Feel The Energy: Cruise Ships Return To Halifax For The First Time In Two Years
For the first time in over two years, cruise ships have docked in Halifax Harbour.
On Tuesday, the Ocean Navigator arrived at 6 a.m., followed two hours later by the Norwegian Getaway marking the beginning of the citys 2022 cruise-ship season.
Both ships are estimated to bring in up to 4,000 passengers.
We havent seen them in a couple of years, so we were definitely excited to see them back, said Port of Halifax director of communications Lane Farguson in an interview with CTV News.
When passengers made it to shore Tuesday morning, many embarked on bus and walking tours of the area.
Farguson says tourism operators are excited to have an opportunity to rebuild their businesses, which have taken a hit during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Because the lack of cruise for the last couple of years, so just to see their smiling faces and just to feel the energy that these ships bring to the downtown, its nice to be a part of, said Farguson.
The industry pumps more than $170 million into the local economy.
Farguson says work has been done to protect both passengers and Nova Scotians from COVID-19.
Generally speaking, just about everybody on those ships needs to be fully vaccinated, and they need to take a test 72 hours before they sail.
He says discussions with Public Health Canada help determine the overall health of the ship prior to it docking in any given city.
Both ships will leave Halifax around 5 p.m., Tuesday.
Recommended Reading: Do Cruise Ships Have Morgues
About Canada & New England Cruises
Cruise to Canadas east coast and down into New England past dramatic natural sights, old-world towns and ultra-modern cities. If you cant decide between a scenic escape or a city break, cruise to New England and Canada, a stunning part of the world that offers both.
Canada and New England have ports all along the coast, so you can choose where to embark. Popular starting points for Canada and New England cruises include New York, Cape Liberty, and Montreal. Take a short, 7-night voyage along the coast or book a 14-night cruise to enjoy more of the sights.
Port days might involve exploring thriving cities such as Boston and Quebec City. Alternatively, you might end up wandering around charming oceanfront towns such as Halifax, Nova Scotia or Bar Harbor, Maine. As you make a port visit, enjoy meals of fresh New England lobster and other local dishes.
New England and Canada cruises in summer guarantee the best weather. Perhaps the prettiest time to go, however, is autumn. The forest-lined coasts burst into a vivid array of reds and golds, promising spectacular, colorful scenery.
Also Check: Last Minute Cruises From Boston
Halifax Cruise Port Facilities
The Halifax Seaport area has been specifically redeveloped and designed to service cruise ships and welcome cruise passengers to Halifax. Even visitors short on time can easily find plenty of local shops, restaurants and other vendors without stepping foot into Downtown Halifax.
Piers 22 and 20 are the principle cruise ship berths offering passengers access to dedicated cruise terminals, Pavilions 22 and 20. Pavilion 22 offers a unique and friendly shopping experience and Pavilion 20 offers an open space ideal for meeting tours buses, taxis and limousines are conveniently located in front of the terminals. Pier 23, the Cunard Centre, is also used for cruise activities.
Halifaxs picturesque waterfront is easy to explore on foot and close. Even if youre not in the mood to shop, stroll the boardwalk that zigzags along the harbor, lined with shops, restaurants and attractions.
Those looking to convene with nature need only walk just outside the seaport to Point Pleasant Park . This green space has about 25 miles of easy, winding trails, preserved ruins and fortresses, and frequently hosts outdoor theater performances under Shakespeare by the Sea.
Also Check: What Cruise Lines Go Out Of Galveston
Life Onboard Norwegian Pearl
Celebrate sensational days with entertaining nights on board the recently refurbished Norwegian Pearl. Read more
Enjoy feeling free at sea. Free from fixed dining times. Free from pre-assigned seating. Feel free to cruise your way on Norwegian. Read more
Recharge your body and your mind with a workout or a wind down. Its all at your fingertips on Norwegian Pearl. Read more
Welcome to a culinary world of choice on Norwegian Pearl. Share it with old friends or new, inside or oceanside. Its up to you. Read more
Step aboard Norwegian Pearl where a range of varied activities await travellers of all ages. Read more
Get ready for a line up of entertainment that will have you on the edge of your seat and toe tapping your feet. Read more
The Port Of Halifax Prepares For 152 Cruise Calls This Year
The Port of Halifax in Nova Scotia, Canada is gearing up for a busy 2022 cruising season, which is scheduled to begin on April 26 with the arrival of Norwegian Cruise Lines Norwegian Getaway and American Queen Voyages Ocean Navigator.
In total, the port is expecting 152 cruise ship visits this year.
We are starting the rebuilding process in a strong position, said Captain Allan Gray, President and CEO, Halifax Port Authority. With 152 expected vessel calls in 2022, we are at 85% of where we left off in 2019, which is a great position to be in. Nova Scotia is a place that people want to visit, and the cruise lines want to come here. We remain a safe, welcoming destination with natural beauty and authentic experiences to offer.
Here are some fun facts about Halifaxs cruise schedule in 2022:
- The port is scheduled to have 13 days that will see three cruise ships.
- There will be three days with four cruise ships.
- One day on the calendar this year will see five cruise ships.
- Royal Caribbeans mega ship Oasis of the Seas will dock on June 7 the largest cruise vessel to call on Halifax to date.
- Cunards elegant ocean liner Queen Mary 2 is scheduled to visit Halifax twice this year on July 6 and October 5.
- Disney Cruise Lines Disney Magic is set to call on Halifax on October 14.
The Port of Halifaxs 2022 cruise season will run until November 5.
Don’t Miss: Which Cruise Ships Go To Glacier Bay Alaska
Cruise To Nova Scotia From Boston
is a part of every cruise to Canada out of Boston. The port in Nova Scotia is Halifax. Walk the Halifax waterfront boardwalk to enjoy shops, restaurants, tall ships, and the casino. The Canadian Museum of Immigration at Pier 21 is an attraction on the waterfront too. It was the entry point into Canada for a million immigrants.
The Halifax Seaport Farmers Market is the longest continuously running market in North America and has 250 vendors. Enjoy the fresh local food and hand-crafted products. It is open daily.
Experience the sights and sounds of Halifax Nova Scotia in the video below. It’s only 2 minutes and 30 seconds long.
Halifax Citadel fortress overlooks the city and harbor from a strategic hilltop position. Visit the fort and be a soldier for a day. Be fitted for an authentic uniform. Hear the bagpipes play.
Halifax Public Gardens are a hugely popular attraction. An early example of a Victorian garden on 17 acres in the center of the city. Stroll through to see impressive floral displays. Free admission.
Luxury Cruises To Nova Scotia Canada
Canada’s maritime provinces offer a wonderful combination of nature and culture, and on a Nova Scotia cruise, youll get to see some of the best that this region has to offer. Discover charming fishing towns, colonial fortifications, and exciting activities in the great outdoors.
Visit Halifax, the capital of Nova Scotia and one of the largest cities in Atlantic Canada. The Halifax Citadel National Historic Site is a must-see, as is the Maritime Museum of the Atlantic. You’ll also travel to Sydney, Nova Scotia’s second-largest city, located on Cape Breton Island. Sydney is the perfect place to enjoy outdoor activities like hiking, fishing, and kayaking, as well as learning about the area’s fascinating Celtic heritage. Get ready for an exciting Canadian maritime adventure on a luxury Nova Scotia cruise with Celebrity.
Also Check: What Are The Best Cruises For Young Adults
Canada Cruises Travel Tips
- Be aware that port cities can be in different time zones.
- Understand that the currency of Canada is the Canadian dollar the American dollar is typically worth more. If you use American currency, you will receive change in Canadian currency.
- While major credit cards are typically accepted, double-check with your bank to ensure you will be able to use your card on your trip.
- Temperatures tend to be cooler earlier in the morning and later in the day and evening, so layer clothing accordingly.
- If youre traveling in October, know that Canadian Thanksgiving is observed the second Monday of the month. This holiday could halt operations or reduce hours of operation in some though not all cities .
Cruises From Boston To Nova Scotia
The Canadian province of Nova Scotia is a stop on nearly every cruise from Boston to Canada most cruises continue down the St. Lawrence River to Quebec City or Montreal. Cruises are scheduled from late May through October, taking advantage of the lush greenery of summer or the brilliant colors of autumn. Five-, seven- or 10-night cruises travel between Boston and Montreal, while 14-night cruises make a round trip, beginning and ending in Boston.
Don’t Miss: Cruises For Singles Over 60
Horses Of Sable Island
Spotting wild horses on this unspoilt sandbar island
Your expedition cruise from Halifax makes its first stop at the crescent-shaped Sable Island named after the French word for sand and now a national park reserve that protects the magnificent wild horses which live here. There are believed to be over 550 of them roaming free, descended from horses originally released back in the 18th century.
The waters close to the island are historically challenging, but the sandy beaches provide an excellent vantage to view the island. Join us in our small expedition boats as we attempt a beach landing on this remote shore, or simply admire the dramatic scenery from the deck.
Norwegian Cruises From Boston
Norwegian Cruise Line offers seasonal cruises out of Boston. Destinations include Bermuda or New England & Canada. See the full schedule of departures below.
Norwegian Cruise Line features casual Freestyle Cruising. Resort casual clothes are the rule onboard. There are lots of dining and entertainment choices. Activities are one of their strong points. Tours, demonstrations, shows and contests are available to liven up the trip. Get a spa treatment. There is a “kids crew” program to keep the children busy.
The Norwegian Gem is the ship sailing from Boston.
Read Also: Cruising In The United States
First Port Of Halifax Cruise Vessel In 2022 To Arrive Tuesday April 26
April 22, 2022, Halifax, Nova Scotia The 2022 Halifax cruise season will officially start April 26 at 6:00 a.m. with the arrival of the Ocean Navigator at Berth 23. This will be followed by the arrival of the Norwegian Getaway at Berth 22 at 8:00 a.m.
The Halifax Port Authority is arranging a welcoming ceremony at Pavilion 22 for the arrival of the Norwegian Getaway to mark the return of cruise to our port city. Members of the media are welcome.
2022 Halifax Cruise highlights include:
- Three ship days 13
Tags:Halifax
The 2022 cruise season in Halifax will start on April 26 with the arrival of Norwegian Getaway, a Norwegian Cruise Line vessel and Ocean Navigator, an American Queen Steamboat Co. vessel. The season will run until November 5, 2022.
We are starting the rebuilding process in a strong position, said Captain Allan Gray, President and CEO, Halifax Port Authority.
With 152 expected vessel calls in 2022, we are at 85% of where we left off in 2019, which is a great position to be in. Nova Scotia is a place that people want to visit, and the cruise lines want to come here. We remain a safe, welcoming destination with natural beauty and authentic experiences to offer.
The Port of Halifax is expecting 152 vessel calls in 2022.
Three ship days 13
Beautiful Nature And Maritime History
Youll follow the Lighthouse Route to glorious Peggys Cove before cruising the coast from Halifax in Nova Scotia to the sandbars of Sable Island, where magnificent wild horses and seals reside in a national park. Then youll sail on to visit the UNESCO-listed former colonial settlement of Lunenburg.
You May Like: What Cruise Line Cruises The Hawaiian Islands
Canada & New England Cruises From Boston Massachusetts
At certain times of the year, New England and eastern Canadaâs landscape transitions from the tranquil green of summer to an autumn scene of burning reds, oranges, and yellows. Leaf season further frames the local culture, influenced by the English and French, offering a glimpse into early American history, and capturing quintessential regional aspects.
Because of these factors, many travelers in the U.S. and across the globe decide to embark on a Canada and New England cruise in the spring, summer, and fall. These trips, many leaving from Boston, travel up the New England coast, stopping at a few towns and cities by the shore. Then, once in Canada, the ship sails around Nova Scotia and down the St. Lawrence River, taking you past unique Canadian landscapes, through history, and to two of the countryâs major cities.
What are your traveling options?
Watch The Leaves Turn On Our New England Cruises No Raking Required
Along the coastline of Canada & New England is where the deep-blue sea meets rich autumn hues. Witness the changing fall foliage, one of nature’s amazing spectacles. It’s also where you’ll travel back to the Gilded Age and explore Bar Harbour, an opulent summer retreat built for the 19th-century elite. Québec Citys iconic Chateau Frontenac is where youll find the best views of the Saint Lawrence River. And be sure to save an afternoon for a true “downeast” lobster bake. Experience it all with North America’s Leading Cruise Line .
^Buy an air ticket and the 2nd guest flies for free. *View for full terms and conditions.
You May Like: What Is Included In Concierge Class On Celebrity Cruises
Cruise Season 2022 In Halifax Restarts On April 26 With Norwegian Getaway And Ocean Navigator
Cruise season 2022 in Halifax will restart on April 26 with the arrival of NCL-Norwegian Cruise Lines Norwegian Getaway and AQV-American Queen VoyagesOcean Navigator.
The season is expected to run until November 5.
Captain Allan Gray said they were starting the rebuilding process in a strong position.
With 152 expected vessel calls in 2022, we are at 85% of where we left off in 2019, which is a great position to be in. Nova Scotia is a place that people want to visit, and the cruise lines want to come here. We remain a safe, welcoming destination with natural beauty and authentic experiences to offer.
The Port is expecting 152 cruise ship calls in 2022, of which thirteen 3-ship days, three 4-ship days, and one 5-ship day.
A call from Royal Caribbeans Oasis of the Seas is scheduled for June 7. Oasis OTS is the largest cruise ship to call on Halifax to date.
A couple of calls from Cunard Lines Queen Mary 2 are scheduled for July 6 and October 5.
Cruises From Shelburne Nova Scotia
Shelburne is a small town in SW Nova Scotia, Canada, about 170km south on the same coast as Halifax, the provincial capital. It lies about 18km from the open ocean. This maritime region was part of the French colony Arcadia in the early 1600s. Their small fishing village was raided by English colonists in the early 1700s, who created a fishing station at Cape Roseway in 1715 now known as Shelburne. Read more
It was raided by the infamous pirate Ned Low in 1722. In 1783 it was resettled by United Empire Loyalists, and the event is commemorated today in full-dress marches.
Read Also: What Is Celebrity Cruises Known For
Canada & New England Cruises On Norwegian Escape
Explore Canada and New England on board Norwegian Escape this fall. One of the most exciting ships on the seas, Norwegian Escape offers cruisers the chance to chase sunsets on The Waterfront, dine like nowhere else at sea with over 25 dining experiences, and toast to your vacation with more than 21 bars and lounges.
Cruise Ships Return To The Maritimes
While Halifax saw its first cruise ships on Tuesday, it was not the first time a cruise ship sailed into the Maritimes this season.
Last Friday, the Viking Octantis arrived in Charlottetown. It was the first cruise ship to dock in the P.E.I., city since November 2019.
The CEO of Port Charlottetown says his organization is delighted to welcome ships back to the island.
The safe return of cruise ships in Charlottetown, and in Canada, represents the culmination of many months of planning, cooperation, and tenacity on the part of all of our partners and our community, said Mike Cochrane in a news release last week.
We are eager to kick off a busy season and welcome the world back to Charlottetown.
Seventy-four ships will dock in the city between April and November.
A release from the port says the industry supports 294 island jobs and generates $42.2 million for the P.E.I. economy.
Charlottetowns last cruise-ship season brought in a record-breaking 128,000 visitors to the island in 2019.
During the two-year pause, a $12-million berth expansion was completed at the port. Officials say it will increase capacity, allowing multiple ships to dock simultaneously.
New Brunswicks cruise-ship season will start with a bang Thursday night, when a fireworks show is set to welcome the Regent Seven Seas Navigator to port in Saint John.
A tugboat water show will see the ship off as it departs around 1:45 p.m. Friday.
Don’t Miss: What To Do On St Thomas From Cruise Ship