From Saint John: Saint Andrews Whale Watching Tour

If you’re heading to the Nova Scotia coast and want to see whales in their natural habitat, this whale-watching tour from Saint John offers a satisfying blend of adventure, wildlife viewing, and scenic beauty. For $550 per person, you get 7.5 hours of cruising through the famous Bay of Fundy, with options for a comfortable tall ship or a high-speed Zodiac ride. It’s a tour that’s ideal for those who love wildlife encounters, scenic coastal views, and a touch of maritime history.

What we particularly like are the close-up views possible on the Zodiac, providing a thrill for adventurers, and the family-friendly atmosphere aboard the tall ship, complete with a licensed bar and lively crew. On the flip side, if you’re prone to seasickness or traveling with very young children, you might want to consider how the boat type and sea conditions could impact your experience. This tour suits wildlife enthusiasts, families, and anyone seeking a memorable day on the water, surrounded by some of the most iconic coastal scenery in Canada.

Key Points

• Two Exciting Options: Choose between a tall ship for a relaxed, scenic experience, or a Zodiac for speed and up-close wildlife encounters.
• Wildlife Abundance: Expect to see whales, porpoises, seals, and seabirds in their natural environment.
• Breathtaking Scenery: Pass by lighthouses, islands, and pristine shoreline as you cruise through the Bay of Fundy.
• Comfort & Convenience: Heated cabins, washrooms, and galley facilities are available onboard, with refreshments provided on most tours.
• Ideal For: Families, wildlife lovers, and adventure seekers. Not suitable for children under five or those with mobility or seasickness issues.
• Flexible Booking: Reserve now, pay later, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Saint Andrews Whale Watching Tour

The Experience at a Glance

Starting from Saint John, this tour takes you into the Bay of Fundy—famous for having some of the world’s highest tides and abundant marine life. You’ll be greeted outside the terminal by a friendly representative, just a few steps from the gangway, making it easy to find your boat and get started. The tour lasts about 7.5 hours, usually scheduled in the morning, giving you plenty of time to enjoy the scenery and wildlife.

The choice of vessel is a big decision. The tall ship holds up to 45 passengers and offers a relaxed, family-friendly vibe with a licensed bar. This option emphasizes wildlife and landscape viewing and has a lively, convivial atmosphere. The Zodiac boat, on the other hand, is for thrill-seekers, accommodating up to 12 passengers for a fast-paced, high-adrenaline ride. Both provide unique perspectives—on the tall ship, you can take in the tranquil beauty and perhaps even snap a few photos of the coastline, while the Zodiac gets you closer to the action, with exciting, up-close encounters.

What to Expect on the Tour

Once aboard, you’ll cruise through scenic waters, passing iconic lighthouses, sunbathing seals, and bird-rich islands. The guides are well-versed and passionate about the local environment, ensuring you don’t just see but also learn about the wildlife, ecology, and maritime history of the Bay of Fundy. One reviewer described their guide as “great,” which hints at the value of knowledgeable narration.

Keep in mind that the water temperature tends to stay cool, even in summer. Layering your clothing is advisable—think hats, gloves, and rain jackets. The onboard amenities include a heated cabin, a galley, and washroom facilities, so comfort isn’t sacrificed even if the weather turns brisk.

Wildlife sightings are a big highlight. Expect to see porpoises, which are often playful and curious, and whales, which might include humpbacks or other species passing through the bay. Seals often sunbathe on rocks or float around the boats, adding to the lively maritime scene. The tour often includes complimentary chocolate and cookies in the morning and afternoon, with homemade soup in the evening—adding a touch of hospitality that makes the day even more enjoyable.

The Scenic and Wildlife Highlights

The Bay of Fundy’s dramatic coastline provides a stunning backdrop. Iconic lighthouses stand sentinel along the shores, and small islands dotted across the bay are often home to seabirds and seals. With binoculars in hand, you’ll get a detailed view of wildlife and landscape features that can be truly mesmerizing.

The close-up views on the Zodiac are particularly memorable. You’ll feel the spray of water and the energy of the bay while getting nearer to whales and porpoises than you could on a larger vessel. The tall ship experience is more laid-back but still packed with opportunities to see marine life, especially if weather conditions are good.

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Authenticity and Value

Many travelers, including one who left a glowing review, appreciated the knowledgeable guides and the stunning views. The reviewer noted, “Great guide and wonderful tour,” which underscores the importance of experienced narration and personable staff. The price of $550 might seem steep, but considering the length of the tour, the inclusions like refreshments, and the unique wildlife encounters, it offers good value for an immersive, memorable experience.

Practical Considerations

Seasickness can be an issue for some, so if you’re prone or uneasy on boats, choosing the tall ship over the Zodiac might be wise due to its more stable platform. Children under five are not recommended, and those with back problems might find the boat rides less comfortable. Be sure to bring essentials—cameras, binoculars, sunscreen, snacks, cash for tips, and closed-toe shoes for safety.

Booking is flexible, with the option to reserve and pay later and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance. Group discounts are available for groups of eight or more, making it a good option for family or friends.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This whale-watching trip is perfect for travelers who crave up-close wildlife encounters and stunning coastal scenery. Families with children over five will enjoy the more relaxed tall ship experience, especially if they like a lively atmosphere with refreshments and storytelling. Adventure lovers will find the Zodiac’s speed exhilarating and the wildlife viewing unforgettable.

If you’re a nature enthusiast or a photography buff, the chance to capture whales, seals, and lighthouse-studded coastlines in one trip makes this experience worthwhile. However, if you’re sensitive to seasickness or prefer a more leisurely, less bumpy ride, the tall ship might be the better choice.

Final Thoughts

Taking a whale-watching tour from Saint John into the Bay of Fundy combines the thrill of marine wildlife with breathtaking scenery. The choice between a tall ship and Zodiac boat allows you to tailor the experience to your comfort level and adventure appetite. Guided by knowledgeable crew and set against the spectacular backdrop of Nova Scotia’s rugged coastline, this tour offers plenty of memorable moments.

While the price might seem high, the value lies in the opportunity to see whales and seals in their natural habitat, learn from experienced guides, and enjoy the stunning maritime scenery. It’s a perfect outing for families, wildlife lovers, or anyone eager to add a splash of adventure to their trip.

If you want a combination of scenic beauty, wildlife, and maritime history all in one day, this tour delivers in spades. Just remember to dress warmly, bring your camera, and get ready for a day of awe-inspiring natural wonders.

FAQ

What is the cost of the tour?
The tour costs $550 per person.

How long does the tour last?
It lasts approximately 7.5 hours, usually scheduled in the morning.

Can I choose between a tall ship and a Zodiac?
Yes, you have the option to select either a tall ship or Zodiac boat when booking.

What wildlife can I expect to see?
Expect to see whales, porpoises, seals, and seabirds along the route.

Is there food and drink onboard?
Yes, refreshments are provided, including complimentary chocolate and cookies in the morning and afternoon tours, and homemade soup for evening trips.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Children under 5 years are not recommended, and those prone to seasickness may want to consider the boat type.

What should I bring?
Bring layered clothing, camera, binoculars, sunscreen, snacks, and cash.

Are there group discounts?
Yes, 10% off for groups of 8 or more when booked together.

What facilities are available on the boat?
Heated cabins, a galley, washroom, and salon are available for comfort.

What if I need to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

This Saint John whale-watching tour offers an engaging, scenic, and wildlife-rich adventure. Whether you prefer the laid-back charm of a tall ship or the adrenaline rush of a Zodiac, you’ll leave with stories to tell and memories to cherish.

You can check availability for your dates here: