Discover the magic of Ministers Island with scenic water activities and a delightful pre-ordered picnic from Van Horne Estates. A perfect day for outdoor lovers!
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
2–4 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels, with optional light walking or paddling.
Wildlife
History
Originally a summer estate in the early 20th century, the island hosts historic buildings from that era, including the iconic lighthouse.
Conservation
Efforts focus on preserving native habitats and minimizing impact from visitors, ensuring the island remains a vibrant habitat for local wildlife.
Van Horne Estates On Ministers Island Inc
Discover the magic of Ministers Island with scenic water activities and a delightful pre-ordered picnic from Van Horne Estates. A perfect day for outdoor lovers!
Van Horne Estates On Ministers Island Inc preserves and operates the historic summer estate of Sir William Van Horne on Ministers Island, New Brunswick. The site is a designated National Historic Site of Canada and showcases well-preserved 19th-century architecture set against the Bay of Fundy shoreline. The estate offers a range of visitor experiences that highlight history, landscape, and local cuisine.
Visitors can book a 2-Hour Guided Tour that crosses the ocean floor at low tide to reach the island, explore the mansion and estate grounds, and learn about the site's history. The General Admission Day Pass enables self-guided exploration, access to trails, and participation in scheduled guided tours. On special event days, attendees can enjoy live music and local food; the Hypochondriacs Concert & BBQ features a performance plus a Char & Chowder barbecue menu with options including East Coast Sausage and Lobster Mac ’N Cheese.
Convenience options include Pre-Ordered Picnics with choices such as Chicken Salad or Ham & Cheese wrap, seasonal fruit, a chocolate chip cookie, and water. The Covenhoven Dinner Series offers an intimate dining experience in an Edward Maxwell–designed mansion; the series hosts ten guests per dinner and features chef Chris Aerni of the Rossmount Inn, who focuses on fresh, local ingredients and spontaneous cuisine.
Staff and interpreters on site provide historical context and visitor information. All activities and services operate from Ministers Island, New Brunswick, and adhere to site guidelines for preservation and safety. Operations and schedules vary seasonally based on tides and weather.
Location
Ministers Island, NB
Accessible via ocean floor at low tide
Historic Status
National Historic Site
Preserves Sir William Van Horne estate
Experiences
5 Experiences
Concerts, tours, dinners, picnics
Intimate Dining
10 Guests
Covenhoven dinners seat ten guests
Reserve guided tours, General Admission, pre-ordered picnics, concert tickets, or the 10-seat Covenhoven dinner; check tide schedules and event dates before travel.
Plan your water route
Use tide charts to time your boat or kayak trip for calm waters and smoother crossings.
Dress for the weather
Bring layers and sun protection; coastal weather can shift quickly.
Reserve your picnic early
Ensure your spot by booking ahead, especially during peak season.
Check boat schedules
Confirm departure times to maximize your time on the island.
Sun protection
Prevent sunburn during outdoor activities on the water and onshore.
summer
Waterproof bag
Keep your valuables dry during boat trips or in case of light rain.
all
Comfortable footwear
Suitable for walking on trails and around the island.
spring, summer, fall
Layered clothing
Adjust to changing weather conditions during your visit.
spring, fall, winter