River Relics Kayaking Adventure
Active
1h - 2h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Manual confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Enjoy a guided kayaking adventure along the shores of the historic Saint John River from Dominion Park Beach in Saint John NB. Located just a short 15 minute drive from the center of the city!
History and photo opportunity abounds as you paddle in your tandem kayak along an ice aged river where 15,000 years ago receding glaciers forced the river to find a new route over the rock ridges at Reversing Falls Rapids. A light-house, pre-cambrian fossils, and an industrial story dating back to the 17th century. Explore the beautiful and bountiful river which has been the lifeblood of our region for thousands of years.
Keep your head on a swivel and an eye on the horizon for local wildlife, including bald eagles, blue heron, sturgeon, and if we're lucky, even the occasional rare sighting of harbour seal, osprey, and river otters.
** The traveller information collected at registration (age, height, weight, etc) is so we can plan appropriately with gear, (rough estimates are acceptable)
Available options
River Relics Kayaking
Duration: 2 hours: Includes gearing up and paddle & safely overview
approximately 1.5 hours paddling time on the river <br/>Tandem Sea Kayak: For safety reasons, all guests paddle tandem kayaks.
River Relics - Solo Traveller
Solo Traveller: Your tour will run (as long as conditions are safe), even if you are the only guest booked for that departure.<br/>Duration: 2 hours: Includes gearing up and paddle & safely overview
approximately 1.5 hours paddling time on the river <br/>Tandem Sea Kayak: For safety reasons, all guests paddle tandem kayaks; solo travellers may be paired up with a guide or another guest.
What's included
Professional Kayak Guide
Tandem Sea kayak (2 person kayak), PFD (personal flotation device, Spray Skirt, Kayak Paddle, professional guide, bottled water & nutritional snack
Detailed itinerary
1
Located on Saint John’s west side, Dominion Park is a popular year-round recreation destination. In summer, the stretch of sandy beach provides ideal access to the beautiful Saint John River for swimmers and boaters.
Dominion park is the staging area for our tour. We'll meet here to get geared up and to go over safety and instruction before setting out into the river and will return back to Dominion park beach at the end of the tour.
2
A snapshot of what this 418 mi (673km) river has to offer. Our kayak tour takes place in South Bay, where we explore natural and historic sites near the terminus of the "Rhine of North America," the Saint John River. A region where salt and fresh water meet, just upstream from the impressive reversing rapids, creating a unique and vibrant ecosystem
Wildlife abounds, an active bald eagle nest, jumping sturgeon, great blue heron, and if you're lucky even the occasionally a harbour seal.
3
This location is one of the Geosites for Stonehammer UNESCO Global Geopark! Learn about the first Precambriam fossils recorded in scientific literature, and an the impacts of glacier retreat on the Saint John River valley!
4
The site of a lime quarry likely dating back to the 17th century, Greenhead Cove is favourite stop along our tour. The site features the remains of the quarry, kiln foundations, and wharf timbers all visible from water level. A great location for a photo-op, the often protected cove is a chance to get that selfie you've been waiting for! Choose between a background of limestone cliffs, forested hills and a small beach, or Grand Bay, the roughly 16 square mile (20 sq km) confluence of the Saint John and Kennebecasis Rivers.
5
Conditions permitting, a chance to view a lighthouse location that has been active since the mid 1800's.
What's not included
Taxis are common, URide is our local ride share company
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Viator
5.0
11 reviews
5★
11
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Tripadvisor
5.0
12 reviews
5★
12
4★
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Important information
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Meeting point
Look for a red truck or white van with a kayak trailer behind it. Usually will be parked at the far end of the parking lot, next to the basketball court
Important notes
Please provide your guide with your confirmation voucher
About Saint John
Saint John is the largest city in New Brunswick and a vibrant port city known for its rich maritime history, stunning natural beauty, and friendly locals. Nestled at the mouth of the Saint John River, it offers a unique blend of coastal charm and urban amenities, making it a perfect destination for history buffs, nature lovers, and food enthusiasts alike.
Top Attractions
Reversing Falls Rapids
A unique natural phenomenon where the powerful tides of the Bay of Fundy cause the Saint John River to flow upstream twice a day, creating stunning rapids.
Nature
1-2 hours
Free (observation decks), tours vary
Saint John City Market
Canada's oldest continuous farmers' market, offering fresh local produce, artisanal goods, and a variety of food stalls.
Market
1-2 hours
Free entry, prices vary
Carleton Martello Tower National Historic Site
A well-preserved 19th-century fort offering panoramic views of the city and harbor, with exhibits on its military history.
Historical
1-2 hours
Free (donations welcome)
Irving Nature Park
A beautiful park with trails, beaches, and scenic viewpoints, perfect for hiking, picnicking, and wildlife watching.
Nature
2-4 hours
Free
Saint John Arts Centre
A hub for local artists and cultural events, featuring galleries, workshops, and performances.
Cultural
1-2 hours
Free entry, event prices vary
Must-Try Local Dishes
Lobster Rolls
A local favorite, featuring fresh lobster meat served in a buttered, toasted bun.
Lunch
Contains shellfish, gluten
Donair
A Maritime specialty, featuring spiced beef served with onions, tomatoes, and a sweet garlic sauce on pita bread.
Dinner
Contains beef, gluten
Blueberry Grunt
A classic Canadian dessert made with fresh blueberries and a simple dumpling-like topping, steamed and served with cream.
Dessert
Vegetarian, gluten-free if made with gluten-free flour
Popular Activities
Hiking
Kayaking
Whale watching
Beachcombing
Picnicking
Spas
Museum visits
Art galleries
Best Time to Visit
June to August
This is the most popular time to visit Saint John, with warm weather perfect for outdoor activities, festivals, and exploring the city's attractions. The city comes alive with events and tourists.
15°C to 25°C
59°F to 77°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: English, French
- Widely spoken: English
- English: Widely spoken
Currency
Canadian Dollar (CAD)
Time Zone
GMT-4 (EST) / GMT-3 (EDT during daylight saving time)
Electricity
120VV, 60HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Saint John is generally a safe city, but like any destination, it's important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable visit.
Important Precautions:
- • Keep valuables secure
- • Use licensed taxis
- • Be cautious when using ATMs
Getting there
By air
- Saint John Airport • 10 km from city center
By bus
Saint John Bus Terminal
Getting around
Public transport
Affordable and convenient, with routes connecting major attractions and neighborhoods.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Uber, Local taxi apps
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Uptown
West Side
South End
Day trips
Fundy National Park
50 km • Full day
A stunning national park with hiking trails, waterfalls, and scenic viewpoints, offering a variety of outdoor activities.
Hopewell Rocks
100 km • Full day
A unique natural wonder featuring towering rock formations carved by the tides of the Bay of Fundy.
Saint Andrews by-the-Sea
80 km • Full day
A charming coastal town with a rich history, offering a variety of attractions and activities.
Festivals
Saint John River Festival • August
Festival of Trees • December
Saint John Jazz & Blues Festival • June
Pro tips
- Visit the Reversing Falls Rapids during high tide for the best experience
- Explore the historic uptown area for boutique shopping and trendy dining
- Try local specialties like lobster rolls, donair, and blueberry grunt
- Use the Saint John Transit bus system to get around the city affordably
- Book accommodations in advance for popular events and peak season
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
