Highland Tours: Cabot Trail Excursion Sydney Cape Breton Island

Unfortunately our ship was unable to port in Sydney. Aarie was so helpful in assisting me, resulting in a partial but generous refund. We were so disappointed that we were unable to go on our excursion and miss The Cabot Trail. His courteous care for our situation was a welcome show of customer service.

Too long in a cramped car. The stops were uninformative and boring. Could not hear the driver speak; he should have used a headset that reached the back of the van. The “tour” was way overpriced. I would absolutely not recommend this tour.

We left on time, was able to take the ferry back to save time, but still did not go to all of the stated stops. The 5 hour tour took 7 hours!

Our guide, named Arrie, could not have been more friendly and helpful throughout the tour. He knew the area well and we all felt nothing was missed or hurried.

We had an excellent day exploring the Cabot Trail, and the fall colours were absolutely spectacular! The tour was very well organised, and our guide, Ari, was fantastic. He shared lots of interesting information about every place we stopped and continued to provide insights throughout the scenic drive, making the experience even more enjoyable. What we appreciated most was the transparency and professionalism of the team. Due to a vehicle breakdown, they offered us the option of continuing the tour on a larger bus or receiving a full refund. We really appreciated having that choice. Our guide and driver handled the situation exceptionally well, ensuring everything went smoothly despite the unexpected challenge. We’re so glad we decided to go ahead with the tour rather than cancel it. It turned out to be a wonderful experience!

Kaushik was a wonderful driver! Very knowledgeable and very pleasant personality. We stopped frequently and saw great views of the trail.

This was the worst excursion I have ever been on. We booked a “ max of 24 per group” and got a message the day before saying the bus broke and we were going on a bigger bus (but not necessarily more people). Showed up and spread out on the bus, only to find out it was completely full (56). We didn’t make any of the advertised spots because it took an hour for everyone to go the bathroom. They took lunch orders and when we got the restaurant they had nothing ready and not enough tables to sit us at. I asked for a water and never got it. The tour guide (Ari) then told us we all had to leave. So we got back on the bus with no food or water at after hour 4 of the supposedly 4 hour tour with a 2 hour drive back to port. Thankfully our ship wasn’t leaving until later but half the bus was freaking out the whole ride back since their ship was leaving right at our estimated eta. This place is a scam. I will be pursuing a full refund as this was basically a hostage situation instead of a nice relaxing day of vacation.

This was one of our most anticipated tours for Cape Breton. I wish I had known that this trip was targeted for cruise ship hours. Pick up was delayed as driver had wrong hotel. Driver had incomplete knowledge of some of the basic history and though personal, friendly and helpful, was lacking in delivery of information. Lunch was a bit of a gong show, due to being rushed. We ended up eating it in the van so we could get back to Sydney in time to make a cruise ship deadline. Saw some very pretty scenery, however I had read great reviews, and ours just did not measure up.

Tour was excellent. Guide was very customer focused and provided a great deal of history on the area. The tour made us want to come back and enjoy area further.

Lots of beautiful scenery, knowledgeable, friendly tour guide. Tour company was pretty disorganized when we got off the ship. We skipped the Gaelic College stop which I was looking forward to.

We were met at the quay and boards were shown with our names on. A group of 6 went in a people carrier with our guide, Kaushik. We were driven out through Sydney as Kaushik gave a running commentary. He was very knowledgeable about the area and the information was interesting. We then got on to the trail. We had a couple of stops at a chocolate shop and a glass factory. Both stops were good and worthwhile. We made many further stops along the route where we got out and took photos and enjoyed the scenery. The fact that we were in a small vehicle really paid off as we were able to get in and out quicker and consequently were able to get further a long the trail. We stopped for an hour for lunch which was excellent. At Green cove we saw seals. Throughout Kaushik gave good commentary, provided us with bottled water and was happy to take photos of us. All in all an unforgettable day. Thank you.

The guide was very knowledgeable about the area and arranged for lunch in a beautiful local restaurant overseeing the water. He caled in our order early so it was ready on our arrival. This was a beautiful scenic day,

The introduction to this tour was a little rough. It started with a younger man introducing our guide. The guide’s name was Kaushik, and the man, seemingly joking, said “not cow sh*t”. Normally, I would find humor but when the guide didn’t laugh, it didn’t feel right. There were 2 other couples from the cruise on the tour. The man then asked the men their names while not acknowledging the women. Ewww! When I asked him if he’d like to know my name, he replied, “You’re with him.” Ewww! We were then escorted into a minivan where 3 people need to climb into the back. Not the most comfortable on a tour that requires a lot of getting in and out of the car. Our guide was extremely knowledgeable, a good driver, and happy to capture pictures for us. The Cabot Trail was beautiful with breathtaking scenery. We even got to see frolicking seals at Green Cove and had award-winning seafood chowder at Main Street restaurant in Ingonish.

Jack was wonderful! Very knowledgeable about the history of the region. Very kind. We enjoyed the tour.

It was an interesting pleasant tour. Definitely worthwhile and the itinerary and guide were good. The SUV was a little cramped for the 6 people in our tour group.

Late return 4:45 - told at the beginning of the tour he would have us back in plenty of time 3:30 at the latest. Shop’s all aboard time for the Volendam was 4:30.

Excellent trip. Luckily we had a beautiful day. We were on a cruise ship, but weren’t interested in the official options for the day. Had some nice stops, good scenery. Brenda was a good driver and very informative guide. Would recommend.

Very disappointing. Guide/driver didn’t tell us much. Learned very little about sydney. Missed 3 stops on the itinerary. Looking forward to glass shop wasn’t even mentioned. Seats uncomfortable. no leg room. Lunch stop poor selection.

Did not go to two of the places we were supposed to go to (one was closed due to it being Sunday and that could have been noted that to be expected when booking the tour). Spent almost all of the time in the van and expected more information delivered about Sydney and Canada overall. Not a good value.

Very long ride from port dock to Cabot Trail. Only travel approximately 20% of trail and return same route coming and going.

Wonderful tour with Michael. Gave us so much information about the island . It’s clear how much he loves his home and how much he loves what he does. Scenery was beautiful and he took us to places a big coach would not be able to get to Would definitely recommend.

Excellent experience with Michael! Down to earth, funny, engaging. We were met right off the dock and thoroughly enjoyed the experience. Educational, flexible, and got our money's worth. Michael did a great job.

We booked with Highland Tours, which took over Blackwood Tours last month, so the two are now the same owner. The pickup is a one minute walk off the ship, they are right there waiting for you. We were on a 10 passenger bus with only 6 of us (2 did not show) so plenty of space. Our guide Michael has lived on the island his whole life and loves sharing many facts about it. He will talk the entire 7 hours, however it is interesting information and facts and we enjoy learning so we liked it. The Cabot trail is huge and if you want to do the whole thing you really need 2 days, so the trip is based on the time available on a shore excursion. It stops at some amazing views! Be aware that this company has everything from a 2-40 passenger bus. Some were being put in taxis as they will use anything on wheels to fill the reservations. This is ok if you are informed and can make a choice. You might prefer a "private" tour this way, you can make it your own personal tour. I would read some of the reviews from this cruise to see how they liked it. However if you can get Michael, you will be in a smaller bus that was very comfortable and have great commentary.

The description of this tour is not what you get. We were told to “disembark promptly, your guide will wait 30 minutes after the ship has docked.“ we hurried off to wait for over an hour before we started. Positive note: the Breton coast was beautiful, the Englishtown ferry was as advertised. No other stop was as advertised. Gaelic College “immerse yourself in the music, language, and traditions” amounted to a small 2-room gift shop. 20 minute stop. Ingonish “enjoy a leisurely lunch on your own and discover highlights like Kelton Lodge, Ingonish Beach, tranquil Freshwater Lake” amounted to a hurried lunch which the driver preordered. Glass Artisans Gallery “Watch skilled craftsmen…” was a gift shop, no blower. Cabotto Chocolates “expert chocolatiers craft handmade chocolates right before your eyes. Sample an array of decadent treats” amounted to 3-4 chocolate chips, no “learn about the chocolate making process.” The Green Cove Trail was another 20 minute stop, difficult for mobility impaired people, with the hope of seeing seals, which are long gone this time of the year. Why not tell what time of the year you might see seals in your advertising? Whoever wrote the glorious advertisement for this tour had obviously never gone on the tour. Better to rent a car and do it on your own, unless you like one crowded gift shop after another.

Great tour! Very well curated and planned. Ari, our guide, was so kind and we learned a lot about the area. Highly recommend!!

What an amazing day!!! Koushik was an amazing guide. We had so much fun and learned so much as well! He went well above what we expected. If you get the chance to do this tour... DO IT!!!!

Kulwinder was an amazing tour guide, was so friendly and knowledgeable, and was great to tour us around. Feel sorry for anyone that doesn’t get him

Kaushik was a great tour guide. He made the trip much more than a drive around Cape Breton. The drive was exactly what I wanted — four of us in a very comfortable vehicle and gorgeous scenery all around.

Our guides were amazing (Ari/Parm). They were very knowledgeable and very accommodating and lovely. Would highly recommend both the tour and also the tour guides.

Wonderful experience with our knowledgeable and friendly guide Arrie!!

Arri is a great guide. The Cabot Trail is beautiful and a real highlight of Cape Breton. We were well taken care of from start to finish.

Had a great tour with Arrie. He was very knowledgeable of the Cabot Trail and was very patient on every stops that we made. The weather wasn’t good and the visibility wasn’t great because of the fog, but he made sure to give us options to make sure to maximize the value of our tour. We highly recommend this tour.

The Excursion was not what we expected, especially given the high ratings. We left 15 minutes but we were 45 minutes late returning to the cruise port at the end of the tour. Even though Cabot Trail was beautiful, we really did not have too many opportunities to stop and enjoy the views and culture. The Excursion felt very rushed. We only had a 15 minute stop at the Celtic College with only enough time to use the restroom so we never saw the college. The majority of the tour was driving in silence with very limited narration. Our tour guide, Ari was very friendly. However, English was clearly his second language and his accent made it somewhat difficult to understand his limited narration. So we spent the majority of the Excursion driving in silence.

We had the most excellent driver. Called in advance of pick up, was on time, met us with an immaculately clean car and was extremely knowledgeable about the area, tour and about other tour ideas, even in Halifax which we intend to do. He was kind and patient with us.

Arrie was wonderful!!!! He had lots of knowledge of the area and shared it with us. He answered all our questions and was really interesting and kind .

We had a wonderful, amazing time with our guide Arrie. Highland Tours were very cooperative, and even though we only had one day, they adjusted the tour to suit our needs. They helped us see as many locations as possible, including the Cabot Trail and the fantastic Skyline Trail hike at sunset. Our guide, Arrie was extremely helpful, polite, and punctual. We are very happy with the service and would highly recommend their tour.

Frances, our tour guide, was an excellent tour guide and driver who gave great information and insights into the history, geography and current information about Cape Bretton and the surrounding area. The pace, amount of time and locations Frances took us to were spot on. We had a great time and would recommend the tour to others.

Despite me being the only person to have booked a tour on the day, Arrie- my tour guide, still went ahead with it and we had a fantastic day. I felt very lucky to have basically gotten a non-intentional private tour around the Cabot Trail. He took me to all the best places and as there was no time limit for either of us, it meant that we could take our time to take in the beautiful scenic views. He is filled with interesting facts and is easy to talk to on such a long drive. He will go above and beyond to make sure that you have a fantastic experience. The cute little artist studios were worth visiting, the artists themselves were so quirky and lovely. Sad I didnt get to see glass blowing as the studio wasnt open due to it being a quiet day, but the gallery/shop was still very pretty. Its amazing what they can create. The chocolate and hat shops were also very cute. Would strongly recommend this trip to anyone. Have fun!

Excellent transportation experience. We were transported to and from Donelda's Puffin Boat Tour. Our driver was on time and communicated the meeting point. On the return trip our puffin tour was delayed, however our driver made every effort to get us back to our ship including negotiating with the ship to ensure we made the voyage. Could not ask for more.

Cabot Trail excursion offered by cruise line was sold out so started looking for an alternative. Highland Tours had good reviews so the 4 of us chose this trip. Just the 4 of us beat a busload of folks. We covered a lot of ground. Probably could have done without the glass and chocolate stops but we bought at each so guess it was worth it. Nothing to see in Sydney and the drive to, from and on the Cabot Trail was spectacular.

Worst excursion ever! It was nothing more than a very long overpriced van ride! The way the tour was described was nothing like what we experienced. In addition, several spots on the listed itinerary was never even gone to! Very little information about the area was given by the guide during the tour. We sat driving mostly in silence for the 2 hour drive to the last point on the tour. Then had to drive another 2 hours back mostly in silence! Needless to say, it left us with a very poor impression of Viator who promoted this tour and the Port of Sydney that we visited

We had such a great time on this Cabot Trail tour! Booking was easy, and it was so convenient to be picked up and dropped off right at our hotel. We started with a short tour of Sydney, where we learned some of the city's history before heading out on the Cabot Trail. The drive was absolutely beautiful, with plenty of stops at stunning lookout points along the way. One of our favourite parts of the day was visiting the chocolatier and the glass blowing studio. Watching one of the artisans create a glass piece from start to finish was so fascinating! The restaurant we stopped at for lunch was also delicious. A huge thank you to Ari, who was such a kind and knowledgeable tour guide. You can tell he genuinely loves what he does, and he shared so many interesting stories and facts throughout the day that made the whole experience even more enjoyable. We would definitely recommend this tour!

We did the Holland America Cruise from Quebec City to Boston , passing by this amazing part of Nova Scotia, and were looking for excursions that were not part of the cruise line. Came across this one thru Viator although I booked directly. First off, communication with the operator (Arvinder) was fast and easy, responsive on email and eventually we texted. Once we disembarked the cruise, he was right there , very easy to find. I am handicapped and sometime use a walker and other times a battery-powered wheelchair. I opted to use the walker since there wasn't too much walking involved. Kulwinder, who was our guide (and driver!) was so helpful with storing my walker and also retrieving it at each stop. Now, this guy Kulwinder was so impressive of his knowledge of the area, esp. given that he is relatively new to the area (I think 5-6 years in N.S.). Anyone who studies for this job given that they are NOT native to the area means that they take the job seriously. He also shared his immigrant experience which was amazing to hear. The only criticism was that he lost track of time and were arriving back to the ship about 30min after the original schedule. Perhaps for future trips, skip that stop at the Clucking Chicken Cafe (I may be incorrect on the cafe's name), or cut 10-15min from the stop for lunch (Main Street Restaurant). I definitely recommend this tour with Arvinder and Kulwinder!

We had a great experience. Arrie was very knowledgeable and helpful and accommodating. Recommend 10/10

My tour guide Arrie is very knowledgeable & friendly. I was never hurried at the stops. He also helped me walk on the rocks as I am afraid of heights. His vehicle is clean ＆ comfortable. Highly recommend this tour to any visitor coming to Cape Breton.

Excellent tour and excellent tour guide. “Jack” was knowledgeable and eager to show us the beauty of Cape Breton and the Cabot Trail. Many photo ops and interesting highlights (chocolate store was a favourite). Would highly recommend.

If you are looking for a tour of the Cabot Trail, book with Highland Tours. Our guide was knowledgeable and personable. We had a fun day. Highly recommend Highland Tours!

Interesting tour! The tour guide was knowledgeable, friendly, and made the experience enjoyable. One of my family members has mobility issues, but everything was handled perfectly, and they were well accommodated throughout the tour. We really appreciated the care and attention given to ensure everyone had a great experience.

We had a great 6–7 hour Cabot Trail tour with Arrie. Even though it was rainy and some lookoffs were not clear because of fog, he made the day enjoyable and even showed us photos so we could see what we were missing. He was friendly and knowledgeable, sharing lots of interesting information about the area. The vehicle was comfortable, and we had a nice lunch stop along with a few local shop visits. A highlight of the tour was spotting seals along the coast.