You are using an outdated browser. Please upgrade your browser to improve your experience.

Shore Excursions Group

Excursions & Tours

special offer banner

Halifax by Land & Sea

5 Stars

Historic Halifax by Foot

Peggy's Cove Bus Both Ways

Nova Scotia's Peggy's Cove

Halifax Buffet Dinner Cruise

Halifax Dinner Cruise

halifax cruise ship shore tours

Halifax and Nova Scotian Wine Discovery

halifax cruise ship shore tours

Halifax Highlights by Yacht

halifax cruise ship shore tours

Halifax History and Flavors Eco-Pedal Waterfront Experience

halifax cruise ship shore tours

Halifax Rise and Sail

Private Halifax and Peggy's Cove

Private Halifax and Peggy's Cove

Private Halifax Introduction

Private Halifax Introduction

Halifax tours & shore excursions.

Halifax, the capital of Nova Scotia and also more commonly known as "The City of Trees" has all the right ingredients for a great vacation destination. This quaint city has so many highlights and a rich culture that makes it a pleasure to spend an afternoon there exploring the city life and the countryside on our Halifax shore excursions. Shore Excursions Group will make sure you won't miss a thing, from Peggy's cove shore tours to a taste of the region's exquisite wineries. Tantalize your senses, as you taste some of the fresh products of the area, including coffee, cheese and wine with our Taste of the Valley Tour or the Annapolis Valley Wine Tour. See the most popular attractions of Halifax when you book our Best of Halifax and Peggy's Cove Excursion.

Halifax tours to eastern Canada.

Now Booking Sail GP Private Charters! June 1 & 2. Click Here to Learn More

j farwell black trans background_1x.png

Halifax Shore Excursions

Visiting Halifax by cruise ship? We can't wait to welcome you aboard! Enjoy seeing your cruise ship from our beautiful harbour no matter which experience you choose. Join a small public  tour or choose something private.

P3099675-2.jpg

Quality You Can Trust

Join us for award-winning, quality experiences

We know that your short time in port in Halifax is pr ecious to you. We are confident that a sail with us is sure to be a highlight of your time here! Some highlights of what you can expect  from our sailing tour experiences:

Small group or entirely private experiences

New,  impeccably  maintained sailing yachts

Opportunities for hands-on, immersive sailing

Option to choose entirely hands-off for maximum onboard relaxation

Local history and fun facts

Transport Canada Certified Captain & crew

Local beer, wine & spirit options (and beloved international classics!)

What People are Saying

Very friendly, experienced skipper and crew. The Beneteau’s were beautiful, fun boats. I enjoyed hoisting the sails and also just soaking in the sights.

  Joseph_W  

Amazing time with friends out on the water with Brendan and Kip. Very friendly and we felt safe and enjoyed our ride. Highly recommended.

This was a very nicely organized sailing tour of the harbor around Halifax. Very friendly staff, boat in perfect condition, and a great 1.5 hour experience overall!

The captain and staff were so warm and hospitable! A great time was had by all! Beautiful, clean, safe boat!

Proximity to Cruise Terminal

We are located in the heart of downtown Halifax, directly on the Halifax Boardwalk. We are just a short, scenic walk from the Halifax Cruise Terminals. If you prefer, you can also take a 3 minute taxi ride to us.

At our location, you'll find our ticket & sailing gear store where our team can help with any questions you may have. They can show you  where  to board our three sailing yachts!   We're also conveniently  located to many shops and  restaurants for any other adventures your day may hold before returning to your ship.

JFarwell sailing tours to cruise terminal.png

Most Popular Day Tours at a Glance

Signature adventure sail.

Duration: 1.5 hours

Schedule: 12pm, 1pm, 2pm, 3pm

Age: All ages 

Best of Halifax Harbour Tour

Duration: 1 hour

Schedule:  10am, 11:30am, 1pm, 2:30pm, 4pm 

Summer Breeze Sail

Duration: 2 hours

Schedule: 4pm 

Luxury Catamaran Day Sail

Suggested Duration: 1.5 hours*

Schedule: 9am, 11am, 1pm, 3pm, 5pm

Related Products

halifax cruise ship shore tours

Marine Cap (Navy)

halifax cruise ship shore tours

Men's UV Tec Polo (Ocean)

halifax cruise ship shore tours

Marine Cap (Tango)

halifax cruise ship shore tours

Women's Knit Fleece Jacket (Light Blue)

halifax cruise ship shore tours

Men's Knit Fleece Jacket (Ash)

halifax cruise ship shore tours

Men's Dart Hoodie (Atlantic Blue)

halifax cruise ship shore tours

Women's Dart Hoodie (Fig)

halifax cruise ship shore tours

Crew Polo Shirt (Red)

halifax cruise ship shore tours

Race Cap (Blue)

halifax cruise ship shore tours

Cable Knit Beanie (Fig)

halifax cruise ship shore tours

Scala T Shirt (Red)

halifax cruise ship shore tours

Scala T Shirt (White)

halifax cruise ship shore tours

J Farwell Regatta Visor (Ocean)

halifax cruise ship shore tours

J Farwell Marine Sun Hat (Light Khaki)

halifax cruise ship shore tours

J Farwell Marine Cap (Navy)

halifax cruise ship shore tours

J Farwell Cable Knit Beanie (Ocean)

  • Need help? 1-888-751-7804 1-888-751-7804
  • Let Us Call You CALL ME
  • Drink Packages
  • Flights by Celebrity℠
  • Hotels by Celebrity
  • Manage Reservation
  • Shore Excursions
  • Upgrade with MoveUp

halifax cruise ship shore tours

  • My Tier and Points
  • Join Captain's Club

Already booked? Sign in or create an account

  • South Korea
  • New Zealand
  • Grand Cayman
  • St. Maarten
  • U.S Virgin Islands
  • New England & Canada
  • Pacific Coast
  • Antarctic Ocean
  • Panama Canal
  • Transatlantic
  • Transpacific
  • Cruise Ports (+300)
  • Mediterranean
  • Perfect Day at CocoCay
  • All Inclusive
  • Bucket List Cruises
  • Cruise & Land Package
  • Groups & Events
  • New Cruises
  • Popular Cruises
  • Specialty Cruises
  • Destination Highlights
  • Group Excursions
  • Private Journeys
  • Shore Excursions Overview
  • Small Group Discoveries

CARIBBEAN ESCAPES & WEEKEND CRUISES

  • 360° Virtual Tours
  • Celebrity Apex®
  • Celebrity Ascent℠ NEW
  • Celebrity Beyond℠
  • Celebrity Constellation®
  • Celebrity Edge®
  • Celebrity Eclipse®
  • Celebrity Equinox®
  • Celebrity Infinity®
  • Celebrity Millennium®
  • Celebrity Reflection®
  • Celebrity Silhouette®
  • Celebrity Solstice®
  • Celebrity Summit®
  • Celebrity Xcel℠ COMING SOON
  • Explore Edge Series

Galapagos Expedition Series

  • Celebrity Flora®
  • Celebrity Xpedition®
  • Celebrity Xploration®
  • The Retreat
  • All Suites. All Included
  • Iconic Suite
  • Penthouse Suite
  • Reflection Suite
  • Royal Suite
  • Signature Suite
  • Celebrity Suite
  • Aqua Sky Suite
  • Horizon Suite
  • Sunset Suite
  • Concierge Class
  • Galapagos Accommodations
  • Eat & Drink
  • Entertainment
  • Spa & Wellness

Introducing Celebrity Xcel℠

  • Cruising 101
  • Cruise Fare Options
  • Cruise Tips
  • First Time on a Cruise
  • What is Included on a Cruise
  • Future Cruise Vacations
  • Accessible Cruising
  • Captain's Club Rewards
  • Cruise Insurance
  • Flights by Celebrity
  • Healthy at Sea
  • Manage Cruise
  • The Celebrity Store
  • Travel Documents
  • Royal Caribbean International
  • Celebrity Cruises

So much more than a suite

  • 75% Off 2nd Guest + Bonus Savings
  • Galapagos 20% Savings + Free Flights
  • Resident Rates
  • Exciting Deals
  • View All Offers
  • All Included
  • Cruise & Land Packages
  • Dining Packages
  • Photo Packages
  • Wi-Fi Packages
  • View All Packages
  • Captain's Club Overview
  • Join the Club
  • Loyalty Exclusive Offers
  • Tiers & Benefits
  • Celebrity Cruises Visa Signature® Card

75% Off 2nd Guest + Bonus Savings

Enjoy 75% off your second guest’s cruise fare and get bonus savings of up to $200.

Halifax, Nova Scotia Shore Excursions

Tabs view halifax cruises.

  • Halifax Port Guide
  • Halifax Shore Excursions
  • Canada & New England Cruises
  • View Halifax Cruises

History Unfolds on Halifax Shore Excursions

The history and culture of Nova Scotia’s capital are largely on view in all the Halifax shore excursions you can book when this city is your port of call on a Nova Scotia Canada cruise . Halifax is a city that’s defined by the sea: It sits on one of the world’s largest natural harbors and from its founding has been an important public, commercial, and military seaport.

The city’s waterfront buzzes with history and hospitality and there are Halifax shore excursions to enhance your experience. Stroll along Harbourwalk to shop and eat on a global scale; stop at the Canadian Museum of Immigration, then wander through the stalls and stands at the City Farmer’s Market. Walk the Warehouse District to browse in restored buildings that now house craft shops.

See the city and its sights from the waterside on Halifax cruise tours speed along Nova Scotia’s stunning coastline, enjoying the spectacular scenery and keeping an eye out for whales, dolphins, and other wildlife. Step aboard a sailing vessel and pay rapt attention as your expert crew guides you through the basics of sailing – tacking, gybing, unfurling the sails, and more.

If you’re intrigued by the rich maritime history of the area, book Halifax shore excursions to the Maritime Museum of the Atlantic. The exhibits and collections trace Nova Scotia’s marine history from small crafts to steamships; tracks the story of the Royal Canadian and Merchant Navies; and there’s an exhibit that outlines Nova Scotia’s role in the aftermath of the Titanic disaster.

Much has been written about Nova Scotia’s spectacular lighthouses, and among the best excursions are those that include a stop at Peggy’s Cove, for a look at this quaint village’s lighthouse, learn how the town got its name, and discover the charm that has inspired writers, artists and poets.

Halifax’s history is on display around the city, most notable at the Citadel, the fortress built when the town was founded in 1749. Tour the Army Museum, walk the fort, inside and out, and watch the sentry change on the hour. The Old Town Clock, built in 1803, at the request of Prince Edward, rings out the time for the town.

Take a ferry ride to Halifax Common, Canada’s oldest park, dating back to 1763. Don’t miss the Grand Parade Square, the city’s oldest public open space, and see the Cenotaph, a war memorial to the World War I, World War II, and the Korean War.

Learn More About Celebrity Cruises® Shore Excursions

Previewing: Promo Dashboard Campaigns

Halifax Cruise Ship Shore Tours – Halifax, Nova Scotia

Halifax Cruise Ship Shore Tours – Halifax, Nova Scotia

Halifax Cruise Ship Tours – Peggy's Cove, Lunenburg, Valley, Grand Pre

Halifax Historic Tours

Halifax Citadel Tour

If you are a Visitor to Nova Scotia This Year, You Will Want to Take in the Popular Halifax Historic Tour and Peggy’s Cove Tour put on by the TripAdvisor “Certificate Of Excellence Winners” HALIFAX TOUR GUYS!

The historic tour of Halifax includes stops at the Halifax Explosion , Pier 21 , Halifax Public Gardens , Sinking of the RMS Titanic , Horse Shoe Island , Halifax Citadel , and other historically significant sites to visit when visiting Halifax Nova Scotia.

Halifax Citadel Tour

Pier 21 is referred to as the “Ellis Island of Canada” is The National Museum of Immigration, and may have the history of your family if they entered Canada through Halifax.

This Halifax Historic Tour is one of the most popular tours of Nova Scotia and also includes stops at the Immigration Museum at Pier 21, Historic Victorian and Georgian  Homes in the South End Of Halifax, Point Pleasant Park,  and a stroll through the Halifax Public Gardens.

From there you can visit Halifax’s Citadel Hill, Fleming Park, War of 1812, Halifax Explosion, and Titanic Burial Site.

:: BOOK A TOUR OF HISTORIC HALIFAX ::

Halifax and peggy’s cove tour.

Halifax Historic Tours have become the Finest Private Guided tours on the East Coast of Canada!  & Limousine Service in Halifax, Nova Scotia.

Historic Halifax and Peggy’s Cove Tours are now the most popular Tour in Nova Scotia! The tour put on by the Halifax Tour Guys takes about 5-6 hours depending on the length ‎of time spent at each stop. Your tour guide will show you all the main highlights in the city of Halifax while stopping along route for you to take pictures.

On our way back to Halifax we will travel through the Village of West Dover, Communities of ‎Bayside, Shad Bay, Prospect Bay, White’s Lake and Hatchet Lake. Once back in Halifax, if time allows, the Halifax Tour Guys will see some more of the Highlights of Halifax on the way to your Cruise Ship, hotel, or Halifax Stanfield Airport.

Peggy's Cove Tours

Although busy they are friendly and enjoy answering questions or simply passing the time chatting with visitors. Peggy’s Cove has a classic red-and-white lighthouse with an automated light still maintained by the Canadian Government.

The lighthouse is situated on an extensive granite out crop at Peggy’s. Point, immediately south of the village and it’s cove. Visitors can explore the granite out crop around the lighthouse, but they need to use cation near the water! Despite the warning signs posted about wet slippery rocks and unpredictable surf, visitors have slipped on the dark wet rocks or have been swept off the rocks by waves, sometimes drowning. Please be careful on the rocks.

:: BOOK A TOUR OF HALIFAX AND PEGGY’S COVE ::

Tripadvisor reviews, 1. peggy’s cove is spectacular.

“We were a group of 6 on a cruise ship. Doug picked us up as scheduled and we proceeded to the Titanic cemetery. Then we drove to Peggy’s Cove with a lot of interesting stops on the way. A wonderful lady named Mary, who has an art gallery, let us take pictures and gave each of us a souvenir dragonfly that she had painted. Everyone loved the stop at the lobster shop where the owner gave a demonstration on the lobster industry. Peggy’s Cove is spectacular. On the way back to the ship, Doug took us to a seafood restaurant for a lobster lunch. Doug was well-verses in the history and culture of the area and really made the tour special.”

~ stubbzmom

Date of experience: October 2018

2. Best of Halifax in one day!

We were in port for one day on a Canadian Cruise. Doug picked us up early right outside the terminal. We packed in a ton of sights, meet some great local people and had a fantastic local lunch. Doug was so easy to talk to and you felt like you were spending the day with an old friend. We toured the beautiful coastline, the Titanic cemetery, the Citadel, and my favorite Peggy’s Cove. Also, a great lunch at The Finer Diner. I recommend this tour for anyone.

Check out more TripAdvisor Reviews for the Halifax Tour Guys 🙂

Share this:.

halifax cruise ship shore tours

  • Share on Tumblr

You may also like...

Historic halifax peggy’s cove tour, sightseeing tours halifax explosion | titanic | halifax citadel, private tour companies halifax nova scotia.

  • Shore Excursions

Harbour Hopper Tours

All aboard Halifax's most popular boat tour – the Harbour Hopper Tour - a fun, fast-paced adventure by land and sea! From your seat aboard this impressive, retrofitted military vehicle, you'll have unparalleled views of Halifax’s most noteworthy sites, beautiful landscape, and historic and modern architecture. Your knowledgeable and very entertaining guide will share historical facts and lesser-known stories about Halifax and will keep you somewhat entertained with the occasional knee-slapper. From the winding streets of Halifax, your adventure continues as you SPLASH into the Halifax Harbour. Your driver is now your Captain, and there’s more to explore so keep your camera ready for unique photo opportunities of our active harbour, Georges Island National Historic Site, the Halifax Waterfront, and more. This award-winning, fully narrated amphibious tour is one you won’t soon forget!

55-minute guided tour

April 27 - November 3, 2024. View complete schedule here .

Booking the Harbour Hopper Tour? Consider the Halifax Experience Pass! The pass includes the Harbour Hopper Tour plus 12 other experiences and deals on meals! Click here to learn more.

Adult: $48.50 -$56.75 (price varies based on day & time) Youth (6 - 15): $27 - $32.50 (price varies based on day & time) Child (2 - 6): $16.75 - $20 (price varies based on day & time) Child (0 - 1): Free Family*: $112.48 - $133.52 Additional Child with Family Rate: $14 - $16.50 ​*Family Rate is for 2 adults & 2 children under the age of 6

The Harbour Hopper Tour departs/returns from the Salter Street Parking Lot on the Halifax waterfront

Click or tap here

Drone shot of the Tall Ship Silva with sails up as it cruises the Halifax Harbour against the Halifax Skyline.

Tall Ship Sailing Cruise

Your visit to Halifax will simply not be complete without experiencing a scenic sailing cruise on the world's second-largest natural harbour – the Halifax Harbour.

Two people walk alongside an old building while visiting Georges Island.

Visit Georges Island

Enjoy scenic views from a new perspective and immerse yourself in the rich history of Halifax! Take a self-guided tour of the fort or a guided tour of the historic tunnels!

Peggy's Point Lighthouse seen from a distance, the Peggy's Cove viewing deck in the foreground to the left.

Peggy's Cove Tour

Of the over 160 historic lighthouses located across the province of Nova Scotia, none is more well-known, most visited, and likely most photographed than Peggy's Point Lighthouse.

halifax cruise ship shore tours

  • Favorites & Watchlist Find a Cruise Cruise Deals Cruise Ships Destinations Manage My Cruise​ FAQ Perfect Day at CocoCay Weekend Cruises Crown & Anchor Society Cruising Guides Gift Cards Contact Us Royal Caribbean Group
  • Back to Main Menu
  • Search Cruises " id="rciHeaderSideNavSubmenu-2-1" class="headerSidenav__link" href="/cruises" target="_self"> Search Cruises
  • Cruise Deals
  • Weekend Cruises
  • Last Minute Cruises
  • Family Cruises​
  • 2024-2025 Cruises
  • All Cruise Ships " id="rciHeaderSideNavSubmenu-4-1" class="headerSidenav__link" href="/cruise-ships" target="_self"> All Cruise Ships
  • Cruise Dining
  • Onboard Activities
  • Cruise Rooms
  • The Cruise Experience
  • All Cruise Destinations " id="rciHeaderSideNavSubmenu-5-1" class="headerSidenav__link" href="/cruise-destinations" target="_self"> All Cruise Destinations
  • Cruise Ports
  • Shore Excursions
  • Perfect Day at CocoCay
  • Caribbean Cruises
  • Bahamas Cruises​
  • Alaska Cruises
  • European Cruises​
  • Mediterranean Cruises​
  • Royal Destinations
  • Cruise Planner
  • Make a Payment
  • Check-In for My Cruise
  • Beverage Packages​
  • Shore Excursions​
  • Update Guest Information
  • Book a Flight
  • Dining Packages​
  • Royal Gifts
  • Required Travel Documents
  • Transportation
  • Book a Hotel
  • Redeem Cruise Credit
  • All FAQs " id="rciHeaderSideNavSubmenu-7-1" class="headerSidenav__link" href="/faq" target="_self"> All FAQs
  • Boarding Requirements
  • Future Cruise Credit​
  • Travel Documents​
  • Check-in​ & Boarding Pass
  • Transportation​
  • Perfect Day at CocoCay​
  • Post-Cruise Inquiries
  • Royal Caribbean
  • Celebrity Cruises

Mcnabs Island Lighthouse, Halifax, Nova Scotia

SHORE EXCURSIONS FOR Halifax, Nova Scotia

Previewing: Promo Dashboard Campaigns

*Shore excursions are based on availability, and may not be available based on your cruise dates and itinerary.

Amazing experiences coming soon

Please, come back later to show you what we have available.

Sorry, there are no excursions available for this port at this moment.

My personas, code: ∅.

Exclusive Shore Excursions Amazing Experiences

Venture ashore's essential collection.

The best way to explore must-see and do highlights in top destinations, at up to 40% off cruise line prices. Choose more with The Essential Collection!

Shore Excursions

For cruisers

Tours by Destination

Worldwide experiences

Group Tours

Custom experiences for groups of +12

Back-to-Ship Guarantee

Highest Quality Tours: The Essential Collection

Don't Port, Don't Pay Security

Flexible Cancellation: Up to 7 days before tour 

halifax cruise ship shore tours

2022 Award Winning

Recognized for excellence in the cruise industry.

Cruise Tours Without the Cruise Line Prices

Save up to 40% with the best experiences, tested and approved.

The Essential Collection

Our most popular and top-rated shared tours.

Small Group Tours

More intimate experiences connecting you to local culture.

Private Excursions

Travel in a private vehicle with your own party and customize if desired.

Explore All Regions

Hundreds of locations around the world

halifax cruise ship shore tours

AUSTRALIA, NEW ZEALAND & SOUTH PACIFIC

halifax cruise ship shore tours

MEXICAN PACIFIC COAST

halifax cruise ship shore tours

MIDDLE EAST

halifax cruise ship shore tours

NEW ENGLAND & CANADA

halifax cruise ship shore tours

SOUTH AMERICA

halifax cruise ship shore tours

UNITED STATES

halifax cruise ship shore tours

  • Destinations
  • Travel Agents

1 888 801 8547

0800 091 8274

Log in to Venture Ashore

Great Experiences Await!

Forgot your password?

Create a new account.

You'll zip through it!

Confirm Email *

Confirm Password *

First Name *

Last Name *

halifax cruise ship shore tours

The 6 best Alaska cruise shore excursions — from heli-hiking to whale watching

MSN has partnered with The Points Guy for our coverage of credit card products. MSN and The Points Guy may receive a commission from card issuers.

There are some cruise destinations — Barcelona, for instance, or Venice — where you really don’t need to sign up for shore excursions . You can just walk off the ship and head to the major attractions on your own.

For the most part, the ports of Alaska aren’t like that.

To get the most out of an Alaska cruise , you’ll want to sign up for a tour in most if not all of the ports you visit. And not just any old tour. You’ll be looking for the best Alaska shore excursions that get you out into the Alaska backcountry.

For more cruise news, reviews and tips, sign up for TPG’s cruise newsletter.

In Alaska, many of the biggest “attractions” — breathtaking mountain landscapes, glaciers, fjords, breaching whales and feeding bears, for instance — are related to the Great Outdoors. As a result, many of the best Alaska shore excursions for cruisers are found outside of the towns where ships stop. If you just stay in the towns and explore on your own, you’ll miss a big part of what Alaska is all about.

Related: The best Alaska cruise for every type of traveler  

Picking the best Alaska shore excursions

People who know me know that I love talking about Alaska port towns. This isn’t just because I spent more than two decades writing about Alaska and other cruise destinations for major newspapers. For many years, I was the co-author of Frommer’s “Alaska Cruises & Ports of Call” guide. In researching nearly half a dozen editions of that book, I spent many days exploring each of the major cruise ports in the state. I’ve tried a large number of the shore excursions in places such as Juneau, Skagway and Ketchikan. I’ve also poked around these towns a lot on my own.

As noted above, my biggest message to anyone planning an Alaska cruise is to get out of the towns . Sign up for something — a hike, a rafting trip, a train ride, a fishing outing — that gets you out into Alaska’s spectacular outdoor settings.

But I also have a few specific, top-line pro tips when you’re thinking about the best Alaska shore excursions:

  • Get up in the air . It’ll be expensive. We’re talking $250 or more per person. But there’s nothing like seeing the grandeur of Alaska from a helicopter or floatplane. The Juneau Icefield, in particular, is a sight to behold. It covers around 1,500 square miles. You can see it on a flightseeing tour from Juneau, with some tours including landings on the ice.
  • Don’t miss the whales. Even if you’re not a big wildlife person, you’ll be mesmerized by the humpback whales of Alaska. They are huge (at up to 52 feet, longer than a Greyhound bus), and there are boat tours that will get you up close to them. The best places to do this are out of Juneau and also Icy Strait Point if your ship stops there.
  • Splurge for a trip to Misty Fjords National Monument . This glacier-carved wilderness area, not far from Ketchikan, is another don’t-miss sight. It’s everything you think of when you think of Alaska: icy blue lakes, waterfalls, snow-capped peaks and glacial valleys. The only way to get there is on a boat or floatplane tour, and they typically start at over $200 a person.

Unfortunately, as you can see from the above, many of the most spectacular excursions in Alaskan ports are expensive. But Alaska is not a place to skimp. Alaska is a place where you may want to budget almost as much per person for your shore excursions as you do for your cabin.

That said, you don’t have to splurge for a big outing at every call. In Juneau, for instance, you can get an outdoor experience with a relatively inexpensive trip to the nearby Mendenhall Glacier. It’s just 12 miles from the cruise ship docks and reachable by bus or taxi. The bus will set you back an astounding $45 per person, round-trip, which I find an intolerable gouge (but … it is what it is). If you have a few people, you’re probably better off with a taxi, which runs around $35 each way. For two or three people traveling together, it’s not all that pricey a trip.

Either way you do it, you’ll find some nice hiking trails around Mendenhall Glacier and a visitor center. There’s a creek there, too, where I’ve sometimes seen salmon running. One time, I even saw a bear. Speaking of which: A bear is something you think you want to see in Alaska until you actually see one. Then you’re just hoping you don’t get eaten.

Related: The best Alaska cruises for couples

I should also be clear that the towns themselves aren’t devoid of attractions. While I highly encourage Alaska-bound cruisers to get out into the wilderness, there are plenty of worthwhile things to do in each of the main port towns.

In Juneau, food tours have become popular; think King crab bisque and Alaska salmon. The Alaska State Museum is beautiful and worth a visit. Skagway is like a Gold Rush-themed movie set. You should at least walk its main street (Broadway), with its wooden-board sidewalks. If you’re a craft beer fan, like me , you also might want to sample a Spruce Tip Blonde Ale at the Skagway Brewing Company. It’s made with Sitka spruce tips picked locally in the spring.

In Ketchikan, you should save a few minutes to stroll up Creek Street, along Ketchikan Creek, where you might spot salmon running. It’s the ultimate Alaska selfie spot.

Related: The best cruises to Alaska from Seattle  

How to book the best Alaska shore excursions

The simplest way to book an Alaska shore excursion is through your cruise line. You check a box on an online form before sailing or while on board, and — poof! — it’s all arranged. They send a ticket to your room, and when you walk off the ship, a tour guide will be waiting for you.

Another way to go is to book directly with a tour operator in one of the ports. Many of the tour operators you’ll find in Alaskan ports are the same tour operators that operate the ship-sponsored excursions. Often, the tours that the local tour operators will sell you are the same tours that the cruise lines are selling you, at the same price . Shopping around isn’t necessarily going to get you anywhere.

Indeed, in some cases, the cruise lines own the tour operators in Alaska ports, or at least a piece of them. For instance, the parent company of Princess Cruises and Holland America  is a part-owner of Skagway’s big attraction, the White Pass & Yukon Route Railway.

That said, you can sometimes get discounts by calling a tour operator directly. I’ve had some luck with that over the years. It’s hit or miss.

Related: 8 tips for booking the best cruise shore excursion for your money

The 6 best Alaska shore excursions

Below, I’ve listed six of my all-time favorite Alaska shore excursions. These all are tours that you’ll find in the tour lineups at every major cruise line that operates in Alaska. That said, different lines sometimes have different names for these tours — and sometimes different pricing.

For the listings below, I’ve used the tour names and pricing listed in the current tour sheets at Princess, which along with sister line Holland America, is the biggest cruise operator in Alaska.

Related: The ultimate guide to picking a cruise line  

Dog-sledding and glacier adventure by helicopter

Cost: $669.95 per person

Port where available: Juneau

For those with a hefty bankroll, this might be the ultimate Alaska shore excursion. Combining helicopter flightseeing over the seemingly endless Juneau Icefield with a landing on a glacier for dog sledding, it hits two of Alaska’s most iconic experiences.

It’s also insanely expensive, as I know from firsthand experience. I once took my entire family of five on this excursion, dropping more than $2,000 in the process. That’s a huge chunk of change for an outing that lasts three hours.

But I’ll tell you this: I don’t regret doing it. Not one bit. For starters, the views of the Juneau Icefield as you fly to and from the dog-sledding camp are incredible (assuming the weather cooperates). But the real joy was seeing my three young girls interacting with the teams of Alaskan huskies that live at the camp.

Once you arrive at the camp, you’ll meet the dogs and their mushers, see where they live, get a quick tutorial in mushing, and then head out for a spin around the camp on a dog-pulled sled.

Related: These are the best times to visit Alaska

Whale watching and wildlife quest

Cost: $189.95

If it’s Alaska’s famous humpback whales that you want to see, you’ll want to book a whale-watching tour. The waters around Juneau are particularly known for humpback whales — so much so that the operator of this excursion offers a whale-sighting guarantee.

Setting off from the Juneau harbor in a whale-watching boat, you’ll cruise to nearby areas to see not just humpback whales but harbor seals and sea lions, too. You might even spot a killer whale or porpoise.

The boat used for this excursion has both inside and outdoor viewing areas. The trips last about four hours, including transfer time from your cruise ship to the whale-watching boat.

Related: The ultimate list of Alaska cruise tips  

Note that if you have a big enough group, it sometimes pays to arrange a private boat out of Juneau to take you to see humpback whales. Many lines offer a private boat charter for whale watching as a tour option, or you can arrange one through a local company.

Klondike rock climbing and rappelling

Cost: $119.95

Port where available: Skagway

If you’re like me, you may be a little terrified at the idea of climbing the sheer face of a rock cliff. But don’t let that scare you away from this 3 1/4-hour tour. It’s a hoot.

Experienced climbing guides will meet you at your ship and drive you up the Klondike Highway to an area of granite cliffs that’s the perfect playground for beginner and more seasoned climbers alike. Upon arrival, the guides provide you with all the gear you need — climbing shoes, helmets and harnesses — for a safe scramble up a 70-foot-high wall. They’ll also offer plenty of instruction (and encouragement) plus a snack of trail mix and hot chocolate.

If it all sounds a bit daunting, know that you don’t need any experience at climbing to do it; I sure didn’t have any when I tried it, nor did my young daughters, who absolutely loved it. There are multiple routes up the cliffs, some perfect for beginners. After making it to the top, you’ll rappel back down — an entirely different kind of thrill.

Related: How to plan a cruise with points and miles

White Pass & Yukon Route Railway ride

Cost: $149.95

Call it the iconic attraction of Skagway, Alaska. A ride into the mountains on this narrow-gauge railroad is the tour everybody takes when visiting the Gold Rush town-turned-tourist hub. And for good reason. It offers an easy way to get deep into the Great Alaskan Outdoors.

Truth be told, I’m a fan of more active excursions. But for someone who isn’t going to hike, bike, horseback ride or raft their way through the wilderness around Skagway (there are tours for all of those things, too), a ride on the White Pass & Yukon Railway is one of the best ways to get a glimpse of the area’s classic Alaskan scenery.

Related: 13 things you should do before every cruise  

From the comfort of a vintage rail car, you’ll get stunning views of mountains, gorges, glacial rivers and waterfalls as you climb nearly 3,000 feet to the summit of White Pass — the headwaters to the mighty Yukon River. Designated an International Historic Civil Engineering Landmark, the 20-mile route is a marvel in its own right, with improbably steep grades at times and segments that pass over soaring wooden trestles and around tight, cliff-hanging curves.

Heli-hike and rail adventure

Cost: $399.95

This is another tour with a sky-high cost. But, in my opinion, it’s well worth the money. Indeed, it’s one of my all-time favorite Alaska shore excursions.

The five-hour, Skagway-based outing begins with a transfer from your ship to a nearby helicopter pad, where you’ll find a helicopter waiting to whisk you high into the surrounding Sawtooth Mountain Range.

On a quick flight to your destination — a mountain trail in the Tongass National Forest — you’ll get spectacular views of the mountains and Goat Lake. You’ll land at Glacier Station, a remote mountain helicopter pad alongside the White Pass & Yukon Railway tracks. From there, you’ll set off on a two- to six-mile guided wilderness hike on a trail along the Skagway River. The highlight of the hike: a magnificent view of Laughton Glacier.

Returning to Glacier Station, you’ll end the day with a ride back to Skagway on the White Pass & Yukon Railway, which makes a special stop to pick you up.

Misty Fjords National Monument by seaplane

Cost: $299.95

Port where available: Ketchikan

There’s nothing that says Alaska quite like a trip in a floatplane. And, if you’re going to do a floatplane ride, there’s nowhere better than in Ketchikan. You’ll find a small armada of floatplanes waiting to take you to nearby Misty Fjords National Monument.

Misty Fjords is one of those quintessential Alaska destinations that’s so beautiful you just want to cry. That is, if it’s not too “misty” to see it. It got its name for a reason. The area is often shrouded in clouds and drizzly rain. Ketchikan is known as one of the rainiest places in North America, with over 13 feet of rain each year. So, yeah, bring a rain jacket.

But, also get ready for lovely views of glacier-carved fjords, cliffs and rock walls jutting thousands of feet out of the ocean. The whole thing is covered with temperate rainforests and features huge waterfalls (thanks to all that rain). It’s definitely a sight to see.

Note that there often are two versions of this tour available: One that is about two hours in length and only includes flightseeing and a slightly longer version that includes a water landing within Misty Fjord National Monument.

Planning a cruise? Start with these stories:

  • The 5 most desirable cabin locations on any cruise ship
  • A beginners guide to picking a cruise line
  • The 8 worst cabin locations on any cruise ship
  • The ultimate guide to what to pack for a cruise
  • A quick guide to the most popular cruise lines
  • 21 tips and tricks that will make your cruise go smoothly
  • 15 ways cruisers waste money
  • The ultimate guide to choosing a cruise ship cabin

SPONSORED:  With states reopening, enjoying a meal from a restaurant no longer just means curbside pickup.

And when you do spend on dining, you should use a credit card that will maximize your rewards and potentially even score special discounts. Thanks to temporary card bonuses and changes due to coronavirus, you may even be able to score a meal at your favorite restaurant for free. 

These are the best credit cards for dining out, taking out, and ordering in to maximize every meal purchase.

Editorial Disclaimer: Opinions expressed here are the author’s alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, airlines or hotel chain, and have not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of these entities.

The 6 best Alaska cruise shore excursions — from heli-hiking to whale watching

This is the announcement bar for Poornima to test the Close Button.  It will expire May 31 2024.

  • Pre-Cruise FAQ
  • Onboard FAQ
  • Post-Cruise FAQ
  • Cruisetours FAQ
  • Special Offers Sign Up
  • Cruise Deals

You have been logged out

Your window will update in 5 secs

Princess Cruises Adds Historic America Cruisetour Ahead of 250th Anniversary of America

14-night land and cruise experience highlights america’s roots with nation’s capital, philadelphia, williamsburg & more.

By downloading this image you agree to the Princess asset use terms and conditions

FT. LAUDERDALE, Fla. (May 13, 2024) – Princess guests discovering the scenic east coast on a 2025 Canada & New England cruise sailing out of New York City can now immerse themselves in historic America as they tour the nation’s capital, interact with early settlers at a living history museum, visit Independence Hall in Philadelphia, and stand on the same soil as Thomas Jefferson at his Monticello estate, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

This Historic America cruisetour takes guests on a seven-night, hosted land tour with overnight stays in Washington D.C., Williamsburg, Staunton, Gettysburg and Philadelphia prior to boarding a seven-day Canada/New England cruise onboard Enchanted Princess roundtrip from New York City.

“Visiting our nation’s capital, nearby historic cities and landmarks always ranks high on travelers’ lists of places to visit in their lifetime,” said Terry Thornton, chief commercial officer, Princess Cruises. “We make traveling to historic America easy, educational and memorable with our knowledgeable and inspiring tour guides sharing the incredible stories of our country’s settlers, leaders, landmarks and historic sites.”

This Historic America cruisetour includes hotels, motorcoach transportation, sightseeing and most breakfasts and dinners. Sample itinerary details:

  • Day 1: Arrive Washington, DC
  • Day 2: Tour Arlington Cemetery, Embassy Row, National Cathedral, museums of choice, evening illumination tour of Lincoln, Vietnam, World War II, and Korean War Memorials
  • Day 3: Visit Mount Vernon, George Washington’s iconic estate, and Jamestown Settlement before arriving in Williamsburg for dinner at a Colonial Williamsburg Tavern
  • Day 4: Full day of Colonial Williamsburg historic area
  • Day 5: Tour Richmond National Battlefield Park and Thomas Jefferson’s Monticello estate
  • Day 6: Enjoy Harpers Ferry National Historic Park and guided tour of Gettysburg Battlefield
  • Day 7: City of Brotherly Love, Philadelphia, for Independence Hall, Liberty Bell, First Bank, Carpenter’s Hall, Betsy Ross House, Elfreth’s Alley and Christ Church
  • Day 8: Arrive in New York City to embark Enchanted Princess for cruise
  • Day 9: Newport, Rhode Island
  • Day 10: Boston, Massachusetts
  • Day 11: Portland, Maine
  • Day 12: At Sea
  • Day 13: Halifax, Canada
  • Day 14: At Sea
  • Day 15: Return to New York City

On sale now, there are 10 Historic America cruisetour options in 2025 with departure dates of August 16, 23, 30; September 6, 13, 20, 27; October 4, 11 and 18, 2025. Rates start at $4,529 per person.

Thornton added, “With the upcoming 250th anniversary of America in 2026, now is the time to visit our nation’s historic landmarks and celebrate our independence.”

Additional information about Princess Cruises is available through a professional travel advisor, by calling 1-800-Princess (1-800-774-6237) or by visiting www.princess.com.

Media Contacts

Contact information for members of the media

Negin Kamali, +1 661-753-1539, [email protected]

Briana Latter, +1 661-753-1538, [email protected]

About Princess Cruises

Princess Cruises is The Love Boat, the world’s most iconic cruise brand that delivers dream vacations to millions of guests every year in the most sought-after destinations on the largest ships that offer elite service personalization and simplicity customary of small, yacht-class ships. Well-appointed staterooms, world class dining, grand performances, award-winning casinos and entertainment, luxurious spas, imaginative experiences and boundless activities blend with exclusive Princess MedallionClass service to create meaningful connections and unforgettable moments in the most incredible settings in the world - the Caribbean, Alaska, Panama Canal, Mexican Riviera, Europe, South America, Australia/New Zealand, the South Pacific, Hawaii, Asia, Canada/New England, Antarctica, and World Cruises. The company is part of Carnival Corporation & plc (NYSE/LSE:CCL; NYSE:CUK).

Additional media information is available at princess.com/news

Not a member of the media? 

Contact us at: 1-800-PRINCESS (1-800-774-6237) or 1-661-753-0000

More contact information is available on our Contact Us page

IMAGES

  1. About

    halifax cruise ship shore tours

  2. Halifax Cruise Ship Shore Tours

    halifax cruise ship shore tours

  3. Gallery

    halifax cruise ship shore tours

  4. Halifax Cruise Ship Shore Tours

    halifax cruise ship shore tours

  5. Halifax Cruise Ship Shore Tours

    halifax cruise ship shore tours

  6. Halifax Cruise Ship Shore Tours

    halifax cruise ship shore tours

COMMENTS

  1. Halifax Shore Excursion Tours

    Explore Halifax with a Knowledgeable Local Guide and See What Others Miss! ToursByLocals connects travelers with local tour guides, worldwide

  2. Cruise Excursions To Inspire

    Save Money And Escape The Crowds. Top Rated Excursions At The Best Prices. Elevate Your Cruise Experience With Fun & Unique Shore Excursions. Book Today!

  3. Halifax Cruise Ship Shore Tours

    Halifax Tour Guys is a private tour company in Halifax Nova Scotia offering Cruise Ship Shore Tours to visitors to the Province of Nova Scotia. If you are looking for private scenic tours of Halifax or Peggys Cove NS , the Halifax Tour Guys will show you around to some of the most beautiful spots Nova Scotia like Historic Halifax, Peggy's ...

  4. The 10 Best Halifax Tours & Nova Scotia Coast Excursions

    Shore Excursions offers Halifax tours to see the Canadian coast by way of Nova Scotia to enjoy the town as well as fishing, whale watching and more. ... Lower Prices than Cruise Line Higher Quality, Smaller Tours Money Back Guarantee Guaranteed Return to Ship 24/7 Traveler Hotline 41,300+ Customer Reviews Customer Reviews 4.7 / 5. Excursions ...

  5. Nova Scotia Cruise Ship Shore Excursion in Halifax 2024

    Maximize time in Halifax with a half-day shore excursion by coach. Go sightseeing during the time your cruise ship is in the port and see local landmarks like Peggy's Cove and the Halifax Public Gardens. Learn about local culture, sites, and outdoor attractions during this tour. Round-trip transportation from the port is included.

  6. Shore Excursions

    Proximity to Cruise Terminal. We are located in the heart of downtown Halifax, directly on the Halifax Boardwalk. We are just a short, scenic walk from the Halifax Cruise Terminals. If you prefer, you can also take a 3 minute taxi ride to us. At our location, you'll find our ticket & sailing gear store where our team can help with any questions ...

  7. Best Halifax Shore Excursions & Excursion Tours

    Celebrity Cruises Visa Signature® Card. Gift Cards. 75% Off 2nd Guest + Bonus Savings. Enjoy 75% off your second guest's cruise fare and get bonus savings of up to $200. Find a Cruise. GO. CLOSE. Halifax, Nova Scotia Shore Excursions. View Halifax Cruises.

  8. THE TOP 10 Halifax Shore Tours (w/Prices)

    Maximize time in Halifax with a half-day shore excursion by coach. Go sightseeing during the time your cruise ship is in the port and see local landmarks like Peggy's Cove and the Halifax Public Gardens. Learn about local culture, sites, and outdoor attractions during this tour. Round-trip transportation from the port is included....

  9. Nova Scotia Cruise Ship Shore Excursion in Halifax 2023

    Half-day Tours in Halifax: Check out 4 reviews and photos of Viator's Cruise Ship Shore Excursion. 🎁 🤑 Book an experience and start earning Viator Rewards. ... Cruise Ship Shore Excursion. 0. 4 hours. Free Cancellation. From. £112.30. Halifax Shore Excursion: Peggy's Cove with the best of Halifax. 13. 4 hours. Free Cancellation.

  10. Halifax Shore Excursion Reviews

    It will take you anywhere from 40 minutes to three hours to explore the museum, depending on your pace. (1055 Marginal Road; 902-425-7770; open seven days a week, May 1 to October 31 from 9:30 a.m ...

  11. Grand Pre

    Halifax Tour Guys/Halifax Cruise Ship Shore Tours Office Manager: 1-902-406-6314 General Manager: 1-902-802-4259 Operations Manager: 1-902-802-5466. Questions: If you have any questions before or after making your booking, please contact us - [email protected] or phone 1-902-406-6314

  12. Halifax Historic Tours

    cruise ship shore tours halifax, cruise ship tours Halifax, Halifax historic tour, halifax tour guys, tour of Peggy's Cove. November 19, 2016 February 8, 2017 Historic Halifax Peggy's Cove Tour. Sponsored Ads. Recent Posts. Tips for Making Family Travel Fun for Everyone;

  13. Harbour Hopper Tours

    Harbour Hopper Tour is Halifax's most popular tour - a fun, fast-paced adventure of the best of Halifax by land and sea! ... Shore Excursions; Blog; BOOK NOW; AMBASSADOR PROGRAM. JOIN OUR CREW. CONTACT /SUBSCRIBE. ... Tall Ship Sailing Cruise. Your visit to Halifax will simply not be complete without experiencing a scenic sailing cruise on ...

  14. ANCHOR TOURS

    Located in Halifax, Nova Scotia, Anchor Tours provides guided sight seeing tours and cruise ship excursions, by motor vehicle, to popular locations such as Halifax, Peggy's Cove, Lunenburg, Oak Island, Mahone Bay, Annapolis Valley, and The Bay of Fundy. For a more private and personal Nova Scotia experience, we specialize in tours that are smaller in size with low passenger counts.

  15. Top 10 Best Of Halifax Tour

    Plan A Cruise. Explore Top 10 Best Of Halifax Tour shore excursions with Royal Caribbean. Start planning your next vacation by finding the best things to do on your cruise.

  16. Halifax, Nova Scotia

    SHORE EXCURSIONS FORHalifax, Nova Scotia. Halifax, Nova Scotia. FIND SAILINGS. *Shore excursions are based on availability, and may not be available based on your cruise dates and itinerary. *Please see all applicable Terms & Conditions for Promotions here . Explore shore excursions in Halifax, Nova Scotia with Royal Caribbean.

  17. Best of Halifax Small Group Tour with Peggy's Cove and Citadel

    Halifax Churches, Gardens & Graveyards: a Smartphone Audio Walking Tour. 12. from $5.21. Special Offer. Halifax, Nova Scotia. Nova Scotia Day Tour - Visit Peggy's Cove, Lunenburg, and the Annapolis Valley. 250. from $155.16. $193.95 $38.79 savings.

  18. Venture Ashore

    Discover unparalleled cruise shore excursions, tours, and activities with Venture Ashore. ... Back-to-Ship Guarantee. Highest Quality Tours: The Essential Collection. ... Up to 7 days before tour 2022 Award Winning. Recognized for excellence in the cruise industry. Cruise Tours Without the Cruise Line Prices. Save up to 40% with the best ...

  19. Sapphire Princess

    Number of Decks: 18. Tonnage: 115,875. Length : 952 feet. Height: 205 feet. More Facts. Your vacation - effortless. Personalized. Make your vacation truly yours on a Princess MedallionClass® cruise that features next-level technology, now on all ships.

  20. Mike Bush

    Azamara. May 2018 - Apr 2020 2 years. Miami, Florida, United States. Combined insightful leadership, business development and sales best practices, and focused dedication to lead shore excursion ...

  21. Princess Cruises Announces The Love Boat Themed Cruise with Iconic

    Contact information for members of the media. Negin Kamali, +1 661-753-1539, [email protected]. Briana Latter, +1 661-753-1538, [email protected]. About Princess Cruises. Princess Cruises is The Love Boat, the world's most iconic cruise brand that delivers dream vacations to millions of guests every year in the most sought ...

  22. The 6 best Alaska cruise shore excursions

    But there's nothing like seeing the grandeur of Alaska from a helicopter or floatplane. The Juneau Icefield, in particular, is a sight to behold. It covers around 1,500 square miles. You can see ...

  23. Princess Cruises Adds Historic America Cruisetour Ahead of 250th

    FT. LAUDERDALE, Fla. (May 13, 2024) - Princess guests discovering the scenic east coast on a 2025 Canada & New England cruise sailing out of New York City can now immerse themselves in historic America as they tour the nation's capital, interact with early settlers at a living history museum, visit Independence Hall in Philadelphia, and stand on the same soil as Thomas Jefferson at his ...