Experiencing the Bay of Fundy Tidal Bores
Tidal Phenomenon of Reversing Waves
Tidal Bores are seen in areas with significant tidal ranges. The Atlantic Ocean's Bay of Fundy experiences considerable variation in tide levels. The Fundy Bay, in fact, is considered to be home to the world's highest tides.
A bore forms when water from incoming tides is funneled from a wide bay into a narrower tidal river channel. The water rushes in with such force that it goes against the current and forms a wave or tidal bore that travels backwards. The bore sweeps in, covering hundreds of feet in minutes.
The Bay of Fundy offers several regions where reversing waves or tidal bores occur in the tidal rivers bordering the Bay. Tidal bores can be witnessed from shore areas or participants can actually ride a tidal bore, enjoying the turbulent wave action as part of an adventure tour.
Bay of Fundy Tidal Bore Locations
- Tidal bores are experienced via white water rafting at Shubenacadie, Nova Scotia. Tidal river rafting is possible because the tidal water rushes in over the sandbars. Rapids can be from 4-6 feet high; during a full moon, full moon tides produce rapids from 12-14 feet in height.
- Boaters see the effects of the Fundy tidal bore at Reversing Falls, Saint John, New Brunswick. At slack tide, boats navigate the Falls area. Occupants feel the power of the tides firsthand, as the tidal reverse flow increases, resulting in powerful rapids.
- From the riverbank, witnesses watch as the tidal bore rushes up the Salmon River in Truro, Nova Scotia.
- Tidal bores can be seen from the Cape Split vantage point.
- In Maccan River, the tidal bore can be viewed at Tidal Wetlands Park.
- The St. Croix and Meander Rivers near Windor, NS are other tidal bore locations.
- Smaller rivers may experience faster and taller tidal bores, such as is seen at St Croix and Kennetcook rivers.
From Ocean Waters to Tidal Bores
In the open ocean, tides are not as impressive; however, when ocean water enters shallower bays and inlets, and as the water travels upwards, it is squeezed by narrow sides and further affected by decreased bottom depths. Thus, when the water finally meets draining river water, it piles up, flowing over the outgoing water--and the tidal bore phenomenon results.
Tidal bores are intriguing, whether viewed as they sweep in suddenly or experienced firsthand, riding atop powerful waves. A Fundy tidal bore leaves a lasting impression.
Bay of Fundy Attractions
Tidal Bore
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