Davids North Shore Tour - What You Get and What You Pay For

Davids North Shore Tour

Discover PEI’s North Shore with a Personal Touch

Davids North Shore Tour - Discover PEI’s North Shore with a Personal Touch

The Davids North Shore Tour offers a relaxed, personalized way to see some of the most iconic sights of Prince Edward Island’s rugged and scenic northern coast. For $110, you’ll spend about 5 hours soaking in the sights in a private, air-conditioned vehicle with your own guide, which means no crowded buses or rushed schedules. Starting from Port Charlottetown, this tour is perfect if you want to explore at your own pace, enjoy insider insights, and skip the typical group tour chaos.

What we particularly appreciate is the carefully curated stops, each offering a glimpse into the island’s diverse charm—be it the historic lighthouse, the enchanting setting of Anne of Green Gables, or the lively fishing village at Savage Harbour. Plus, the private nature of the tour means your questions are welcomed and answered in detail, making the experience more meaningful.

A possible consideration is the limited duration, which means you’ll want to prioritize seeing the highlights rather than expecting a deep dive into every nook of the North Shore. Also, since fees for some attractions aren’t included, budget for a few extra dollars if you plan to visit certain sites or buy souvenirs.

This tour suits travelers who value comfort, flexibility, and local insights—especially those who prefer to avoid big group outings and want a more intimate, customized experience. If PEI’s scenic coastline, literary history, and fishing villages sound appealing, you’ll find this a worthwhile way to spend a half-day.

Key Points

  • Personalized Experience: Private tour for your group means tailored attention and flexibility.
  • Iconic Spots: Visit Green Gables, Covehead Lighthouse, and Savage Harbour, each offering distinct island flavors.
  • Convenient & Comfortable: Air-conditioned vehicle, WiFi onboard, and bottled water keep you comfortable.
  • Insightful Guides: Your guide handles logistics and provides stories and context about each site.
  • Cost & Value: For $110, this tour offers a relaxed half-day exploring PEI’s North Shore, but some attraction fees are extra.
  • Limited Time: The 5-hour schedule requires efficient stops and may not cover every detail.

A Deep Dive into the Tour Experience

Davids North Shore Tour - A Deep Dive into the Tour Experience

The Davids North Shore Tour opens in Port Charlottetown at 9:00 am, where your guide will greet you at Weymouth Street. From the start, you’re set for a comfortable journey, with an air-conditioned vehicle, WiFi, and bottled water, ensuring you’re relaxed and connected throughout.

Exploring the PEI National Park

Your first stop is a visit to the PEI National Park, established in 1947 to preserve the North Shore’s natural beauty before development. Here, you’ll get a sense of the island’s untouched landscape—a perfect introduction to PEI’s scenic character. While not a lengthy stop, it offers a chance to stretch your legs and take in views that have remained relatively unchanged for decades.

Covehead Harbour Lighthouse

Next, you’ll visit the Covehead Harbour Lighthouse, a heritage lighthouse valued for its historical and community significance. The lighthouse, built in the late 19th century, symbolizes PEI’s maritime heritage. Though admission isn’t included, the 15-minute stop allows plenty of time for photos and questions. Travelers often mention its beautiful setting, with some noting it’s a “very good example” of PEI’s lighthouse architecture and history.

The Dunes Studio Gallery & Cafe

A favorite for many, The Dunes Studio Gallery & Cafe is more than just a pretty spot. Featured in East Coast Gardener Magazine, it combines art, nature, and good food. The gallery showcases local artists, and the cafe offers a chance to relax amid creative surroundings. With about 20 minutes here, you might find it’s a nice break and a chance to pick up a unique souvenir. Best of all, it’s admission-free, adding value for those interested in local arts.

Green Gables: The Literary and Scenic Icon

Of course, no PEI trip is complete without a visit to Green Gables, the setting that inspired Lucy Maud Montgomery’s beloved novel Anne of Green Gables. Spending around 45 minutes here, you can explore the house, gardens, and the surrounding countryside. While admission fees aren’t included, this stop is a highlight for fans of the book and those curious about the island’s literary connection.

Travelers often remark on the magical atmosphere of Green Gables, and many appreciate the photo opportunities and the chance to walk the same grounds that inspired generations of readers. The guide can share stories about the book’s history and the significance of the site, making your visit both scenic and educational.

Savage Harbour: Authentic Island Life

The final stop is at Savage Harbour, a real fishing village where you’ll see mussel and oyster farming, lobster traps, and eel traps in action. Here, the focus is on authentic PEI—no costumes or staged scenes, just hardworking locals and their routines. You’ll get a short walk on the beach and a look at the harbor’s lively activity.

This part of the tour offers a rare glimpse into the island’s working-class roots and the seafood industry that sustains it. Many reviews mention how refreshing it is to see the true island life, unpretentious and vibrant. It’s an hour well spent, giving you both scenic views and a deeper appreciation for PEI’s fishing community.

What You Get and What You Pay For

Davids North Shore Tour - What You Get and What You Pay For

The $110 price covers the private transportation, guide service, bottled water, and WiFi. It’s a good value considering the personalized experience and the flexibility you gain. However, keep in mind that admission fees for sites like Green Gables and the lighthouse are not included, which can add to your overall cost if you choose to explore inside.

The tour’s length and pace are designed for a relaxed half-day, making it ideal for travelers with limited time or those who prefer a more intimate experience rather than rushing through sites as part of a large group.

The Guide’s Role

While the itinerary covers well-known spots, the value lies in your guide’s insights. They can tell stories behind each location, answer questions, and give context that you wouldn’t get from a map or guidebook. The personalized approach makes each stop more meaningful—this is where the tour shines for travelers seeking authentic local flavor.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This private North Shore Tour suits adventurers who want a flexible schedule, those traveling with family or friends, and anyone who appreciates quiet, scenic, and culturally significant sites. It’s perfect for travelers who prefer comfort and insider knowledge over large, crowded tours. If you have a half-day to explore PEI’s coast and want something organized yet relaxed, you’ll find this tour a good fit.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

For $110, this tour offers a personalized, comfortable way to see some of PEI’s most iconic sights. You’ll enjoy the scenic coastal views, historic landmarks, and authentic fishing village—all with the flexibility to ask questions and take your time. The slight extra expense for entrance fees is a small price for the value of a guided, private experience.

Travelers who want to avoid large tour groups, get insider stories, and see a mix of natural beauty and cultural heritage will find this tour well worth considering. It’s especially suited for those who enjoy a relaxed pace and personalized attention—making your PEI visit both memorable and meaningful.

FAQ

Is this a group tour or private?
This is a private tour, meaning only your group will participate, ensuring a personalized experience.

How long does the tour last?
The tour is approximately 5 hours, starting at 9:00 am and returning to the starting point.

What’s included in the price?
The price covers private transportation, an air-conditioned vehicle, WiFi onboard, and bottled water.

Are admission fees included?
No, fees for sites like Green Gables or the lighthouse are not included, so be prepared for additional costs if you plan to visit inside.

Can I customize the tour?
While the itinerary is fixed, the private nature means your guide can often answer questions and provide insights tailored to your interests.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, so children comfortable with a few stops and a 5-hour drive will enjoy it.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable shoes, some cash or card for entrance fees, and a camera to capture the scenic spots.

The Davids North Shore Tour stands out as a balanced, engaging way to explore PEI’s northern coast. With its private setup, scenic stops, and knowledgeable guide, it offers a value-packed, authentic experience perfect for those wanting to see PEI at a relaxed pace.