Today we’re in Halifax, Nova Scotia, which is nice. claiming to be ‘The World’s Friendliest Cruise Port’, we’re even greeted by a bagpiper down on the dock.
In the cruise terminal, a local guide directs us towards a bus that will take us out to a true dark tourism site – the Fairlawn Cemetery. This is the final resting place for the majority of victims recovered from Titanic. The range of ages and occupations is extremely interesting – as is the fact that some of the people still have not been identified.
Afterwards we take a walk to a local shopping mall. On the way we pass a much less well-known dark tourism site, the West End Cemetery. This unassuming black-fenced lot is the final resting place of 125 victims of the Halifax Explosion – an event that levelled most of the city in 1917. I doubt that any of the cruise excursions go past this relatively anonymous corner of the city.
Another bus back from the mall and we stop at the Garrison Brewery on the dock. This is a great excuse to try out one of their beer flights – and sample five beers at once. It certainly makes up for not trying any local brews yesterday.
Other activities in Halifax
Looking for something a little less ‘dark’? Here are some other top excursions and activities in Halifax.
Peggy’s Cove Private Car Tour – 3.5 Hours
Set off from Halifax on a scenic one-hour drive along Nova Scotia’s stunning South Shore en route to the postcard-perfect fishing village of Peggy’s Cove. As you travel, your knowledgeable driver-guide will share stories of the area’s rich maritime heritage and point out sights along the way. On arrival, you’ll have time to explore at your own pace, from wandering the charming lanes to standing before the iconic Peggy’s Point Lighthouse. Perched against dramatic granite rocks where the Atlantic crashes ashore, this world-famous landmark has drawn photographers and visitors for more than a century.
Stroll along the rugged coastline to spot tidal pools, take in sweeping sea views, or admire the local artistry in boutique shops and galleries, including the William deGarthe Art Gallery. Whether you choose to savour local seafood or simply soak up the village’s charm, Peggy’s Cove offers a memorable taste of Nova Scotia’s natural and cultural beauty.
Before returning to Halifax, the tour makes a touching stop at the Swissair Flight 111 Memorial, a peaceful seaside tribute to the 229 lives lost in the 1998 tragedy offshore. The day concludes with a relaxed drive back to your pickup point in Halifax or Dartmouth, leaving you with lasting memories of one of Canada’s most picturesque and poignant coastal destinations.
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Guided Kayak Tour with Multiple Options
Glide across the waters of Halifax on a choice of exciting kayaking tours, each offering a fresh way to experience the city’s scenic harbour and historic shoreline. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful paddle, an active start to the day, or a stunning sunset adventure, there’s a tour perfectly tailored to your pace and preferences.
The 90-minute Sea Kayak Tour is a classic favourite, taking you along the beautiful Halifax Waterfront and around the storied Georges Island, complete with insights into the harbour’s history as you paddle. For a touch of evening magic, the 2-hour Sunset Kayak Tour offers calm waters and golden-hour views beneath the Macdonald Bridge, an unmissable opportunity for photos that capture Halifax at its most enchanting.
If you’re pressed for time, the 45-minute Lunch Paddle slots neatly into a midday break, while the 1-hour Early Bird Paddle is ideal for soaking up the morning light. Weekday paddles cater to experienced kayakers, while weekends welcome all levels—making it easy for everyone to enjoy Halifax from the best seat in the house: a kayak on the water.
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Canadian Museum of Immigration at Pier 21 Admission & Tour
Step into a place where history and personal stories come alive with a visit to the Canadian Museum of Immigration at Pier 21, Halifax’s iconic waterfront landmark. Booking in advance gives you the flexibility to plan your visit around your travel schedule and the weather, ensuring you make the most of your time in port.
With your admission, you’ll explore all exhibits, beginning with the moving Pier 21 Story Exhibition. Led by a passionate guide, you’ll discover what it was like for newcomers arriving in Canada, walking in the footsteps of millions who began new lives here. In the Canadian Immigration Story Exhibition, you’ll trace the evolution of immigration through first-hand accounts, rich cultural history, and compelling stories that continue to shape the nation today. A 20-minute original documentary, In Canada, adds further depth, weaving together narratives of journey and belonging.
For a more personal connection, expert researchers at the Scotiabank Family History Centre can even help you trace your own family’s story. Before you leave, browse the museum’s unique gift shop for Canadian-made treasures—a perfect memento of your visit to this powerful and inspiring national historic site.
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