Islands Finest 5 passengers only!

An Intimate Tour of Prince Edward Island’s Best: Islands Finest for Small Groups

If you’re looking to make the most of a short visit to Charlottetown and want a personalized, flexible experience, the Islands Finest tour is worth considering. Designed for just up to 5 passengers, this private excursion provides an efficient way to see PEI’s most iconic landscapes and historic sites in approximately five hours. With a cost of $541.79 per group, you’re paying for a tailored experience that emphasizes comfort, local insight, and authentic scenery.

What we really love about this tour is the deluxe vehicle, boasting captain’s chairs in the second row and easy-access third-row seats—perfect for those who want a relaxed and comfortable ride while taking in the sights. Plus, the local guide’s expertise shines through, bringing history and culture to life with engaging commentary. The flexibility to add an optional lunch makes it adaptable for those wanting to extend their outing or enjoy a local meal along the way.

One potential consideration is the five-passenger limit—this tour is ideal for small groups or families who prefer a more intimate experience over large bus tours. It may not be suitable if you’re traveling solo or in a large group, but for those seeking personalized attention, it’s a big plus. This tour is best suited for travelers who value comfort, local insights, and flexibility, especially if you’d like to focus on nature, history, and picture-perfect spots without feeling rushed.

Key Points

• Small-group intimacy: Designed for up to 5 passengers, offering a more personal experience.
• Comfortable transportation: Luxurious vehicle with captain’s chairs and accessible third-row seats.
• Comprehensive itinerary: Visits to PEI’s top beaches, villages, historic sites, and viewpoints.
• Expert guidance: Guides that are nationally certified and highly reviewed for their local knowledge.
• Flexibility: Options to add a leisurely lunch, perfect for a relaxed, unhurried day.
• All-inclusive admissions: Several stops include tickets, so you won’t need to worry about extra costs.

A Deeper Look Into the Tour Experience

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

For travelers eager to sample PEI’s scenery and history without the hassle of self-driving or joining large groups, this private tour offers a rare blend of comfort, control, and insider knowledge. The deluxe vehicle ensures a smooth, comfortable ride, which is especially welcome given the many scenic stops on the itinerary. The small group size means you’ll get plenty of attention from your guide, making the experience more conversational and tailored to your interests.

The Itinerary in Detail

Charlottetown City Hall and Historic Core

The tour begins with a quick drive through Charlottetown, often called the birthplace of Canada. You’ll stop to explore George Street, a hub of charming shops and cafes, and visit Saint Dunstan’s Basilica, a stunning example of Gothic Revival architecture. The 15-minute stop here is a perfect introduction to PEI’s capital, giving you a taste of local history and architecture.

New Glasgow and the PEI Preserve Company

Next, your guide takes you on a scenic drive through PEI’s gentle countryside to New Glasgow, a quaint fishing village. The highlight here is the PEI Preserve Company, located on the Clyde River, renowned for locally made preserves and other artisanal foods. A 25-minute stop gives you time to browse, sample, and perhaps pick up some souvenirs—free admission means no extra cost, and you get a genuine sense of local craftsmanship.

Glasgow Hills Resort and Photo Stops

With magnificent views from the Glasgow Hills Resort and Golf Club, this makes for a perfect photo stop. You’ll get sweeping vistas of the Atlantic Ocean, offering a chance to snap some memorable pictures. The 10-minute stop is brief but well worth the effort, especially if you’re a landscape photography enthusiast.

Cavendish Beach and Red Cliffs

A trip to PEI wouldn’t be complete without a visit to Cavendish Beach. Here, you’ll walk along white sandy beaches, admire the iconic red cliffs, and see the sand dunes that make PEI’s coastline so distinctive. With 25 minutes allocated, you’ll have enough time for a quick stroll, and the admission is included—meaning no extra expense or hassle.

Green Gables and Lucy Maud Montgomery

For literature fans and potential photographers, a 15-minute stop at Green Gables lets you capture the idyllic setting made famous by Lucy Maud Montgomery’s “Anne of Green Gables”. It’s a site that’s become a symbol of PEI, and the free admission adds to its appeal. Expect plenty of photo opportunities of the iconic house and surrounding gardens.

Prince Edward Island National Park

Next, the tour takes a coastal drive through PEI’s National Park, with stops that highlight red cliffs and the ecology of the area. The 20-minute stop is an excellent chance to learn about the landscape’s geological features and local plant life, guided by your knowledgeable guide.

North Rustico and Rusticoville

The famous fishing village of North Rustico is a highlight. Founded in 1897, it’s a charming place to see lighthouses, the fishing fleet, and learn about the lobster fishing industry—which remains vital today. The 25-minute stop is a favorite for authentic local flavor. Nearby, Rusticoville offers a peek into French Acadian heritage, with historic sites like the oldest Catholic church (1838) and Canada’s first credit union. These stops provide a deep sense of the island’s diverse cultural roots.

Oyster Bed and Return to Charlottetown

On the drive back to Charlottetown, passing through Oyster Bed Bridge allows you to observe traditional oyster harvesting if you’re lucky. It’s a relaxed way to conclude the day, with 30 minutes to soak in the scenery and reflect on your trip.

Authentic Experiences and Useful Insights

Guide Expertise: The guide’s certification and excellent reviews suggest a well-informed, friendly personality capable of making the sights come alive. You’ll learn not just the names but the stories behind each location, making your visit more meaningful.

Photo Opportunities: From red cliffs and beach dunes to historic villages, every stop offers photo-worthy moments. Budgeting some extra time for photos might be wise, especially at Cavendish Beach and Glasgow Hills.

Comfort and Convenience: The luxuriant vehicle is a big draw, especially for travelers who might find traditional bus tours cramped or noisy. The pick-up service adds extra flexibility, making it easier to plan your day.

Cost and Value: At $541.79 for the whole group, this tour offers all-inclusive entries and a private experience, which may seem steep but is balanced by the personalized attention and comfort. It’s especially good for those who prefer customized itineraries over large group tours.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This private, small-group tour is ideal if you want a relaxed, personalized experience that covers PEI’s key sights without the crowds. It’s perfect for families, couples, or small groups who appreciate comfortable transportation and expert guidance. If you’re a photography enthusiast, you’ll love the scenic stops, and if you’re interested in local culture and history, the stops at Rusticoville and North Rustico will satisfy.

However, keep in mind that the limited group size means less flexibility in the itinerary, so if you prefer a more spontaneous or extensive exploration, other larger tours might suit you better. Still, for those seeking a curated, intimate experience, this tour hits many of the right notes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for solo travelers?
It’s designed for groups of up to five, so solo travelers might not find the private aspect as beneficial unless they’re comfortable sharing the experience with the guide.

Does the tour include transportation?
Yes, you’ll travel in a deluxe 5-passenger vehicle with comfortable seats throughout the day.

Are meals included?
No, but there is an option to add a lunch package if you wish to extend your day and enjoy a meal during the tour.

What kind of sights will we see?
Expect beaches, historic villages, lighthouses, coastal cliffs, and scenic countryside, all with a focus on authentic PEI scenery and culture.

How long is the tour?
The scheduled duration is around 5 hours, but this can vary slightly depending on stops and your pace.

Are admission fees included?
Yes, several stops, including Charlottetown City Hall, Cavendish Beach, and others, include admission, so there are no surprises on the day.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, with a full refund if you cancel at least 24 hours in advance.

Is this tour accessible for people with mobility issues?
The vehicle’s easy-access design suggests it’s fairly accessible, but you should confirm specific needs before booking.

Will I have time for photos?
Absolutely. Many stops like Glasgow Hills and Green Gables are perfect for capturing memorable images.

What is the price per person?
Since the price is per group, it averages out to roughly $108 per person for a five-person group, offering good value for personalized service.

Final Thoughts

Overall, Islands Finest offers a thoughtful, comfortable way to experience the highlights of Prince Edward Island in just a few hours. The small group size and expert guides make for an engaging, memorable outing, especially for those who value authenticity and comfort. The itinerary balances nature, history, and culture, giving you a well-rounded glimpse of PEI’s charm.

This tour suits small groups or families who want to avoid the hustle of larger tours but still see the essential sights. If you’re seeking a personalized adventure with plenty of scenic stops and insightful commentary, this private tour will serve you well. Just be prepared for a full day of travel, with a focus on relaxed sightseeing and capturing the island’s best views.

Additional Information

Meeting points are flexible, with pickup available, and the tour operates from April to October. Confirmations are usually quick, and the free cancellation policy offers peace of mind if your plans change. Remember, this is a private tour, so your experience is tailored solely for your group—no noisy crowds, no hurried schedules, just a carefully curated discovery of PEI’s treasures.