable shoes, a camera, and perhaps a hat or sunscreen for outdoor stops. Bottled water and snacks are included, but you might want to bring extra if you’re hungry.

Will I get to see the tide change at Reversing Falls?
Yes, the tour includes visits both in the morning and at the end, allowing you to observe the spectacular tide changes that cause the rapids.

How long is each stop?
Most sites are allocated between 15 to 30 minutes, with the Sea Caves being the longest at around 3 hours, giving you time to explore without feeling rushed.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Since it’s a private tour, your guide can tailor the experience to your interests within the listed stops, making it flexible.

Is lunch included?
No, lunch isn’t included, so plan accordingly or enjoy a meal in Saint John’s downtown afterward.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour is weather-dependent; if canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered an alternative date or a full refund.

This tour is a chance to see Saint John’s highlights comfortably and authentically, making it a smart choice for those who want a personal touch on their visit to the Bay of Fundy coast.