Skip to Content
The CAT Ferry: Exploring Yarmouth & Acadian Shores

6 min Read

The CAT Ferry: Exploring Yarmouth & Acadian Shores

The CAT high-speed car ferry is sailing to Yarmouth from Bar Harbor, Maine and excitement is brewing along Yarmouth & Acadian Shores! This vibrant region is home to excellent restaurants, iconic attractions, unique experiences, and so much more. Yarmouth & Acadian Shores is the perfect place to spend the day whether you’re arriving aboard The CAT or visiting before you sail. Here are a few must dos for your visit:

Raise a glass at Boatskeg Distilling Co.

We always recommend arriving the day before if you’re making your way to Yarmouth to catch The CAT. That way, you’ll have plenty of time to take in the sights and sounds.

Be sure to make a stop in West Pubnico’s Boatskeg Distilling Co. Located about 20 to 25 minutes outside Yarmouth, this distillery is nestled inside a former boat shop. Boatskeg specializes in small-batch premium spirits and classic craft cocktails. Enjoy signature drinks, sample scrumptious snacks, and admire the views of Pubnico Harbour.

Boatskeg Distilling Co.
Boatskeg Distilling Co.

Indulge at Sip Café

Yarmouth & Acadian Shores boast a wide range of excellent cafés and restaurants, including Sip Café. Located just steps away from The CAT ferry terminal in the heart of downtown Yarmouth, you’ll find a delectable selection of coffees, teas, fresh soups, salads, sandwiches, and paninis. Cap things off with their perfectly refreshing Italian gelato and take in the sights. They also own and operate Sip@Sea aboard The CAT so their delicious offerings are for sale as you sail.

Sip Café
Sip Café

Exploring Downtown Yarmouth

Take a leisurely stroll through downtown Yarmouth and browse charming shops, art installations, and more. Wander down Main Street to experience the unique, award-winning Lobster Cars art installation, which pays homage to the local lobster industry.

Downtown Yarmouth
Downtown Yarmouth

The Majestic Cape Forchu Lighthouse

No trip to the Yarmouth & Acadian Shores region is complete without visiting the Cape Forchu Lighthouse. Completed in 1839, the lighthouse stood 126 feet above sea level and 91 feet above the ground. The original lighthouse was replaced in 1962, but the current structure, known for its unique “apple core” tower, still captivates all who visit. Climb a 77-step spiral staircase to the lantern room that offers breathtaking views. Afterwards, walk along the nearby Leif Erikson Trail, grab a meal at The Keeper’s Kitchen, and explore the Cape Forchu Museum in the historic Lightkeeper’s Residence building.

Cape Forchu Lighthouse
Cape Forchu Lighthouse

A Buzzing Culinary Scene

You’ll have built up an appetite after all that walking and climbing. Luckily, Honey Bee’s Deli and Ice Cream Parlour, and Wild Roots Restaurant are just a stone’s throw away.

Honey Bee’s is a true hidden gem and the best spot in Yarmouth to enjoy Korean fried chicken. They also serve up sushi, bibimbap, udon, bubble tea, and much more to satisfy your cravings. Remember to save room for their sweet-tooth satisfying assortment of ice creams and cakes.

Or you can take in Wild Roots’ farm-to-table dining experience that celebrates the flavours of Yarmouth & Acadian Shores. From savory seasonal dishes to casual classics the ever-evolving menu has one thing that remains the same— the foods’ deliciousness.

Wild Roots Restaurant
Wild Roots Restaurant

Embrace the Evening Along Yarmouth & Acadian Shores

With plenty to see and do in Yarmouth, let us help steer you in the right direction. With The CAT arriving in Yarmouth around 8:00 pm in the evening, you’ll likely prefer to relax and enjoy the evening in the region after disembarking.

Unwind at Heritage Brewing Co.

Just steps from the ferry terminal, Heritage Brewing is an ideal first stop when you arrive in Yarmouth. This mainstay pub offers a wide selection of locally crafted brews, beer cocktails, wines, and non-alcoholic beverages. Sit back and sip your drink while enjoying live entertainment. And if you arrive on karaoke night, you can be the entertainment! Heritage Brewing also offers a small menu of snacks, including an assortment of dips from Wild Roots paired with kettle chips or nachos, setting the stage for a night filled with good times and good food.

Heritage Brewing Co.
Heritage Brewing Co.

A Night Under the Stars at Deep Sky Eye Observatory

When the sun sets and the stars begin to shine, immerse yourself in celestial marvels at North America’s first Starlight Tourist Destination, Deep Sky Eye Observatory. Located about 30 minutes outside Yarmouth, the observatory provides a tranquil setting to view the millions of stars illuminating the night sky. Deep Sky Eye Observatory owner Tim Doucette takes you on an out-of-this-world space tour of  constellations, stars, and planets that make up the galaxies above.

Deep Sky Eye Observatory
Deep Sky Eye Observatory

There’s No Better Way to Get to Yarmouth & Acadian Shores Than Aboard The CAT

The CAT is an adventure unlike any other. Whether you’re arriving or departing, it’s a must on your Yarmouth & Acadian Shores journey. No matter how you’re travelling, be it by car, SUV, pickup, motorcycle, bicycle, RV, or tour bus, you are welcome aboard The CAT. You can even walk on and travel by foot!

Once aboard, there are all kinds of ways to spend your 3.5-hour journey. Explore the Scotia Market Gift Shop and pick up a memento to remember your travels. Or unwind in the comfortable movie area while enjoying a little Sip@Sea. They offer over 20 loose teas, espresso-based beverages, smoothies, and homemade gelato. Hungry for more? Stop by Scotia Market Café and treat yourself to something tasty like a panini, wrap, salad, or bagel. There’s also Forchu Lounge, where you can sample local wine accompanied by a tempting array of cheese boards and specialty snacks. And while you’re enjoying your bites, check out onboard activities like bingo, trivia, and the Music on the Gulf program that offers live entertainment on select days. And if you’re looking for even more to do, drop by Visitor Information Services to learn more about Nova Scotia, as well as local attractions and upcoming events.

So Much to Discover on Yarmouth & Acadian Shores

From culinary thrills and cultural experiences to natural wonders and artistic treasures, Yarmouth & Acadian Shores has something for everyone. Take a look at some of The CAT’s special travel offers, then book your adventure today online or call 1-877-762-7245 for your next getaway.

 

This article was supplied by Bay Ferries.

The CAT ferry
The CAT ferry

Learn From the Locals

Tag your travel photos to be featured.

Back to top