St. Andrews by the Sea Shore Excursion from Port of Saint John

Exploring the seaside town of St. Andrews by-the-Sea through this 5 to 6-hour shore excursion offers a well-rounded experience of history, natural beauty, and local charm. Priced at $502.72 per group (up to 3 people), the tour provides pickup, a private vehicle, and bottled water, making it a convenient and intimate way to discover this coastal gem. The tour’s highlights include visits to the St. Andrews Blockhouse, optional exploration of the Kingsbrae Garden, and an intriguing walk across the ocean floor at low tide to Ministers Island.

While the tour doesn’t include entry tickets to some attractions, such as Kingsbrae Garden or Ministers Island, you get to enjoy a flexible exploration of the town, with time at New River Beach Provincial Park as an optional relaxing stop on the return. It suits visitors interested in history, scenic views, and unique tidal walks, especially those comfortable with a somewhat flexible schedule due to tide-dependent elements.

Key Points

• Private shore excursion from Saint John for up to 3 people at a cost of $502.72
• Duration of around 5 to 6 hours, including multiple stops and optional activities
• Visit St. Andrews’ Loyalist heritage sites, including the St. Andrews Blockhouse
• Discover the tide-dependent walk across the ocean floor to Ministers Island
• Enjoy free time to browse local shops and galleries in St. Andrews
• Optional stop at Kingsbrae Garden and relaxing time at New River Beach

Starting Point and Transportation Logistics in Saint John

This tour begins at the Port of Saint John, with convenient pickup options available. The journey is made in an air-conditioned vehicle, ensuring comfort while traveling through the scenic landscape of New Brunswick. The tour is designed for private groups, offering a personalized experience without crowds, and is suitable for most travelers with no specific physical requirements mentioned.

Exploring St. Andrews by-the-Sea and Its Loyalist Heritage

The tour centers around St. Andrews, a town celebrated for its Loyalist roots and charming coastal atmosphere. You’ll have around two hours to wander through the town, taking in historic architecture and browsing local shops and galleries. This gives a relaxed pace to absorb the town’s maritime ambiance and perhaps pick up souvenirs or local crafts.

Visiting the St. Andrews Blockhouse: A National Historic Site

A highlight of the tour is the St. Andrews Blockhouse, which overlooks the Bay of Fundy. This structure serves as a rare example of early Canadian military architecture and holds the distinction of being a National Historic Site. The 15-minute stop allows time to appreciate the fortification’s history and enjoy views over the bay, with no admission fee.

The Tide-Dependent Bar Road and Ministers Island Walk

One of the most distinctive features of this tour is the walk across Bar Road, a gravel causeway that becomes visible only at low tide. Visitors can walk or drive across the ocean floor to reach Ministers Island, the former estate of Sir William Van Horne. Although the visit to Ministers Island is not included in the tour, the walk itself offers a fascinating experience of the Bay of Fundy’s dramatic tides and coastal geography.

Optional Visit to Kingsbrae Garden

For those wishing to enjoy beautiful horticultural displays, the tour offers an optional stop at Kingsbrae Garden. Entrance tickets cost around 22 CAD, and exploring the gardens allows visitors to stroll through serene landscapes, sculptures, and floral displays. Since the ticket is not included, visitors should plan accordingly if they wish to visit.

Relaxing at New River Beach Provincial Park

On the return leg, there’s an optional stop at New River Beach Provincial Park, providing a chance to relax on the beach, enjoy scenic views, or simply unwind after a day of exploration. This flexible stop is ideal for those who prefer some leisure time before heading back to Saint John.

Practical Details: Meeting Points, Timing, and Accessibility

The tour runs daily from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM during the operational months from June 8 to October 19 in both 2025 and 2026. Most travelers can participate, and service animals are allowed. It’s advisable to request a child seat in advance if traveling with children, ensuring safety for younger participants. As a private tour, the experience is tailored to your group, offering flexibility in pacing and stops.

Considerations for a Smooth Experience

Since the walk across Bar Road depends on low tide, timing can be a factor in planning this tour. The walk offers a unique perspective of the Bay of Fundy’s tidal phenomena, but it’s important to note that a visit to Ministers Island itself requires separate tickets and is not part of this package. No meals are included, so travelers might want to bring snacks or plan for dining separately.

Final Thoughts on the St. Andrews by-the-Sea Shore Excursion

This tour provides a comprehensive look at St. Andrews’ historic and natural attractions in a private, comfortable setting. The combination of cultural sites, tidal walks, and the option to relax at New River Beach makes it well-suited for those interested in a balanced, scenic day. Its moderate price reflects the private group experience and the convenience of door-to-door pickup.

Although some attractions require additional tickets, the tour’s flexibility allows for personalized exploration. The stunning coastal views, historic landmarks, and tidal adventure are likely to appeal most to history buffs and nature lovers who enjoy scenic walks and relaxed sightseeing.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the duration of the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 5 to 6 hours.

How many people can participate?
This is a private tour for up to 3 people per group.

What is the price?
The cost is $502.72 per group, which includes pickup and transportation.

Are tickets to Kingsbrae Garden or Ministers Island included?
No, tickets are not included; Kingsbrae Garden costs 22 CAD, and Ministers Island also costs 22 CAD for entry.

Can I walk across Bar Road at any time?
No, the walk is tide-dependent and only possible at low tide.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, but it’s recommended to request a child seat in advance if traveling with young children.

What are the meeting points?
The tour begins at the Port of Saint John, with pickup options provided.

Is food included?
No, meals are not included; you should plan to bring snacks or dine separately.

Can service animals join the tour?
Yes, service animals are allowed.

What makes this tour different from other Saint John excursions?
Its focus on historic sites, tidal walks to Ministers Island, and personalized private experience sets it apart.