The Saint John River: River Relics Kayak Tour promises an enchanting 2-hour adventure along the picturesque waterway. Guided by knowledgeable instructors, participants can explore remarkable fossils and the remnants of a 17th-century lime quarry. With a focus on historical insights and wildlife sightings, this tour offers an unforgettable experience amidst stunning natural beauty. But what secrets does the river hold, and what captivating stories might the relics reveal about the region’s past? Paddle through the serene waters and uncover the fascinating history that lies within.
Key Points
- Guided 2-hour kayaking tour along the Saint John River, highlighting Pre-Cambrian fossils and 17th-century lime quarry ruins.
- Opportunity to observe wildlife like bald eagles and great blue herons in the Stonehammer Geopark.
- Personalized experience with English-speaking guides providing historical and ecological insights.
- Tandem kayaks used for added stability and safety, with a focus on participant comfort and enriching outdoor adventure.
- Tour operates rain or shine, with small group size and free cancellation policy up to 24 hours in advance.
Tour Overview and Pricing
The Saint John River Kayak Tour, offered by River Relics, provides a 2-hour guided kayaking experience along the scenic waterway, with prices starting from $83.74 per person.
The tour features a range of highlights, including observing Pre-Cambrian fossils, exploring 17th-century lime quarry ruins, and learning about the river’s lighthouses and their history.
The tour operates rain or shine, and guests can take advantage of the free cancellation policy up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
Tandem kayaks are provided, and a safety briefing and gear orientation are included to ensure a personalized and safe experience.
With an overall 5/5 rating based on verified customer feedback, the Saint John River Kayak Tour offers an exciting opportunity to discover the region’s natural and historical wonders.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Saint John New Brunswick.
Itinerary and Highlights
Starting at Dominion Park Beach, the Saint John River Kayak Tour takes guests on a journey to explore the area’s noteworthy landmarks and natural wonders. Participants will observe the first Pre-Cambrian fossils recorded in scientific literature, discover the ruins of a 17th-century lime quarry, and learn about the history of the river’s lighthouses, which have guided travelers for over 150 years.
Along the way, sightings of Bald Eagles, Sturgeon, Great Blue Heron, and Harbour Seals are possible, offering opportunities for wildlife spotting amidst the scenic views.
The tour highlights include:
-
Observing first Pre-Cambrian fossils recorded in scientific literature
-
Discovering 17th-century lime quarry ruins
-
Learning about river lighthouses and their 150+ years of travel history
Experience Details
Guided tours with live English-speaking guides provide a personalized kayaking experience, as the group size is kept small.
A safety briefing and gear orientation are included to ensure participants feel comfortable and prepared before setting out on the water.
Tandem kayaks are used for added stability and safety, with all guests paddling together.
The guided tour offers the opportunity to learn about the river’s history and ecology from knowledgeable local guides.
With a focus on safety and education, the River Relics Kayak Tour provides a memorable and enriching outdoor adventure on the Saint John River.
Inclusions and Exclusions
The tour typically includes the use of a tandem kayak, as well as essential paddling equipment like life jackets, paddles, and spray skirts. Local taxes and fees are also covered in the price.
However, hotel pick-up and drop-off, food and drinks, and gratuities aren’t included in the tour cost.
The tour is also not suitable for individuals with back problems. Guests are advised to bring a change of clothes and a towel for the adventure.
The tour operates rain or shine, but guides may cancel for safety concerns, such as thunderstorms or high winds.
-
Includes: Tandem kayak, paddling equipment, safety overview, local taxes
-
Excludes: Hotel pick-up/drop-off, food/drinks, gratuities
-
Not suitable for those with back problems
Important Information
The tour meeting point is the Dominion Park Beach parking lot. Guests are advised to bring a change of clothes and a towel for the adventure.
Though the tour operates rain or shine, guides may cancel for safety concerns, such as thunderstorms or high winds.
The Saint John River: River Relics Kayak Tour offers a unique opportunity to explore the area’s rich history and natural beauty. Participants will learn about the region’s geological wonders, colonial-era ruins, and lighthouse history, all while enjoying scenic views and wildlife spotting.
With a small group size and a live, English-speaking guide, guests can expect a personalized and informative experience on the water.
- Saint John: Highlights and History Cycling Tour
- Saint John Walking Tour
- Saint John: Small Group Night Tour W/Fort La Tour + Martello
- Saint John: Fort La Tour and Martello Tower Guided Trip
- Saint John: Top 10 Highlights and Bay of Fundy Bus Tour
- From Saint John: Bay of Fundy Bus Trip for Cruise Passengers
Kayak Tour Logistics
Small group tours ensure a personalized experience on the Saint John River: River Relics Kayak Tour, with all guests paddling in tandem kayaks for safety. The tour includes a safety briefing and gear orientation, and a live English-speaking guide to lead the way.
Highlights of the experience include:
-
Observing first Pre-Cambrian fossils recorded in scientific literature
-
Discovering 17th-century lime quarry ruins
-
Learning about river lighthouses and their 150+ years of travel history
With scenic views and wildlife spotting opportunities, the River Relics Kayak Tour is a unique way to explore the natural and historical wonders of the Saint John River.
The tour operates rain or shine, subject to safety considerations, and offers a convenient reserve now, pay later option.
Natural and Historical Sites
Exploring the natural and historical sites along the Saint John River, kayakers on the River Relics Kayak Tour can observe the first Pre-Cambrian fossils recorded in scientific literature and discover the ruins of a 17th-century lime quarry.
The tour also offers the chance to learn about the 150+ years of history behind the river’s lighthouses, including the iconic Swift Point Lighthouse.
As they paddle, guests can spot abundant wildlife, such as bald eagles, sturgeon, great blue herons, and harbor seals, all while taking in the scenic beauty of the Stonehammer Geopark.
This immersive experience allows visitors to connect with the river’s rich natural and cultural heritage.
Customer Feedback
Customers who’ve experienced the Saint John River Kayak Tour through River Relics consistently praise the excursion, awarding it an overall 5/5 rating based on verified feedback.
Guests enthusiastically highlight several key aspects of the tour:
-
The knowledgeable and engaging guides who seamlessly blend historical insights with stunning natural scenery.
-
The opportunity to observe fascinating geological formations and wildlife like bald eagles and harbor seals in their natural habitats.
-
The well-organized, safe, and enjoyable experience from start to finish, with quality gear and an emphasis on personalized attention.
This exceptionally high level of customer satisfaction underscores the tour’s ability to deliver an unforgettable adventure along the iconic Saint John River.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Request a Specific Paddling Partner for the Tour?
Customers can generally request a specific paddling partner for a guided kayak tour, though availability may be limited. Tour operators strive to accommodate preferences where possible, but the final partner assignment is at their discretion to ensure safety and balance the groups.
What Is the Minimum/Maximum Group Size for the Tour?
The tour operator doesn’t specify a minimum or maximum group size. However, it notes the tours are small-group to ensure a personalized experience. This suggests the group size is likely limited to provide an intimate and tailored exploration.
Are There Any Age Restrictions or Requirements for the Tour?
Kayak tours typically have minimum age requirements, often around 12 years old, to ensure the safety and enjoyment of all participants. Specific age limits may vary by tour operator, so it’s best to check for any age restrictions before booking.
Can I Purchase Photos or Videos of the Tour Experience?
Customers can purchase photos and videos of their tour experience directly from the tour provider. These optional add-ons allow guests to capture and commemorate their kayaking adventure along the river.
Is There a Secure Storage Area Available for Personal Belongings?
There’s usually secure storage available for personal belongings on guided tours. Participants can leave items in the tour provider’s designated storage area while they’re engaged in the activity. Check with the tour operator about their specific storage policies.
Recap
The Saint John River: River Relics Kayak Tour offers an unforgettable opportunity to explore the river’s rich history and natural wonders.
With knowledgeable guides, tandem kayaks, and a focus on both historical insights and wildlife sightings, this 2-hour tour promises an enchanting adventure amidst stunning scenery, rated 5/5 by satisfied customers.
Whether you’re a nature enthusiast or history buff, this tour is sure to leave you with lasting memories.
You can check if your dates are available here: