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Have you ever wondered what it’s like to ride the waves across the Halifax Harbour? The Halifax Harbour Ferry is a super fun way to travel between Halifax and Dartmouth, and we’ve got everything you (and your grown-ups) need to know to enjoy one of Halifax’s most unique and wonderful ways to see both sides of the harbour.
What is the Halifax Harbour Ferry?
The ferry is part of Halifax Transit, just like the buses in the city, but this one floats! It takes you across the harbour between Downtown Halifax and Dartmouth. The trip is quick and relaxing, taking only 15 minutes, and kids under 12 ride for free.
A Historic Ride
The Halifax Harbour Ferry isn’t just any ferry; it’s the oldest salt water passenger ferry service in North America!
The very first official ferry service across the Halifax Harbour started back in 1752 (over 270 years ago!), when people used simple, sturdy rowboats to cross the water. Over time, things got fancier: there was a horse-powered “team boat,” and later, in 1830, the first steam-powered ferry in Nova Scotia.
Halifax’s ferries have continued to run through major events, including both World Wars and even the Halifax Explosion.
Taking the Halifax Harbour Ferry is a really cool experience. It’s practical, fun, and helps you see the city in a totally different way—right from the water! Whether you’re going for a quick ride or making it part of a big Halifax day, the ferry is an unmissable experience.
Why It's Fun for Families
Riding the ferry is a great way to see both Halifax and Dartmouth from the water. The islands in the harbour, both waterfronts, and the wake from the ferry make for awesome views. There’s a fun playground on both the Halifax and Dartmouth waterfronts, right near the ferry terminals, so it’s a perfect way to land and stretch your legs.
Fun Facts for Kids (and Curious Grown-Ups)
- The first steam ferry, the Sir Charles Ogle, could cross the harbour in just seven minutes—way faster than the rowboats and horse-powered boats that came before.
- The harbour itself is really special; it’s one of the largest and deepest natural ice-free harbours in the world.
- Back in the very early days, some ferry rides were signalled by blowing into a conch shell instead of a horn!
- The names of the ferries come from important people in Halifax’s history, like the Rita Joe and Vincent Coleman ferries, named after a Mi’kmaw poet and a hero of the Halifax Explosion, respectively.
Tips for Your Ferry Adventure
- Arrive a little early to make sure you have plenty of time to get ready to board.
- Take lots of pictures! The views from the harbour are great for photos, especially with the downtown skyline behind you.
- Pair your ferry ride with a walk. The Halifax Waterfront Boardwalk is more than 4 km long, and there are lots of cool shops and treats to explore on Portland Street in Downtown Dartmouth.
