Private Sightseeing Tour In Saint John

If you’re considering a private tour of Saint John, this experience offers a neat way to see some of the city’s most iconic sights with a dedicated guide. Designed for groups of up to six, it promises a personalized touch and accessibility for those with mobility needs. While it’s not a full-day extravaganza, it hits some key highlights in a manageable timeframe, making it a solid choice for cruise ship passengers looking to get a taste of southern New Brunswick.

What we love about this tour is its focus on stunning natural phenomena and historic landmarks. The chance to see the Reversing Rapids and explore sites like Fort Howe and Carleton Martello Tower offers a good balance of nature and history—two of Saint John’s best features. Plus, the fact that it’s wheelchair accessible is a real boon for travelers who need that flexibility.

However, one thing to consider is that the tour is quite structured and doesn’t leave much room for spontaneous exploration or extended wandering. Also, the experience is priced at $750 per group, which might seem steep if you’re traveling on a budget but could be justified for the personalized attention and convenience.

All in all, this tour suits travelers who appreciate expert guides, want a convenient way to see key sights without the hassle of planning, and are comfortable with a somewhat brisk itinerary. If you’re a cruise passenger eager to maximize your limited time ashore, it’s a good option—just be prepared for a packed five and a half hours.

Key Points

• Accessible for Wheelchair Users: Fully wheelchair accessible with guide support.
• Flexible and Private: Only your group participates, making it personalized.
• Highlights Include Natural Phenomena: Reversing Rapids is a must-see.
• Mix of Nature and History: Visit historic sites and enjoy scenic views.
• Pricing Reflects a Private Experience: At $750 for up to 6 people, it offers a tailored tour.
• Average Booking Time: Usually booked about 3-4 weeks in advance.

A Closer Look at the Tour Itinerary

Reversing Falls Rapids

Starting at the Reversing Rapids, this spot is one of Saint John’s most famous sights. It’s the kind of natural wonder that makes you do a double-take—how a collision between the Bay of Fundy and the Saint John River creates rapids that flow in either direction depending on the tide. From the Lookout Point near the bridge in Fallsview Park, you get a clear view of this fascinating phenomenon. It’s a quick stop, around 30 minutes, but it’s the kind of sight that stays with you.

One reviewer described it as “a unique phenomenon,” and it’s easy to see why. Watching these rapids is both intriguing and photogenic. No admission fee here, so it’s a low-cost highlight that packs a punch visually.

Fort Howe National Historic Site

Next up, Fort Howe offers a dose of local history combined with panoramic views of Saint John. Sitting at one of the highest points in the city, it’s a brief visit—just about 15 minutes—but enough to appreciate the strategic importance of the site and snap some photos of the cityscape.

This stop is free and adds a layer of understanding about Saint John’s past, especially if you’re interested in how the city defended itself historically. The guide’s local knowledge can bring this site to life, making the quick visit feel more meaningful.

Carleton Martello Tower

A short 15-minute stop, the Carleton Martello Tower is one of only nine surviving Martello Towers in Canada. From outside, you can take in the historic structure and its commanding view of the surroundings. The tour doesn’t include an inside visit, but the outside alone is enough to pique curiosity about the military history of the area.

This site is more about the view and the history outside, so don’t expect to go inside or explore extensively. However, it’s still a worthwhile snapshot of local heritage, especially for history buffs.

Bay of Fundy and Surroundings

The centerpiece of the tour, the Bay of Fundy, gets a generous four-hour chunk of your day. While you won’t be stepping out for long walks here, the drive along Fundy National Park is packed with stunning sights—Sea Caves, Lighthouse, Covered Bridges, Lobster Cove, and the Fundy Trail.

This part of the trip offers a chance to see some of Canada’s most acclaimed national parks from the comfort of your van. You can expect to pass by iconic spots, take quick photos, and enjoy the scenery, all without the hassle of hiking or strenuous activity.

A reviewer mentions the drive as “beautiful,” and honestly, the views along this stretch are what make the entire experience worthwhile. Whether it’s the rugged coastline or the dramatic rock formations, you’ll find plenty of memorable scenes to photograph.

Saint John City Market

Lastly, the tour wraps up at the Saint John City Market—Canada’s oldest continually operating farmers market and a designated National Historic Site. It’s a lively, colorful place to soak in local vibes and pick up some souvenirs or snacks.

With about 30 minutes here, you get a taste of local life and a chance to explore at your own pace before the tour ends back at the meeting point. It’s a nice, relaxed way to conclude your brief but varied exploration of Saint John.

The Practicalities: What You Need to Know

Transportation and Comfort

The tour uses a 4-passenger van, which is a good size for a private experience, but it’s worth noting that it’s a bit of a snug fit if you’re traveling with lots of luggage or extra gear. The van is described as well-maintained, and the tour is fully wheelchair accessible—important if you or someone in your group has mobility needs.

Timing and Duration

At around 5 hours and 30 minutes, the tour strikes a balance between seeing a good amount and not overextending your day. It kicks off at the cruise terminal, making it super convenient for cruise travelers, and returns to the same spot, minimizing transport headaches.

Price and Value

Priced at $750 per group, this tour can seem on the higher side for some travelers. However, keep in mind that part of the cost includes the private, personalized service and the accessibility features. If you compare this to other guided experiences, paying for exclusivity and convenience can be justified, especially if you’re traveling with a small group who want a flexible, tailored experience.

Booking and Availability

On average, this tour is booked about 24 days in advance, so it’s good to plan ahead, especially if you’re on a tight cruise schedule or traveling during busy months.

Critical Considerations

• The tour is weather-dependent; poor weather could mean cancellations or rescheduling.
• The reviews include some mixed feedback, particularly about the vehicle’s condition and the guide’s engagement. One reviewer noted the van was “a filthy taxi,” but clarified that all vehicles used are well-maintained.
• The guide here is described as knowledgeable and accommodating, which can enhance your experience despite some mixed reviews about the driver’s conversational style.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This private sightseeing tour is perfect for small groups of up to six people who want a personalized, accessible way to see Saint John’s highlights. It’s ideal if you’re a cruise passenger with limited time ashore but want to hit the main sights comfortably. The tour’s focus on natural features like the Reversing Rapids and scenic drives makes it appealing for those who love landscapes and quick history snippets.

While it’s somewhat structured, the bespoke nature means you get a more tailored experience than a big bus tour. It’s also suitable for travelers with mobility needs, thanks to its wheelchair-friendly design. However, if you prefer a more relaxed, unstructured day or are traveling with a larger group, you might want to explore other options.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

If you’re after a convenient, guided way to see some of Saint John’s most picture-worthy spots, this tour ticks many boxes. You’ll enjoy seeing the Reversing Rapids, get panoramic views from Fort Howe, and take in the beauty of the Fundy coastline—all within a manageable timeframe. The private aspect makes it more intimate and flexible compared to group bus tours, which can be a real plus.

That said, the experience’s value depends on your budget and expectations. For $750, you’re paying for a customized, private route with a knowledgeable guide, which can be well worth it if you prefer comfort and exclusivity. However, be aware of the mixed reviews regarding vehicle condition and guide engagement, and consider whether your group would enjoy the quick-paced itinerary.

To sum it up, this tour is a solid choice for small groups wanting to maximize their Saint John visit, especially cruise passengers eager for a curated experience that blends natural wonders with historic sites. It’s not the cheapest option, but it offers the kind of personalized service that can make your brief stopover especially memorable.

FAQ

Is this tour wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the entire tour is designed to be wheelchair accessible. Guides are available to assist passengers with mobility requirements, making it suitable for those with special needs.

How long does the tour last?
The total duration is approximately 5 hours and 30 minutes, including all stops and driving time.

What is included in the price?
The price of $750 covers the private tour for your group, including transportation in a 4-passenger van, guide services, and all listed stops—no additional admission fees are charged.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Since this is a private tour, you might be able to request minor adjustments, but major changes aren’t specified in the available info. It’s best to clarify directly with Shore Tours.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins and ends at the Marco Polo Cruise Terminal, located at 111 Water St, Saint John.

Is the tour suitable for children?
While not specifically marketed as a family tour, the accessible vehicle and short stops make it manageable for travelers with children, though it’s best for families comfortable with a somewhat brisk itinerary.

What should I wear?
Comfortable sneakers or walking shoes are recommended for walking portions and outdoor stops.

In the end, this private Saint John tour offers a straightforward but well-selected set of sights for those wanting a guided experience, especially cruise visitors. It’s not perfect, but its focus on accessibility, natural marvels, and historic landmarks means it’s worth considering for a compact, personalized exploration of this charming Canadian city.