Charlottetown, Canada
Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island (PEI) is a charming and historic port city on the southern coast of Canada's smallest province.1 As the "Birthplace of Confederation," where the idea of a united Canada was born, Charlottetown is a city that is rich in history and filled with a friendly, small-town atmosphere.2 For a cruiser, Charlottetown offers a perfect blend of a walkable, historic downtown and a launching point for incredible adventures across the island's famous red-sand beaches and rolling green hills.3
⛵ Port Introduction
Your ship will dock directly at the Port Charlottetown Marine Terminal, which is a modern, spacious, and well-equipped facility. It is located right on the city's waterfront.4 The walk from the ship to the terminal is short and easy, and from there, you are just a few steps from the city's main attractions.5
⚓ Terminal Information
The Charlottetown Marine Terminal is a permanent building with a variety of amenities for your comfort. The walk from the ship to the terminal is short and easy, and once you are in the terminal, you are right at the edge of the city. The terminal is clean, comfortable, and well-equipped for your needs.
🚻 Terminal Facilities
The terminal has restrooms, a tourist information desk with friendly staff who can provide maps and directions, and a variety of small shops selling souvenirs and local crafts. You'll also find some vendors with tours and taxi services.6 The terminal offers free Wi-Fi, which is a big plus. Tour pickups and a taxi stand are located just outside the terminal.
🗣️ Language
The local language is English. While Canada has two official languages, English is the primary language spoken on Prince Edward Island. You will have no problem navigating, communicating, or exploring.
💰 Money
The currency is the Canadian Dollar (CAD).7 Credit cards are widely accepted everywhere, and contactless payments are very common. While many businesses will accept U.S. dollars, it is recommended to convert your national currency into Canadian dollars before traveling to PEI to ensure you get the best exchange rate.8 ATMs are easy to find at the port and throughout the city.9
🚗 Transportation
Charlottetown's downtown is very walkable, and its main attractions are clustered in the city center.10
· Walking: The best way to explore downtown is on foot. The historic streets, shops, and restaurants are all within easy walking distance of the cruise terminal.11
· Taxis: Taxis are available at the cruise terminal.12 They are regulated and use a meter, but it is still a good idea to get an estimate of the cost before you begin your journey.
· Public Bus: Charlottetown has a public bus system, T3 Transit, which is a very affordable way to get around the city.13 The buses are also wheelchair accessible.
· Ride-Sharing: There are no ride-sharing services like Uber or Lyft in Charlottetown.
· Bicycles: Bicycle rentals are a popular way to explore the island, and you can find several rental companies near the port.
♿ Accessibility
Charlottetown has an accessibility rating of 6 out of 10. The cruise terminal is modern and well-equipped for people with limited mobility. The downtown area is generally flat and the city has invested in making its sidewalks and public transit more accessible. T3 Transit provides accessible municipal transit on its city routes.14 However, some of the older, historic buildings and attractions may not be fully accessible. Prince Edward Island National Park, a popular destination outside the city, has made a commitment to accessibility, with accessible beach mats, beach wheelchairs, and trail-riders available.15
🚶♀️ The best way to get to town from cruise port
The best way to get to town is to simply walk. The port is located right in the heart of the city's waterfront, and you can easily walk to all the main attractions.16
🚽 Toilet
Public restrooms are generally available and clean in Charlottetown, especially at major tourist attractions, shopping centers, and in the cruise terminal. They are free to use.
💊 Drugstore
· Murphy's Pharmacies: There are several Murphy's Pharmacies locations in Charlottetown.17 One of the most centrally located is at 418 Queen Street, which is a short walk from the cruise terminal.
· Shoppers Drug Mart: There is also a Shoppers Drug Mart at 145 Pownal St, Charlottetown, which is a short walk from the port.
✨ Authentic Experience
1. Dine on Local Seafood and P.E.I. Oysters: Prince Edward Island is famous for its fresh seafood, especially oysters.18 Seek out a local restaurant and order a plate of fresh oysters, or a bowl of creamy seafood chowder. You can also try a "Mussel and Lobster Shore Boil," a unique and authentic culinary experience that is a must-do on the island.19
2. Explore the Historic Downtown and Visit Province House: For a deep dive into the city's history, walk through the historic downtown area. You can see the beautiful Victorian architecture, and visit Province House, the birthplace of Canada.20 The historic streets are a charming mix of unique boutiques and local shops.
3. Take a Tour to a Local Farm and Try a Local Delicacy: For a true taste of local life, take a tour to a local farm or culinary studio. You can learn about the process of making artisan bread, or take a deep-sea fishing trip to catch your own dinner. It is a fantastic way to experience the island's unique culinary scene and its agricultural heritage.
