About Bluenose II Harbour Cruises
Sail aboard Canada's sailing ambassador, the iconic Grand Banks fishing schooner Bluenose II. Experience the authentic sights, smells, and sounds of traditional sailing on this 2-hour harbour cruise.
Features & Highlights
Detailed Information
Sailing aboard the Bluenose II is the closest most visitors get to the golden age of sail: the replica of the legendary racing schooner on the Canadian dime takes you out of Lunenburg's UNESCO World Heritage waterfront for two hours of living history. Crew members — young sailors from across Canada — raise the sails, tell the schooner's stories, and demonstrate traditional sailing techniques as the town slides past the rail.
Practical Information
Planning a visit to the Bluenose II is straightforward; the essentials are below.
Address & Location
The Bluenose II is docked at the Lunenburg waterfront, a UNESCO World Heritage site. The vessel is typically located along Bluenose Drive in Lunenburg, NS.
Cruise Schedule & Open Deck Hours
The ship offers 2-hour harbour cruises twice daily at 9:30 AM and 1:30 PM during its operating season (June through September), with the schedule concluding in late September before the vessel enters its downrig period in October. When not on a cruise, the vessel offers free open deck tours for visitors to explore and interact with the crew. These are available Tuesday to Sunday from 11:45 AM to 1:00 PM and again from 3:45 PM until dusk. No booking is required for these open deck visits.
Ticket Prices & Booking
Admission for a harbour cruise is $110 for adults and $45 for children aged 3 to 12; infants under two sail for free. All prices include taxes and fees. Booking is strongly recommended and can be done online through the official website or by calling the toll-free number, 1-855-640-3177.
Policies & Accessibility
Tickets are valid only for the specific date and time booked. Cancellations made at least 24 hours in advance are eligible for a refund; if a cruise is cancelled by the operator due to adverse weather, a full refund is issued. The main deck is wheelchair accessible, though daily tide times affect ramp access from the wharf, so check tide schedules before boarding.
For the most current schedule and to book, visit the official website: bluenose.novascotia.ca.
