South Eastern PEI and Lighthouses Private Tour

Exploring SE PEI and Its Iconic Lighthouses: A Personal Adventure

If you’re looking for a way to see the quieter, more authentic side of Prince Edward Island, the South Eastern PEI and Lighthouses Private Tour is a fantastic option. For around $695 per group (up to five people), you get about seven hours of personalized exploration through some of the island’s most picturesque and meaningful sites. Led by a multi-generation Islander, this tour offers a chance to leave the crowds behind and really connect with local life, history, and scenic beauty.

What really sets this tour apart are two highlights: the chance to visit four unique lighthouses with their own stories and the opportunity to explore charming spots like Hannah’s Bottle Village and a local winery. We also loved the relaxed pace, allowing us to soak in the views and listen to local tales without feeling rushed. A small but notable consideration is that the stops involve some steep stairs at the lighthouses, which might not suit all travelers.

This tour is perfect for anyone who appreciates authentic local culture, scenic drives through farm and fishing communities, and the beauty of historic lighthouse architecture. It offers a chance for families or small groups to enjoy a private, tailored experience that’s both educational and relaxing.

Key Points

• Authentic Experience: Focuses on local stories and quiet, less touristy spots.
• Multiple Lighthouse Visits: Four distinct towers, each with its own history.
• Flexible & Private: Customizable stops and private transportation tailored to your group.
• Scenic & Cultural Highlights: Charming villages, winery tasting, and historic sites.
• Limited Crowds: Away from large tour buses, offering a more personal feel.
• Good Value: Includes entry fees for all lighthouses you choose to explore, with optional climbs and tastings.

A Detailed Look at the South Eastern PEI and Lighthouses Tour

Starting Point and Overall Structure

The tour begins in Charlottetown at 6 Prince Street, and from there, it’s a leisurely drive through the island’s southeastern regions. What immediately strikes us is the focus on local life and hidden gems rather than tourist-heavy spots. The tour is designed for small groups or private parties, which means your guide, possibly a local with family roots on the island, can give you personalized stories and insights.

The entire adventure lasts roughly seven hours, which includes a mix of sightseeing, walking, and some optional activities like climbing lighthouses or doing tastings. The air-conditioned vehicle ensures a comfortable ride through scenic countryside, farms, and fishing ports, giving you the chance to relax and take in the landscape.

Stop 1: St. Johns Presbyterian Church in Belfast

Our journey kicks off at PEI’s oldest church, a quiet but historically significant building. We loved the way the guide shared stories about its past, giving us a sense of the community’s roots. If open, a quick peek inside reveals simple, centuries-old architecture. The visit is brief—about 20 minutes—but sets a reflective tone for the day.

Stop 2: Hannah’s Bottle Village

Next, we visit Hannah’s Bottle Village, a whimsical collection of handmade bottle houses. It’s fun to see the creativity and craftsmanship—each tiny house tells a story. Best of all, the visit is free, with a small donation request supporting the IWK Children’s Hospital. It’s a quirky, colorful spot that adds a dash of charm and humor to the tour.

Stop 3: Point Prim Lighthouse

A highlight for many is the Point Prim Lighthouse, the oldest lighthouse on PEI. We appreciated the chance to explore the grounds and, if we wished, climb the tower for panoramic views of the coastline. The lighthouse’s history as the island’s first navigational aid adds depth to the experience. The visit lasts about 30 minutes, and the gift shop is a nice touch for souvenirs.

Stop 4: Wood Islands Lighthouse

Another lighthouse with a stunning setting is Wood Islands Lighthouse, situated next to the ferry terminal to Nova Scotia. Here, you get a chance to explore its interactive rooms—great for families or those interested in maritime history. The views across the water are striking, and you can catch a glimpse of the ferry in action. This stop also lasts about 30 minutes, giving enough time to soak it all in.

Stop 5: Rossignol Estate Winery

For wine lovers, a stop at Rossignol Estate Winery is a treat. While optional, you might enjoy a tasting tour of local wines—an authentic taste of PEI’s burgeoning wine scene. The winery’s relaxed atmosphere and scenic vineyard setting make it a perfect mid-morning break, especially if you’re interested in local produce. The visit lasts about 25 minutes, and you’re free to purchase bottles or art if you like.

Stop 6: Cape Bear Lighthouse & Marconi Station

Next, we learn about Cape Bear Lighthouse and the historic Marconi Station, with stories linking them to the Titanic’s history. The lighthouse itself is picturesque, and the Marconi Station’s story adds a layer of technological and maritime intrigue. The stop features a combination of history and scenic views, lasting about 30 minutes.

Lunch Break at Murray Harbour

You then have the option to enjoy lunch at the Harbourview Restaurant in Murray Harbour or elsewhere. This hour-long stop allows for a relaxed meal, with your own expense. It’s a good time to reflect on the morning’s sights and soak up the small-town charm of this fishing community.

Stop 7: Panmure Island Lighthouse

The final lighthouse visit is at Panmure Island, one of the island’s oldest. Climbing the lighthouse offers a rewarding view of the coastline and nearby islands. Here, you’ll also learn about the history of Panmure Island itself. The stop lasts around 40 minutes, giving you plenty of time to explore and take photos.

Return Journey

As the tour winds down, you’ll pass through Montague, dubbed “Montague the Beautiful” by locals, and head back towards Charlottetown. The drive through the countryside offers a peaceful end to a day filled with local stories, scenic views, and lighthouse history.

What Travelers Can Expect

This tour offers a blend of scenic drives, cultural insights, and historical sites. The private setting ensures a relaxed pace, with plenty of opportunities for photos and questions. The stops at each lighthouse are flexible—you can choose to climb or simply enjoy the grounds. The tour’s focus on authentic local sites like Hannah’s Bottle Village and the winery adds a personal touch, making it more than just a sightseeing trip.

The small group or private format is ideal for travelers who prefer a more intimate experience. The inclusion of entry fees for the lighthouses means no hidden costs, and the optional nature of some stops gives you flexibility to customize your day.

Practical Considerations

While the tour offers excellent value for the personalized experience, it’s important to note that some stops involve steep stairs—not suitable for everyone. The price includes all lighthouse entries if you decide to go up, but climbing is optional. You might want to pace yourself if you have mobility concerns.

The tour runs from late spring to late fall (May through October), aligning with PEI’s best weather. Since the tour depends on good weather, rain or storms could lead to rescheduling or cancellations, with a full refund offered if that happens.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This private tour appeals most to travelers seeking a calm, authentic peek into PEI’s coastal communities. It suits those interested in lighthouses, local stories, and scenic drives, especially if you prefer a more intimate experience over crowded bus tours. Families, small groups of friends, or couples who want a flexible, personalized day on the island will find this especially worthwhile.

Final Thoughts

The South Eastern PEI and Lighthouses Private Tour offers a well-rounded, engaging way to experience some of PEI’s most charming and meaningful sites. It balances scenic beauty with local storytelling, making it ideal for those who value authentic encounters and quieter moments away from the crowds. The inclusion of four distinct lighthouses, each with its own story, makes this a memorable highlight of any PEI visit.

While the price might seem high at first glance, the private format, all-inclusive lighthouse entries, and personalized approach make this a good value for the quality and depth of experience. If you’re craving a peaceful, scenic, and culturally enriching day with a touch of lighthouse magic, this tour is a wonderful choice.

FAQ

How long is the tour? The tour lasts approximately 7 hours, including all stops, sightseeing, and lunch.

What’s included in the price? The fee covers private transportation, bottled water, and entrance fees to all the lighthouses you choose to explore, with optional climbs.

Can I climb all four lighthouses? Yes, you can choose to climb any or all of the four lighthouses; the visit times are flexible, but note that some involve steep stairs.

Is lunch included? No, lunch is not included. The tour provides a stop at Murray Harbour where you can purchase food, or you can bring your own.

Are children or mobility-impaired travelers accommodated? Most travelers can participate, but those with mobility issues should be aware of steep stairs at the lighthouses.

What happens if the weather is poor? The tour requires good weather; in case of cancellation, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

This private tour is an excellent way to truly connect with PEI’s coastal charm, history, and community spirit—perfect for those wanting a personal, authentic experience away from the crowds.