Your Private Nova Scotia Story
Curated by a Local
Beyond the expected, experience the heart of our coastal city with a personal journey designed exclusively for you.
About Us
I believe true luxury lies in authentic connection and profound discovery.Forget the usual tourist paths; experience the hidden narratives, vibrant culture, and breathtaking beauty of Halifax and Dartmouth through an insider's lens. My commitment is to anticipate every need, ensuring a seamless, comfortable, and utterly unique adventure where every detail is cared for. You'll simply connect with the magic of this place and create stories worth sharing – the kind you'll proudly recount long after your return.I craft private journeys designed exclusively for you drawing from my distinctive career spanning three decades in hospitality, entertainment and human connection.
Our Curated Experiences
Port City Panorama - Immersive Walk and Dining Tour
Begin your immersive journey on the iconic Dartmouth ferry to Woodside, gaining a local's perspective of Halifax and the harbour.A captivating 4km guided walk (mostly flat, gently descending) along the Harbourfront Trail follows, traveling through North Woodside, along the Dartmouth Cove, and crossing the historic Shubenacadie Canal.Here, you'll discover Halifax and harbour stories enriched by enlightening commentary from this unique vantage point.Then, indulge in a bespoke culinary delight in Downtown Dartmouth before enjoying a second, unique ferry perspective back to Halifax.
Dining Options
After exploring the harbour walk, your custom culinary experience awaits at one of Dartmouth's acclaimed dining establishments.Choose from the vibrant, locally-sourced dishes at The Canteen on Portland, or go casual with the comforting classics at The Side Hustle Snack BarIf you want to enjoy harbour views from your table, choose the ethical plant-forward approach of The Wooden Monkey Dartmouth.Or for the ultimate indulgence, tuck into a chef led tasting menu at the exclusive and intriguing Oxalis Restaurant, offering an elevated European farm to table dining experience.
Halifax Harbour's Golden Hour Ferry Excursions
Sunset Cocktails & Morning Serenity
Witness Halifax Harbour in its most breathtaking golden light from the unique perspective of the iconic Dartmouth ferry. Tailor your private experience to either a tranquil Morning Serenity crossing or a captivating Sunset Dinner voyage, discovering the harbour's magic as it transforms.
About Jim Dalling
My family's roots in Nova Scotia run deep, over 200 years. On my father's side, Dalling family members rest in the Old Burying Ground on Barrington Street in Halifax, while my mother's ancestors have called Dartmouth and the Eastern Shore home since the 1780s. This isn't just where I live; it's woven into my very being.Perhaps it's genetic, but welcoming guests into our homes and lives has always felt like second nature. My great-grandfather was a wilderness guide, my grandfather ran a campground, and I've dedicated much of my own life to the hospitality and tourism industry. This profound connection to Nova Scotia, combined with a passion for sharing its unique spirit, is what drives me to offer you something truly special.Beyond my roots here, my life has been shaped by a distinctive career over decades in hospitality, entertainment, and human connection. As a retired psychotherapist, I've honed a unique capacity for genuine connection and understanding, allowing me to truly anticipate the nuances of individual needs. My experience as a wedding DJ and MC at exclusive clubs and I learned the art of seamless execution, commanding presence, and meticulous attention to detail within the high-pressure world of discerning clients. I understand the unspoken expectations for flawless service.My own adventures have taken me far and wide, adding layers to my perspective: I've studied in California, explored the Eastern Seaboard on a tall ship, and even studied comedy in Paris with a master teacher, honing my ability to engage and entertain. Performing and connecting with people across every province of Canada, from coast to coast, has deepened my appreciation for diverse stories and the art of the shared experience.This rich tapestry of a life well-lived—from the shores of Nova Scotia to international stages—informs every tour I create. It allows me to connect with you not just as a guide, but as a fellow human with a shared appreciation for the world's wonders. As my 94-year-old Nanny, who still lives in Upper Lakeville, Nova Scotia, often says, this place is truly "the best part of the best part of the world." It's a sentiment I wholeheartedly believe and invite you to discover for yourself.