1.5hr Harbour Experience on North America’s LARGEST solar boat!

A Close Look at the 1.5hr Harbour Experience on North America’s Largest Solar Boat

If you’re planning to explore Charlottetown’s waterfront, you might have come across this highly-rated solar-powered boat tour. Offering a relaxed, eco-friendly way to see the harbor, this experience combines scenic views, insightful commentary, and the novelty of North America’s largest solar boat. We’ve gathered plenty of details to help you decide if this ride suits your style.

What we love about this tour is its quiet, emissions-free ride—no fuel smell or engine noise to distract you from the scenery. The large windows and opening roof hatches offer great photo opportunities, and the friendly, knowledgeable guides make the experience both fun and educational. On the flip side, some travelers mentioned that seating can be a bit cozy, especially when the boat is full, and the food options are limited to drinks and snacks.

This tour is ideal if you’re seeking a relaxed, informative, and environmentally conscious way** to explore Charlottetown’s harbor. It’s perfect for those who love learning about local history while enjoying beautiful water views, all in a comfortable, modern setting. If you’re traveling with family or friends who appreciate a mix of sightseeing and a laid-back vibe, this experience could be just right.

Key Points

• Eco-friendly and quiet: The solar-powered boat ensures a peaceful ride without emissions or fuel odors.
• Informative guides: The crew offers engaging, knowledgeable commentary that enhances the experience.
• Great for photos: Large windows and open roof hatches make capturing the scenery easy.
• Flexible schedules: Morning, noon, and afternoon tours cater to different plans.
• Comfortable setting: The boat is cozy but well-equipped with WiFi, video screens, and restrooms.
• Limited food options: Be prepared to bring your own drinks or snacks as no meals are included.

What to Expect on the Harbour Tour

The typical 1 hour 30-minute voyage covers a broad stretch of Charlottetown’s waterfront, packed with interesting sights and stories. While you might not get a deep dive into history—more a quick overview—the tour delivers plenty of highlights that make the trip worthwhile. From the moment you step aboard, the focus is on comfort, scenery, and storytelling.

The Itinerary Breakdown

The journey kicks off at the Charlottetown Cruise Ship Terminal, where your captain will introduce you to the area’s significance as the “Cradle of Confederation.” As the boat departs, you’ll pass by landmarks like Victoria Park, where you can glimpse the historic fort cannons, and Fort Amherst’s Port-la-Joye entrance, offering a peek into local military history.

One of the most captivating parts of the trip is passing Government House, the site where Canada’s founding colonies first met, earning it the nickname “Birthplace of Canada.” This isn’t just a passing comment—your guide will narrate the importance of these moments, making history feel alive.

Moving along, the boat glides past the luxurious homes in Stratford—some worth millions—and the shoreline erosion issues PEI faces, with some properties experiencing the loss of shoreline every year. As you cruise past Peake’s Wharf, you’ll see St. Dunstan’s Basilica, a designated National Historic Site and the tallest structure in Charlottetown.

Throughout the tour, guides share stories about local figures and sites, such as Beaconsfield Historic House, which dates back to 1877 and reflects the wealth of Charlottetown’s shipping past. Many reviews praise the guides for their entertaining and personable style; one reviewer even mentioned how the guide answered questions and made the tour engaging for everyone.

What It’s Like on Board

The boat itself is small and cozy, which we see is appreciated by many, making for an intimate experience. It’s designed to be both eco-friendly and comfortable, with WiFi and multiple video screens to keep you informed and entertained. The open roof hatches are a highlight—allowing plenty of sunshine and making it easy to take photos without glass reflections.

Some reviews mention the seating arrangement can feel cramped if you are traveling as a couple or in a larger group, with seating facing different directions. However, the guides’ ability to keep the atmosphere lively helps mitigate any discomfort. The boat’s steadiness is praised, even in choppy waters, making it accessible for most travelers, including those sensitive to motion.

The Experience Beyond the Sights

While the main focus is on the harbor and city views, there’s more to enjoy. The guides are enthusiastic about sharing tidbits of PEI’s culture, history, and even fun trivia, such as the fact that St. Dunstan’s Basilica is one of just 27 Basilica sites in Canada. The crew’s friendliness and knowledge shine through, making it clear that they’re passionate about what they do.

WiFi onboard means you can share photos or look up more information during the ride. And while no food or alcohol are included, the stop at Peake’s Wharf’s famous Cow’s Ice Cream (ranked the #1 ice cream in the world, according to some reviews) is a tempting option after the tour.

Is It Worth the Price?

At around $58.59 CAD per person, many travelers find this tour offers good value. It’s not just about sightseeing—it’s about experiencing Charlottetown from a different perspective, all while enjoying a sustainable mode of transportation. Considering the knowledgeable guides, scenic content, and eco-conscious design, this price is reasonable for a leisurely, well-organized tour.

Some reviews highlight the value of the experience compared to other water-based tours, especially given the small group size (limited to 34 travelers), making it a more personal and relaxed outing.

Who is This Tour Best For?

This harbor experience is perfect for those who prefer a calm, educational cruise with an emphasis on scenic views and local stories. It’s suitable for travelers who enjoy a slower pace, photography, and learning about Charlottetown’s landmarks without feeling rushed. Families with kids who appreciate boats and open spaces might enjoy the interactive element—like giving kids a chance to pilot the boat, as some reviews mention.

It’s also excellent if you’re looking for an environmentally friendly activity that combines sightseeing with sustainability. However, if your priority is a gourmet meal or a more active adventure, this might not be the right fit.

Final Thoughts

The 1.5hr Harbour Experience on North America’s largest solar boat offers a relaxing and environmentally conscious way to explore Charlottetown’s waters. The combination of stunning views, friendly guides, and quiet, emission-free sailing makes it stand out as a unique activity in the city. It’s especially suitable for those who enjoy a laid-back pace, engaging stories, and a bit of photo-taking.

While the seating can feel a bit tight for couples or larger groups, the overall comfort, informative narration, and scenic highlights make it a worthwhile addition to your Charlottetown itinerary. The tour’s moderate price is well matched by the quality of experience, making it a worthwhile splurge for a memorable harbor cruise.

If you love learning about local history, enjoy scenic water views, or simply want a peaceful, eco-friendly way to see the city, this solar boat tour might just be your perfect match.

FAQs

Is the tour suitable for children? While not explicitly stated, the interactive elements like giving kids a chance to pilot the boat could make it engaging for families. It’s a calm, relaxed cruise, making it generally accessible.

What should I bring on board? Since no food or drinks are included, you might want to bring your own water or snacks. The boat has WiFi and restrooms, so you can stay comfortable during the trip.

How long is the tour? The experience lasts approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes, giving you plenty of time to enjoy the views and hear about Charlottetown’s history.

Are there different departure times? Yes, tours are offered in the morning, noon, and afternoon, providing flexibility for your schedule.

What is the group size? The boat accommodates up to 34 travelers, ensuring a more intimate and personal experience.

Can I cancel if my plans change? Yes, there’s a free cancellation policy up to 24 hours before the tour, so you can book with confidence.

This solar-powered harbor cruise is a standout way to see Charlottetown with a focus on comfort, eco-friendliness, and interesting stories. Whether you’re a history buff, a nature lover, or just looking for a relaxed water activity, it’s worth considering for your PEI trip.