The Canadian Maritimes and Bay of Fundy hold an undeniable appeal with windswept landscapes that are as close to the British Isles as it gets on this side of the Atlantic. The major cruise gateway is Saint John, a small city that makes the picturesque coast of New Brunswick as accessible as the better-known attractions of Nova Scotia. The cruise terminal is just off the heart of the old city, so you’re only a short walk away from the pleasures of Saint John.
The Saint John City Market: This large marketplace is a full block long and wide, packed with vendors selling prepared food as well as baked goods, maple syrup, cheese, and local fruit wines.
Harbour Passage: You can walk, run, or bike along this series of picturesque trails, lookouts, and ecological hubs from the most windswept points to the city center.
The Bay of Fundy: Tides here vary by as much as 53 feet between high and low. At the Reversing Rapids Lookout you can see the world’s highest tides collide with the mighty St. John River.
Whaling History: You’re guaranteed a whale sighting at the New Brunswick Museum with Delilah, a full-size replica of a right whale, while its Industry Gallery covers the region’s shipbuilding industry.
Whale Watchers: More than 12 species of whales pass through the Bay of Fundy, including half of the world’s endangered North Atlantic right whales. Watch for them while onboard a speedy Zodiac or a sedate two-story vessel.
Fans of the Slow Life: Saint John’s charms unfold gradually — and sitting and staring out at the sea is high among them.
Slow Sundays: The quiet town gets even sleepier on Sundays, when even the main market is closed, as are many of the shops and restaurants.
Limited Indoor Activities: Those hampered by bad weather (or who are not drawn to watching the waves) might find themselves without much to do.