Mahone Bay Civic Marina
A not-for-profit marina in the heart of Nova Scotia's South Shore. Your gateway to 365 islands, world-class heritage, and unmatched tranquillity.
Nova Scotia's Best-Kept Maritime Secret
Operated by the Mahone Bay Wooden Boat Society under agreement with the Town of Mahone Bay, the Civic Marina is more than a docking facility. It is an immersive portal into Atlantic Canada's most storied coastal community.
A Heritage Harbour
For over 270 years, Mahone Bay has been a centre of maritime excellence. Between 1850 and 1942, six major shipyards launched hundreds of vessels from these very shores. Today, that legacy lives on through the Wooden Boat Society, heritage walking tours, and a vibrant boatbuilding co-op.
Docking at the Civic Marina means mooring in a site of profound nautical history, where master craftsmen once built schooners destined for the world's oceans.
365 Islands to Explore
Mahone Bay's defining feature is its vast archipelago of approximately 365 islands, one for every day of the year. This stunning topography provides an almost infinite variety of protected anchorages, from curved sand beaches at Mason Island to the deep, sheltered pool of Deep Cove.
Use the Civic Marina as your secure basecamp for daily island-hopping excursions through waters once navigated by the Mi'kmaq and later favoured by colonial privateers.
Why Mahone Bay?
In a region defined by a cruising triangle of Chester, Lunenburg, and Mahone Bay, the Civic Marina offers something neither competitor can match.
A Welcoming Harbour
This is a hands-on, people-forward marina. Our friendly staff are here in person to help you tie up, get settled, and make the most of your stay. While other marinas send you to a website, we greet you at the dock.
Walk-to-Everything
Our marina is right in town. Step off your vessel and into the downtown core in minutes. Premium dining, artisanal shops, heritage museums, and charming accommodations are all within easy walking distance. No car required.
Eco-Conscious Excellence
Actively engaged in the Communities in Bloom program and with a pioneering Living Shoreline project combating coastal erosion. Mahone Bay is committed to environmental marina stewardship.
Marina Services at a Glance
Moorings & Dockage
54 moorings and 300ft of floating dock. Seasonal, monthly, weekly, and overnight rentals available. Advance reservations recommended July–August.
Marina Tender
Complimentary tender service included with every mooring. Our crew will run you to and from shore whenever you need it during operating hours.
Pump-Out Station
Full grey and black water pump-out with attendant assistance for $30. Essential for environmental compliance.
Launch & Haul-Out
Cooperative launch and haul-out with shared crane costs. Launch May 28, haul-out October 15 (weather dependent).
Free WiFi
Complimentary wireless internet access throughout the marina facility for all registered guests.
Showers & Comfort
Clean shower facilities complimentary for all mooring and dock rental guests. $5 per person for other visitors.
A Town Alive with Events
From heritage schooner races to whimsical scarecrow festivals, Mahone Bay's event calendar extends the season and gives every port call a unique flavour.
Heritage BoatYard Weekend
Classic wooden vessels, schooner races, live music on the wharf, and traditional boatbuilding demonstrations honouring centuries of maritime craft.
Scarecrow Festival
Over 250 life-size, handcrafted scarecrows transform the town into a whimsical autumn wonderland, drawing late-season cruisers from across the coast.
Season of Father Christmas
100+ uniquely crafted Father Christmas figures, horse-drawn wagon rides, elf scavenger hunts, and festive late-night shopping throughout the town.
Plan Your Port Call
Whether you're crossing the Gulf of Maine from New England or cruising eastward along the South Shore, Mahone Bay Civic Marina is your sheltered harbour and home port. Reserve your berth today.