Where to Go Boating in Nova Scotia

Are you going boating in Nova Scotia? Nova Scotia has over 13,000 km of changing coastal landscape from end to end.

There are breathtaking sights to behold while boating in this province, such as basalt cliffs, sea caves, and waterfalls. While boating, take a trip through the tidal lock that connects the Bras d’Or (one of the largest saltwater lakes in the world) to the Atlantic Ocean.

There are over 1,000 lakes to go boating in Nova Scotia, where you can glimpse seals, puffins, and even humpback whales. Visit the Bay of Fundy, known as one of North America’s 7 Wonders. This spot holds the highest tides on earth, has the rarest whales in the world, and has dinosaur fossils.

What other destinations should you consider for water adventures (or relaxation) in Nova Scotia? Keep reading for our best recommendations!

St. Margaret Bay is an expansive body of water with rocky shores and a few beaches scattered throughout; it is a popular boating destination. Shining Waters Marina is one of the largest full-service marinas in Nova Scotia, and it has a launch ramp for recreational boaters.

Marking the entrance of St. Margaret’s Bay is Peggy’s Cove — a world-famous lighthouse that you will want to visit. This active lighthouse is an iconic Canadian image you won’t want to skip.

After taking a picture of this lighthouse, you will pass Hackett’s Cove and find yourself in Glen Margaret in Long Cove. Keep your eye on the shoreline, where you will see the small homes of the original settlers mixed with new modern homes, a truly unique sight.

The coastline from St. Margaret’s Bay southwest to Lunenburg is perfect for recreational boating. Numerous marinas can be found along the shoreline as you pass communities such as Hubbards, Chester, Chester Basin, Mahone Bay, and Lunenburg.  

St. Mary’s River is the largest river in Nova Scotia and is home to a historical recreation of Sherbrooke Village. The village depicts a time when people would live and thrive on fishing, farming, and forestry.

This village is ten nautical miles upriver; take a day trip and check out the staff dressed in period costumes.

Or, jump in a kayak for the day and venture down the Easter Shore to be surrounded by natural beauty with scenic views of the rugged coastline featuring islands, inlets, and coves. 

Known for its 365 islands, Mahone Bay has been dubbed one of Atlantic Canada’s “masterpiece areas” by conservationists. There are numerous reefs in the area. Due to this, boaters must consult their nautical charts.

The town of Mahone Bay hosts the Classic Boat Festival, a popular annual South Shore event that runs in early August. Southwest of Mahone Bay, you will find the historic town of Lunenburg, which is home to the legendary racing schooner, the Bluenose. The Bluenose was built in 1921 and held its unbeatable racing vessel career for 18 years.

Cape Breton Island is a vast 1000-square-kilometer inland sea with good winds and exploratory harbours. It’s another spot that makes it great to be a Canadian boater. 

The first Sunday in August in Baddeck Harbour is the annual regatta, a century-old tradition launched from the Bras d’Or Yacht Club. Sailors come from all over the Maritimes to catch the winds here.  While boating around the cape, you will experience scenic views in North Sydney, the Barra Strait, Baddeck, and St. Peters.

The Mira is another popular boating destination that you’ll want to visit. It’s Nova Scotia’s longest river, running 55 kilometers of calm waters, which is ideal for boating with or without a motor. Launch a canoe or kayak for an even closer view of nature’s scenery and lush riverbanks.

Enjoy Boating in Nova Scotia and Stay Safe on the Water

We’re sure you can’t wait to head out to some of these spots for your next adventure of boating in Nova Scotia! You won’t be disappointed, no matter which of these waters you choose. 

Before you go, make sure you’re up to speed on the safety essentials you need to make your trip a safe one. BOATsmart! offers an online boater education course for Canadians so you can learn safety best practices and get your license before hitting the water. Our courses are fun and informational, making it easy to retain the information Transport Canada requires boaters to know to operate motorized vessels!

Originally published in December 2018. Content most recently reviewed and updated for accuracy and relevancy October 4, 2024.