Luxury Yacht Charter Guide to Nova Scotia
A servant to the sea, the shores of Nova Scotia straddle the line between quaint fishing village and thriving summer destination. With its beacon bright lighthouses, whale tails in the water, glowering russet cliffs, deep blue waters and locals waving from the trails that crisscross the coast, it's easy to be charmed. These Celtic heritage lands are bursting at the seams with secret coves, seafront restaurants for shucking oysters, specialist vineyards, and historical sites, boutiques and galleries that capture the bright and tapestried history.
Reasons to Charter a Yacht in Nova Scotia
Amazing Islands
Home to one of Canada’s best islands, the green and blue summer shores of Nova Scotia are all innocent fun for sailors. Drop anchor at Cape Breton Island for a glorious round of golf or to explore the Cape Breton Highlands National Park. The islands that dot Nova Scotia offer some of the best outdoor adventure playgrounds in the world.
Seafood Central
Nova Scotia is the lobster capital of Canada and charter guests who love nothing more than cracking claws will be in their element. Sail to Barrington where the lobsters are so good they even become the star of their own summer festival during the month of June. Beyond the buttered lobster there’s always sublime scallops, wild blueberries, rapple pie, oatcakes and the Greek inspired local Donair to keep you satiated.
Sip and Swirl
In the far reaches of Canada it seems unlikely that you would find yourself sitting in a pretty vineyard sipping an award-winning glass of Riesling. Whether it's that gulp down fresh mountain air or the salt whipped wonder of the ocean, Nova Scotia has an impressive boutique winery scene. With eleven wineries to explore, start at L’Acadie to taste organic bliss before delving deep into the bottles of Gasperau.
Where to Visit in Nova Scotia
Halifax
The hip and happening heart of Nova Scotia has to be Halifax. This seaside city has plenty to offer including a great glut of museums and galleries celebrating its artistic side and maritime history. Duck into the Halifax Citadel and see the clocktower to learn all about Halifax’s fascinating past. The vibrant harbour is a buzzing place to soak up the social delights of Halifax with its homely breweries, bright restaurants, and delightful shopping scene.
Cape Breton
Beaches, vantage points, waterfalls and no less than 26 trails mark Cape Breton as being one of the best islands in Canada for the active charter traveller. Be sure to rent a car and take The Cabot Trail, said to be one of the most scenic drives in the world as it tapers along the sapphire blue coast and serves up mind boggling vistas. 18th century seaports, golf courses, and lush lodges also await.
Bay of Fundy
The beautiful Bay of Fundy is a yacht charter dream. Boasting one of the world's highest tides you can soak up endless sea centric vibes. These waters are home to no less than twelve different species of whale. Whether hiking, watching from your charter deck with champagne in hand, or kayaking alongside the magnificent giants of the sea, the Bay of Fundy serves up unsurpassed natural beauty drenched in salt.
When to Charter a Yacht in Nova Scotia
The summer months are the best time to set sail for Nova Scotia especially if you want to make the most of the scenic hikes, the whale rich waters, and the best seafood suppers imaginable. While the direct summer months serve the most consistent weather and balmy temperatures, as long as you steer clear of winter, it should be smooth sailing. May through October also serve up the shoulder season months and there are plenty of festivals to be had in the spring and autumn.