Saint John, New Brunswick

When we started the cruise, we were informed that the ship would get in late to Saint John, due to the tide. This would affect our tour a bit (by about 15 minutes), but that was no big deal.

We docked at the pier just before 9:00 am, and left as soon after that as was possible, so we were on our bus and away for our tour, just after 9:00.  Our tour was of Saint John and the big attraction was "Reversing Rapids" on the St. John River. This is a place across from the Irving Pulp and Paper mill.

We drove around some of Saint John, looking at some of the historic buildings. Then we arrived at the "Reversing Falls" at just about low tide. The river is squeezed into a fairly narrow channel, between some big rocky islands. At that time, the rapids were running toward the harbour, and the water was moving very quickly. Our guide said that there are two high tides each day, and within a 6 hour period, the water would rise 28 feet.

Carleton Maretello Tower

After we had been there for a while to take some photos, we carried on to look at some more history of Saint John. We visited an old fort where there was the Carlton Martello Tower. This is one of very few remaining in the world, and it was built by the British because it was so good at withstanding their cannonballs when shelling in Spain in the 1700s. So they decide to build one here during the War of 1812. Its an interesting shape, and we watched a short video that explained its history and why it wasn't used after being built.

Water Rushing Downstream

Still Water 2 Hours Later

We then drove around some more, and went to Old City Market, which is right in the middle of of town. It is similar to Pike's Market in Seattle, only much smaller. There is a small selection of farmer's market things, crafts, groceries, fish, deli's, etc. We spent about 20 minutes there, and of course, mom found some pottery to purchase.

After that, it was back to the "Reversing Rapids" where the water was moving slowly upstream because that tide was coming in. We were just after "slack tide" where the water is still - the height of the ocean is the same as the height of the river so no water flow. A few hours later, the water will be running upstream with the rapids quite rough and wild. At that point, the ocean is higher than the river elevation there, and the water has no place to go.

Then we went back to the ship. Dawn noticed a Pier Market tent, just where we got off the bus. So, of course, we had to make a trip there to purchase a few more things. Then, through security and on to the boat.

We had a small lunch, and then decided to sit outside in the sunshine. We sat on a couple lounges, but in the sun it was too bright, and out of the sun it was too cold. After about half an hour, we decided to go back to our room. Unfortunately, the lounge I was on had been wet, and my pants were soaked. It looked like I had lost control of my bladder, and my depends had failed (if I wore them). It was embarrassing, so luckily I had my sweat jacket to tie around my waist to cover the offending area.

Dawn found a replay of the Blue Jays win from last night, so she watched it, and I slept (apparently). We were waiting for the action in the 7th inning, so were a little lated getting down for our dinner. No problem, though.

We had to hustle to the theatre for the 7:15 show. I think we got the last 2 seats together, in the front row, extreme right side. It was a good show, full of energy and great singing. It was called the Piano Man, and the songs were from Billy Joel and Elton John. The dancers and singers were amazing, and did a great job. I felt a little lecherous, watching those young bodies from so close.

After that, it was back to our room for the night. It's only 9:00 as I write this, but I'm tired. I'll try to get some photos on, and then post it, but I doubt we are long out of bed.

Halifax tomorrow.

Pilot Boat When Leaving