Maritime Adventures in Nova Scotia & Beyond

A self-drive loop from Halifax through Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, Prince Edward Island and Cape Breton Island, with your flights, hotels, car hire and ferries all arranged.

After a night in Halifax, spend two nights in the UNESCO-listed town of Lunenburg and two in historic Annapolis Royal, with a wildlife boat trip around Brier Island for the chance to see whales, seals and seabirds. The ferry then takes you across the Bay of Fundy to New Brunswick for two nights at Fundy National Park, home to some of the highest tides in the world.

Next, head to Prince Edward Island for two nights in Charlottetown, before the ferry back to Nova Scotia and three nights in Baddeck, perfectly placed for driving the Cabot Trail. You finish with a final night in Halifax.

Like all our trips, it’s easy to adjust: add nights where you’d like longer, upgrade your hotels or change the route to suit you.

Is this a private trip, and can I change it?

It’s a private trip built around your dates, not a group tour on fixed departures. You drive yourself and set your own pace, with your hotels, ferries and wildlife boat trip booked in advance. You can change anything: add nights, swap places, upgrade hotels or slow the pace, and we’ll reprice it for you.

When is the best time to go?

Late May to October. July and August are the warmest and busiest months, while September and early October bring quieter roads and autumn colour, especially on the Cabot Trail.

The Brier Island wildlife trip runs from late May to October.

Which airlines do you use?

We usually use Air Canada, British Airways or WestJet, which fly direct from London to Vancouver, Calgary, Toronto and Montréal, and we can book flights from regional UK airports.

Flights out leave during the day, so you arrive the same day. Flights home are usually overnight, which is why the length of each trip includes a night on the plane.

What are the hotels like?

We choose hotels for their location and character, from city hotels to mountain lodges and small inns. Some Canadian hotels add a resort or facility fee, and city hotels often charge for parking. Where we can, we include these in your price, and we’ll tell you about any you pay locally.

Do I need a visa?

UK passport holders flying to Canada need an Electronic Travel Authorisation (eTA). It only takes a few minutes to apply online, but do it as soon as you’ve booked, and use the official Government of Canada website, as other sites charge extra. If you hold a different passport, ask us.

Halifax, Nova Scotia

Perched on the rugged Atlantic coast, Halifax is a welcoming maritime city where seafaring history meets youthful energy. One of the world’s largest natural harbours shapes the city’s identity, with boardwalks, historic piers, and sweeping ocean views at every turn.

Halifax’s past comes alive at landmarks such as the Citadel National Historic Site and the Canadian Museum of Immigration at Pier 21, while its present thrives in lively pubs, music venues, and a growing culinary scene. From fresh seafood to coastal trails and sunsets over the harbour, Halifax offers an authentic taste of East Coast Canada—warm, resilient, and full of character.

Lunenburg, Nova Scotia

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Lunenburg is a postcard-perfect town celebrated for its colourful waterfront and deep maritime roots. Founded in the 18th century, its well-preserved wooden architecture and narrow streets reflect centuries of seafaring tradition.

Home to the famous Bluenose schooner, Lunenburg invites visitors to explore its nautical heritage through museums, working shipyards, and scenic harbour cruises. Art galleries, cozy cafés, and ocean-fresh cuisine add contemporary charm to this historic coastal gem, making it one of Nova Scotia’s most enchanting destinations.

Annapolis Royal, Nova Scotia

One of Canada’s oldest European settlements, Annapolis Royal is a picturesque town steeped in history and surrounded by natural beauty. Set along the Annapolis Basin, its tranquil waterfront and heritage streets reflect centuries of Acadian, Mi’kmaq, and colonial influence.

Visitors can explore Fort Anne National Historic Site, stroll through the beautifully landscaped Annapolis Royal Historic Gardens, or enjoy the town’s thriving arts scene and local cafés. With its relaxed pace, rich past, and scenic setting, Annapolis Royal offers an intimate and evocative glimpse into Nova Scotia’s storied heritage.

View Itinerary in Detail

To view a sample holiday, click on one of the links below. This will open the itinerary up in a new window.

All of our Canada Holidays are completely tailor made and we can put together any kind of itinerary to suit your interests and budget.

We have many other options so if you have a particular hotel in mind just let us know and we'll put together a price and itinerary for you.