PORTS OF CALL - Canada / New England
Saint John, New Brunswick
Founded by Loyalists escaping the Revolutionary War in 1785, Saint John has emerged as a thriving port city. Its restored historic waterfront and surrounding natural beauty have made Saint John a wonderful destination.
Don't Miss
Experience the amazing Reversing Falls Rapids, Saint John's best-known attraction. Twice daily the powerful tides of the Bay of Fundy rise faster than the river can empty. When this happens, the tide attempts to push the river back upstream, then the tide ebbs and the river appears to reverse itself and flow over the rocks, creating the appearance of reversing rapids.
Fun Things to Do
- Visit the historic Trinity Anglican Church, which dates from 1877, when the original structure was destroyed in the Great Fire. Shop at your leisure in the antique and specialty shops located along Prince William Street, then through the Old City Market on Germain Street. Downtown, you can explore Kind Square and walk past the Imperial Theater, Old Country Courthouse and the Loyalist Burial Grounds.
- Visit St. Martin's Sea Caves and Beach, where you'll see caves carved out by the pounding tides, as well as the rock-covered beach. St. Martins' twin-covered bridges, harbor area and lighthouse are favorites with photographers and painters.
- Explore Fort Howe, built in 1777 to serve as both protection for the harbor and as the city jail. The building itself is now closed, but the rocky promontory on which it sits offers an excellent panoramic view of the city and harbor.
Local Flavours
Due to the cool waters, the area is most known for its lobster and other shellfish, including oysters, scallops, clams, crabs and mussels. Traditional fish and chips are also quite popular with the locals.
Currency
In Canada, the Canadian dollar (CAD) is the official currency. Credit cards are widely accepted, and often offer a good exchange rate. In all of Canada, a 5% Goods & Services Tax (GST) must be paid on all transportation, accommodation, restaurant meals and just about anything else you purchase, right down to a pack of gum.