Coastal Treasures of the Canadian Maritimes - 11 Days

Frequently asked questions

• What are the main highlights of the "Coastal Treasures of the Canadian Maritimes" tour?

  The main highlights include hiking and driving the legendary Cabot Trail in Cape Breton Highlands National Park, crossing the impressive Confederation Bridge, witnessing the dramatic low tide reveal at Hopewell Rocks Provincial Park, hiking to cliffside viewpoints in Fundy National Park, exploring charming waterfront towns, and deepening your appreciation for the region's history.

• What type of accommodation is provided during the tour?

  Accommodation is provided in hotels for all 10 nights of the tour.

• What meals are included in the tour price?

  The tour includes 10 breakfasts and 1 lunch.

• What modes of transportation will be used during the tour?

  Transportation will include private vehicles, ferries, and walking.

• What is the maximum group size for this tour?

  The maximum group size is 12 travelers, with an average group size of 10.

• Who will be leading the group on this tour?

  The group will be led by a Chief Experience Officer (CEO) throughout the trip, along with local guides at specific locations.

• Is travel insurance compulsory for this trip?

  Yes, travel insurance is compulsory and must cover medical expenses, emergency evacuation, and repatriation, with a minimum coverage of USD200,000.

• What is the minimum age to join this trip?

  You must be 18 to travel unaccompanied. For minors travelling with a guardian over 21 years old, the minimum age is 12.

• How does accommodation work for solo travelers?

  Solo travelers joining group trips are paired in twin or multi-share accommodation with someone of the same sex. If the 'My Own Room' option is booked, you will receive your own single room for all night stops.

• What is the local currency and are credit cards widely accepted?

  The Canadian currency is the Canadian Dollar (CAD). Credit cards are accepted almost everywhere, but it's recommended to carry a combination of Canadian Dollars (preferably smaller bills) and credit cards. ATMs are commonly available.

• What is the customary tipping practice in North America for this tour?

  It is customary to tip service providers (waiters, bartenders, taxi drivers) approximately 18-20%. For local guides, $2-8 USD per activity is recommended. For the Chief Experience Officer (CEO), a guideline of $10-15 USD per person, per day is suggested if they provided outstanding service.

• What optional activities are available on this tour?

  Optional activities include visiting The Hector Heritage Quay in Pictou, various tours in Charlottetown (electric bike, historic walking, kayaking, food tour, gin distillery, lobster experience), whale watching or visiting historic sites in Digby/Annapolis, and visiting the Fisheries Museum of the Atlantic in Lunenburg.

• What should LGBTQ+ travelers know about safety and travel on this trip?

  The safety and well-being of all travelers, including those identifying as LGBTQ+, are a priority. Resources and information are available to ensure a safe and comfortable experience.

• What are the general safety and security guidelines for this trip?

  Travelers are advised to check their government's travel advice, use a neck wallet or money belt for valuables, leave valuable jewelry at home, and use hotel safety deposit boxes. A lock for luggage is recommended. Group leaders can amend itineraries for safety reasons. During free time, use good judgment for optional activities and consider traveling in small groups or using taxis at night. Water-based activities should be accompanied by guides, and swimming is at your own risk.

• Are there any specific rules or codes of conduct for participants?

  Illegal drugs will not be tolerated, as they contravene local laws and put the group at risk. The exploitation of people in the sex trade is also unacceptable. CEOs have the right to expel any group member violating these rules.

• How much emergency money should I bring on this trip?

  It is recommended to have access to at least an additional USD $200 (or equivalent) as an 'emergency' fund for unforeseen circumstances.

• What are the main highlights of the 'Coastal Treasures of the Canadian Maritimes' tour?

  This tour offers a perfect mix of nature, culture, and salty sea air. Highlights include hiking and driving the legendary Cabot Trail in Cape Breton Highlands National Park, crossing the 8-mile Confederation Bridge, witnessing the dramatic low tide at Hopewell Rocks Provincial Park, hiking in Fundy National Park, exploring charming waterfront towns like Lunenburg, and experiencing the rich maritime history of Nova Scotia, PEI, and New Brunswick.

• What kind of activities can I expect to do on this tour?

  You can expect wildlife encounters, scenic hikes, exploration of colourful fishing villages, and unwinding in charming coastal towns. Specific activities include hiking the Skyline Trail, walking on the ocean floor at Hopewell Rocks, a guided tour of Hopewell Rocks, an Indigenous Storytelling Walk in Saint John, and a historic guided walking tour of Lunenburg.

• What is the minimum and maximum age for participants on this tour?

  The minimum age for this tour is 12 years old (for minors traveling with a guardian over 21), and the maximum age is 100 years old. You must be 18 to travel unaccompanied.

• What is the typical group size for this tour?

  The maximum group size for this tour is 12 travelers, with an average group size of 10.

• What type of accommodation is provided during the tour?

  Accommodation throughout the tour will be in hotels for all 10 nights.

• What meals are included in the tour price?

  The tour price includes 10 breakfasts and 1 lunch. For other meals, your Chief Experience Officer (CEO) can suggest local restaurants or options.

• What is the physical rating of this tour?

  This tour has a physical rating of 3, indicating a moderate level of activity involving hiking and walking.

• Are there any optional activities available and what are their costs?

  Yes, there are several optional activities. In Pictou, you can visit The Hector Heritage Quay (10CAD). In Charlottetown, options include a Historic Walking Tour (25CAD), Electric Bike Rental (80-100CAD), Walking Food Tour (98CAD), Kayaking Tour (55-75CAD), Gin Distillery Tour (5-25CAD), or a Lobster Fish and Feast Experience (110CAD). In Digby, you could opt for Bay of Fundy Whale Watching (90CAD) or visit Annapolis Area Historic Sites. In Lunenburg, you might visit the Fisheries Museum of the Atlantic.

• How will we be transported between destinations on this tour?

  Transportation between destinations and to/from included activities will be by private vehicle, ferry, and walking.

• What currency is used in the Canadian Maritimes, and what should I know about money exchange and credit cards?

  The Canadian currency is the Canadian Dollar (CAD). Credit cards (Visa and MasterCard are most widely accepted) are accepted almost everywhere. Debit cards (Cirrus and Plus systems) are also widely accepted. It's recommended to carry a combination of Canadian Dollars in smaller bills and credit cards, and to have an emergency fund of at least USD $200. ATMs are available, but it's advisable to check with your bank about foreign transaction fees and PIN compatibility before traveling.

• What are the guidelines for tipping on this tour?

  It is customary in North America to tip service providers such as waiters, bartenders, and taxi drivers approximately 18-20%. Tipping local guides $2-8 USD per activity is recommended. For your Chief Experience Officer (CEO), a guideline of $10-15 USD per person, per day, is suggested, with the option to tip more if they exceeded expectations.

• Is travel insurance required for this trip?

  Yes, travel insurance is compulsory. You must have coverage for medical expenses, including emergency evacuation and repatriation (minimum USD $200,000). Personal liability, cancellation, curtailment, and loss of luggage are also strongly recommended. Ensure your policy covers all included adventure activities.

• What is the role of the Chief Experience Officer (CEO) on this trip?

  The Chief Experience Officer (CEO) is your group leader, manager, and driver. They are experienced in the routes and will organize and lead aspects of the trip, including meal preparations where applicable. They have broad general knowledge of the countries visited and will offer suggestions for activities, recommend local eating venues, and introduce you to local friends. Local guides are also used for specific knowledge.

• What rules should I be aware of regarding illegal drugs and sex workers on this trip?

  Illegal drugs are not tolerated on any trips, as they contravene local laws and put the group at risk. The exploitation of people in the sex trade is also strictly against the tour's philosophy of respect. CEOs have the right to expel any group member found in possession of drugs or utilizing the services of paid sex workers.

• What safety and security information should I know for my trip?

  We recommend checking your government's travel advice. Use a neck wallet or money belt for valuables and leave expensive jewelry at home. Many hotels offer safety deposit boxes. A lock for luggage is recommended. Your CEO can amend the itinerary for safety concerns and will accompany you on all included activities. During free time, use good judgment for optional activities. In cities, it's recommended to stay in small groups and use taxis at night. Water-based activities should only be done with a guide, and swimming/snorkeling is at your own risk.

• Are there any specific considerations for LGBTQ+ travelers on this trip?

  The safety and well-being of all travelers, including those identifying as LGBTQ+, is a priority. Resources and tools like Equaldex are available to help address specific concerns regarding safety and security during your adventure. You are encouraged to visit the tour operator's LGBTQ+ page for more information.