Moncton is well known for many things – attractions such as the Magnetic Hill & Magic Mountain, buildings such as the old Moncton Highschool and Moncton Castle Manor. But most all, I believe Moncton is well known for its tidal bore.

Have you ever seen the Tidal Bore? Do you even know what it means? Let’s look into it.

Moncton’s Tidal Bore

The Tidal Bore is described as being a large singular wave of water flowing in the opposite direction of the river’s usual current when the tide comes back in. In this particular case, the river is the Petitcodiac, and the tide is on its way back to the Bay of Fundy. What’s really interesting and unique about this wave is its ability to raise the rivers water levels – sometimes even up to 25 feet!

Where can I see the Tidal Bore?

You can view Moncton’s Tidal Bore from either the Moncton riverfront or the Riverview riverfront. Typically people will watch it from the Moncton riverfront, where there are information signs as well as the visitor information centre.

When can I see the Tidal Bore?

The tidal bore happens at a different time every day, twice a day. Typically, it happens once in the morning and once in the evening. To find out exactly what time the tidal bore will be happening on a specific day, you can check out this tidal bore schedule.

How can I learn more about the Tidal Bore?

During the summer months, there are interpreters working at the visitor information centre who can answer all of your questions. The visitor information centre is called Treitz Haus and is located at 10 Bendview Court in Moncton.

 

Surfing the Moncton Tidal Bore

You may or may not have heard that many tourists have been interested in surfing the Moncton Tidal Bore. I honestly thought this was quite a recent thing. I only heard of it for the first time in 2013, when media started covering the story of a Costa Rican who was surfing the tidal bore. But after further digging I found out that people had been coming to surf the tidal bore for quite some time – for at least the past 50 years!

I feel very fortunate that I happened to be watching the Tidal Bore on August 3rd 2018, just as someone was surfing the wave passed Chateau Moncton (my usual spot).

I was told by the interpreters at Treitz Haus that this is a dangerous surf, but that it is not illegal and that many people have come to try it out because it is so unique. You only have one shot to get it right – there’s only one wave!

 

Must-See Attraction

Whether you’re a local or a tourist, this Moncton attraction is not to be missed. Make sure you check the tide schedule to see what time you can see the Tidal Bore happening in Moncton. The best part is that you can witness this all year round, twice a day!