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Boating in Nova Scotia

Almost an island, there is no better way to explore Nova Scotia than by boat

Here the possibilities are endless, and you can tackle them at your own pace along 13,300 kilometres (over 8,300 miles) of coastline, dotted with endless inlets, coves, and harbours. Embrace our ever-changing people and places as you explore our diverse coastline, discovering urban vibrancy, charming villages and welcoming working waterfronts.

Plan your boating adventure

Even the most unexpected adventures, sometimes start with a plan. Within each region below, you will find important details to help make the most of your visit to Canada’s Ocean Playground – from must-see sights and experiences to practical information to plan your visit.

We look forward to welcoming you

Learn about key details such as marinas, charts, tides, and ports in the Nova Scotia Boating Guide

For further information, please contact: info@boatingnovascotia.com

For itinerary tips and sharing your adventures with #boatingnovascotia follow us on Facebook at ‘Boating Nova Scotia’ or on instagram @boatingnovascotia

Nova Scotia Boating Itineraries

People shopping in downtown Halifax.

Halifax

  • Nova Scotia’s largest city, capital, and cultural hub
  • 4-kilometre harbourfront boardwalk is lined with shops, restaurants, cafés, and entertainment
  • Multitude of unique dining, shopping, live music venues, and nightlife
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A couple dines on an outdoor patio overlooking the Lunenburg Harbour in Nova Scotia

South and Yarmouth & Acadian Shores

  • Home of Bluenose, the famous racing schooner, and Bluenose II, UNESCO World Heritage Site of Lunenburg, and Cape Forchu and Peggy’s Cove Lighthouses
  • Discover the Acadian Skies and Mi’kmaq Lands, North America’s first starlight preserve destination
  • Storied seafaring past combined with fresh, local seafood, oceanside accommodations, and white sandy beaches
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Northumberland Shore

  • Warmest-water ocean beaches in Atlantic Canada
  • Tasty lobster and skilled artisans
  • Abundant history and Gaelic culture
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Eastern Shore

  • Pristine wilderness, historically-themed attractions, and white sandy beaches
  • Some of the best cold-water surfing on the east coast of North America
  • The 100 Wild Islands protected coastal wilderness area
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Cape Breton Island & Bras d’Or Lake

  • The world-renowned Cabot Trail and its dramatic coastal views, highland scenery, and Bras d’Or Lake, a UNESCO designated Biosphere
  • Variety of hiking trails, world-class golf, Celtic culture, and lively music scene
  • Named the #1 Island in the Americas by Condé Nast Traveler
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Your Guide to Canada's Ocean Playground

Learn about key details such as marinas, charts, tides, and ports in Nova Scotia to help boaters make the most of their visit to Nova Scotia.

Access the Nova Scotia Boating Guide

Discover Unique Events & Experiences in Nova Scotia

Aerial of a helicopter flying over a small island with a lighthouse. Food & Drink • History & Heritage • Outdoor Adventure • Romance

Heli-Picnic Island Escape

$675 – $775

Take a helicopter tour over the city of Halifax and Nova Scotia's coastline to Sambro Island for an exclusive picnic and island exploration.

  • Location An icon to show the location Halifax
  • Date An icon to show the date January 2, 2025 – December 22, 2025
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Arts & Culture • Family • Hands-on Learning

Forging Lunenburg Memories

$380/Starting Price • Per Couple

Discover the tools and artistry of an award-winning blacksmith—then swing the hammer to forge your own keepsake!

  • Wildertools
  • Location An icon to show the location Lunenburg
  • Date An icon to show the date January 1, 2025 – December 31, 2026
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Two brown horses on a sandy beach. The blue ocean and blue sky is in the background. There is not a cloud in the sky. History & Heritage • Outdoor Adventure

Sable Island Tour

$3,390/Per Person

Explore one of the most remote islands on earth, Sable Island National Park Reserve and see wild horses and the world’s largest grey seal colony!

  • Location An icon to show the location Halifax
  • Date An icon to show the date July 1, 2025 – October 16, 2025
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History & Heritage • Outdoor Adventure

Cliffs of Fundy Private Plane Tour

$540/Starting Price • Per Family*

Soar above the majestic landscapes of the Cliffs of Fundy UNESCO Global Geopark by private plane. Marvel at towering sea cliffs, islands, and rock…

  • Location An icon to show the location Debert
  • Date An icon to show the date January 1, 2025 – December 31, 2025
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Family • Food & Drink • Outdoor Adventure • Relaxation • Romance

Stay and Play at Fox Harb’r Resort

Stay and play at Fox Harb’r Resort, with the choice of a one round or a two round golf package stay. Enjoy your golfing experience on a c…

  • Location An icon to show the location Fox Harbour
  • Date An icon to show the date May 8, 2025 – October 26, 2025
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Explore Nova Scotia by Boat
A lady in a blue shirt and red hat with blond flowy hair, stands in front of the Lunenburg waterfront which is full of colourful buildings and boats in the harbour
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