Canadian Maritimes - 11 Days
11 Days
Halifax
Halifax
*****
Tauck
Time stands still in the Canadian Maritimes... preserving a way of life that honours the land and sea – and a cultural mix of early French, Irish, Scottish and English influences.
Halifax invites reflection with gracious Victorian parks and gardens. Fishing hamlets in Nova Scotia celebrate their rich seafaring heritage. Diverse cultural influences are chronicled in Lunenburg; in Acadian rug making traditions that produced "talking" works of art chronicling the struggles of pioneer families. Culinary specialties are on the menu from fresh lobster on Prince Edward Island, to a sturgeon caviar tasting in Saint John, to a salmon smoking demonstration in Liscomb Mills. Throughout New Brunswick, Prince Edward Island and Nova Scotia, immerse in the lure and lore of this down-to-earth, mystical world of mountain lakes, eagles, whales, fishermen, and the sea.
Itinerary
Day 1: Arrive Halifax
A transfer is included upon arrival from Halifax Airport to The Prince George Hotel in the heart of downtown, within walking distance of the beautiful Public Gardens. Join us this evening for a welcome reception and dinner in Halifax at Pier 21, "Gateway to Canada," which features exhibits chronicling 20th-century Canadian immigration and the poignant multimedia production, Oceans of Hope.
Day 2: Picturesque Peggy's Cove & seaside Lunenburg
From cosmopolitan, eclectic Halifax, drive to Peggy's Cove – population 76 – truly a world apart; nestled on a rocky coastline with stunning vistas, it is a magnet for artists and photographers. Enjoy free time to explore before continuing to Mahone Bay, a picture-postcard maritime town, and then the fishing village of Lunenburg for a walking tour with a local guide, or a visit to the Fisheries Museum. Old Town Lunenburg was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site, as one of the best surviving examples of a planned British Colonial settlement in North America. This town once excelled at wooden shipbuilding, and its masterpiece was the Bluenose, a fishing schooner that was a legendary racer. Return to Halifax this afternoon and have dinner at your leisure at the hotel this evening.
Day 3: Halifax Citadel National Historic Site / Ferry to Saint John
Enjoy a guided tour and whisky tasting at the hilltop Halifax Citadel National Historic Site this morning before lunch in the Annapolis Valley. Later today, travel by ferry to New Brunswick and spend two nights in Saint John. The crossing takes you across the dramatic tides of the Bay of Fundy, a natural wonder known for having the highest tidal range in the world. Saint John, discovered by Samuel de Champlain in 1604, is the only city on the Fundy shore and lays claim to being Canada's oldest incorporated city. Its rich maritime heritage and walkable historic core add to its enduring charm.
Day 4: First Nations storytelling & a class on caviar
This morning, immerse yourself in a storytelling experience that brings Canada's history to life in its oldest incorporated city—founded more than 80 years before Confederation. Explore the rich heritage of the land and the Indigenous Nations who shaped it. Guided by award-winning Indigenous storyteller David Smith, journey through time in a special presentation at the hotel that highlights the enduring spirit and deep-rooted stories of this remarkable place. Discover the timeless connection between the Wolastoq—the longest river in New Brunswick—and the Bay of Fundy, where the world's highest tides create a breathtaking display of nature's power. These stories, passed down through generations, offer moments of quiet reflection and connection. Later this morning, delve into the fascinating world of sturgeons with a caviar tasting at the Acadian Sturgeon & Caviar Academy at Carter's Point Hatchery. First appearing over 250 million years ago, sturgeons evolved from apex predators like sharks and are now a vital part of Saint John's caviar industry. Sample a variety of sturgeon caviars prepared in different ways, learn about the hatchery's sustainable practices, and discover ideal pairings with various ingredients. Enjoy a tasting of sturgeon, prepared in multiple ways. The rest of the day is yours to explore Saint John at your own pace. Known as the "culinary capital" of New Brunswick, it's a fantastic city for dining.
Day 5: Fundy Trail Parkway & Hopewell Rocks
Torrential tides and surface water carve towering rock formations out of the cliffs at Hopewell Cape on the Bay of Fundy; at low tide, they stand on the beach like sculptures in a vast outdoor gallery. View firsthand this land of giants to feel the awesome power that shapes these stones, tunnels through them, and covers them at a depth of 50 feet or more when the tide comes in. Continue onward for a photo-op at one of the region's picture-perfect covered bridges, then return to Moncton for an evening spent as you please.
Day 6: A lobster cruise across on Shediac Bay & onwards to PEI
Embark on an interactive cruise that reveals the time-honoured secrets of lobstering on the pristine waters of Shediac Bay. You will have the opportunity to participate in the actual fishing and catching of the area's prized lobsters and a local tutorial on the proper process of cracking and eating a freshly caught and cooked lobster. Your destination this afternoon is Charlottetown, inviting with Victorian architecture, heritage homes and maritime delights. Dinner is included tonight at your hotel, ideally located close to the scenic harbour and landmark attractions.
Day 7: Gems of Prince Edward Island
Enjoy some free time today to explore as you please. Late morning, travel to New Glasgow and the PEI Preserves Co. for lunch, with an opportunity to spend some time to enjoying their preserves production area and gardens. Red-sand beaches line the shores of Prince Edward Island National Park, along with wind-sculpted dunes, salt marshes and broad inlets that provide safe harbor for seabirds and seafarers. Explore the park, taking note of its fragile ecosystem and gentle beauty. Continue on to the fishing village of North Rustico Harbour to see its iconic lighthouse and scenic views, embodying a way of life that has flourished on the island since 1790. Step back in time on a visit to Green Gables Heritage Place, the site of the home and farm that inspired Lucy Maud Montgomery's literary masterpiece, Anne of Green Gables. Go inside "Anne's" home and view rooms set up as they were described by the author. Stroll the grounds to learn more about rural life in the early 20th century, before savouring a taste of island life at a local restaurant renowned for its lobster dishes.
Day 8: Ferry bound for Nova Scotia
Board a ferry bound for Nova Scotia and drive to the town of Frankville for lunch at local restaurant. Then it's on to the Alexander Graham Bell National Historic Site in Baddeck. Scottish inventor Alexander Graham Bell summered here after he and his family moved to Canada from Scotland, and he later set up his laboratory in this picturesque village. Enjoy a presentation that is a "virtual walk" through the exhibits, focusing on the people, experiments and inventions, from the telephone to kites, hydrofoils, airplanes and a metal detector – that make the Bell Story so compelling. Continue to your hotel in Cape Breton Highlands National Park, with historic connections to Alexander Graham Bell.
Day 9: The beauty of the Cabot Trail & more
Experience breathtaking coastal landscapes on the Cabot Trail, a serpentine highway that is one of the world's most exciting and scenic drives. The winding road is carved into the side of mountains along unforgettable ocean vistas, ascending to the plateaus of Cape Breton Highlands National Park. Drive through a landscape rich in rugged barrens, waterfalls, cliffs, and panoramic views of canyons, highlands, and seacoast. Photo stops in Acadian fishing communities lead the way to a rug hooking museum, a showcase for "talking" rugs that speak volumes about a pioneer art that quietly discloses the trials and tribulations of the women who challenged the wilderness with their families and settled in new frontiers. Then stop in Chéticamp, an Acadian fishing community on Cape Breton Island, for lunch and a taste of their long-cherished cultural heritage. Return late afternoon along the Cabot Trail to your hotel.
Day 10: Nova Scotia's Gaelic culture
A highlight of this trip is today's visit to the Gaelic College of Celtic Arts and Crafts at Englishtown, where you'll learn about Nova Scotia's Scottish Gaelic culture. Watch a kilt-making demonstration, and learn a little Gaelic – through song – while learning about the fabric milling tradition. Have lunch at a lakeside village and perhaps some free time to enjoy the pleasantries of Canada. Tonight, please join us for a farewell reception followed by dinner at the resort.
Day 11: Journey home
Depart Liscombe Lodge Resort this morning and return to Halifax; travel along one of the most scenic drives in North America, stopping en route in Lake Charlotte to visit a general store that takes you back in time. Tour ends: 12:00 noon, Halifax International Airport. Fly home anytime after 2:00 PM. For guests wishing to extend their stay in Halifax, we can arrange additional nights at The Prince George Hotel; a transfer to Halifax International Airport is included for these bookings. Allow a minimum of two hours for check-in.
Includes
- 10 nights in handpicked 4 & 5 star hotels
- Comfortable coaches with bathroom facilities (w/c)
- 24/7 personal service – knowledgeable Travel Director & expert driver
- Porterage, plus tips and gratuities at hotels and restaurants are included
- Meals as stated in the itinerary
Excludes
- Flights - please call us on 0844 80 444 80 to obtain a quote and book flights
- Pre & post nights - please call us on 0844 80 444 80 to obtain a quote and book additional nights
- Driver & Tour Director gratuities - these can be pre-paid, please ask your reservations agent when booking your tour
Choose Your Departure Date
Prices shown above are per person based on 2 adults sharing. For single, triple, quad and child prices please call us for a quote.
Please call us on 0844 80 444 80 to check the latest up-to-date availability and to book your tour.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much is the deposit to secure a tour and when is the balance due?
A deposit of 10% is required when making your booking.
The balance of the holiday cost must be received by us no less than 10 weeks prior to your date of departure. Bookings made within 10 weeks of departure require full payment at the time of booking.
For some tours or if there is a special "Early Booking offer", the balance maybe due sooner than 10 weeks before departure, in this case you will be advised at time of booking when the balance due date would be.
The balance payment date will be shown on your confirmation invoice.
Payments can be made by debit card, credit card or bank transfers.
YOUR PAYMENTS TO US ARE FULLY FINANCIALLY SECURE FOR YOUR PEACE OF MIND: Where your confirmed travel arrangements include a flight and you are resident in the UK (or EU) or the flight departs from, arrives in or transits the UK, this is financially protected through our Air Travel Organiser’s Licence (ATOL) number 6874 managed by the Civil Aviation Authority, Gatwick Airport South, West Sussex, RH6 0YR, UK, telephone 0333 103 6350, email claims@caa. co.uk.
CANCELLATIONS: Cancellations t&c's can differ from operator to operator, these will be confirmed to you with your booking confirmation. For our general Terms and conditions and general cancellation details please click here.
What does the tour cost include?
The per person price listed covers all hotel accommodations, taxes, all applicable sightseeing and admissions as per the itinerary, motor coach, cruise or rail transportation, services of a professional Travel Director, all meals as shown in the itinerary and luggage handling. All tips have been included for services on trip by dining-room staff, chambermaids and porters at hotels, airports, docks and train stations.
Can we book flights through you ?
Yes, we can offer competitive airfares with all the major airlines. When booking a package with us that includes flights and a tour, your package is then fully ATOL Bonded by the CAA for your full financial peace of mind. You are of course are welcome to book flights independently but we are therefore not responsible should your flights be delayed and you miss any part of your tour or other arrangements booked with us.
Can I add additional hotel nights before or after my tour?
Many of our clients choose to add extra hotel nights to spend a little more time in their chosen destination. You can reserve additional hotel nights before or after your tour.
Please call us on 0844 80 444 80 and our travel experts will be able to provide a quote for your additional nights and assist with your requirements.
Can i book twin beds or triple and quad rooms
Yes, We have options for twin (2 beds) and triple/quad room configurations.
If you a travelling in a party of three or four adult guests, please call us on 0844 80 444 80 and our travel experts will be able to provide a quote for your requirements.
For double rooms (2 guests), 1 Double/Queen or King bed is the normal, Twin beds can be requested at time of booking.
For triple rooms (3 guests) these will normally have 1 Queen/King bed and a fold out bed, or 2 Queen/King beds and a fold out bed.
For Quad rooms (4 Guests) these will normally have 2 Queen/King beds.
How much is the solo/single supplement?
Escorted tours are the perfect option if you're travelling solo, combining the camaraderie of a smaller group with the independence of a solo trip. Many tours offer solo room share options, or a competitive solo supplement.
Please call us on 0844 80 444 80 and our travel experts will be able to provide a quote for your requirements.
How many guests will be on this tour?
Tauck offer up to 3 different group sizes on some tours.
Classic group departures have an average of 35 - 44 Guests.
For small group departures these average 24 guest and then some tours also offer smaller group departures which average around 15 guests.
How much walking with be on this tour?
With your comfort in mind, Purely Escorted Tours assigns every tour an activity level. The activity level for your chosen tour is displayed in the tour introduction.
Leisurely: Tours will typically have minimal to 1-2 miles of walking per day on primarily flat surfaces and with some stairs.
Balanced: Tours typically have up to 1-3 miles of walking per day, which may include some uneven surfaces such as cobblestones and stairs.
Dynamic: These journeys can feature 4+ miles of walking on some days and may involve some steep hills.
Do the coaches have on-board Wi-Fi and bathroom facilities
Tauck coaches are modern, well-appointed buses with comfortable seating, large windows for viewing, and on-board amenities like Wi-Fi and bathrooms.
While the specific coach model may vary by tour and region, guests can expect an upgrade from standard coaches, reflecting Tauck's commitment to luxury and an elevated travel experience.
The coaches are equipped to provide a high level of comfort and convenience, allowing guests to relax and enjoy the scenery during their travels.
The coaches offer onboard Wi-Fi, bathroom facilities (w/c), charging unites, reclining seats, air conditioning, footrests, tray tables, drink holders and seat pockets
Are gratuities included for the driver, tour director and at restaurants etc?
Gratuities are included at hotels and restaurants. And, you have the option to pre-pay your Travel Director and driver gratuities before you travel if you wish.
Please call us on 0844 80 444 80 and our travel experts will be able to provide a quote for you to pre-pay driver and tour director gratuities.
Do you offer/include Travel Insurance?
Travel insurance is not included in your tour and we do not offer travel insurance.
Please procure Travel Insurance before travelling. This will protect you and will give you peace of mind before you travel and whilst on your tour.
We suggest that your insurance covers the following:
- Cancellation or curtailment of your vacation due to medical or other reasons
- Loss or damage to your property and baggage
- Loss of cash, credit cards etc
- Medical costs and personal accidents
Certain countries require visitors to have valid medical insurance on entry and in Europe, you may find that doctor's surgeries, dentists and hospitals often require payment in cash prior to providing services. Whilst rare, medical evacuation can be exceptionally expensive.
Do remember to bring a copy of your policy, contact phone numbers and details of how to claim when you travel.
Should you choose to travel on Purely Escorted Tour without the required travel insurance, you will have full responsibility for all expenses (trip interruption, trip delay, medical expenses, quarantine expenses and emergency evacuation/repatriation) that may arise while travelling with us.
What does a guaranteed departure mean?
A guaranteed departure has reached the minimum number of guests for the tour to operate or will depart no matter how many people are booked to travel.
In the slim case that a guaranteed departure has to be withdrawn that you are booked on due to a unforeseen circumstances, you are entitled to a full refund on the funds already paid or if flexible with your time, we can move you onto another departure that suits you.
What do I need to know about border crossings, visas, entry requirements and passports?
Depending on your nationality, you may need visas to enter certain countries included on your trip. Please note that obtaining visas can take up to six weeks and so it is strongly advised that you consult your local Consulate or Embassy of the country you are visiting to determine which visas they require and how to obtain them.
Note: Purely Escorted Tours is not responsible for obtaining any necessary visas required on your tour.
Information about border crossings and visas, entry requirements varies by destination. Please check the destination you're visiting below for more information:
Europe trips:
Each guest must ensure that their passport is valid for at least six months beyond the conclusion of their trip and that they have acquired all necessary visas and permits. Multiple-entry visas may be required if you are entering a country more than once on your holiday.
Guests are advised that only the countries you plan to visit can provide up-to-date information about their specific visa requirements. Guests should contact the nearest embassy or consulate of the countries they plan to visit well in advance of travel. Please check your itinerary carefully. Remember that requirements vary based on a passport's place of issue and that the process can take time.
Check that multi-entry visas have the correct entry dates and destinations before you travel. Please be aware that with some itineraries, you may travel through a country without making an overnight stop. If this happens on your itinerary, you will still need a visa to enter/exit the country for example an ETA when transiting through UK & Ireland.
Please ensure that you carry proper identification with you at all times, as border crossings will need to see your entry documents and passports. Usually crossing borders is a very straightforward process that is managed by your Travel Director. However, be advised that you may be required to open your luggage and answer simple questions about the length of your stay, purpose of travel, etc.
United Kingdom and Northern Ireland trips incl transiting travellers:
From January 8, 2025 UK law requires travelers both entering and transiting through the UK and Northern Ireland to obtain an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) which must be obtained in advance of travel.
UK eTA applications can be made at the UK Governments official website.
USA trips incl transiting travellers:
US law requires travellers both entering and transiting through the United States are required to obtain an Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) which must be obtained in advance of travel.
ESTA applications can be made at the U.S. Customs and Boarder Protection website.
Canada trips:
Canadian law requires travellers both entering and transiting through Canada to obtain an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) which must be obtained in advance of travel.
eTA applications can be made at the Government of Canada's website.
Rest of the World trips:
Each guest must ensure that their passport is valid for at least six months beyond the conclusion of their trip and that they have acquired all necessary visas and permits. You are responsible for obtaining all necessary visas before the departure of your guided holiday. Depending on your nationality, you may need visas to enter certain countries included on your trip. Please note that obtaining visas can take up to six weeks before your departure. It is strongly advised that you consult the local Consulate or Embassy of the country you are visiting well in advance to determine which visas they require and how to obtain them.
What if I have mobility issues?
Please notify us of any disability requiring special assistance prior to travelling. We will try our best to accommodate you throughout the tour and will inform the hotels.
What if I have food allergies?
Please advise us of any dietary requirements. We will make arrangements with our suppliers where possible.
You will also need to talk to your Travel Director at the beginning of your tour and they will do their utmost to arrange an alternative menu at the hotels and restaurants.
How much luggage can I bring?
Travelling on a Purely Escorted Tour entitles each guest to travel with one suitcase not exceeding 23kg (50lbs) in weight, with dimensions not exceeding 77.5cm (30.5in) x 56cm (22in) x 32cm (12.5in). Guests may also bring one item of hand luggage that is small and light enough to be carried onto the coach and fit underneath the seat, or in the small overhead compartment above. (Luggage with adjustable handles and wheels will not fit).
Please test the weight of your baggage prior to travel. You should be able to lift and comfortably transport it for short distances.
Baggage allowances vary from airline to airline and you should check with your chosen carrier for details prior to travel.
