Combo North And South Shore Scenic Tour of PEI

Exploring PEI’s Best with the Combo North and South Shore Scenic Tour

If you’re eyeing a way to see PEI’s highlights without the hassle of planning every detail yourself, this Combo North and South Shore Scenic Tour might just be the ticket. From what we’ve gathered, it’s a well-organized, private experience designed to give you a taste of the island’s most iconic sights in about seven hours. While we haven’t done this tour ourselves, the details and reviews paint a pretty appealing picture for those who want a relaxed, informative day on Prince Edward Island.

What really catches our eye are two things: the personalized nature of this private tour—only your group will be riding along—and the fact that it hits both the north and south shores, offering a comprehensive peek at PEI’s scenery and history. The second is the diversity of stops, from historic churches to beaches and charming villages. The one thing to keep in mind? At $860 for a group of up to six, this isn’t cheap, but considering it’s private and includes hotel pickup, it might be worth it for a tailored experience. This tour is great for travelers who want to maximize their PEI visit with a knowledgeable guide without feeling rushed or crowded.

Key Points

• Private, luxury-style transportation ensures a comfortable, personalized day.
• Balanced itinerary features cultural landmarks, natural beauty, and local artisans.
• Guides are praised for their knowledge and friendly, accommodating attitude.
• Stops are manageable in length, making it suitable for a relaxed day without rushing.
• Cost reflects exclusivity and customization, making it ideal for those wanting a tailored experience.
• Not including lunch gives you flexibility to explore dining options on your own.

A Deep Dive into the PEI Scenic Tour

At first glance, this 7-hour Combo North and South Shore Scenic Tour offers a bit of everything that makes PEI special. From the historic charm of Charlottetown to the stunning coastal vistas and quaint villages, this experience seems crafted for travelers eager to see the island’s highlights without the stress of navigating on their own.

Transportation and Group Size

One of the first things you’ll notice about this tour is that it’s a private experience with air-conditioned vehicle transportation. That’s a big plus in our book—no noisy buses or cramped group tours. Plus, with pickup and drop-off at your hotel in Charlottetown, the start and end of your day are smooth and hassle-free. The group is limited to six people, which ensures you get personalized attention and the chance to ask plenty of questions. As one reviewer pointed out, their guide Wonda was “very easy to communicate with and punctuate,” and went out of his way to accommodate their requests.

Price and Value

At $860 for the entire group, the cost may seem steep, but when you break it down, you’re paying for exclusive, private transportation, expert guidance, and a carefully curated itinerary. For travelers wanting a flexible, intimate experience—as opposed to a large bus tour—this can be a worthwhile investment. It also means you won’t be herded from stop to stop like cattle, which makes for a more relaxed, enjoyable day.

The Itinerary: What You’ll See

Let’s walk through what this tour covers. The detailed itinerary offers a good mix of historical sites, scenic beaches, and authentic local spots.

Stops and Highlights

St. Dunstan’s Basilica — Kicking off in Charlottetown, this Catholic cathedral is a striking example of French Gothic Revival architecture. It’s a peaceful spot to start your day and learn a bit about the island’s spiritual heritage. As it’s free to enter, you can spend as much or as little time admiring its stained glass and grandeur.

Victoria Row — Next, you’ll stroll along this vibrant pedestrian street lined with Victorian buildings. It’s a lively spot for some casual browsing, grabbing a coffee, or simply soaking in the local atmosphere. The architecture and bustling vibe make it a favorite for many visitors.

Brackley Beach — Moving toward the north shore, this stretch of sand is famous for its red sandstone cliffs, warm waters, and expansive beaches. Perfect for a quick walk or a breath of fresh ocean air, it’s a classic PEI postcard scene. The 20-minute stop lets you stretch your legs without losing sight of the overall schedule.

The Dunes Studio Gallery & Cafe — A highlight for lovers of art and good food. Here, you can see local artwork, enjoy a meal with ingredients sourced nearby, and savor the scenery. It’s a wonderful mix of creative expression and coastal relaxation.

The Great Canadian Soap Co. — This stop introduces you to handcrafted, all-natural soaps and bath products inspired by the landscape. The scents and textures add a sensory dimension to your day, and it’s a fun place to pick up unique souvenirs.

North Rustico — This charming fishing village is perfect for experiencing authentic island life. With its picturesque harbor, you’ll get a sense of PEI’s maritime culture, plus some delicious seafood options if you decide to stay longer.

Cavendish — Probably the most famous village on PEI, thanks to Anne of Green Gables. Its red cliffs and beaches are stunning, and it’s a must-visit for fans of Lucy Maud Montgomery’s stories or anyone wanting classic PEI scenery.

Covehead Harbour Lighthouse — Another coastal highlight, this vibrant harbor and lighthouse offer picturesque views and a chance to appreciate PEI’s maritime history.

Confederation Bridge — Crossing to the south shore, this engineering marvel is worth a look. The tour includes a visit to Gateway Village near the bridge, where you can learn about the structure that connects PEI to the mainland. The $1 billion bridge is 12.9 km long, making it a significant feat of engineering. Keep in mind, the actual bridge access fee isn’t included in the tour price.

Victoria by the Sea Farm Market — As you wind back towards Charlottetown, this charming fishing village provides a lovely conclusion. Stroll past shops, visit the lighthouse, and if open, try some homemade island chocolates—a sweet way to end your day.

What Travelers Are Saying

The sole review on record gives this tour a perfect 5-star rating, with one traveler praising guide Wonda for his knowledge, friendliness, and flexibility. They mentioned the vehicle was comfortable, and water was provided—small touches that make a difference on a long day. The reviewer said, “He happily accommodated our requests,” which speaks to the tour’s personalized approach.

These positive comments suggest that if you’re someone who appreciates guides who are attentive and knowledgeable, this experience will meet your expectations. Since it is a private tour, you can tailor the stops a little if needed, making the day even more enjoyable.

Dining and Additional Costs

While the tour doesn’t include lunch, there are plenty of dining options at each stop—whether it’s a café in Victoria Row, a seafood joint in North Rustico, or a cozy spot in Cavendish. The marketplace in Victoria by the Sea is also a tempting stop if you want to pick up some local treats.

The visit to Gateway Village near the Confederation Bridge is included in time but not the cost of the bridge itself, which is usually paid separately if you choose to cross or stay in the area longer.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience suits travelers who want a personalized, relaxed day exploring PEI’s highlights with a knowledgeable guide. It’s ideal if you prefer private, flexible schedules over large group tours. Nature lovers will enjoy the beaches and coastal views, while history and culture buffs will appreciate stops like St. Dunstan’s Basilica and Cavendish.

It’s particularly good for those who value comfort and intimacy, and aren’t bothered by the higher price tag. Since lunch isn’t included, travelers who like to control their mealtime can easily find a spot that suits their preferences.

Final Thoughts

All in all, if you’re after a well-rounded, private tour that combines PEI’s iconic landscapes with stories and local flavor, this scenic experience offers plenty of value. The combination of stunning views, cultural touchpoints, and the flexibility to customize your day makes it stand out among other sightseeing options.

While the price is higher than some group tours, the exclusivity, comfort, and personalized guidance can make it worthwhile, especially if you’re eager to make the most of your time on the island without the rush or the crowd. It’s a lovely way to connect with PEI’s charm, whether you’re a first-timer or returning to this beloved island.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for families?
While not specifically marketed as family-friendly, the private nature makes it adaptable. It’s best for older children and teens who can enjoy beaches, villages, and scenic stops comfortably.

What is included in the tour price?
The price covers private transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle, hotel pickup and drop-off in Charlottetown, and the entire curated itinerary. Lunch and bridge tolls are not included.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Since it’s a private tour, you can discuss your preferences with the guide, Wonda, and possibly tailor some stops to your interests.

How long are the stops?
Most stops are around 20 to 30 minutes, giving you enough time to explore briefly without feeling rushed.

Is the tour suitable for a rainy day?
Some stops like churches and galleries are indoors, so you can still enjoy parts of the tour if the weather isn’t perfect. Check with your guide about the day’s conditions.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, weather-appropriate clothing, water, and perhaps a camera. Since lunch isn’t included, bring cash or cards for meals or snacks.

How far in advance should I book?
On average, this tour is booked about 66 days ahead, so planning early is advised, especially during peak season.

Is the Confederation Bridge visit worth it?
Absolutely, it’s an engineering marvel and a defining feature of PEI. Just keep in mind the toll isn’t part of the tour fee.

Are there bathroom stops?
Yes, most stops will naturally include a chance to use facilities, especially at larger stops like beaches and villages.

Would you recommend this tour?
If you want a private, flexible experience with a knowledgeable guide, then yes. It’s particularly suited for travelers who value comfort and personalized attention over budget options.

To sum it up, this Combo North and South Shore Scenic Tour of PEI offers a detailed, personalized way to see the island’s highlights. It’s perfect for those who appreciate comfort, local stories, and scenic beauty without the crowds. While it’s on the pricier side, the curated stops, guide expertise, and private setting make it a memorable way to explore PEI’s charm—whether you’re visiting for a few days or planning a special trip.