Unlike most typical port cities, Halifax’s unapologetically authentic vibe blends old-school maritime grit with a modern, Brooklyn-esque heartbeat; effortlessly pairing cobblestone streets and craft beer with a buzzing boardwalk, rocky shorelines and an impressively lengthy history.

Nestled on a windswept, (often foggy) peninsula, Halifax sits upon one of the world’s largest natural harbors, making the ocean the lifeblood of this city since its days as a true Citadel fortress. Head to Pier 21 to revel in tales of the immigrants that shape this nation, to hear seafaring stories, and to discover its connection to the Titanic through several various museums and memorials. Nature enthusiasts take in the verdant greens and fresh air of the Halifax Public Gardens, or, take a short ride from the city to Peggy’s Cove – a rural seaside community once known for its lighthouse beacon for sailors trying to return home from sea, now the perfect place to take a picture that’ll make all your instagram followers jealous.

In addition, foodies will rejoice to learn that Halifax is a haven for seafood lovers, with fresh lobster, scallops, oysters and everything else you can imagine, served at countless bars, restaurants and breweries slinging everything from the iconic Halifax donair (a uniquely Halifax doner kebab) to expertly brewed beers, handcrafted cocktails and everything in between.

Savvy Sailor Tips

Take all the memories you can — leave only your footprints.

The beauty of sea-ing the world with Virgin Voyages is that you have the opportunity to discover some of the globe’s most exciting destinations, their popular landmarks, plus fabulous (and lesser known) finds — customized exclusively for our Sailors. While soaking in all the natural beauty and the abundance of rich cultures, here are some responsible sailing tips to keep in mind:

From the shores to the mountains to the city streets — please dispose of all waste properly
Keep it local by dining, shopping, and exploring local spots — this helps boost the economy of each destination
Cut down on plastic waste by bringing a refillable water bottle and reusable tote bag
Take advantage of nighttime activities whenever possible, just be mindful of noise levels — especially in residential areas after dark
Take it all in and photos too — be sure to respect private property (like, no selfies on someone’s rooftop), public spaces, and people who don’t want to be (or that have requested not to be) photographed

Being able to explore rainforests and jungles, lounge along perfectly manicured beaches, sail the coasts of tiny islets, and visit historic sites is made possible by the locals who call each place home. While traveling, you’re not just a visitor, but you’re a global ambassador as well. During port days, please remember to make responsible choices so that when you head out, your footprints (and a lasting connection) is what you leave behind.

Halifax Headliners
Ancient clocks, ocean floor fossils & hallowed history

An Exploration of Art & Architecture in HalifaxDiscover Halifax's rich culture and architecture
Explore The Ocean FloorVisit the site of the highest tides in the world
Titanic & Peggy's CoveScenic coastal views and a trip back in time

This guided tour starts with a visit to the Art Gallery of Nova Scotia, known for its fine Italianate facade, before heading to the stunning Gothic St. Mary's Basilica. Then, stroll down Spring Garden Road, voted one of the best places to people watch, and see the new Halifax Public Library. On your return walk, stop at the 19th-century Old Town Clock, which commands an impressive view of Halifax Harbour.

Welcome to the Bay of Fundy, the site of the highest tides in the world! Today, visit the spot where the highest recorded tides occur, Burntcoat Head Park, with an extreme tidal range of up to 53.6 feet. Take a 1-hour tour of the ocean floor with a naturalist guide -- tiptoe through the periwinkles, and search for fossils and when the tide is out. You can also choose to enjoy your rustic boxed lunch right on the ocean floor, before returning to your ship.

Visit scenic Peggy's Cove and explore the tiny village on your own, checking out art galleries, the harbor, and tasting the local gingerbread. Then head to the Fairview Lawn Cemetery, the final resting place of 121 Titanic victims. During the return trip to the pier, your guide will continue to point out places of interest as you travel.

More Shore Things for your wishlist...

Halifax, Nova Scotia

A Taste of Nova Scotia (Small Group Tour)

Sample the best of Nova Scotia's culinary scene

Halifax, Nova Scotia

Downtown Halifax Discovery Walking Tour

Get to know Halifax up close and personal

Halifax, Nova Scotia

Historic Towns of Nova Scotia's South Shore

An epic day trip to the historic South Shore

Halifax, Nova Scotia

Sea Kayaking & Mussel Boil

An epic kayaking expedition

Halifax Hot Spots
Catches of the day, waterfront views & condensating cocktails

The Bicycle Thief
Seasmoke
Water Polo

Located amongst the varied shops of Bishop’s Landing you’ll find The Bicycle Thief, a waterfront Italian-fusion restaurant where old-school charm and Italian soul blend with popular Canadian ingredients to create unique menu options like lobster thermidor and crab ravioli. Plus, with a sprawling wine list and cozy atmosphere this is the perfect place to enjoy dinner and debrief about your day.

Nearby you’ll find Sea Smoke, a seafood-forward restaurant blending fresh Atlantic catches of the day with Asian-inspired flair. Located at Bishop’s Landing here you’ll find an oyster bar, an impressive sushi kitchen, a crafted cocktail list and (much) more.

For a taste of fine dining in a sophisticated atmosphere look no further than Water Polo, located on the Halifax waterfront and inspired by the iconic Riva Yacht, here you’ll find a polished restaurant with Halifax’s longest bar – offering panoramic harbour views and a menu featuring elevated seafood dishes, a world-class wine cellar and sun-drenched tables you’ll never want to leave.

A blend of raw edge, harrowed history, natural beauty and an Atlantic swagger that can’t quite be defined, Halifax, Nova Scotia is an excitingly eclectic city just waiting to be explored. Here history collides with salty-aired walks along the boardwalk, labyrinths of cobblestone streets, illuminating lighthouses and sumptuous seafood. From fog-draped mornings to glowing bioluminescent nights, whether you’re here for the stories, the seafood or to soak up the breathtaking harbour views, Halifax is the perfect place to learn what Canada is all about.

Port emergency contact

Emergency contact Port of Halifax
Address 1215 Marginal Road, Halifax, NS, B3H 4P8, Canada
Halifax Seaport Pier 20/22 (TBC) 1031 Marginal Road, Halifax
Phone FK Warren Limited - Stanislav Ryzhov Operations Manager (+1) 902 423-8136, (+1) 902 580-1193