Tall Ship Silva Sailing Cruise Ft. a Live Musician

Spectacular Waterfront Views and Unique Sailing Experience in Halifax

The Tall Ship Silva Sailing Cruise offers an engaging way to explore Halifax from the water, with a focus on interactive sailing and lively onboard entertainment. Priced at $40.36 per person and lasting approximately 2 hours, this cruise departs from 1751 Lower Water St, along the iconic Halifax Waterfront. The tour is suitable for most travelers, with most participants able to join and a maximum group size of 72 people.

What makes this cruise stand out is the opportunity to help hoist the sails, tie knots, and take turns at the helm, making it a hands-on adventure. A live musician adds a lively atmosphere, while the scenic route showcases landmarks like the Harbour Bridge, Fort George, and McNabs Island. While parking isn’t included, the tour’s proximity to public transport makes access straightforward.

This experience is perfect for those who enjoy water-based activities, scenic views, and an interactive element. The friendly crew, combined with live entertainment, creates a relaxed yet engaging environment. However, weather considerations are important, as poor weather can lead to cancellations with full refunds or rescheduling options.

Key Points

• Interactive sailing with opportunities to hoist sails and tie knots
• Approximately 2 hours of scenic cruising around Halifax Harbour
• Live music adds a lively and relaxed atmosphere onboard
• Landmarks like Harbour Bridge, Fort George, and Georges Island are visible during the cruise
• Tickets cost $40.36, with drinks available for purchase but not included
• Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the scheduled cruise

Departing from the Halifax Waterfront along Lower Water Street

The cruise departs from 1751 Lower Water St, right along the bustling Halifax Waterfront. This central location makes it easy to access via public transportation, and there’s a lively atmosphere by the water. The tour begins with a brief safety and orientation briefing, after which guests are invited to participate in sailing activities or relax and enjoy the views.

The departure point is well-organized, with the sailing tour ending back at the same location. The crew is prompt and friendly, ensuring a smooth start to the experience. Weather conditions are a factor, so dressing in layers is recommended, as temperatures tend to be about 10 degrees cooler on the water.

The Route: Exploring Halifax Harbour and Iconic Landmarks

During the 2-hour cruise, passengers enjoy spectacular views of the Harbour Bridge, Cable Wharf, and the Waterfront Boardwalk. The route also includes a pass by Georges Island National Historic Site, providing a glimpse of the area’s maritime history.

Onboard commentary offers insights into the landmarks seen along the way, enhancing the sightseeing experience. The boat’s position allows for excellent photo opportunities of the harbor, especially when sails are up. While the sails may not always be raised due to weather conditions, the last 45 minutes of the cruise often feature the sails being hoisted, adding to the authentic tall ship feel.

The Sailing Activities and Crew Engagement

One of the main highlights of this cruise is the chance to participate actively in sailing. Guests can hoist the sails, tie knots, and take the helm under the crew’s supervision, making the experience more immersive.

The friendly crew is praised for their professionalism and helpful attitude, creating a welcoming environment for guests of all ages. This hands-on approach is especially appreciated by those interested in maritime activities, and some reviews highlight the young women crew members as inspiring examples.

Participation is optional, so those who prefer to sit back and enjoy the scenery are free to do so. The crew ensures everyone has a fun and safe experience regardless of involvement in sailing tasks.

Enjoying the Live Music and Onboard Atmosphere

A key feature of this cruise is the live musician, who provides a relaxed and enjoyable soundtrack during the sail. The musician—notably Gary in some reviews—is described as fantastic, with a great voice and song selection.

The live music enhances the laid-back vibe, making the cruise feel like a memorable social event. Many reviews mention how the music got everyone singing along and added a special touch to the scenic journey. The onboard entertainment is considered a highlight, elevating the cruise from a standard sightseeing boat ride to a lively, musical gathering.

Food and Drinks: Onboard Bar and Purchase Options

While alcoholic drinks and beverages are not included in the ticket price, they are available for purchase onboard. Passengers can enjoy a drink from the onboard bar, which adds to the relaxing atmosphere.

A selection of snacks and beverages is available, making it easy to unwind with a cold drink or light refreshment while admiring the views. The availability of drinks is praised in reviews, though some note the extra cost, so planning accordingly is recommended.

Sails Up or Down: Experience of the Last 45 Minutes

The final part of the cruise often features the raising of the sails, providing an authentic tall ship experience. Guests get to see the sails hoisted and witness the ship in full sailing mode for around 45 minutes.

Weather can impact this part of the trip; if winds are too strong or conditions unsafe, the sails might not be hoisted. When they are, it offers a beautiful and memorable view that many reviews highlight as a true highlight of the cruise.

Even if the sails are not raised, the scenic route and onboard entertainment ensure a delightful experience.

Crew and Staff: Professionalism and Hospitality

The crew members are consistently praised for their friendliness, professionalism, and helpfulness. They make safety and participation easy, whether guests are actively involved or prefer to observe.

Some reviews mention the crew’s eagerness to help and courteous attitude, which contributes to a warm and welcoming environment. This makes the cruise suitable for families, couples, and groups seeking a relaxing yet engaging water adventure.

Weather Considerations and Preparation

While most reviews note beautiful weather enhancing the experience, some mention that poor weather can limit sailing activities or result in cancellations. The tour requires good weather to operate, and if canceled, a full refund or rescheduling is offered.

Guests are advised to dress warmly and wear layers, as temperatures on the water tend to be cooler—about 10 degrees Celsius lower than on land. Bringing sunscreen and appropriate clothing will help ensure comfort during the cruise.

Booking, Cancellation, and Accessibility

Booking the tour is straightforward with a mobile ticket, and free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance. This flexibility allows for peace of mind if weather or schedule changes occur.

The tour is near public transportation, and service animals are allowed, making it accessible for many travelers. However, parking is not included, so visitors should plan accordingly.

Who Will Enjoy the Tall Ship Silva Sailing Cruise?

This cruise appeals to history enthusiasts, music lovers, and those seeking a scenic maritime experience. Its interactive sailing activities and live entertainment create a lively, memorable atmosphere.

The spectacular harbor views, combined with the chance to help hoist the sails, make this experience especially engaging for families, couples celebrating special occasions, and anyone interested in maritime culture.

However, travelers should be prepared for weather-dependent conditions and limited accessibility for those with mobility issues due to the nature of the vessel.

The Bottom Line: An Enjoyable Water Adventure in Halifax

The Tall Ship Silva Sailing Cruise offers a reasonably priced, two-hour journey that combines scenic sightseeing, interactive sailing, and live music onboard. Its friendly crew and authentic tall ship atmosphere make it a distinctive way to experience Halifax Harbour.

While weather can be a limiting factor, most reviews highlight the friendly staff, great music, and beautiful views as key strengths. This tour is best suited for those who appreciate maritime activities, scenic water routes, and relaxed entertainment.

In summary, this cruise provides a fun, engaging, and scenic way to explore Halifax’s waterfront, with enough flexibility to accommodate different preferences and weather conditions.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, children must be accompanied by an adult, and most travelers can participate, making it family-friendly.

How long does the cruise last?
The cruise lasts approximately 2 hours.

Can I participate in sailing activities?
Participation is optional. You can choose to help hoist the sails, tie knots, or just relax and enjoy the views.

Are drinks available onboard?
Yes, alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks are available for purchase, but they are not included in the price.

What landmarks will I see during the cruise?
Expect views of the Harbour Bridge, Fort George, Cable Wharf, Waterfront Boardwalk, and Georges Island.

Is parking available at the departure point?
Parking is not included, so plan to use nearby public transportation.

What should I wear?
Dressing in layers is recommended, as the weather on the water tends to be about 10°C cooler than on land.

Can I cancel this tour if needed?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the cruise.

What happens in bad weather?
If the weather is poor, the tour may be canceled with a full refund or rescheduling option.

How many people are on each cruise?
The maximum capacity is 72 travelers, ensuring a lively but manageable group.