Bay of Fundy
...the thrill of the Tidal Bore...

Have you ever heard of the Tidal Bore?  This is a natural phenomenon that occurs twice daily on Nova Scotia's Bay of Fundy.  The phases of the moon actually determine the height of the tidal bore.  The best part is that you can ride the Tide Bore on a zodiac.

What is the Tidal Bore?

The incoming tides on the bay are extremely strong. They actually reverse the flow of several rivers that empty into the bay during low tide.  The rivers don't really have the time to fully empty. 

High tide occurs and causes the reversal which results in the Tidal Bore (or wave). Basically the outgoing waters and the incoming collide. The rivers eventually fill and the bore subsides.

a river emptying at low tide

The height of the Tidal Bore and the height of the tides themselves are linked to the phases of the moon.  The bore and the tides are at their highest when the moon is closest to the earth.  And at their lowest when it is further away.

Hall's Harbour at high tide
Hall's Harbour at low tide

Tide Schedule

Make sure you are aware of the tide schedule before venturing close to the waters on the bay. The tides come in quite quickly so it is very important to be aware of the tides schedule.

To check the tides for your area of interest go to this Tides Schedule link.  Enter the location in the search box at the top corner of the map.

Where to see the changing tides?

You can see the changing tides all along the Bay of Fundy.  But remember that to see low and high tides at the same place will mean that you'll need to stick around for about 6 hours.

Check my Bay of Fundy map below to see the location of the spots I mention here.

You can actually walk on the ocean floor at low tide in Joggins, Wasson Bluff, Five Islands and Burntcoat Head.  If you do visit these areas be sure to check the tide schedule beforehand.  If your timing is good you could see both the low tide and the incoming high tide or vice-versa.

walking on the ocean floor at Burntcoat Head

Watching the changing tides from atop cliffs that overlook the bay is awesome.  Check out Cape d'or, Partridge Island, Cape Split and Blomidon Park.  Hiking in Cape Chignecto Provincial Park or along the Bay of Fundy coastline between Advocate Harbour and Economy will also give you super views.

Where to see the Tidal Bore?

The Tidal Bore can be best viewed at the Fundy Discovery Site in Truro and the Fundy Tidal Interpretive Centre South Maitland. These sites will also list the times of the tidal bore. My Bay of Fundy map will help you locate these places along the bay.

Some folks opt for the more adventurous way to see the Tidal Bore.  That is, on a zodiac.  Fundy Tidal Bore Adventures in South Maitland offers these tours. 

This looks awesome but be warned that you will get wet and dirty and these boats go fast.  But it will be a thrill and everyone loves it.

view of the Bay of Fundy from Cape Split hiking trail
enjoying the incoming Tidal Bore

Accommodations

There are many places to stay along the Bay of Fundy.  Once you decide on your planned activities I suggest that you check their location on my Bay of Fundy map.  Then you can check the closet town and its accommodation options on Trip Advisor.

Some major locations along the bay include Truro, Wolfville, Windsor, Parrsboro and Digby.

The Bay of Fundy can also be considered a great day trip if you are in the Halifax, Windsor or Truro areas.  These links will lead you to Trip Advisor which is my 'go to' place for accommodations.  

Restaurants

Nova Scotia has a wide variety of places to eat.  From fine dining, family restaurants, pubs and pizza spots.  There is something for everyone. 

I suggest you check my Where to Eat page for some tips on how to find a restaurant in your location.

Have you seen the Tidal Bore?

Do you have a great story about your visit? Do you want to become a part of Your Nova Scotia Holiday?

Please share this page with your friends.