Exclusive Sightseeing Tour in Saint John

If you’re dreaming of a more personalized way to explore Saint John, this exclusive sightseeing tour might just be what you’re looking for. While I haven’t done it myself, reviews and detailed descriptions suggest it’s a fantastic option for travelers who want to see the city with a knowledgeable guide and avoid the crowds. It’s especially appealing for those who love flexibility and insider access.

What really catches the eye are the customized itineraries, allowing you to spend more time at places you find fascinating—like the historic Fort Howe or the breathtaking Reversing Falls. Plus, the tour includes some of Saint John’s most iconic sights, with a touch of local charm that makes the experience feel truly special. On the flip side, the price tag is a bit steep at $777 for up to six people, which might seem high for some, but the private nature and insider access often justify the cost.

This tour seems particularly suited for couples, small groups, or anyone craving a tailored, relaxed day exploring Saint John at their own pace. Just keep in mind, if you’re traveling with a big family or are budget-conscious, there might be other more economical options. Overall, if you seek a calm, guided adventure with a local touch, this could hit the spot.

Key Points

• Private, personalized experience tailored to your interests
• Includes insider access to top sights like Carleton Martello Tower and Bay of Fundy
• Flexible itinerary allows for longer stays or quick visits at stops
• Expert guides provide engaging stories and tailored suggestions
• Cost reflects exclusivity and private access, best suited for small groups
• Ideal for travelers wanting a curated, memorable day in Saint John

What This Tour Offers: Getting a Feel for Saint John

This isn’t your typical bus tour with a crowd—think of it more like having a well-informed friend guiding you around the city, with all the bells and whistles that come with a private experience. Pricing at $777 might seem steep upfront, but keep in mind that you’re only paying for your group (up to six people), which means you’re getting a customized, intimate adventure rather than a shared group experience.

The tour lasts about 6.5 hours, making it a full day of exploring without feeling rushed or hurried. It’s perfect if you’re looking to see a lot at a relaxed pace, and the fact that it’s fully private means your itinerary can be tailored, depending on what interests you most.

The inclusion of pickup and bottled water makes things even easier, especially if you’re arriving via cruise or centrally located hotel. No need to worry about navigation or logistics—you simply get picked up and whisked away to a thoughtfully curated experience.

Detailed Look at the Itinerary

Fort Howe National Historic Site of Canada

Kicking off with Fort Howe, we loved the way this stop offers not just history but stunning views of Saint John and its harbor. The remains of this 18th-century military fort are pretty accessible, and the panoramic vista makes it an excellent photo op. It’s a quick stop, about 15 minutes, but enough to soak in the atmosphere and learn a bit about the area’s past.

According to reviews, visitors appreciated the free admission, and the views alone justify the visit. One reviewer mentioned, “Loved the freedom to spend as much or as little time at the stops,” which is a real perk—you can linger or keep moving, which is rare on structured tours.

Reversing Falls Rapids

Next, we visit the Reversing Falls, which is truly a one-of-a-kind sight. Watching the tides create rapids and whirlpools is quite the spectacle. The tour includes panoramic views and some informative displays about the tidal forces at play—definitely a highlight for nature lovers.

The 30-minute stop is enough to get a good feel for the dramatic power of the Bay of Fundy’s tides. Reviewers have noted how captivating this natural phenomenon is, and one shared, “Had time to explore a beach and tide pool area at low tide which was the highlight.” This suggests you could have enough time for some spontaneous exploring if you’re into that.

Moosehead Breweries

Beer enthusiasts will appreciate the visit to Moosehead Breweries, where you can learn how a historic brewery—dating back to 1867—still produces award-winning beers. The tour gives insight into the brewing process, blending art, science, and passion.

While the stop is just 30 minutes, it’s enough to get a sense of the brewing heritage and maybe sample some local brews if you’re inclined (though tasting isn’t included). The brewery’s history makes this stop more than just a drink stop—it’s about understanding local craftsmanship.

Carleton Martello Tower & Stone Church

Moving on to Carleton Martello Tower, you get to explore a beautifully preserved 19th-century fort with sweeping views of the city and harbor. It’s a quiet, atmospheric spot that offers insights into the area’s defensive history. The 15-minute visit might seem brief, but the views and historic significance are worth it.

Just a short drive away is the Stone Church, an early Anglican church built between 1823-6. Its Gothic Revival style and peaceful aura make it a lovely stop. The 30-minute visit offers enough time to appreciate the architecture and maybe snap a few photos of this historic landmark.

Loyalist House & Saint John City Market

History buffs will enjoy Loyalist House, built in 1810, which narrates the resilience of those who fled the American Revolution. The Georgian-style home is well preserved and offers a glimpse into early 19th-century life.

Then, enjoying local culture at Saint John City Market is a must. One of Canada’s oldest markets, it’s vibrant and lively, with vendors selling everything from fresh produce to artisanal crafts. The 30-minute stop is lively but enough to soak up the buzz and perhaps pick up some souvenirs or snacks.

Rockwood Park & St. Martins

The tour also includes Rockwood Park, one of Canada’s largest urban parks at 890 hectares. It’s a peaceful place for a quick walk or to enjoy some nature before heading to Saint Martins.

The final and perhaps most dazzling part of the trip is a 3-hour visit to Saint Martins. Known for its stunning sea caves, picturesque harbor, and scenic coastal hikes, it’s a real treat. Reviewers highlight the “stunning views” and the chance to explore the charming seaside village, making this a perfect way to wrap up the day.

The Experience: What You Can Expect

Throughout the tour, a licensed guide leads your group, sharing stories, history, and insider tips. Guests consistently mention how the guide’s knowledge adds depth and personality to the experience.

Because it’s a private tour, you can choose to spend more time at certain stops—like lingering at the tide pools or taking extra photos—making the experience very flexible. That’s a real plus if you’re a traveler who prefers to explore at your own pace rather than sticking to a rigid schedule.

The inclusion of bottled water helps keep you hydrated during the day, especially as you’ll be outside a lot. And since this is a mobile ticket activity, planning logistics is straightforward—just meet at the cruise terminal or your hotel.

Price and Value Considerations

At $777 for up to six people, this tour isn’t exactly budget-friendly. But looking at what’s included—private guiding, insider access, flexibility, and a full 6.5-hour itinerary—it feels like a premium experience. For small groups or couples wanting an intimate look at Saint John, the price can be justified as it delivers a more relaxed, tailored day than larger group tours.

Reviewers like Sarah appreciated the flexibility, noting how they could spend extra time exploring a beach and tide pools, which added a personal touch to the trip. That kind of freedom is rare on larger, scheduled tours.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This tour is best suited for travelers who value personalized experiences and are happy to pay for exclusivity. It’s ideal for those who want to see the highlights but also have the freedom to customize their day. If you’re traveling with a small group, or if you’re looking for a relaxing, guided day without the hassle of planning, this tour could be a great choice.

On the other hand, if you’re on a tight budget, or prefer more structured, group-based activities, you might want to explore other options. Also, if you’re traveling with young children or large groups, consider whether the price and pace suit your needs.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for travelers with limited mobility?
Since the tour involves walking around sites like Fort Howe, Carleton Martello Tower, and Saint Martins, it might not be ideal for those with mobility challenges. However, most stops are accessible, and you can discuss specific needs with the provider.

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes a licensed guide, private transportation, and bottled water. It does not include lunch, so plan accordingly if you want to eat during the day.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Yes, the itinerary is flexible and can be tailored to your interests. You’re encouraged to spend more or less time at certain stops depending on what you want to see or do.

How long is the tour?
The total duration is approximately 6 hours and 30 minutes, giving you plenty of time to explore without feeling rushed.

What is the group size?
This is a private tour for up to 6 people, providing an intimate and personalized experience.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at the Marco Polo Cruise Terminal at 111 Water St, Saint John, NB, and finishes back at the same location.

Is this tour good for cruise passengers?
Absolutely. Its meeting point at the cruise terminal makes it convenient for cruise travelers, and the private nature allows for ample flexibility to fit your schedule.

Final Thoughts

If you’re after a bespoke, relaxed day exploring Saint John, this private tour offers a mix of history, nature, and local flavor in a way that larger group tours simply can’t match. It’s perfect for small groups who want insider access, flexibility, and a guide who can craft the experience around your interests.

While the price might seem high at first glance, the personalized approach, private access, and stunning views justify it for many travelers looking for a special, memorable day. Whether you’re into history, nature, or just want to soak up the atmosphere without the rush of a large tour, this experience seems worth considering.

If you love the idea of a tailored adventure with local insights and stunning scenery, this tour in Saint John could be a highlight of your visit. Just remember to book in advance, as it’s quite popular—booked on average 25 days ahead, according to reviews. Happy exploring!