Private tour in Halifax Mel Z

Lunenburg and the South Shore

5.0

(10) reviews

-
Hours icon 6 hours
Private transportation
Private tour for 1-6 people
Your party size

1

Tour date
View our cancellation policiesUpgrade for total flexibility with Any Reason Cancellation
Book with a depositSecure your tour today and pay your balance later
-
Hours icon 6 hours
Private transportation
Private tour for 1-6 people
Your party size

1

View our cancellation policiesUpgrade for total flexibility with Any Reason Cancellation
Book with a depositSecure your tour today and pay your balance later

Mel Z.

5.0

Guide rating

217

Reviews

Tours delivered

1 hrs

Avg. response time

Greetings from Halifax, and welcome to Nova Scotia! I’ve been guiding and driving private tours since 2013, and as a proud Halifax native, I love introducing visitors to the beauty, history, and flavours of our province. My tours are designed to be private, flexible, and fun—giving you access to hidden gems and scenic spots that large buses can’t reach. With 13+ years of experience and 400 tours completed on ToursByLocals alone, I bring both knowledge and personality to every trip. Whether you’re interested in iconic landmarks, local culture, great photo opportunities, or delicious seafood and wines, I’ll tailor your tour to match your interests. Tours typically run 5–8 hours, but I also offer longer options and custom multi-day adventures throughout Nova Scotia, Cape Breton, Prince Edward Island, and New Brunswick. A bit about me: I’m passionate about the outdoors, have a background in martial arts (18+ years of training and teaching self-defense), and worked in electronics engineering and document management for over two decades before returning to Nova Scotia in 2011. During the pandemic I rediscovered my love of fishing—so yes, I’ve got plenty of “big one that got away” stories to swap! I’m easygoing, enjoy a good laugh, and love sharing stories—from Nova Scotia’s rich history to my own travels around the world. Above all, I’m committed to making your time here memorable and take pride in being both Canadian and a proud Nova Scotian. For your peace of mind: • I hold a Class 4 Commercial Driver’s License, commercial insurance, and government licenses to operate in Nova Scotia, PEI, New Brunswick, and Newfoundland and Labrador • I am a Nationally Certified Tour Professional through the Tourism Council of Canada (E-merit). • I serve as Board Member of my local Business Association and am a member of the Titanic Society of Atlantic Canada and the SS Atlantic Society. • I follow all health and safety protocols; vehicles are sanitized, and I am fully vaccinated against COVID-19.

Have a question or want to customize this tour? Message Mel Z.

Overview of your Halifax tour

Picturesque Lunenburg lies nestled along the scenic shores of southern Nova Scotia, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, National Historic District, winner of the Communities in Bloom most beautiful small town in Canada. Home of the fishing schooner Bluenose II This 6 hr Private Tour from Halifax to Lunenburg with return travel via Mahone Bay, Chester Basin has a mix of beautiful coastal and highway driving. We can stop at different sites to take in the beauty of Nova Scotia and get that post card photo. Founded by German & Swiss Protestant settlers in 1753, much of the town of Lunenburg's architecture predates the 1900's. This makes it one of the most authentic colonial settlements in North America. You can still see tall ships moored in the harbour & at times hear blacksmith's hammer in a waterfront warehouse. Lunenburg is truly a walking town and some hills with everything centrally located and just a short distance from one another. Note that Lunenburg is located approx. 1hr and 15min from Halifax.

Recent Reviews

Terry B.United States
November 2024

We booked this private tour with Mel during a cruise in August 2024 and had a great time! Pick-up at the port was easy. Mel is very personable; the tour was informative and very accommodating. We're cruising to Halifax again in 2025 and booked another private tour with Mel - looking forward to it!

Sarah L.United States
July 2024

Mel was a knowledgeable and accommodating guide. I would recommend his tour to any family. Thanks for a great day Mel!

Lisa O.United States
October 2023

Excellent tour. Mel was very knowledgeable and was prepared. Will take another tour with Mel.

Doris P.United States
October 2023

Mel met us at our shuttle stop from our ship and we were off for a day of adventure. We went to Lunenburg, Mahone Bay for lunch, and wound up our day at the cemetery where Titanic victims are buried. Mel is very personable and made history come to life as he explained Canadian history in the area. He will try to honor any request made, and we found him to be exceptional. All of us feel like we learned a lot from our tour.

Janet R.United States
August 2022

We had an outstanding experience with Mel on our tour from Halifax to Lunenberg and the South Coast. He is very knowledgeable about the history of Halifax and the entire region and shared wonderful stories and insights. He's highly professional and very personable, and it was a pleasure to spend the day with him. Highly recommended!

Karla T.United States
August 2022

Mel was really great, very knowledgeable, enjoyable and he tailored the tour to us. Thank you Mel, we had a great time!

Your Halifax tour itinerary

Travel along the waterfront of Halifax as we make our way to the highway & onto Lunenburg. Time will pass by quickly with highlight information & history of Halifax & Nova Scotia. - P/U - Cruise Ship Port; Local Hotel or other location - Learn local history including events such as the Halifax Explosion of 1917 and Halifax's connection to the Titanic as we make our way to Lunenburg - Lunenburg - known for its narrow streets & unique architecture. Wander the old town's distinctive waterfront with its colourful buildings or visit the Fisheries Museum of the Atlantic (additional fee will apply) on the waterfront. - Mahone Bay, a peaceful, tranquil destination with a captivating seafaring past. Famous for its views of Churches from across the bay - Plenty of time for photos and a meal stop in either Lunenburg or Mahone Bay - Coastal driving while enjoying the beautiful sites, making our through the Chester Basin on our way back to Halifax Contact me with any questions or to personalize this tour.

Want to customize this tour?

Tell your guide which places matter to you, skip what doesn't, and tailor the experience for your group's needs. Not finding what you want? Message your guide to build something unique.

Transport details
Type: Private Transportation / Category: Van

Ford Transit 150XLT (low roof) w/seating up to 7 …. - Clean, Comfortable & Sanitized - Air-conditioned - USB Ports for phones/tablets - Free WiFi on board - Booster seat available upon request - Seating arrangement - 1 in the front passenger, 3 in middle bench seats, 3 in the rear bench seat . . . . Max seating based on typical sized adults/children. The number of passengers should be reduced for over-sized/taller passengers to ensure comfort & accessibility. I am unable to accommodate baby/car seats. . . . Note that for smaller groups of up to 6 the vehicle may be a Dodge Grand Caravan … comfortable seating arrangement - 1 in the front passenger, 2 in middle bucket seats; up to 3 in rear bench seat

What's included
Other: I have bottled water on board at no extra charge. Additionally, I have for your use: - umbrellas/ponchos in case of rain - blanket I have a wide range of music to play while on tour or if you choose, plug in your own and I'll do my best to sing along !
Private Guide
Private Transportation
What's not included
Other: Personal expenses. Meals and beverages are not included in the pricing (other than free bottled water). Note that wine, beer, distilled alcohol tastings fees are not included on Tours where these stops are available .
Food Drinks Snacks
Meeting location

Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada

PLEASE ADVISE OF THE MEETING LOCATION WHEN BOOKING .......................................................................... Airport, Hotel, Local Accommodation……… Cruise Guests: I will have a BLUE Sign with your name on it and will be in an area that is visible… Pier 20,22 - I will be across from Main Exit Doors.... Pier 23 - I will be across from Main Exit Doors or visible area from exiting the ship..…. Tendered Guests to Pier 24 will be directed through Pier 23

  • You can request a specific meeting location (for example, your hotel) during the checkout.
Other details
Tour categories
Layover
History
Tour reference number
357036
Languages
English
Activity level
Light
Accessibility
Kid Friendly

Traveller reviews

5.0

FAQs

Who is this private tour in Halifax best suited for?

This private tour is perfect for travellers who want to explore the rich history and coastal beauty of Nova Scotia. It's ideal for those interested in picturesque towns, historical architecture, and scenic drives. Families with kids will find it suitable due to its light activity level and kid-friendly nature. Additionally, cruise ship passengers can enjoy this as a shore excursion.

Can this private tour in Halifax be customized to focus on what I want to see and skip places I've already visited?

How long is the tour, and can the start time or duration be adjusted?

Where does the tour start and end?

Is transportation included?

How much walking is involved, and is it suitable for kids, seniors, or travellers with mobility concerns?

Is this private tour in Halifax suitable for cruise ship passengers as a shore excursion?

What languages is this tour offered in?

What's included in this private tour, and what should I budget for separately?

Is this a private tour? What is the maximum group size and the starting price?

AI-generated. Please confirm details with your guide

-
Hours icon 6 hours
Private transportation
Private tour for 1-6 people
Your party size

1

Tour date
View our cancellation policiesUpgrade for total flexibility with Any Reason Cancellation
Book with a depositSecure your tour today and pay your balance later
-
Hours icon 6 hours
Private transportation
Private tour for 1-6 people
Your party size

1

Tour date
View our cancellation policiesUpgrade for total flexibility with Any Reason Cancellation
Book with a depositSecure your tour today and pay your balance later
More tours in Halifax by Mel Z.
Similar tours in Halifax
Explore more of Halifax
Peggy's Cove & Lighthouse Route,Private TourThe Secret 'Seanic' Route to Peggy's CoveHistoric Halifax City - Peggy's Cove Private Shore ExcursionPeggy's Cove to Lunenburg Shore Excursion from HalifaxExperience Peggy's Cove and Coastal SitesHalifax City TourExtended Peggy's Cove to Experience MorePeggy's Cove, Titanic, Truth About Halifax Explosion, 5 hour TourValley Wine Tasting & The Bay of FundyFundy Shore & Valley Private Shore Excursion from HalifaxThe Waterfront & Downtown of Halifax + Food tourLunenburg Shore Excursion from HalifaxCity Sights & Harbour Lights TourLunenburg & Peggy's Cove Tour (large group 7-14 people)Lunenburg & Peggy's Cove - Full Day Shore Excursion from HalifaxPicturesque Mahone Bay/ Lunenburg. UNESCO sitePrivate Shore Excursion of LunenburgNova Scotia Wine & Lobster ExperiencePeggy's Cove & Halifax Tour (large group 7-14 people)Acadian Tides & Vines TourDowntown Halifax Highlights Walking Tour (By Foot Only)Halifax Highlights & Peggy's Cove - Half Day Shore ExcursionPeggy's Cove TourTitanic Tales and Halifax's Historic MarvelsExperience Both Lunenburg & Peggy's CoveAnnapolis Valley/ wine tasting and Bay of FundyLighthouse & Legends: The Peggy’s Cove and Titanic TourThe Curse of Oak Island, Could It BeSouth shore Shopping and Shoes, Mahone Bay Tour from HalifaxWine and Women History - Day Tour from HalifaxPeggy's Cove - Halifax CIty Tour (Most Requested Tour)Halifax, The Titanic & Fisherman's CoveMilitary Halifax City TourHalifax Historic Suburbs TourLunenburg and the South ShoreAnnapolis Valley & Bay of Fundy Tour (large group 7-14 people)Private Halifax Customized Walking TourLunenburg & Mahone Bay Tour (large group 7-14 people)Halifax & Lunenburg Tour (large group 7-14 people)Halifax Convoy Walking Tour