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

Planning a cruise stop in Saint John and seeking a way to explore the nearby historic and scenic town of St. Andrews? This St. Andrews by-the-Sea Shore Excursion offers a well-rounded glimpse into one of Canada’s most charming seaside spots. Whether you’re drawn to historic sites, lush gardens, or the unique coastal landscape, this tour provides a nice balance of sights and stories—all wrapped up in a comfortable, private ride.

What we particularly like about this experience is its combination of cultural insight and breathtaking scenery. Exploring St. Andrews’ Loyalist roots and visiting the iconic St. Andrews Blockhouse gives a real sense of Canadian military beginnings, while the optional visit to Kingsbrae Garden brings some peace and beauty into the mix. Plus, the thrill of walking the ocean floor to Minister’s Island—if the tide’s just right—is a memorable highlight.

A possible consideration? The price might seem steep at over $500 for a group of three, but when you factor in private transportation, flexible stops, and the chance to customize your experience, many will find it offers solid value. This tour is ideal for travelers who appreciate history, nature, and the chance to explore at their own pace—perfect for small groups or families looking to enjoy the coast without the hassle of navigating on their own.

Key Points

• Private, flexible experience: You and your small group get a personalized journey from Saint John.
• Historic highlights: Visit the St. Andrews Blockhouse and learn about the area’s Loyalist past.
• Scenic coastal access: Walk across the tidal Bar Road to Minister’s Island, a unique experience during low tide.
• Gardens and local charm: Optional stop at Kingsbrae Garden for lush landscapes and art installations.
• Relaxation options: End the trip with optional leisure time at New River Beach Provincial Park.
• Value for the price: Includes private transport and bottled water, with expenses for attractions paid separately.

Exploring St. Andrews by-the-Sea: What to Expect

Transportation and Schedule
This tour is operated in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle, perfect for the roughly 5 to 6 hours of total experience. Pickup is offered, making the start easy, and most travelers find the timing well-balanced—long enough to see the sights without feeling rushed. The group size is limited to your private party, ensuring a more intimate experience.

The Town of St. Andrews
Your journey begins with a scenic drive into this historic town, famed for its Loyalist roots and seaside charm. Expect to spend around two hours exploring the streets, with plenty of time to browse local shops and galleries. The town itself offers a picturesque setting—colorful buildings, sailing boats, and sweeping views of the Bay of Fundy.

St. Andrews Blockhouse
A short 15-minute walk brings you to this National Historic Site, a rare example of early Canadian military architecture. Sitting atop a hill overlooking the bay, it offers both a taste of history and excellent photo opportunities. Inside, you’ll learn about the early defenses of the region, a fascinating glimpse into the past.

Bar Road to Ministers Island
One of the more unique features of this tour is crossing the tide-dependent gravel causeway connecting to Ministers Island. During low tide, the causeway appears, allowing visitors to walk (or drive) across the ocean floor. While the island’s main attractions, like Sir William Van Horne’s estate, aren’t included, the experience of walking on the ocean bed is something many find memorable. Just keep in mind that visiting the island itself requires an additional ticket, which isn’t included.

Kingsbrae Garden (Optional)
If you’re a garden enthusiast, the optional stop at Kingsbrae Garden is a highlight. For a fee, you can wander through beautifully landscaped grounds, sculptures, and themed gardens, all offering a peaceful respite and excellent photo ops. If you prefer a more relaxed pace, you might choose to skip this and spend more time in the town or at the beach.

Relaxing at New River Beach
On the return trip, there’s an option to unwind at New River Beach Provincial Park—a lovely spot for a quick walk along the sand or a moment to enjoy the coastal breeze. It’s a gentle way to wrap up the day before heading back to Saint John.

Is this tour worth it?

Considering the price, we think the main value lies in the personalized experience—private transport, flexible stops, and the chance to explore at your own pace. The stops themselves are thoughtfully chosen to combine history, nature, and local life. The scenic coastal views are a big draw, especially during the walk across the tidal causeway, which many reviews highlight as a memorable part of the trip.

However, a few travelers noted that the cost may seem high if you’re looking for a heavily guided, all-inclusive experience. The admission to Kingsbrae Garden and Ministers Island are extra costs, so budgeting for those will add to your overall expense. That said, if you value customized sightseeing and avoiding large group tours, this experience offers excellent flexibility.

Who should consider this tour?

This shore excursion is perfect for small groups or families who want an intimate look at St. Andrews without the hassle of independently arranging transportation or tickets. It’s especially well-suited for those interested in history and coastal landscapes, and who appreciate a relaxed, social pace with optional stops. If you’re curious about Canadian military architecture, enjoy gardens and scenic drives, or just want a taste of seaside life, this tour hits the right notes.

The Sum Up

For travelers stopping in Saint John and craving a meaningful visit to St. Andrews by-the-Sea, this private tour offers a charming and flexible way to discover the area’s highlights. You’ll enjoy a mix of historic sites, beautiful gardens, and coastal adventures, all tailored to your group’s interests. The experience’s real strength lies in its ability to combine personalized attention with the freedom to pick what appeals most—whether that’s strolling through town, exploring the military site, or walking across the tidal causeway.

While the cost may seem steep at first glance, the private nature of the tour, along with its scenic and cultural richness, provides solid value—especially for those who want to make the most of their brief stopover. It’s an excellent choice for history buffs, nature lovers, and small groups seeking a customized experience.

FAQ

Is pickup offered for this tour?
Yes, pickup from the port is available, making it easy to start your adventure without extra planning.

How long does the tour last?
The tour runs approximately 5 to 6 hours, giving you enough time to enjoy the stops without feeling rushed.

Are entrance tickets included?
No, tickets for Kingsbrae Garden and Ministers Island are not included and cost about 22 CAN each. The tour primarily covers transportation and guided commentary.

Can I visit Ministers Island?
You can walk across the causeway during low tide, but visiting the island itself requires purchasing an additional ticket, which is not included.

Is this a group or private experience?
It’s a private tour, so only your group will participate, allowing for a more relaxed and flexible schedule.

What should I bring?
Bring water, comfortable shoes (for walking on the causeway and around the town), and a camera. An umbrella might also be useful depending on the weather.

Is it suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, but if you need a child seat, be sure to request it in advance.

What’s the best time of year for this tour?
The tour operates from June to October, aligning with the best weather for coastal exploration and the low tide walk.

In all, this shore excursion offers a well-rounded, authentic taste of St. Andrews—perfect for those seeking history, scenic beauty, and a leisurely pace during their cruise stop.