1.5hr Harbour Experience on North America’s LARGEST solar boat!

This 1.5-hour Harbour Experience on North America’s largest solar boat offers a unique way to explore Charlottetown’s stunning waterfront. Priced at $58.59 per person, this eco-friendly tour combines scenic views with engaging commentary, all aboard a quiet, emission-free vessel. It’s an excellent choice for those interested in a relaxing, educational cruise that highlights both local history and innovative green technology.

The boat departs from the Charlottetown Cruise Ship Terminal, with morning, noon, and afternoon schedules catering to different plans. The small group size—a maximum of 34 travelers—ensures a cozy, personalized experience. Notably, the tour features large windows and opening roof hatches, which allow guests to feel the sun and capture memorable photos. Plus, WiFi and video screens are available on board, making the cruise comfortable and convenient.

While this tour does not include food or drinks, it offers restroom facilities and a relaxing atmosphere. The guided commentary is highly praised for being knowledgeable, entertaining, and approachable, making it suitable for a wide range of visitors. This tour is particularly appealing to those who want to learn about Charlottetown’s landmarks and enjoy a peaceful harbor ride with family or friends.

Key Points

• Eco-friendly solar boat provides a quiet, emissions-free cruise through Charlottetown’s harbor
• 1 hour 30 minutes of scenic sightseeing with live guided commentary
• Multiple tour times available to fit different schedules
• Comfortable seating near large windows and open roof hatches for better photos
• WiFi and video screens on board for convenience
• Includes restroom access; food, drinks, and alcohol are not provided

Embarking from Charlottetown Cruise Ship Terminal

The tour begins at the Charlottetown Cruise Ship Terminal, an easily accessible location near public transportation. The small group size keeps the experience intimate, with a maximum of 34 travelers onboard. The mobile ticket option simplifies boarding, and service animals are permitted, making the tour accessible for many.

The boat’s quiet, solar-powered engine ensures a smooth, emission-free ride that minimizes environmental impact. This setup is especially appealing for eco-conscious travelers seeking a sustainable way to experience Charlottetown’s waters. The comfortable seated areas are strategically located near large windows, offering expansive views of the harbor.

Exploring Charlottetown’s Harbour with Live Commentary

The guides lead guests through a series of notable stops and pass by key landmarks, providing informative narration at each point. The tour covers a range of historic sites and visual highlights along the waterfront. Highlights include Charlottetown, known as the “Cradle of Confederation”, and Victoria Park, where the historic fort cannons can be seen silently watching over the city.

Other viewpoints include Port-la-Joye – Fort Amherst, the entrance to Charlottetown Harbour, and Government House, where the founding colonies first met in 1864. The commentary also shares stories about multi-million dollar homes in Stratford, shoreline erosion issues, and local cultural landmarks like Peake’s Wharf and St. Dunstan’s Basilica.

Unique Features: Open Roof Hatches and Scenic Photography

One of the most appreciated aspects of this solar boat tour is the opening roof hatches. Guests are encouraged to step outside or lean over the railings to feel the sun, take better photos, and enjoy fresh air during the cruise. This feature enhances the overall sightseeing experience, making it more immersive and versatile.

The large windows ensure that panoramic views are accessible even from inside the vessel, and the video screens display additional information or close-up views, which adds to the educational value. The WiFi connection allows guests to share their experience instantly, adding a modern convenience to the relaxing harbor ride.

Comfort and Convenience Onboard

The boat’s interior is designed for comfort, with cozy seating arrangements that cater to social groups or couples. Despite some feedback about cramped seating at tables, the overall consensus praises the friendly staff and entertaining guides. The restroom facilities are available on board, ensuring convenience during the cruise.

The WiFi allows guests to stay connected or browse during the tour, while the video screens provide additional insights or entertainment. The quiet, emission-free engine eliminates fuel smells and engine noise, creating a peaceful environment to soak in the views and learn about Charlottetown’s history.

The Route and Landmarks Along the Way

The tour’s itinerary takes guests along Charlottetown Harbour, passing by several historic and cultural sites. At Charlottetown, the guide shares stories about its role as the “Cradle of Confederation” and highlights the Mi’kmaq first settlers.

Moving past Victoria Park, guests see the historic fort cannons and learn about the park’s significance. The boat then glides by Port-la-Joye – Fort Amherst, marking the harbor entrance, and heads toward Government House, where the first meetings of the colonies took place.

Further along, the vessel passes several multi-million dollar residences in Stratford, where the guide explains shoreline erosion issues affecting PEI—about 1 foot of shoreline loss per year. The tour also features sights like Peake’s Wharf, home to the famous Cow’s Ice Cream, and the tallest structure in Charlottetown, St. Dunstan’s Basilica, designated as a Basilica in Canada and a National Historic Site.

The Beaconsfield Historic House, built in 1877, is also visible, representing a piece of PEI’s shipbuilding heritage. Each stop offers a chance for guests to appreciate both the historic significance and scenic beauty of the waterfront.

The Guided Commentary: Knowledgeable and Entertaining

Guests consistently praise the guides and captain for their friendly, entertaining, and well-informed narration. The guides actively encourage questions, and their stories help bring the local history and landmarks to life. The captain’s expertise is also evident in the smooth handling of the boat, enhancing the overall experience.

Commentary includes fun facts, such as trivia about PEI, local culture, and the solar boat itself. The guides’ ability to blend education with entertainment makes this tour engaging for all ages. The interactive elements, like kids getting a chance to pilot the boat, add memorable moments for families.

Food, Drinks, and Onboard Amenities

While this harbor cruise does not include food or beverages, guests can purchase coffee, tea, soda, bottled water, or alcoholic drinks separately before boarding. The lunch options are not part of the tour, but the lunch served at Peake’s Wharf or other local eateries can be enjoyed before or after the cruise.

Onboard, restrooms are available, and WiFi keeps guests connected. The video screens provide additional visual content, and the quiet engine ensures a peaceful environment to appreciate the sights without engine noise or fumes.

Booking, Cancellation, and Practical Tips

The tour can be canceled free of charge up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making it flexible in case of weather concerns. The experience requires good weather; if canceled due to poor conditions, guests are offered an alternative date or full refund.

Since the tour is conducted most days, booking ahead is recommended, especially during peak seasons. The small group size and personalized experience make it a popular choice for families, couples, or small groups looking for an eco-friendly activity on the harbor.

Charlottetown Solar Boat Harbour Cruise: An Eco-Friendly, Scenic Adventure

This solar boat tour offers a rare combination of environmental consciousness and cultural exploration. The quiet, emission-free vessel makes the ride peaceful, while the live commentary reveals fascinating stories about Charlottetown‘s history and landmarks. The scenic stops, large windows, and open roof hatches ensure excellent photo opportunities and an immersive experience.

Despite some seating limitations noted in reviews, the friendly guides and interactive elements—like kids taking the wheel—make this experience memorable. It’s best suited for travelers who enjoy relaxing harbor cruises with a strong educational component and modern amenities like WiFi and video screens.

This tour balances comfort, learning, and sustainability, making it a worthwhile addition to any Charlottetown visit. Whether as an introduction to the city or a relaxing break, the 1.5-hour solar boat experience stands out as a green, engaging way to explore PEI’s waters.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does the tour last?
The Harbor Experience lasts approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes.

Where does the tour start?
It departs from the Charlottetown Cruise Ship Terminal.

Is the boat accessible for people with mobility issues?
Specific accessibility details are not provided, but the tour does allow service animals and is suitable for most travelers.

Are food and drinks included?
No, food, alcohol, and drinks are not included; they can be purchased separately.

What amenities are available onboard?
Guests enjoy restroom facilities, WiFi, and video screens during the cruise.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the scheduled start.

What should I wear?
The tour features open roof hatches, so dress for the weather, and bring sunscreen or a hat on sunny days.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, children are welcome, and interactive activities like piloting the boat add fun for younger guests.

Are there any restrictions on group size?
The maximum group size is 34 travelers, ensuring a comfortable, intimate experience.

Can I book this tour in advance?
Absolutely, booking ahead is recommended to secure your preferred time and date.