Halifax Harbour Hopper: A Splashy Tour of History
Experience Halifax by land and sea aboard a unique amphibious vehicle. A fun, fast-paced tour perfect for all ages!
The Halifax Harbour Hopper provides a unique and engaging way to see the city, combining a land tour with a cruise of the Halifax Harbour. This isn't your average tour bus; the Harbour Hopper is a retrofitted LARC-V (Light Amphibious Resupply Cargo) vehicle, originally used by the U.S. military during the Vietnam War to shuttle supplies from ship to shore. The tour begins on the streets of Halifax, passing by notable sites such as St. Paul's Church, Citadel Hill, and the Halifax Public Gardens. Knowledgeable guides share historical facts and entertaining stories about Halifax, including its naval history and connection to the Titanic tragedy. The highlight is when the Hopper splashes into Halifax Harbour, offering unique photo opportunities of the waterfront, George's Island, and the cityscape. The Harbour Hopper tour lasts approximately 55 minutes and provides a comprehensive overview of Halifax's key landmarks. It's a fun and memorable experience for all ages, offering a fresh perspective on this vibrant maritime city.
Local tips
- Book your tickets in advance, especially during peak season, to secure your spot on the tour.
- Arrive early to get the best seats on the Harbour Hopper for optimal views.
- Dress appropriately for the weather, as the tour operates in all conditions.
- Bring your camera to capture the unique views of Halifax from both land and sea.
- Consider combining the Harbour Hopper tour with other Halifax attractions for a full day of sightseeing.
A brief summary to Harbour Hopper
- Unnamed Road, Halifax, Downtown Halifax, NS, B3J 1S2, CA
Getting There
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Walking
The Harbour Hopper departs from the Halifax Ferry Terminal on the waterfront. If you are in the downtown area, walking is a convenient option. From the Halifax Public Gardens, head east on Spring Garden Road, then turn right onto Lower Water Street. Continue south until you reach the Halifax Ferry Terminal. The walk is approximately 1.5km and should take about 20 minutes. No costs are associated with walking.
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Public Transport
Halifax Transit buses and ferries provide service to the waterfront area. From various points in Halifax, take a bus route that connects to the Halifax Ferry Terminal. Alternatively, take the ferry from Dartmouth to the Halifax terminal. A single adult fare is $3. Check the Halifax Transit website or app for specific routes and schedules.
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Taxi/Ride-share
Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are readily available in Halifax. A short taxi ride from downtown Halifax to the Ferry Terminal will cost approximately $10-$15, depending on traffic and distance.
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Parking
If driving, several parking options are available near the Halifax Waterfront. * **On-street parking:** Metered parking is available on streets near the waterfront. Rates vary, typically $2.50 - $3.75 per hour, and is free after 6 PM on weekdays and on weekends. * **Off-street parking:** Several parking garages and lots are located within walking distance of the Ferry Terminal. Examples include the Salter Lot and Foundation Place, with hourly rates around $3 and daily maximums ranging from $15-$30. Use the HotSpot mobile app to pay for on-street parking.
