1.5hr Harbour Experience on North America’s LARGEST solar boat!

Rating: 5.0 (based on 198 reviews)
Location: Charlottetown, Canada
Price: $58.59 per person
Duration: 1 hour 30 minutes
Features: Mobile ticket, WiFi, restroom onboard

Quick Take: What We Love About This Solar-Powered Harbour Tour

We haven’t taken this tour ourselves but have gathered plenty of insights from guests who have. First off, sailing on North America’s largest solar boat is a unique and eco-friendly way to explore the Charlottetown waterfront, offering a peaceful ride free of fuel smells and emissions. The comfortable seating with large windows makes capturing photos and enjoying the scenery easy, and the live guided commentary adds educational value without feeling heavy.

Three standout features we really appreciate include the flexible timing options for morning, noon, or afternoon, the open roof hatches for better sunlight and photo opportunities, and the onboard WiFi, which keeps everyone connected and entertained. However, a potential consideration is that the experience is somewhat limited to the waterway; if you’re expecting a comprehensive city tour from land to water, this may feel more like a scenic cruise with some history tossed in.

This experience is perfect for travelers who want an authentic, relaxed way to learn about Charlottetown while enjoying stunning views and good company. It’s also well-suited for those interested in sustainable tourism, as the boat’s solar power is a highlight.

Good To Know

• Eco-friendly sailing on North America’s largest solar boat offers a quiet, emission-free cruise.
• Comfortable, window-facing seats maximize your photo opportunities and scenic enjoyment.
• Live expert commentary makes it educational and engaging without feeling overwhelming.
• Flexible scheduling ensures you can find a slot that fits into your day.
• WiFi and video screens keep everyone connected and informed.
• Capped group size of 34 helps maintain an intimate, personalized atmosphere.

An Honest Look at the Harbour Tour Experience

This 1.5-hour journey offers a smooth, eco-conscious way to take in Charlottetown’s waterfront. The boat itself is a conversation piece—North America’s largest solar vessel—quietly gliding through the harbor without the usual engine noise or fumes. For those who care about reducing their carbon footprint while traveling, this alone makes it worth considering.

The Itinerary Breakdown

While this isn’t a sightseeing tour packed with stops, it offers a fantastic water-based overview of the city’s key sites. Each landmark is passed by with insightful commentary from the captain and guide, providing context you might miss on a standard land tour.

Stop 1: Charlottetown (Pass By) – Your guide kicks things off with a brief history of the harbor, touching on PEI’s first settlers, the Mi’kmaq, and the city’s role in Canadian confederation. Reviewers mention the guides — like Stephen, who is praised for his animated storytelling — as being both knowledgeable and entertaining.

Stop 2: Victoria Park – The boat glides past the historic Victoria Park, revealing cannons and remnants of the old fort. Guests appreciate seeing these landmarks from the water, offering a different perspective than walking tours.

Stop 3: Port-la-Joye – Fort Amherst – You’ll glimpse the entrance to the harbor and Rocky Point, where Port-la-Joye played a role in early colonial history.

Stop 4: Government House – This is where the conversation turns to the site called the “Birthplace of Canada,” where the colonies first met in 1864 to form a united country.

Stop 5: Stratford – The tour takes in several multimillion-dollar residences, including a notable $15M home. Comments highlight the ‘rock armouring’ for shoreline protection—an interesting, if sobering, glimpse into PEI’s erosion challenges.

Stop 6: Peake’s Wharf & St. Dunstan’s Basilica – Guests love the views of Peake’s Wharf in front of the Basilica, which is one of Canada’s 27 designated Basilicas and a National Historic Site. The basilica’s impressive height and architecture make for great photo moments.

Stop 7: Beaconsfield Historic House – Built in 1877, this former merchant’s residence adds a touch of local elegance and history, a favorite among guests who enjoy learning about PEI’s wealthy shipbuilding past.

What Makes It Special

Guests repeatedly comment on the quality of the guides, particularly Justin and Captain Craig, who are described as both entertaining and full of facts. They encourage questions and include fun trivia—like stories about PEI’s shoreline erosion or the ice cream shop rated the best in the world, Cow’s Ice Cream, near Peake’s Wharf.

The modern boat design with large windows ensures that every seat has a decent view, and the open roof hatches allow you to soak up the sun or get better shots of the landmarks. WiFi on board keeps everyone connected and engaged, whether sharing photos or watching videos about the city or the boat.

The Onboard Comfort and Facilities

The onboard restroom is a thoughtful addition for comfort, especially on a 90-minute tour. The seating arrangement is cozy but praised for the intimate feel—most guests agree it’s a small ship that makes the experience feel personal.

Food, Drinks, and Extras

While food isn’t included in the ticket price, guests often mention the tasty options available for purchase during or after the tour, with reviews highlighting the chicken, Caesar salad, and homemade rolls. The tour doesn’t include alcohol, soda, or bottled water, so plan to bring your own if needed. The guide’s engaging commentary keeps the atmosphere lively, making it a great social activity.

Analyzing the Value

At around $58.59 per person, this tour offers excellent value for a unique, eco-friendly experience with memorable views and expert narration. It’s slightly more expensive than conventional boat tours but justifiable given the modern solar-powered vessel and the intimate group size. Guests frequently mention that the experience is both educational and relaxing — a perfect mix for families, couples, or solo travelers wanting a casual yet informative activity.

Guests also appreciate the flexibility of scheduling, with multiple daily departures, which helps fit it into different travel plans. The guided commentary ensures you learn about the city, PEI’s history, and the boat itself, making the ride enriching rather than just scenic.

Accessibility and Practicalities

The meeting point at Charlottetown Cruise Ship Terminal is near public transportation, which makes it accessible. Service animals are allowed, and the tour is suitable for most travelers, including those with mobility considerations, as long as they can board the boat comfortably. The group size is capped at 34, creating a cozy environment where everyone can enjoy the experience without feeling crowded.

The Environmental Aspect

This is a key selling point for many reviews. Guests love the fact that this is a solar-powered boat, providing a guilt-free way to see PEI’s waterway. The absence of fuel noise and emissions enhances the serenity and sustainability of your trip.

Final Thoughts: Who Is This Tour Best For?

This harbour cruise is ideal for travelers who enjoy a relaxed pace and want to combine sightseeing with learning. It’s perfect for those interested in sustainable tourism and are curious about Charlottetown’s landmarks without the hassle of walking or land-based tours. Families with kids, especially those who enjoy a bit of fun at the wheel, will find it engaging, thanks to the opportunity for kids to pilot the boat.

It’s also suited for anyone seeking a high-quality, small-group experience with friendly guides and a comfortable boat. If you love scenic views, local stories, and a touch of innovation, this tour checks all the boxes.

FAQs

Is the tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, most travelers can participate, and kids are welcome. The boat is accessible, and kids can even get a turn at steering, making it a fun family activity.

What should I bring on the tour?
Bring your camera or smartphone to capture photos from the large windows or open roof. A light jacket might be helpful if it’s breezy, and don’t forget your own drinks if you want something extra since food and beverages aren’t included.

Can I cancel or reschedule?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Cancellations within 24 hours are non-refundable, so plan accordingly.

What is included in the ticket price?
Your ticket covers the 1.5-hour solar boat cruise, onboard restroom, WiFi, and applicable taxes (GST).

Are food and drinks available onboard?
No; the tour does not include food or beverages, but you can purchase food separately, and the ship offers tasty options including chicken, Caesar salads, and homemade rolls.

Is the boat climate-controlled?
The boat is equipped with large windows and open roof hatches, which help with airflow, but it may feel cooler if the weather is chilly. The reviews indicate guests are comfortable even on colder days.

How many people are on this tour?
The maximum group size is 34, ensuring a cozy and personalized experience.

How long does each tour run?
Approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes, providing a leisurely yet thorough look at Charlottetown’s harbor and surrounding landmarks.

Final Word

This solar-powered harbour experience offers a peaceful, environmentally friendly way to explore Charlottetown’s waterfront. With knowledgeable guides, stunning views, and just enough history and fun trivia, it’s a well-rounded activity for a variety of travelers. Whether you’re a history buff, nature lover, or eco-conscious tourist, this tour is likely to add a memorable highlight to your PEI visit.

If you value comfort, engaging commentary, and a chance to learn about PEI’s past while enjoying the water, then this cruise is a smart pick. It’s not just about the sights but about experiencing Charlottetown in a sustainable, relaxed, and fun manner.