St. Andrews by the Sea Shore Excursion from Port of Saint John

If you’re navigating the cruise ports of Saint John and looking to experience a charming seaside town, the St. Andrews by-the-Sea Shore Excursion offers a neat way to spend your day. While we haven’t personally taken this trip, the details paint a picture of a laid-back journey packed with scenic views and interesting stops that could make for a memorable day away from the cruise ship bustle.

Two things we really like about this tour are the emphasis on authentic coastal scenery and the opportunity to explore local heritage sites like the St. Andrews Blockhouse. Plus, the optional visit to Kingsbrae Garden offers a serene break amid colorful plantings. One potential snag is that some attractions, such as Kingsbrae Garden and Minister Island, require additional entrance fees—so keep that in mind when budgeting.

This trip feels suited for those who love a combination of history, nature, and small-town charm, especially if you’re interested in relaxed sightseeing rather than fast-paced tours.

Key Points

• Beautiful coastal views and charming town ambiance make this a relaxing day out
• Highlights include historic sites like the St. Andrews Blockhouse and the tide-dependent walk to Minister’s Island
• Optional attractions like Kingsbrae Garden and Minister’s Island are extra, not included in the base price
• Transport is comfortable, with air-conditioning and bottled water provided for your comfort
• The tour is private, making it suitable for those wanting a personalized experience
• Timing is flexible with 5 to 6 hours allocated, enough to see key sights without feeling rushed

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Itinerary

Starting Point: Saint John and the Charm of St. Andrews

Your adventure kicks off in Saint John, where you’ll hop into a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle. From there, the scenic drive to St. Andrews by-the-Sea immediately sets a relaxing tone. This town is renowned for its maritime roots and seaside charm, making it easy to fall into a tranquil mood as you approach.

We love how the town’s atmosphere is built around its Loyalist history, giving it a nostalgic, authentic feel. You’ll have about two hours to explore freely, which is usually enough to walk through the main streets, browse some shops, or just soak in the maritime air.

Visit to the St. Andrews Blockhouse

Next, you’ll stop at the St. Andrews Blockhouse, an intriguing piece of early Canadian military architecture perched overlooking the Bay of Fundy. It’s a quick stop—around 15 minutes—but worth it for history buffs or anyone interested in seeing a rare, preserved example of military construction from that period. The site is free to visit, and the views from there are quite scenic, especially if the weather is clear.

Walking on the Ocean Floor to Ministers Island

One of the more unique parts of this tour is the Bar Road causeway—a gravel pathway that appears at low tide, allowing visitors to walk or drive across the bay to visit Ministers Island. While the actual island visit isn’t included, the experience of walking across the ocean floor as the tide pulls away can be pretty special. It’s a fleeting moment, dependent on timing, but it offers some memorable photo opportunities. Be aware that walking on tidal flats requires some caution, and you might want sturdy shoes.

Optional Visits: Kingsbrae Garden and Minister’s Island

You can choose to add a visit to Kingsbrae Garden, which is a popular stop for its beautifully maintained grounds and stunning plant displays. Keep in mind, entry tickets cost about 22 CAD, which is not included in your base price. Visitors often remark on how peaceful and colorful the gardens are, making it a good break in the middle of your day.

Similarly, the Minister’s Island visit is a highlight for history and nature lovers—though it’s an optional extension. The island was once the estate of Sir William Van Horne, and walking there at low tide is an experience in itself. The tour doesn’t include the island entry fee, so plan for that if you want to explore further.

Ending with a Relaxing Stop at New River Beach

On the way back, there’s an option to unwind at New River Beach Provincial Park. It’s a lovely spot for a quick stroll or just relaxing with the sound of waves in the background. It’s a less structured part of the trip, perfect for those who prefer a casual conclusion.

What We Think About the Experience

The value of this tour hinges on the balance between sightseeing and relaxation. The included stops are meaningful and give a well-rounded taste of what St. Andrews offers—history, nature, and coastal scenery. Since the tour is private, it’s tailored to your group’s pace, which is a definite plus if you prefer avoiding big crowds or need some flexibility.

The price point—around $502.72 for up to three people—seems reasonable considering it’s a private experience. However, remember that additional attractions like Kingsbrae Garden or Minister’s Island will add to that cost, so budget accordingly. The tour includes bottled water and comfortable transportation, making the day easier, especially after long port days.

The Scenic and Cultural Value

One of the most appreciated aspects, as noted by reviews, is the stunning views—the Bay of Fundy from the blockhouse vantage point and the tidal walk to Ministers Island are particular highlights. These moments set this tour apart from more standard town strolls or bus rides.

Possible Drawbacks

Some travelers might find that the extra costs for attractions like Kingsbrae Garden or Ministers Island can add up. If you’re budget-conscious, you might prefer to skip those or plan to purchase tickets on your own. Also, depending on the tide schedule, your options for walking to Ministers Island could be limited, which might affect how much you get to explore that part of the trip.

Who Would Enjoy This Tour?

This shore excursion is best suited for travelers who love scenic views and gentle exploration. Those interested in a mix of history and nature, with some flexibility, will find it appealing. It’s ideal for small groups or couples who appreciate a private, personal experience. If you’re traveling with friends or family who enjoy coastal towns and outdoor walks, this could be a lovely way to spend your day.

People seeking fast-paced or highly curated tours might find this one a bit laid-back. But if your goal is to soak in the seaside atmosphere at a comfortable pace, this trip hits the right notes.

FAQ

Q: Is this tour suitable for children?
While the tour is private and flexible, specific considerations like requesting a child seat are mentioned in advance. It’s generally suitable for most travelers, but keep in mind that walking to Ministers Island depends on tide times, which might be tricky with very young children.

Q: How long does the entire tour last?
The tour is approximately 5 to 6 hours, giving enough time to enjoy the stops without feeling rushed.

Q: Are meals included?
No, meals are not included in the tour price. You might want to pack snacks or grab something during your free time in St. Andrews.

Q: Can I visit Kingsbrae Garden?
Yes, you can opt to visit the garden, but keep in mind the admission fee of 22 CAD is not included. Decide in advance if you’d like to add this stop.

Q: Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, booking ahead is recommended, especially since it’s a private tour. It also ensures your requested pickup and any special arrangements.

Q: What if I cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, which offers some peace of mind if your plans change.

Final Thoughts

All in all, this St. Andrews by-the-Sea shore excursion seems like a well-rounded way to explore a picturesque coastal town with historical charm. It’s perfect for those who love ocean views, light walking, and local character, especially if you want a private experience that can be tailored to your interests.

While there are additional costs for some attractions, the core tour offers a good mix of scenic beauty and cultural sights. If you’re after a relaxed day with plenty of photo opportunities and a taste of maritime history, this tour is likely to serve you well.

Remember, it’s a flexible outing—you can skip certain stops or focus on what interests you most. For a laid-back, scenic day exploring one of Canada’s charming seaside towns, this could be just the ticket.