Cruising to Peggy's Cove

The season of Canada / New England cruises leaving from Northeast ports is underway. A favorite port of call on that particular itinerary is the Canadian city of Halifax.  While there are many wonderful things to do in the Halifax area, a trip to Peggy’s Cove is always a memorable way to spend the day.

Peggy's Cove, a picture postcard fishing village, is located 26 miles southwest of downtown Halifax. According to legend, Peggy's Cove was named after a woman named Margaret, the only survivor of a schooner that ran aground and sank in the year 1800. Local folk called her ""Peggy"" and her home came to be known as Peggy's Cove.

Set on rocky shores, Peggy’s Cove is known for its seasoned fish sheds, brightly painted boats, and colorful homes perched on wave-washed boulders.  It is this charming scene that has fascinated artists, photographers and tourists for years. Yet despite its popularity, the little village has been able maintain the same peaceful atmosphere that has made it famous.

Strolling around the Cove allows visitors a glimpse into maritime life. This is a working fishing community with all that accompanies that activity. Lobster traps and fishnets decorate the wharves and roadside, and fishing boats come and go from the piers. The geology and history of the village is told on storyboards scattered throughout the area.

The many small, locally owned gift stores, galleries and craft shops features the works of Canadian and Nova Scotian artists and crafts people. The restaurants and cafes in the area offer the freshest Nova Scotia seafood. Lobster is the specialty but don't miss a bowl of the famous fish chowder or a meal featuring the wonderful St Margaret's Bay haddock.

The community’s famous lighthouse, built in 1868 marks the eastern entrance of St. Margaret’s Bay. The lighthouse at Peggy's Cove is a hexagonal concrete tower, standing on solid rock above the crashing surf. It is a classic red and white lighthouse, retired from active service by the Canadian Coast Guard. The lighthouse is one of the most recognized, visited and photographed structures in the world.

From June through October you can cruise up to Canada and New England leaving from convenient ports in Baltimore, Bayonne, or Boston. If Halifax is on your chosen cruise itinerary, consider spending the day in the idyllic fishing village of Peggy’s Cove.