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

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.

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.

Halifax
January 2, 2025 – December 22, 2025

A group of people take part in a knifemaking demonstration. They sit in front of the instructor at a table, inside a workshop

Forging Lunenburg Memories

$380/Per Couple

Get a glimpse into the art of bladesmithing with award-winning smith, Rick Marchand, before swinging the hammer and crafting your own forged keepsake!