Exclusive Sightseeing Tour in Saint John

A Personalized Peek into Saint John’s Charm

If you’re looking for a way to see Saint John that’s both intimate and flexible, this exclusive sightseeing tour might just be what you need. Priced at $777 per group (up to six people), it offers a 6.5-hour journey through some of the city’s most iconic sights, with the comfort of a private guide and tailored stops. The tour includes pickup at the Marco Polo Cruise Terminal—ideal if you’re coming ashore on a cruise or staying nearby—and covers a wide array of highlights, from historic forts to natural wonders.

What we love most is the personalized approach. Your guide (a licensed expert) provides engaging stories and insider tips, making sure you get a deep, authentic experience of Saint John. Two distinct features stand out: the flexibility to spend more or less time at each site—like exploring tide pools at low tide—and the special access to places like Carleton Martello Tower and the Bay of Fundy’s Reversing Falls Rapids. The tour also offers custom itineraries, ensuring your interests come first.

One thing to keep in mind: since this is a private tour, the cost might seem high compared to group excursions, but for the value of exclusivity and tailored attention, it’s often well worth it—especially if you’re keen on a more in-depth, relaxed experience. The pricing also includes bottled water and guidance, but does not cover meals, so plan to bring snacks or lunch if desired.

This tour suits travelers who want to maximize their time in Saint John without feeling rushed, especially those who enjoy personalized attention and off-the-beaten-path insights. It’s perfect for couples, small groups, or families seeking an authentic, memorable exploration of this historic Canadian port city.

Key Points

• Private, personalized experience tailored to your interests
• Flexible timing at each site, including beach and tide pool exploration
• Includes insider access to top sights like Carleton Martello Tower and Reversing Falls
• Perfect for small groups or couples wanting a relaxed, customized tour
• Cost reflects exclusivity and depth, offering a more intimate experience than standard group tours
• Stunning views and local stories make this a memorable way to discover Saint John

Exploring Saint John in Style and Substance

When you opt for this exclusive sightseeing tour, you’re choosing a way to see Saint John that’s both in-depth and relaxed. Instead of bouncing from site to site with a large crowd, you and your group will enjoy undivided attention from your guide, who’s there to answer your questions, share stories, and help you discover hidden gems.

We appreciated how the tour combines historic sites with natural beauty. The itinerary includes Fort Howe, a commanding spot with views over Saint John and its harbor, where you can imagine the strategic importance of this early military installation. The Reversing Falls Rapids offer a fascinating display of nature’s power as the Bay of Fundy’s tides create whirlpools and rapids—an experience that’s both striking and educational.

Further along, a visit to the Moosehead Breweries reveals the city’s brewing history dating back to 1867. Here, you can learn how art, science, and passion come together to craft award-winning beers, which adds a layer of cultural insight to your journey. The Carleton Martello Tower, a beautifully preserved 19th-century fort, offers panoramic views of Saint John and the harbor, and provides a tangible connection to the city’s past military significance.

The tour then moves into the city’s historic neighborhoods—visiting the Stone Church, an early Anglican structure built between 1823-26 in the Gothic Revival style, and the Loyalist House, a Georgian-style home that tells the story of those loyalists fleeing the American Revolution. Both sites give a human face to Saint John’s history, beyond just the buildings.

The Saint John City Market is a lively spot, bustling with vendors offering fresh produce, artisanal crafts, and local treats. It’s an excellent place to feel the heartbeat of the city’s community. Nearby, the Rockwood Park—one of Canada’s largest urban parks—offers a sense of tranquility amid green forests and lakes, perfect for a short walk or just soaking in the scenery.

The final, longer leg of your tour takes you to Saint Martins, famed for its sea caves, dramatic coastlines, and maritime history. This part of the day is about scenic coastal hikes and exploring the stone caves, which are especially impressive at low tide. As one reviewer noted, being able to spend extra time exploring tide pools was a highlight, emphasizing how flexible this tour really is.

The Value of a Private Tour

The $777 fee might seem steep at first glance, but consider what it includes: your own licensed guide, customized itinerary, insider access, and the comfort of a private vehicle. When you compare this to the cost of multiple individual tickets, or the expense of a large group tour, the value becomes clearer. Plus, the flexibility to spend as much or as little time at each stop—like exploring tide pools—adds a personalized touch that public tours can’t match.

From the reviews, we see that travelers value the freedom to linger and the stunning views—both of which are baked into this experience. One guest loved the opportunity to explore a beach and tide pools at low tide, calling it “the highlight,” which speaks to the tour’s ability to offer memorable, authentic experiences beyond just sightseeing from afar.

The tour is particularly suited for those who prefer tailored experiences over cookie-cutter group excursions. If you’re a traveler who enjoys learning stories from guides, taking your time at each site, and discovering hidden spots, this private tour will serve you well.

A Deep Dive into the Itinerary

Fort Howe National Historic Site of Canada

Your journey begins here, where the remains of an 18th-century military fort overlook Saint John and its harbor. The views are spectacular, especially on clear days, providing both a glimpse into the city’s strategic importance and photo opportunities. You’ll walk among the historic walls, feeling the history beneath your feet. The site is free to enter, making it an accessible start.

Reversing Falls Rapids

Next, a short drive takes you to the Reversing Falls Rapids, where the Bay of Fundy’s extreme tides turn the Saint John River upstream, creating dramatic whirlpools and rapids. The spectacle is often described as mesmerizing—an unmissable display of natural power. You can enjoy panoramic views and learn from the informative displays about why the tides behave this way. Here, the ability to spend extra time observing or taking photos is a real plus.

Moosehead Breweries

The tour continues with a visit to Moosehead Breweries, where history meets craft brewing. Dating back to 1867, this historic brewery still operates today, blending tradition with innovation. The guide explains how art and science come together to produce the award-winning beers, adding a cultural layer to your visit. If you’re a beer enthusiast, this stop offers a rare glimpse into a local industry steeped in history.

Carleton Martello Tower

Perched on a hill with sweeping views, this 19th-century fort served as a key defensive structure. You’ll explore its well-preserved walls and tunnels, with plenty of opportunities to take photos of Saint John and the harbor below. The stunning panoramic views make this stop worthwhile, and the guide’s stories make history come alive.

Stone Church

Built between 1823-26, the Stone Church is a beautiful example of Gothic Revival architecture, with its rugged stone façade and ecclesiastical Gothic interior. It’s a peaceful stop that offers insight into the early religious history of the region. The church’s charm lies in its age and design, making it a photo-worthy site.

Loyalist House

This Georgian-style home built in 1810 tells stories of the Loyalists fleeing the American Revolution. It’s a peek into early 19th-century life in Saint John, with the preserved architecture and furnishings. The house’s resilience and historical significance resonate with visitors interested in the city’s early days.

Saint John City Market

As one of Canada’s oldest markets, this lively spot is perfect for experiencing local life. Vendors sell everything from fresh seafood and produce to handcrafted jewelry and baked goods. It’s a bustling hub that captures the city’s vibrant character. You might find yourself chatting with vendors about local specialties or grabbing a quick snack.

Rockwood Park

One of the largest urban parks in Canada, Rockwood Park offers a lush backdrop of forests, lakes, and trails. It’s a peaceful retreat in the midst of the city, ideal for a quick walk or just absorbing the natural beauty. The size and variety of landscapes make it a favorite among visitors.

Saint Martins

The day concludes with a three-hour exploration of Saint Martins. Famous for its sea caves and rugged coastline, this seaside village offers scenic coastal hikes and tide pools. The caves are particularly striking at low tide when you can walk into them or observe the pounding surf. The maritime museum provides additional insights into local seafaring life. As one reviewer highlighted, spending extra time exploring tide pools was a standout experience.

Final Thoughts: Who Will Love This Tour?

This personalized Saint John experience offers a fine balance between guided insights and free exploration. It’s ideal for small groups or couples who want to avoid the crowds and enjoy a tailored itinerary that matches their interests. The stunning views, especially from Fort Howe and Carleton Martello Tower, combined with the opportunity to explore tide pools at low tide, are perfect for nature lovers and history buffs alike.

While the price is higher than typical group tours, the value of exclusivity, flexibility, and insider access makes it worthwhile—especially if your time in Saint John is limited and you want the option to linger at favorite spots or skip others altogether.

Travelers who appreciate authentic stories, scenic vistas, and custom experiences will find this tour a memorable way to see the city. It’s a fine choice for those who want to connect more deeply with Saint John’s history, natural beauty, and local culture, all in a relaxed, private setting.

FAQ

How many people can join this tour?
Up to six people per group, making it perfect for small, intimate gatherings.

What is included in the price?
The tour includes a licensed guide and bottled water. You’ll enjoy personalized attention and insider access.

Are there any additional costs?
Yes, lunch is not included, so you might want to bring snacks or plan to purchase food during the stops.

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 6 hours and 30 minutes, with the longest stop being Saint Martins at 3 hours.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Yes, the tour offers customizable itineraries, allowing you to spend more or less time at certain sites.

Where does the tour start and end?
The tour begins and ends at the Marco Polo Cruise Terminal at 111 Water St.

Is this tour suitable for everyone?
Most travelers can participate, and the tour is designed to be accessible, but it’s best suited for those comfortable with walking and standing.

What makes this tour different from other sightseeing options in Saint John?
Its private, personalized approach and insider access make it stand out. You get a relaxed pace and attention tailored specifically to your interests.

Is the tour family-friendly?
While not explicitly stated, the stops are generally suitable for families, especially those interested in history and nature.

How far in advance should I book?
It’s recommended to book around 25 days in advance to secure your preferred date.

In the end, this private, tailored tour of Saint John offers an authentic, flexible way to experience the city’s history, natural beauty, and local flavor. With its emphasis on personal attention and stunning views, it’s a great choice for travelers seeking a meaningful and memorable visit.