Teresa C.United States
We had an excellent tour with Mel! He is very knowledgeable and shared alot of information with us!!
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Private tour in Halifax Mel Z
The Curse of Oak Island, Could It Be
5.0
(9) reviews
-
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
-
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.
The 230 Year Old Mystery Awaits Your Discovery
Overview of your Halifax tour
UPDATE: The Island is open to the public in 2026 ! This Private Tour from Halifax gives the opportunity for fans of the popular TV series, 'The Curse of Oak Island' to visit the Interpretation/Visitor Centre on Oak Island. Yes, it's a real place ! Many theories, time & money has gone into trying to solve the mystery since 1795 to this day the treasure has eluded people. Based on pickup & hours, we will adjust our route to maximize our time at Centre which has much information & artifacts from that various dig sites. The island is an active dig & filming site and you never know who you may bump into. Driving will mix highway & coastal making our way to/from the location. After our visit to Oak Island we will swing into the seaside town of Mahone Bay. Enjoy a short walk, visit some shops and for lunch enjoy Lobster, fish & chips and other local favorites (an additional cost) at The Mug & Anchor Pub, a favorite of the cast.
Recent Reviews
Karen M.United Kingdom
Mel is a superstar, so knowledgeable of Halifax in general as well as Oak Island. The highlight of our trip was visiting Oak Island and it didn’t disappoint! Mel also gave us commentary and tour of the Titanic burial area, so sad but very tastefully done. We had the most wonderful day with Mel, he has a fantastic sense of humour and would highly recommend him. Thanks for the best day Mel, you made by birthday so special. Many many thanks Karen & John
Marjorie Ann B.United States
Oak Island was closed this year. Our tour guide was great in communicating with us about the situation so we knew well in advance. He customized the tour to drive to see Oak Island without entering, going to the restaurant, the Berlin Wall piece, and many other stops. It was amazing!
Karen M.United States
My family and I thoroughly enjoyed our tour of Halifax, Nova Scotia with Mel Z. We let Mel choose the itinerary and he did not disappoint in the slightest! We visited the Titanic graveyard at Oak Lawn Cemetery, spent time in Lunenburg and Mahone Bay, and even had a delicious seafood lunch at a local restaurant recommended by Mel. From start to finish, Mel's tour was top-notch. I think it speaks volumes for Mel that even my 17-year-old son was thoroughly engaged. I would highly recommend Mel!!
Barbara B.United States
Really enjoyed the tour. Original tour was suppose to be to Oak Island, however, the island was closed to visitors. Mel was able to find out that it was because they (Oak Island) were taking extra precautions due to Covid. We still had an amazing time, learning about the local history, seeing the best views of our destinations and stopping by some extra places like the Titanic graveyard and ... the Oak Island Causeway. Thanks Mel for making this trip extra special!
Joyce H.United States
Mel Z. - as SUPER STAR of Tour Guides! Would give 6 stars if able!!! From the beginning Mel earned high marks for outstanding (and timely communication) beginning with initial booking and providing timely reminders/updates. Pick up was seamless (and he was early)! Mel is well versed in a variety of topics related to Halifax and multiple facets of history/events/information! Mel is THE COMPLETE tour guide package. Hope YOU are lucky enough to get him as your guide!
Your Halifax tour itinerary
*Oak Island is privately owned and can only be visited when the Interpretation Centre open to the public. Your private day trip from Halifax with your knowledgeable guide will have some narrative history as we head directly towards The Famous Oak Island. Plenty of time to discuss theories of the treasure hunt ! Coastal sites, small towns & many photo opportunities - P/U from your location - Local History & "Theory Discussions" - Highway & coastal to Oak Island (1 hr) - Drive up to the causeway to the mystery - Oak Island Interpretation Centre (if open) - Mahone Bay - Lunch Mug & Anchor at Madders Wharf or other based on availability - Highway & coastal return to Halifax *This tour does not include a tour of the island. **90 min Boat tour around the island can be arranged at additional cost. *** 2 hr Tram Tour on weekends only can be arranged at additional cost Contact me to customize 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: Minivan
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
City Highlights
TV And Movie
History
Off The Beaten Path
Tour reference number
392582
Languages
EnglishActivity level
Minimal
Accessibility
Kid Friendly
Traveller reviews
5.0
FAQs
Who is this private tour in Halifax best suited for?
This private tour in Halifax is perfect for fans of the TV series 'The Curse of Oak Island' who are eager to explore the Interpretation/Visitor Centre on Oak Island. It's also ideal for those interested in history, treasure hunting theories, and enjoying scenic drives along coastal routes. The tour is kid-friendly and offers a chance to connect with a local guide, Mel Z., for deeper insights into the area's mysteries.
Where does the tour start and end?
Is transportation included?
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
-
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
-
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
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Book with a deposit
If your tour is valued over $200 USD and booked at least 45 days before the tour date, you can book with a deposit!
How it works
- Your credit card will be authorized only for the deposit amount.
- Funds will not be withdrawn until your tour booking is fully processed.
- 30 days before your tour date, the remaining balance is automatically charged.