Cruise Diva Goes Ashore in Canada &
New England: the Northeast Passage
Sights to see & things to do
Halifax, Nova Scotia
This bustling port city is the premier shopping and entertainment center of Atlantic Canada. A bagpiper is usually on the pier to greet ships’ passengers with a warm welcome.
Diversions
Cruise ships tie up at the terminals located at the south end of the city, adjacent to Point Pleasant Park, a 186-acre wooded parkland. Downtown is a good twenty-minute walk but shuttle buses are often available and taxis meet every ship.
The Halifax Citadel is Canada’s most visited National Historical site and the finest vantage point for superb views of the “City of Trees” and the harbor beyond. At the entrance to the hilltop fortress is the “Old Town Clock,” dating to 1803.
Maritime history and Titanic buffs will appreciate the Maritime Museum of the Atlantic featuring one of the world’s only intact deck chairs from the Titanic, paneling from her lounge, newel post face panels, and balustrade moldings. The exhibit also explores the response of Halifax to the disaster. Through other permanent and temporary exhibits, the museum highlights Nova Scotia’s maritime heritage.
Next door to the Maritime Museum are Our Lady of Sorrows Church and the Old Burying Ground where a section is dedicated to those who perished on the Titanic. Simple tombstones marking the graves of 121 Titanic victims in Fairview Lawn Cemetery are arranged in the shape of a ship's prow.
Close to Halifax, the dramatic lighthouse point at scenic Peggy’s Cove is an inspirational favorite with artists and photographers. Wear your walking shoes and take care—the craggy rocks are slippery from surf crashing against the granite.
Shopping
Boutiques and shops are housed in the Historic Properties, restored 19th century waterfront buildings near downtown. Look for Nova Scotia pewter, keepsakes, local handmade crafts, and gifts. Uphill from the Historic Properties are Granville Mall and Barrington Place Shops. Along Barrington and Grafton Streets you’ll find the work of Nova Scotia artisans. An impressive collection of outlets is located along Spring Garden Road.
Some of the nicest crafts and local art pieces can be found right in the cruise terminal building where stalls are set up whenever cruise ships are visiting.
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