Cruise Port in Saint John Guide
Marco Polo Terminal,
Cruise Port in Saint John, Canada
Saint John, New Brunswick, is a historic maritime city and the only city on the Bay of Fundy, famous for its dramatic tides. The city offers a mix of rich history, vibrant markets, and breathtaking natural wonders. Cruise ships dock at Port Saint John, which is conveniently located near the city’s attractions. Visitors can explore charming streets, witness the powerful tides at Reversing Falls, and enjoy the friendly hospitality of Canada’s oldest incorporated city.
Cruise port in Saint John
General
General
Information
Location: Saint John, New Brunswick, Canada
Currency: Canadian Dollar (CAD)
Time Zone: Atlantic Time Zone (AT) | UTC -4 (Standard), UTC -3 (Daylight Saving Time)
Language: English is the primary language, with some French speakers.
Electricity: 120V, 60Hz (North American standard plug types A & B)
Tipping: Common practice; 15-20% for restaurants, 10-15% for taxis
Emergency Number: 911
Getting Around
- Walking: The cruise terminal is within walking distance of the Uptown area.
- Public Transit: Saint John Transit operates local buses.
- Taxi & Rideshare: Taxis are readily available; Uber is not currently in Saint John.
- Shuttles: Some tours and attractions offer shuttle services.
- Accessibility: Most attractions are accessible, but some areas have steep streets.
Top Attractions & Activities
- Reversing Falls Rapids
Witness the incredible tidal phenomenon where the Bay of Fundy’s tides reverse the flow of the Saint John River. - Saint John City Market
Canada’s oldest continuing farmers’ market, offering fresh produce, seafood, and local crafts. - Carleton Martello Tower
A National Historic Site with panoramic views and military history. - New Brunswick Museum
Features exhibits on maritime history, fossils, and local culture. - Irving Nature Park
A coastal park with trails, beaches, and wildlife viewing. - Harbour Passage
A scenic waterfront walkway linking the cruise port to Uptown Saint John. - Rockwood Park
One of Canada’s largest urban parks, great for hiking and outdoor activities.
Monthly Weather & Events
| January | -8°C / 18°F | Cold, snowy | Fundy Winterfest |
| February | -6°C / 21°F | Snowy, chilly | Hot Chocolate Festival |
| March | 0°C / 32°F | Cool, early thaw | |
| April | 6°C / 43°F | Rainy, spring begins | Maple Sugar Season |
| May | 12°C / 54°F | Mild, blooming | |
| June | 18°C / 64°F | Warm, peak season | |
| July | 22°C / 72°F | Warm, sunny | Canada Day Celebrations |
| August | 21°C / 70°F | Warm, comfortable | Area 506 Festival Saint John Exhibition |
| September | 16°C / 61°F | Crisp air, fall colors | Harvest Jazz & Blues Festival |
| October | 10°C / 50°F | Cool, autumn colors | |
| November | 4°C / 39°F | Chilly, early snow | Christmas Market |
| December | -3°C / 27°F | Cold, festive lights | Uptown Sparkles |
Guided Tours
- Reversing Falls Jet Boat Tour – Thrilling boat ride through the famous rapids.
- Saint John Self Walking Tour – Learn about the city’s history, architecture, and maritime heritage.
- Bay of Fundy Coastal Drive – Scenic tour of the coastline, including St. Martins sea caves.
- City Bus Tour in Saint John – Hop-on, hop-off experience covering major landmarks.
Cruise Port in
Saint John Guide
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Getting To and From Saint John Airport (YSJ)
- Distance: 16 km (10 miles) from downtown.
- Transportation Options:
- SkyTrain: Canada Line takes 25 minutes to downtown. TransLink
- Taxi: 30 minutes, approx. CAD $35-45.
- Shuttle: Some hotels offer free airport shuttles.
Accommodation Recommendations
- Luxury:
- Hilton Saint John – Waterfront hotel with stunning harbor views.
- Chateau Saint John Hotel & Suites – Elegant boutique-style hotel.
- Mid-Range:
- Delta Hotels by Marriott Saint John – Great location with modern amenities.
- Canterbury Street Boutique Inn – Cozy and stylish bed & breakfast.
- Budget:
- Econo Lodge Inn & Suites – Affordable stay with essential amenities.
- Fundy Bay Motel – Budget-friendly and close to nature attractions.
Shopping, Cafés & Dining
- Best Shopping Areas:
- Brunswick Square – Shopping mall with local and international brands.
- Market Square – Waterfront shops, bookstores, and souvenir stores.
- Saint John City Market – Fresh seafood, artisan goods, and handmade crafts.
- Best Cafés:
- Java Moose – Locally loved coffee shop with waterfront views.
- Catapult Coffee & Studio – Artisan café with unique handmade goods.
- Best Restaurants:
- East Coast Bistro – Elegant dining featuring fresh Atlantic seafood.
- Billy’s Seafood Company – A must-visit for seafood lovers.
- Thandi – Popular for its fusion of Indian and Thai flavors.
- Cask & Kettle Irish Gastropub – Classic pub fare with a cozy atmosphere.
Recommended Reading & Local YouTubers
- Books About Saint John:
- “Saint John: A City on Fire” by Mark Allan Greene
- “The Bay of Fundy: Coastal Tales” by Scott Leslie
- Youtube Videos about Saint John:
- SAINT JOHN, New Brunswick | Top Attractions and Sightseeing by The Average Tourist
- Saint John, New Brunswick Canada, in 4K by C Traveler
Printable Map
Download a detailed map of Saint John, NB here: Printable Map.
