Saint John offers a fantastic place to explore for cruise travelers eager to experience New Brunswick’s natural beauty and historic charm. Its proximity to the Bay of Fundy alone makes it a prime spot for memorable excursions. Whether you’re drawn to the dramatic tides at Hopewell Rocks, interested in strolling through Canada’s oldest city, or longing to visit the quaint seaside town of St. Andrews, Saint John provides varied experiences. We particularly like the Bay of Fundy highlights tour for its iconic scenery and straightforward logistics — it hits many highlights in just a half day with an informative guide. Plus, the Hopewell Rocks tour offers a chance to stand on the ocean floor at low tide, a truly unique photo op. For a quick taste of history, the Saint John walking tour offers a close look at the city’s roots and lively streets.
Let’s explore the four best shore excursions in Saint John, helping you choose the right adventure for your interests and schedule.
1. New Brunswick Shore Excursion: Bay of Fundy and More Highlights Tour
This half-day tour is ideal for travelers who want to make the most of their limited time ashore. You meet your guide at the Saint John cruise pier and set out to explore the region’s most famous natural wonders. The tour focuses on the Bay of Fundy’s incredible high tides and iconic rock formations, including the famous reversing falls, where the tide’s power reverses the flow of Saint John River. You’ll also visit a charming fishing village known for its artistic vibe—a perfect spot for photos and soaking in local scenery.
What makes this tour stand out is its seamless logistics—all the planning and driving are handled, so you can relax and enjoy the ride. You’ll also have time to sample local seafood chowder and other refreshments on your own, adding a tasty touch to the day. The guide shares insights into the region’s geology and coastal history, making it both educational and fun.
This tour has a 4.0-star rating from 31 reviews, with travelers appreciating the ease of the experience and the chance to see high tides and sea caves. Some noted that the day felt a bit short and that there’s limited time for additional activities ashore. Overall, it offers good value for those who want a quick but rundown of the region’s natural highlights.
Bottom Line: Perfect for cruise passengers wanting a guided overview of Fundy’s most famous sights with local flavor and simple logistics.
2. Shore Excursion: Saint John History Walking Tour
This 2-hour walking tour provides a deep dive into Saint John’s past, led by a knowledgeable local guide. It’s a terrific choice if you prefer to explore on foot and want to see historic markets, cemeteries, and green spaces. You’ll begin right at the cruise port and wind through the city streets, learning about its Loyalist heritage and the story behind Canada’s oldest incorporated city.
One highlight is experiencing the power of the Bay of Fundy tides firsthand, as you walk through areas where the water levels change dramatically. This tour is especially suited for those who enjoy small-group settings—limited to just 15 travelers—meaning more personal attention and a lively atmosphere. It’s suitable for all ages as long as you’re comfortable walking.
While it doesn’t include major attractions like museums or parks, this tour gives a good sense of the city’s urban history and local character. Though reviews are currently unavailable, the intimate nature and focus on authentic stories make it a worthwhile option for history lovers and first-time visitors alike.
Bottom Line: An engaging way to see Saint John’s streets and learn its stories in a short, manageable outing.
$67.69 per person
3. Shore Excursion to Hopewell Rocks and Fundy National Park
At number 3 on our list, this full-day tour offers a comprehensive taste of New Brunswick’s stunning coastal landscapes. For about $727.66 per group, you get a guided visit to Hopewell Rocks, where you can walk on the ocean floor during low tide and marvel at the towering sea-sculpted formations. The tour includes admission tickets to the Fundy Biosphere Reserve, where you’ll enjoy a panoramic lookout and an easy trail through bog landscapes and Acadian forests.
The highlight is definitely Hopewell Rocks, known for their dramatic cliffs and the thrill of walking where the ocean has carved the earth. Afterward, you visit Fundy National Park, with its peaceful walks through bogs and forests, offering a contrast to the rugged coastline. The small village of Alma provides a charming spot to browse local crafts and enjoy fresh seafood—an authentic taste of coastal life.
This tour is best suited for nature enthusiasts willing to spend several hours on the road and who want to experience both the iconic Hopewell Rocks and Fundy National Park in one trip. Since it’s fully guided with included admission fees, it offers good value for a full day of exploration. Guests who have taken this tour appreciate the rich scenery and the ability to see several highlights in one go.
Bottom Line: A full-day adventure ideal for travelers with a passion for natural scenery and wildlife, offering a well-rounded coastal experience.
$727.66 per group (up to 3)
4. St. Andrews by the Sea Shore Excursion from Port of Saint John
Number 4 on our list, this 5 to 6-hour tour takes you to the historic town of St. Andrews, famous for its Loyalist roots and scenic harbor views. You’ll visit the St. Andrews Blockhouse, a rare example of early military architecture, and walk along the Bar Road, a tide-dependent causeway that allows you to cross to Minister’s Island at low tide—an experience unlike any other.
The tour includes free time to explore local shops and galleries, giving you a chance to pick up souvenirs or simply enjoy the seaside atmosphere. You’ll also learn about the settlement history of St. Croix Island, where early French explorers arrived in 1604, adding a touch of historical perspective. Optional visits to the Kingsbrae Garden can be added if you wish to indulge in some floral beauty.
The tour offers a nice mix of history, local charm, and natural beauty. While it doesn’t include entrance fees to attractions, the scenic coastal views and historical sites provide plenty of photo opportunities. Since it is a small-group tour, it offers a more personal experience, with a chance to ask questions and enjoy a relaxed pace.
Guests have noted the beautiful scenery and the unique tide-dependent walk across Minister’s Island. It’s best suited for those interested in history and coastal scenery who enjoy gentle walks and exploring seaside towns.
Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers who want a leisurely taste of Maritime Canada’s history and coast, with flexibility and personal touches.
$502.72 per group (up to 3)
How to Choose Your Perfect Saint John Shore Excursion
When selecting your ideal outing in Saint John, consider your budget, interests, and how much time you want to spend ashore. The Bay of Fundy Highlights Tour offers a quick, guided overview perfect for travelers short on time. If you love walking and want to explore the city’s stories on foot, the Saint John walking tour provides an intimate, educational experience, especially suited for history buffs. For those eager to see the iconic tides and coastal beauty, the Hopewell Rocks and Fundy National Park tour delivers a full-day immersion into nature’s most dramatic displays. If you prefer a mix of historic sites and seaside charm, the St. Andrews tour balances history, scenery, and relaxed exploration.
Booking early is advised, especially for popular tours like the Hopewell Rocks, and always check the weather—some tours involve walking along coastlines or over uneven terrain. Think about your physical activity level, as some excursions involve walking or standing for extended periods.
Final Thoughts
Saint John offers a variety of excursions tailored to different interests—from natural wonders to historic streets. For a quick, scenic overview, the Bay of Fundy Highlights Tour is hard to beat. If you want to dig into local history, the Saint John walking tour is a friendly, insightful choice. Nature lovers will appreciate the Hopewell Rocks and Fundy National Park tour for its impressive landscapes, while those looking for a charming seaside escape should consider St. Andrews by the Sea.
No matter which tour you pick, booking early and planning your time ashore wisely will help you make the most of your visit. These excursions show that Saint John isn’t just a port—it’s a gateway to some of Canada’s most distinctive scenery and stories.