Which Halifax Wine Tours To Choose? We Rank The 15 Best

Halifax isn’t just a gateway to the Atlantic coast; it’s also a surprisingly good spot for wine lovers. The region’s cool climate produces some distinctive wines, especially sparkling and aromatic whites, which are often overlooked elsewhere in Canada. What makes Halifax stand out is its variety—everything from luxurious private yacht sails to small group vineyard visits offers different ways to enjoy local wines with scenic views and local flavors. For example, the Wine and Lunch Escape combines a scenic drive through Annapolis Valley with guided tastings and a delicious lunch, making it perfect for those wanting a relaxed, informative experience. The Sunset Yacht Cruises offer a romantic, intimate way to toast the sunset with Nova Scotia wines while sailing the harbor.

Halifax’s wine tour options are diverse. You can choose a guided group tour, like the Afternoon Escape with its focus on three unique wineries, or opt for a private, customizable experience such as the Full-Day Private Nova Scotia Wine Tour. For those who want to combine wine with a special outing, the Wine and Lobster Experience pairs tastings with a lobster lunch. Whatever your style, Halifax’s wine tours are well worth exploring.

1. Wine and Lunch Escape

For around $118, the Wine and Lunch Escape hits the mark for its balanced mix of scenic sightseeing, wine education, and delicious food. This 6.5-hour tour takes you through the Annapolis Valley with stops at three different wine estates. You’ll get guided tastings and learn about winemaking in a cooler climate—something unique to Nova Scotia. The highlight is a lunch served at your second winery, with options for beer, wine, or cider, all with a view. The small group size ensures a more personal experience, and the reviews praise the mixture of outstanding wines and engaging stories from your guide, JD. This tour is ideal if you want a laid-back day with a little of everything—scenery, education, and good food.
Bottom line: Best suited for curious wine lovers who enjoy a relaxed pace and local cuisine, this tour offers excellent value and a taste of Nova Scotia’s wine character.

2. JFarwell Sunset Wine and Cheese Yacht Sailing

At number 2, the Sunset Yacht Sailing is a 2.5-hour cruise that combines the beauty of Halifax Harbour with a romantic sunset and great wine. Limited to just 10 people, it’s a very personalized experience. You’ll sample four different local wines paired with cheese while sailing past iconic sights like Dingle Tower and lush parks. The crew, including Captain Ryan, is praised for their friendly, knowledgeable demeanor, making the experience both relaxing and educational. This tour’s small size makes it perfect for couples or small groups seeking a special, intimate outing.
Bottom line: Best for those wanting a romantic, scenic experience with excellent wine and cheese, especially at sunset, and who value personal service.

3. JFarwell Sunset Wine & Cheese Aboard the Reverie

For a private, luxury experience, the Reverie Sunset Tour offers an exclusive 2-hour sail with a hosted tasting of four Nova Scotia wines. This vessel’s spacious deck is designed for maximum enjoyment of the Halifax skyline at sunset, with a curated wine and cheese pairing. The tour is ideal for celebrating special occasions, with the captain providing a tailored experience and insights into local wineries. It’s slightly more expensive but offers privacy and luxury, making it perfect for a romantic evening or a memorable celebration.
Bottom line: Perfect for couples or small groups seeking a luxurious, private sailing experience with expert guidance and stunning views.

4. Afternoon Escape Wine Tour

This Afternoon Escape is a 5-hour journey that takes you through three unique wineries in the Annapolis Valley, starting with the historic Grand Pre Wines. You’ll enjoy guided tastings and a curated cheese experience at Luckett Vineyards, where lunch is included if you visit between May and December. The tour is well-rated, with many praising the guide Colleen’s extensive knowledge and lively storytelling. It’s a great choice if you want a combination of history, scenery, and wine, with enough time to relax at each stop.
Bottom line: Best suited for those who appreciate educational tours with a focus on local history and wines, along with a delicious lunch.

5. JFarwell Private Yacht Wine & Cheese Sunset Sail

For a truly private experience, the Private Yacht Sunset Sail offers a 2.5-hour custom cruise with four wines and cheese. You’ll sail into the Northwest Arm, enjoying views of Halifax landmarks while sipping Nova Scotia wines, including local varieties such as sparkling, white, rosé, and red. This tour’s flexibility allows you to tailor your experience, making it perfect for romantic evenings or small celebrations. The personalized attention and stunning scenery make this a memorable way to enjoy Nova Scotia’s wine scene.
Bottom line: Ideal for couples or intimate groups seeking a bespoke, scenic sailing with wine and cheese.

6. Private Wine Tours from Halifax

If you prefer a fully customized day, the Private Wine Tours allow you to choose which wineries to visit in the Annapolis Valley. The price includes tastings at three wineries, and you can add extra stops if you like. The tour is perfect for those who want to craft their own experience, with a local guide who will handle logistics. The flexibility of this tour makes it attractive for groups with specific wine preferences or those wanting to include a picnic or other activities.
Bottom line: Best for travelers who want total control over their itinerary and enjoy a personalized, private experience.

7. Manicure, Pedicure and Wine Tasting Experience

This 3.5-hour Manicure, Pedicure & Wine combines relaxation with indulgence. It’s perfect for friends looking to connect in a fun, glamorous setting. Your group begins at the wine bar with a guided tasting, then moves into a treatment room for manicures or pedicures, all while enjoying wine and snacks. It’s a great way to spoil yourself and your friends, especially if you’re celebrating something special or just want a luxurious afternoon.
Bottom line: Best suited for those seeking a combination of pampering and wine in a social, lively environment.

8. Wolfville Wine Tours in Nova Scotia – 6 Hours

Perfect for a laid-back, immersive experience, the Wolfville Wine Tour offers guided tastings at three wineries with a private chauffeur. You’ll visit scenic vineyards and enjoy a relaxed day savoring Nova Scotia’s best local wines. The tour includes a guided tasting at each winery and the chance to explore vineyard trails, making it ideal for couples or friends wanting an upscale but unhurried outing.
Bottom line: A great choice for those who prefer a personalized, chauffeured visit focused on wine tasting and vineyard scenery.

9. Halifax: Sunset Wine and Cheese Sailboat Cruise

This 2.5-hour Sunset Sailboat Cruise combines the thrill of sailing with a wine and cheese tasting. You’ll learn about the local wine industry while helping hoist the sails, making it a hands-on experience. Watching the sun set behind George’s Island from the deck is a highlight, along with sampling Nova Scotia wines. It’s a lively, interactive outing perfect for adventurous wine enthusiasts.
Bottom line: Best for active travelers who want to combine sailing, learning, and tasting into one memorable experience.

10. Winter Wine Escape

For those visiting in colder months, the Winter Wine Escape offers a scenic drive through the snow-covered Annapolis Valley. Visiting three award-winning wineries, you’ll see vines covered in icicles and snow while sampling seasons’ best wines. The tour includes stops at Grand Pre Wines, Lightfoot & Wolfville, and Benjamin Bridge, with a focus on cool climate wines. It provides a peaceful, less crowded experience and a chance to enjoy Nova Scotia’s landscape in winter.
Bottom line: Ideal for winter visitors wanting to combine scenic winter views with tastings and local stories.

11. Nova Scotia Annapolis Valley Wine Tour Led by a Sommelier

This sommelier-led tour offers a 7-hour deep dive into local wines, traveling to three wineries including Gaspereau Vineyards and Benjamin Bridge. The guide explains wine styles and terroirs, making it perfect for those who want expert insight. The tour includes a food and wine pairing lunch, and the small group size ensures personalized attention. It’s a thorough experience for serious wine fans looking to expand their knowledge.
Bottom line: Suited for wine enthusiasts who want an educational, guided day with expert commentary.

12. Valley Wine Tour (You buy your own wine and meals)

This flexible Valley Wine Tour allows you to visit wineries at your own pace, focusing on your personal favorites. The guide takes you to places like Cape Blomidon and Planters Ridge, but you will purchase your own wine and meals. It’s ideal if you prefer independence and want to explore without a fixed itinerary, with total freedom over what wineries to visit and when.
Bottom line: Best for independent travelers who want control over their wine tasting schedule.

13. Wine Enthusiast Tour Led by a Sommelier

This Wine Enthusiast Tour offers a 7-hour experience led by a personable certified sommelier. Highlights include a wine pairing lunch at Fuego and visits to Benjamin Bridge and Planters Ridge. The guide’s background ensures detailed insights into wine styles and production. Reviews mention Robin’s engaging personality and the overall high quality of the experience. It’s perfect for those who want to combine tasting, education, and good food in a full-day outing.
Bottom line: Ideal for travelers wanting a comprehensive, guided, and educational wine experience.

14. Full-Day Private Nova Scotia Wine Tour from Halifax

This full-day private tour offers a personalized chauffeur-driven journey to two wineries, Lightfoot & Wolfville and Luckett Vineyards. The focus is on luxury, privacy, and flexibility. You select the wineries, and the guide arranges tastings and possibly meals. It’s perfect for special occasions or those who want a tailored experience without the hassle of planning.
Bottom line: Best for travelers seeking exclusivity and complete customization on a private basis.

15. Nova Scotia Wine and Lobster Experience

A unique combination, the Wine and Lobster Experience blends tasting with seafood. Starting with a visit to Hall’s Harbour, then touring two wineries near Wolfville, this tour wraps up with a fresh lobster lunch at Halls Harbor. It’s excellent for seafood lovers wanting a full taste of Nova Scotia’s culinary delights, with door-to-door service making the day stress-free.
Bottom line: Perfect for those combining wine appreciation with a seafood feast and scenic coastal views.

How to Choose the Right Halifax Wine Tour for You

When selecting your wine tour, consider your budget, time constraints, and interests. For a relaxed, all-in-one experience, the Wine and Lunch Escape offers great value. If a private, luxurious evening is your goal, the Reverie Sunset Sail provides exclusivity and stunning scenery. For those who love a guided, educational experience with detailed insights, the Sommelier-led Tour is hard to beat. Budget travelers might prefer the flexible Valley Wine Tour, where you buy your own wine and meals. Booking early, especially in peak months, ensures availability for these popular experiences.

Exploring Halifax’s wine scene offers a variety of options suited to different tastes and schedules. Whether you prefer a guided group experience, a private luxury sail, or a self-paced day of tastings, Halifax has a lot to offer. For serious wine lovers, the Wine Enthusiast Tour provides an in-depth look, while couples will love the intimate Sunset Yacht Cruise. No matter your style, booking early is recommended to secure the best spots and enjoy one of Canada’s most charming wine regions.