Explore Nova Scotia, PEI, and More with Our Canadian Maritimes Tour

“We not only visited interesting places, but met locals, heard their stories, enjoyed local music and dance, and learned about the provinces' culture and challenges. It was, overall, a wonderful experience!” - Traveller Barbara H., Canadian Maritimes and Coastal Wonders

That “wonderful experience” took place while journeying through the Canadian Maritimes with Collette. And with all this region has to offer, it’s easy to see why.

The Canadian Maritimes consist of three provinces that extend into the Atlantic: Nova Scotia, Prince Edward Island (PEI), and New Brunswick. Their rugged coastlines and natural beauty draw many travellers in—and rightfully so—but Canada’s Atlantic shores offer so much more than stunning scenery. This region holds centuries of stories, and it’s been shaped by diverse cultural influences and communities of both past and present.

It's a multifaceted gem, and Collette’s Canadian Maritimes and Coastal Wonders tour offers a glimpse of its many dimensions.

What Makes the Canadian Maritimes a Must-Visit Destination?

Maritimes Coastlines & Countryside

While there’s more to the Maritimes than stunning landscapes, you can’t talk about this region without celebrating its beauty. Where sea meets land, you can set your eyes on dramatic cliffs, hidden coves, rugged rock formations, and beaches. Meanwhile, a visit to the countryside can bring the quiet serenity of winding roads, untouched valleys, rolling hills, and pastoral landscapes dotted with small villages.

There’s no shortage of natural beauty in the Maritime provinces. These are just three of the highlights:

• Peggy’s Cove, Nova Scotia: Here, you’ll find one of the most photographed lighthouses in the world. Sitting atop the cove’s huge weather-beaten rocks, overlooking the water, its white and red façade paints an iconic picture.
• The Cabot Trail, Nova Scotia: There’s a reason the Cabot Trail is considered one of the most beautiful drives in the world. This 186-mile highway is a scenic route that takes you through Cape Breton Highlands National Park, quaint fishing villages, and some of Canada's most breathtaking landscapes.
• Bay of Fundy, New Brunswick: This world-famous bay, which sits between New Brunswick and Nova Scotia, has the highest tides in the world. You can spot it from the Fundy Trail, which offers another incredibly scenic drive.
• Hopewell Rocks, New Brunswick: Standing between 40 and 70 feet tall, these sea stacks are one of the Bay of Fundy’s most notable features. Here, the bay’s extreme tides put on a spectacular show. At low tide, walk the ocean floor as the rocks tower above you; at high tide, kayak around them or observe from a distance.

Communities & Culture of the Maritimes

From Nova Scotia’s capital of Halifax to PEI’s capital of Charlottetown, each province offers a touch of urban excitement. Meanwhile, an abundance of smaller communities—spots like Mahone Bay and Neil’s Harbour, for example—can enchant with their quaint streets, authentic food, local businesses, and natural scenery.

As you journey through these communities, it’s easy to encounter pieces of history. Visit New London, PEI and see the setting for the literary classic, Anne of Green Gables. You can even delve into the character’s history at the Anne of Green Gables Museum. In Baddeck, Nova Scotia, learn about Alexander Graham Bell at a National Historic Site celebrating his life and work.

There’s also a rich heritage to explore in the Maritimes. Indigenous cultures, including the Mi’kmaq, Acadian, and Gaelic cultures, are all important parts of that heritage.

Food in the Canadian Maritimes

Seafood lovers, the Maritimes are calling you. Given these provinces border the Atlantic, it’s no surprise that fresh seafood is so integral to the culinary scene. From Nova Scotia’s lobsters to PEI’s mussels—which are the bestselling mussels in North America—there are plenty of high-quality seafood options to try.

But “seafood” isn’t the only thing to note. Keep in mind that the Maritimes aren’t just one place: they’re three different provinces with a variety of influences. You can find restaurants serving Acadian dishes, such as meat pie or chicken fricot (a stew), or spots that offer the Quebecois specialty, poutine. And even if you do find yourself ordering similar dishes across the region, different areas can have different takes on the same dish.

How Collette’s Canadian Maritimes Tour Brings the Region to Life

Remember our traveller from earlier? Their words are a testimony to how our Canadian Maritimes tour goes beyond the typical sightseeing, exploring other facets that make this region so special.

Yes, travellers get to admire the scenery, from the Cabot and Fundy Trails to the lighthouse of Peggy Cove. But they’ll also see a kilt-making demonstration and join in on a “milling frolic” at the Gaelic College. They’ll stop at the Millbrook Cultural and Heritage Centre to learn about the Mi’kmaq lineage, and go to the Grand-Pré National Historic Site to uncover the Acadian people’s history. They’ll visit the Anne of Green Gables and Alexander Graham Bell Museums, crack into a lobster dinner, and more.

And it all happens with a knowledgeable Tour Manager there to guide the way, share insights, and peel back the layers of this destination.

What Travellers Are Saying About Our Canadian Maritimes Tour

Here's what other travellers are saying about this expertly designed tour:

• “I enjoyed seeing the country and learning about the culture and history. The Fundy Trail was spectacular.” Traveller Mary Ann J.
• “The trip felt like a huge history lesson. I learned more than I ever expected about the area and culture. It was so amazing. The museum selection was wonderful.” Traveller Susan E.
• “Bernadette [Tour Manager] did everything well. She was always available and would answer any question thrown at her. She is very knowledgeable about the history of the Maritimes and introduced us to a culture I knew nothing about. She shared memories and had a good sense of humour!” Traveller Linda F.

Ready to Explore? Plan Your Canadian Maritimes Adventure with Collette Today

You’ve seen what some of our travellers think of our Canadian Maritimes and Coastal Wonders tour. What will you?

Learn more about the tour or contact us today to book your guided journey.