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Embrace the differences in Nova Scotia
In Nova Scotia there’s discovery around every corner and history that is alive and ready to take you by the hand. The fresh local food isn’t a fad, it’s a way of life. And there’s freedom to explore wide-open spaces and seacoast.
Sit quietly on one of the smooth giant rocks at Peggy's Cove, close your eyes and feel the power of the ocean as you listen to the crashing waves. Go ahead and try to keep your feet from tapping to the lively sound of a Celtic fiddle in Cape Breton Island, the number 1 island in North America (a common sound in these parts). Feel your heart swell to the sound of a highland bagpiper. Embark on an incredible outdoor adventure along the coast of Cape Breton, filled with hiking, kayaking, and golfing. Catch your breath as you watch a bald eagle soar overhead. Enjoy the city life in Halifax or escape to one of the many beautifully unique towns across the province.
A visit to Nova Scotia is as much or more about what you'll experience as the stunning sights you'll see.
Nova Scotia is home to eight Cruise Atlantic Canada members, two partner ports and six niche ports.
ports
Halifax
Nova Scotia’s vibrant capital city hums with culture and history just waiting to be explored. The port is centrally located and in the Halifax harbour – one of the largest natural harbours in the world.
Sydney
Enjoy some of the finest boating in the world. The Port of Sydney, Nova Scotia, is the gateway to charming Cape Breton Island, Nova Scotia’s Masterpiece.
Baddeck
For a small resort town, there's no shortage of things to do and sites to see in Baddeck. This port village is located on Cape Breton Island, on Bras d’Or Lake’s northern coast.
Chéticamp
Located at the western gateway to the Cape Breton Highlands National Park, and off the Gulf of St. Lawrence, Chéticamp is known for its unique French Acadian and Mi’kmaq heritage.
Louisbourg
Louisbourg is a beautiful island with magnificent seascapes, beaches and historical sites, situated across the waters from fellow niche port member, Saint-Pierre and Miquelon.
Lunenburg
The charming town of Lunenburg is one of the only two urban communities in North America designated as a UNESCO World Heritage site. Filled with original colonial buildings and colourful façades, amazing restaurants, distilleries and breweries, artisans and unique shops, Lunenburg is ready to greet cruise visitors.
Pictou
Whether you’re drawn to history, arts and culture, food, or adventure, the Port of Pictou is your link to many local and authentic experiences. One Port, endless possibility. Nestled in the natural Pictou Harbour off the Northumberland Strait.
Shelburne
This picturesque area on Nova Scotia’s southwestern shore has been the filming site for The Scarlet Letter, Wilby Wonderful, Virginia’s Run, and the two-part TV mini-series, Moby Dick.
Yarmouth
Located on the southwestern tip of Nova Scotia, this gorgeous seaside town offers so much to see and do while immersing yourself in Acadian culture. There’s a bit of magic amongst the rocky shores of Yarmouth County.
Culture
Nova Scotia has been home to the Mi’kmaq people for ten thousand years and their legends, art, music, spirituality, history and language continue to enrich the province today.
Acadian Culture runs deep in the province, stemming from French immigrants who first arrived in the 1700’s, followed by British, Irish and Scottish immigrants. Later came the New England and African Canadian immigrants. All contribute to Nova Scotia’s distinctive voice and character.
For more on culture, check out Tourism Nova Scotia’s site here.
Travel Tips
Language: English, French
Currency: Canadian dollar
Time Zone: Atlantic Standard Time
Climate: The summer daytime temperatures can range from a very comfortable 68°F to 77°F (20°C - 25°C), with spring and fall temperatures being a tad cooler.
Local Weather
Look no further – we’ve got the local weather forecasts at your fingertips:
Halifax | Sydney | Baddeck | Chéticamp | Louisbourg | Pictou | Shelburne | Yarmouth