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Georges Island National Historic Site

Explore a historic island in Halifax Harbour: Fort Charlotte, tunnels, and panoramic views await!

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Explore Georges Island, a historic island in Halifax Harbour, offering a glimpse into the region's military past and Acadian history. Discover Fort Charlotte, explore tunnels, and enjoy panoramic views of Halifax.

A brief summary to Georges Island National Historic Site

Local tips

  • Book your ferry tickets to Georges Island in advance, especially during peak season, to secure your spot.
  • Wear comfortable shoes for walking and exploring the island's fortifications and tunnels.
  • Check the weather forecast and dress accordingly, as the island offers limited shelter and tours operate rain or shine.
  • Bring a picnic to enjoy on the island, or pre-order a Parks Canada Perfect Picnic from Ambassatours Gray Line.
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Getting There

  • Ferry

    The primary way to access Georges Island is by ferry from the Halifax waterfront. The Ambassatours Gray Line ferry departs from Cable Wharf, located at 1751 Lower Water Street, Halifax. Purchase tickets online, by phone (902-420-1015), or at the Ambassatours Gray Line kiosk on the Halifax waterfront. A round-trip ferry ticket, which includes admission to the National Historic Site, costs $26.75. The ferry ride is approximately 10 minutes. Ferries operate on select days from June to October. Check the schedule for departure times, as the last ferry returns to Halifax around 3:00 PM.

  • Public Transport

    To reach the Cable Wharf ferry terminal using public transport, take any Halifax Transit bus route that services the downtown Halifax waterfront. From the Halifax Ferry Terminal, walk south along the waterfront boardwalk to Cable Wharf. A single adult bus fare is $3. Exact change is not required as the buses accept payment via the HFXGO mobile app.

Unlock the Best of Georges Island National Historic Site

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Discover more about Georges Island National Historic Site

Georges Island National Historic Site, a drumlin in Halifax Harbour, boasts a rich tapestry of natural and human history. Known as Kjipuktuk (“The Great Harbour”) to the Mi'kmaq, the island served as a hunting and fishing ground. The British established Halifax in 1749 and recognized the island's strategic importance for harbor defense, constructing fortifications and naming it “George's Island” after King George II. From the 18th to the 20th centuries, Georges Island played a vital role in defending Halifax, serving through both World Wars. It was a key part of the Halifax Defence Complex. The island also served as a prison and internment camp for Acadians during the Deportation between 1755 and 1764. Approximately 900 Acadian men, women, and children were detained on Georges Island before being deported. Today, visitors can explore Fort Charlotte, built in response to advances in technology. The island features a network of tunnels that once housed ammunition. Visitors can enjoy scenic views of the Halifax waterfront.

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