Halifax, the capital of Nova Scotia
Halifax, the eclectic oceanside capital of Nova Scotia, is a marquee port-of-call on the Canada-New England cruise itineraries of the major cruise lines.Only a one day sail from both New York and Boston, Halifax welcomes many cruise Lines, including industry giants like Carnival, Royal Caribbean, Princess, Cunard and Norwegian Cruise Line. Passengers are greeted quayside by the skirl of bagpipes as the 78th Highlanders perform the traditional dockside greeting.
Originally founded as a British garrison town, Halifax retains much of its colonial charm. From the dockside cruise ship terminal visitors can stroll the world's longest harbourfront boardwalk to Halifax’s historic downtown where cobblestone sidewalks meander past art galleries, museums, historic sites and churches.
Overlooking Halifax Harbour, cruise passengers can step straight into Pier 21 National Historic Site which tells the stories of Canada's immigrants. Among other attractions is Pavilion 22 which offers visitors the best of Nova Scotian handcrafts, gifts and signature products, the Maritime Museum of the Atlantic, and the Halifax Citadel.
The rugged coast of the Lighthouse Route, along the south shore, is home to quaint fishing villages like picturesque Peggy's Cove where you'll find the world's only post office in a lighthouse.
Amidst the small town charm, Halifax is still a cosmopolitan city offering a wide range of hotels and motels.
Photo courtesy Nova Scotia Tourism, Culture and Heritage (Queen Mary 2 enters Halifax Harbour)