Discover the rich maritime history of Ministers Island while walking across the ocean floor at low tide, witnessing the powerful Bay of Fundy's tides firsthand with this guided tour.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
Hang tight — photos are loading
This usually takes just a second.
Difficulty
easy
Duration
2 hours
Fitness Level
Basic mobility required, suitable for most ages
Wildlife
History
The estate was once a summer retreat for Sir William Van Horne, highlighting Canada’s railway history and coastal heritage.
Conservation
Tour practices emphasize leave-no-trace principles, helping preserve the fragile tidal flats and coastal ecosystems.
Van Horne Estates On Ministers Island Inc
Discover the rich maritime history of Ministers Island while walking across the ocean floor at low tide, witnessing the powerful Bay of Fundy's tides firsthand with this guided tour.
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.
Check Tidal Schedule
Plan your visit around low tide for safe crossing and optimal scenery.
Wear sturdy footwear
Appropriate shoes are a must for walking on rocky tidal flats.
Bring a camera
Capture stunning views and historic architecture during your tour.
Wear layered clothing
Weather can change rapidly along the coast, so dress for varying conditions.
Sturdy walking shoes
Necessary for walking on uneven rocky flats and terrains.
Waterproof jacket
Preparedness for sudden weather changes along coast.
Camera or smartphone
Capture the scenic views and historic structures.
Hat and sunglasses
Protection against sun and glare during open-air walk.