The Bay of Fundy Marine Protected Area conserves one of the world’s most extraordinary tidal ecosystems, offering unique opportunities for wildlife viewing, paddling, and exploration in a diverse marine environment.
The Bay of Fundy Marine Protected Area (MPA) is located at the head of the Bay of Fundy, spanning coastal regions of New Brunswick and Nova Scotia, Canada. This marine conservation area safeguards habitats that support a rich variety of marine life including whales, seals, migratory birds, and rare cold-water corals. Known for having the world’s highest tides, which can reach up to 50 feet, the Bay of Fundy creates a dynamic environment with powerful tidal currents and extensive mudflats exposed at low tide. The area encompasses critical breeding and feeding grounds for numerous species and preserves important ecosystems such as salt marshes, mudflats, and rocky shorelines. Visitors to the Bay of Fundy MPA can engage in outdoor recreation activities such as kayaking and canoeing through the sheltered bays, whale watching tours centered on the dense populations of humpback, fin, and minke whales, and guided tidal pool exploration during low tide. The region also features dramatic coastal cliffs, sedimentary fossil sites along Fundy’s cliffs, and opportunities to witness the unique phenomenon of tidal bore river events. Parks Canada and local conservation groups offer interpretive programs, emphasizing the ecological significance and cultural heritage linked to Indigenous peoples and early settlers who relied on the abundant marine resources. The Bay of Fundy Marine Protected Area appeals to outdoor enthusiasts, naturalists, and researchers aiming to experience one of the planet’s most remarkable marine ecosystems and to contribute to its sustained protection.
Hopewell Rocks – Iconic flowerpot rock formations shaped by tidal erosion
Whale Watching – Frequent sightings of humpback and North Atlantic right whales
Tidal Bore Viewing on the Petitcodiac River – A rare tidal phenomenon
Bay of Fundy Mudflats – Vital habitat for migratory shorebirds
Unique rock formations carved by tidal forces, famous for their 'flowerpot' shape and accessible walkways at low tide.
A rare tidal wave phenomenon occurring on some rivers like the Petitcodiac, where incoming tides create a surging bore up the river.
Submarine coral ecosystems thriving in the Bay’s deep waters, important for marine biodiversity and scientific research.