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Cruise Port Advisor
Destinations › Charlottetown, PEI

Charlottetown, PEI Cruise Port Guide

Charlottetown is the capital city of Canada's smallest province, Prince Edward Island, known for its hospitality & beautiful green hills.

Charlottetown is the capital city of Canada's smallest province, Prince Edward Island. P.E.I. is known for its hospitality, beautiful green hills and red dirt roads, potatoes, Anne of Green Gables, and amazing seafood. Charlottetown is big city and small town rolled into one.

Port Charlottetown welcomed 89 ships in 2023 and is continuing to grow — with 96 ships booked for 2024. The island has extended its tourism season from late April through early November. P.E.I.'s compact size makes it entirely possible to enjoy a self-guided tour of the famous North Shore and central P.E.I. in half a day — perfect for cruise passengers.

Charlottetown's walkable downtown, proximity to central P.E.I., and diverse attractions make it an ideal stop for an immersive experience. The port and the island have earned a reputation as Canada's Food Island — with an abundance of fresh lobster, steamed mussels, shucked oysters, new potatoes, premium beef, and craft brews.

See All Charlottetown Excursions

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Know Before You Go

Currency is Canadian dollars. Charlottetown is extremely walkable and the port is right in the heart of downtown. On busy days up to four ships may be in port simultaneously — popular restaurants fill up fast, so head out early. Weather can be cool even in summer — bring a light layer. The island speed limit is 90 km/h and there are no multi-lane highways, so factor extra time into any driving excursion.
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Hot Tip

Rent a car and take the Central Coastal Drive up to Cavendish Beach and Green Gables — you can do the whole loop in a half day. It's the best way to experience the real P.E.I. beyond the port and the red dirt roads and green rolling hills are as beautiful as advertised.

Charlottetown, PEI – Quick Facts

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CurrencyCanadian Dollar
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LanguageEnglish
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WiFi & PhoneFree WiFi is available at most coffee shops or cafes.
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Where You DockCharlottetown Cruise Terminal, Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island
CHARLOTTETOWN WEATHER

Where You Dock in Charlottetown, PEI

Pier locations and what's available at each terminal.

The Port of Charlottetown is located in downtown Charlottetown, within easy walking distance of shops and restaurants. The cruise terminal — a beautifully converted potato warehouse — has souvenir vendors, a small cafe, and a few artisan stalls. Taxis are available right at the terminal and excursion groups depart from here as well.

Getting Around Charlottetown, PEI

Transportation options once you're ashore.

🚶 Walking

Charlottetown is a very walkable city and the cruise terminal is right in the downtown core. The Historic Waterfront, Queen Street, and Victoria Row are all easily reached on foot.

🚕 Taxis

Government-regulated and readily available at the terminal. A taxi fare within Charlottetown proper runs $6–$9 CAD. Drivers also offer island tours for approximately $60/hour, or can take you out to the island's other sites.

🚗 Car Rental

Ideal for exploring the island at your own pace. Keep in mind the maximum speed limit is 90 km/h and there are no multi-lane highways. PEI Tourism has designed Coastal Driving tours that cover the entire coastline. For a single port day, the Central Coastal Drive takes you to Cavendish Beach and Green Gables.

Things To Do in Charlottetown, PEI

Make the most of your time ashore.

🎯 P.E.I. is wonderfully diverse — here's what to see in Charlottetown and around the island:

In Charlottetown

Confederation Centre for the Arts — An art gallery and performance centre offering local exhibits and theatre for P.E.I.'s thriving arts scene. Check the website for performances during your port day.

St. Dunstan's Basilica — Built in 1816, this spectacular basilica is a short walk from the port. The stained glass windows are a highlight among the Victorian Gothic styling. Nearby attractions include the Beaconsfield Historic House (guided tours available) and the P.E.I. Museum and Heritage Foundation.

Around the Island

Cavendish Beach — Family fun at its best. A water park, amusement park, golf courses (regular and mini), Ripley's Believe It or Not, beautiful beaches, and forest trails — all in one area about 45 minutes from Charlottetown.

Green Gables Heritage Place — Just outside of Cavendish, within P.E.I. National Park. The farm that inspired L.M. Montgomery to write her world-famous Anne of Green Gables novels. Tour the Green Gables house and stroll through the Haunted Woods or Balsam Hollow.

Green Gables PEI

Beaches & Outdoors in Charlottetown, PEI

The best beaches, parks, and outdoor experiences for cruise passengers.

🏖️ P.E.I.'s beaches are known for their warm water (warmest north of Virginia on the Atlantic coast), red sand, and beautiful dune scenery:

Cavendish Beach

The island's most famous beach — a long stretch of red sand dunes within P.E.I. National Park, near Green Gables. Family-friendly with nearby water parks, amusement parks, and golf. About 45 minutes from Charlottetown by car.

Victoria Park Beach

Right in Charlottetown — a pleasant sandy beach within walking distance of the downtown core. Great for a quick swim or a relaxing afternoon without needing to travel far from the port.

brackley Beach

Part of P.E.I. National Park on the North Shore — a quieter, stunning stretch of red sand dunes and clear water. A short drive from Charlottetown and well worth the trip for those who want a more serene beach experience.

Shopping in Charlottetown, PEI

Where to shop and what to look for.

🛍️ The cruise terminal itself — a beautifully converted potato warehouse — has vendors selling souvenirs, apparel, jewelry, and handmade art. Step outside and you're already in downtown Charlottetown:

Historic Waterfront & Queen Street

Start at the Historic Waterfront, stroll up Queen Street, and continue to Victoria Row — a pedestrian-friendly street lined with boutiques, gifted artisans, and local shops. The best area for unique P.E.I. gifts and locally made goods.

Charlottetown Mall

Located on the outskirts of town and easily accessible by taxi or public bus. A standard shopping mall for everyday needs — Walmart is located directly across the street.

Dining in Charlottetown, PEI

Where to eat and drink ashore.

🍽️ Prince Edward Island is famous worldwide for its seafood — from lobster, crab, mussels, oysters, and clams to an abundance of fresh fish. Even if seafood isn't your thing, most restaurants use local ingredients and take great pride in what they serve.

Water Prince Corner Shop and Lobster Pound

Rated among the top seafood restaurants on the island — a cozy restaurant and seafood store that is always busy. Expect a wait, but the food is worth it. Try the deluxe seafood platter, homemade seafood chowder, or fish and chips. Prices are based on market value.

Deluxe Seafood Platter Water Prince Corner Shop

Gahan House

P.E.I.'s own craft brewery and pub. Handcrafted ales alongside great food in a warm pub environment. Try the nachos, mussels, or one of their unique sandwiches — then head to the basement for a peek at the microbrewery.

Gahan House Charlottetown

Chip Shack (Queen of Fries)

A short walk from the cruise pier — some of the best hand-cut island fries you'll find anywhere. Also serves gluten-free fish and chips, battered fresh to order. A few picnic tables available on a nice day.

Top Tours & Shore Excursions

Book before you board for best availability and pricing.

The Island Drive & Anne of Green Gables

Explore Prince Edward Island's rolling green countryside and visit the beloved Anne of Green Gables heritage site — a pe...

Book This Tour →

Full Day Whale Watching Cruise

Venture into the Gulf of St. Lawrence for a chance to spot humpback, minke, and fin whales in their natural habitat off ...

Book This Tour →

Annapolis Valley Wine Tour

Visit some of Atlantic Canada's finest wineries and vineyards on this guided tour through the scenic countryside surroun...

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Charlottetown, PEI – FAQ

Common questions from cruise passengers.

What is Charlottetown PEI known for?

Charlottetown is known as the Birthplace of Confederation — the 1864 Charlottetown Conference led to the creation of Canada. It's also famous for Anne of Green Gables, beautiful red sand beaches, fresh lobster, and its charming Victorian architecture.

What is Anne of Green Gables?

Anne of Green Gables is a beloved novel written by L.M. Montgomery, published in 1908. It tells the story of Anne Shirley, a red-haired orphan girl who comes to live on a farm called Green Gables on PEI. The story has enchanted readers worldwide and is a major draw for literary tourists.

Can I walk from the Charlottetown cruise terminal?

Yes — the cruise terminal is right in the heart of downtown Charlottetown. Victoria Row (the main restaurant and arts street), Province House, and the waterfront boardwalk are all within easy walking distance.

What should I eat in Charlottetown?

PEI lobster is world-famous and should be top of your list. PEI mussels, fresh oysters, and potato dishes (PEI grows exceptional potatoes) are also local specialties. Victoria Row has excellent restaurant options.

Cruise Passenger Tips & Photos

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